The variety of RPG action genres is enormous indeed. That is precisely why we’ve made a list below. We recently made an article about the most anticipated games in 2024. We have carefully evaluated several crucial factors like gameplay, graphics, atmosphere, music, and storytelling to rank the top action role-playing games. Our list includes games that have set new benchmarks in the RPG industry by considering expert reviews, in-depth player input, and industry recognition. Some games that made it to our list are Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3, representing role-playing games’ pinnacle.
Contents
Highlights
- Best action RPG list of different age
- Description and main benefit for each
- Available platforms, release date, and developer for every mentioned title
- Metacritic score
Top 10 RPG Action Games List
- Elden Ring
- Cyberpunk 2077
- Stellar Blade
- Blue protocol
- Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- Mass Effect 2
- Xenoblade Chronicles 3
- Dark Souls 2
- NieR: Automata
Elden Ring
Elden Ring
The most immersive open-world
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC
Developer: FromSoftware
Release Date: February 25, 2022
Game Score (Metacritic): 96
Elden Ring elevates the open-world RPG genre with unprecedented freedom and depth. Its intricate story, Elden Ring, is a unique video game crafted by George R.R. Martin of Game of Thrones fame. It offers expansive landscapes, challenging combat, and a world full of mystery and lore. Mr. Martin’s expertise in storytelling ensures players a rewarding experience.
Elden Ring’s official gameplay trailer
Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077
Best Narrative Depth
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, ÐÐ, Stadia.
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Release Date: December 10, 2020
Game Score (Metacritic): 96
Cyberpunk 2077’s complex storyline and multi-dimensional characters occur in Night City, a futuristic society where technology and humanity converge. Despite initial technical issues, the game’s ambitious storyline and extensive player options make it a significant achievement in story-focused gaming.
Cyberpunk 2077 official launch trailer
Stellar Blade
Stellar Blade
Best Visual Design
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Developer: Shift Up Corporation
Release Date: Expected in 2024
Game Score (Metacritic): TBD
Formerly, that game was named Project Eve. Now named Stellar Blade, it is ready to enthrall gamers with beautiful visuals and a tempting post-apocalyptic story. The game’s exceptional art direction is highly praised for the vibrant and immersive world that demonstrates the capabilities of the latest gaming hardware. Its focus on elegant, smooth fighting, and visually stimulating settings positions it as a leader in cutting-edge visual innovation.
Stellar Blade gameplay overview
Blue protocol
Blue protocol
Best Anime MMO
Platforms: PC
Developer: Bandai Namco
Release Date: TBA
Game Score (Metacritic): TBD
Blue Protocol differentiates itself in the MMORPG industry through its unique anime-inspired visuals and rapid combat mechanics. The game’s online world, developed with Unreal Engine 4, offers stunning visuals, exciting adventure, and action. Its dedication to providing a high-quality collaborative gameplay experience and impressive visual design make it a standout representation of anime art in the gaming industry.
Blue Protocol trailer
Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth
Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth
Best RPG Remake
Platforms: PlayStation 5
Developer: Enix Square
Release Date: February 29, 2024
Game Score (Metacritic): 92
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a remade version and a new interpretation of the traditional RPG. Expanding on the achievements of the previous game, Rebirth presents a higher degree of character growth and a larger game world. The game blends elements from the past with modern mechanics and advanced graphics, providing a mix of the new and the familiar. The developers keep the enjoyable aspects of the popular game while implementing new features, creating a genuinely fresh next version!
Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth official launch trailer
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Unparalleled side quest depth
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Release Date: May 19, 2015
Game Score (Metacritic): 92
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is proclaimed for its vast main story and its side missions’ impressive intricacy and depth. In contrast to regular RPGs, where optional tasks may seem trivial, The Witcher 3 guarantees that each side mission has intricate backgrounds and essential outcomes. These side missions intricately connect with the main plot. Result – adding depth to the story and expanding the game’s universe. This focus on small tasks within the game enhances players’ immersion and level of engagement by allowing them to discover different aspects of the game’s intricate story and character interactions. Every mission aims to offer a distinct and unforgettable journey through The Witcher’s universe, from assisting locals with nearby dangers to unraveling intricate puzzles.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt official launch trailer
Mass Effect 2
Mass Effect 2
Best character-driven sci-fi RPG
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
Developer: BioWare
Release Date: January 26, 2010
Game Score (Metacritic): 96
Mass Effect 2 is highly praised for its intricate storytelling and character growth in a vividly detailed science fiction world. The game improves upon its predecessor by expanding player choice and consequences, directly influencing the complex storyline and relationships with teammates. This follow-up is famous for its gripping storyline that tugs at the heartstrings, improved fighting mechanics, and includes loyalty quests that add depth to the varied characters’ backgrounds.
Mass Effect 2 Launch Trailer
Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Best expansive world-building
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
Developer: Monolith Soft
Release Date: July 29, 2022
Game Score (Metacritic): 92
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a vast and immersive RPG with an expansive open world teeming with intricate ecosystems and an engaging story. It stands out on the Nintendo platform because of its unique real-time combat system, which combines action and depth.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Vol. 4 Teaser (Nintendo Switch)
Dark Souls 2
Dark Souls 2
Most challenging gameplay
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One
Developer: FromSoftware
Release Date: April 12, 2016
Game Score (Metacritic): 89
Dark Souls 2 remains true to its roots by providing intensely complex gameplay and a harsh yet satisfying journey. This chapter stands out due to its wide variety of settings and foes and enhanced battle adaptability and intricacy. The game is designed to challenge players’ skill and patience with its unforgiving nature and complex level design. Simultaneously, its world, filled with rich stories, enhances the overall storytelling of the Dark Souls series.
Dark Souls 2 Announcement Trailer
NieR: Automata
NieR: Automata
Best existential narrative
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One
Developer: PlatinumGames
Release Date: March 17, 2017
Game Score (Metacritic): 88
NieR: Automata is unperfected for its seamless integration of action-packed gameplay with a philosophical and existential narrative. The game delves into profound concepts of existence, awareness, and the aftermath of conflict as it follows the journey of androids battling to recapture a ruined Earth. Its captivating narrative, diverse gameplay modes, and enchanting soundtrack create a distinct and memorable RPG experience.
NieR: Automata Launch Trailer
Our carefully selected compilation of top action RPGs highlights the wide range of diversity within the genre ‘ the category of action RPGs is expansive. From the vast realms of the Elden Ring to the intricate storylines of The Witcher, there is a game suited for every player. For superior graphics and creative gameplay, be sure to give Stellar Blade a try.
It is crucial to ensure your chosen game is compatible with your device. To help you make the most informed decision, read current reviews and review gameplay previews and technical features before purchasing.
And remember: regardless of whether you’re an experienced gamer or a newcomer to RPGs, the choices listed above provide various experiences for anyone, irrespective of their gaming background.
Summary
Although some of the most acclaimed titles in the action RPG genre are listed above, other notable games add to the field’s diversity. Games like Skyrim still captivate players with their open-world environment and sizeable modding community. In the same way, Persona 5 combines everyday life simulation with dungeon exploration to create a new take on classic RPG gaming.
Furthermore, “Kingdom Hearts III” merges exciting action-filled segments with cherished Disney and Square Enix characters, delivering a mix of nostalgia and freshness that appeals to fans of every generation. While not mentioned, these titles offer distinct flavors to the RPG genre, demonstrating its adaptability and wide range of appeal to various.
