Determining the best RPG game is never simple. The genre is vast, constantly evolving, and filled with unforgettable adventures that leave a permanent mark on players. Every RPG enthusiast has that one title — or several — they can’t stop thinking about years after finishing it. Whether it’s because of a gripping story, a breathtaking world, or the emotional connection formed with the characters, certain RPGs rise above the rest and stand the test of time.
The best RPGs do more than entertain. They immerse you so deeply that you lose track of time, make you care about fictional people, and challenge you with decisions that feel heavy and meaningful. These games create experiences that stay with you long after the credits roll. So, what makes an RPG truly great? Is it the storytelling? The freedom of exploration? Maybe the way choices shape your path? Or is it the combination of all these elements working in harmony?
Today, we highlight three RPGs often mentioned as the best of all time — games celebrated for their innovation, worldbuilding, character depth, and ability to transport players into unforgettable journeys. These titles aren’t just popular; they’re benchmarks for the RPG genre, inspiring countless other games and capturing the hearts of millions. Curious which timeless adventures earned a spot on this list and why so many gamers still consider them masterpieces? The answers might surprise you.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is more than a game — it’s a phenomenon. Released in 2011, this open-world RPG continues to attract new players over a decade later, a rare achievement that speaks to its quality and longevity. Skyrim dropped players into the snowy, Nordic-inspired province of Tamriel and told them one thing: go wherever you want. That freedom is one of its greatest strengths.
As the Dragonborn, players embark on quests that explore ancient prophecies, political conflicts, and personal destinies. Yet, strangely enough, the main quest isn’t even the part most players remember. What makes Skyrim unforgettable is the sheer scale of exploration. You can climb mountains just to watch the sunrise, get lost in caves full of traps and treasures, or stumble into random events that turn into full stories of their own.
The game’s environments are filled with personality — bustling towns, eerie ruins, snowy peaks, mystical forests, and hidden underground worlds. Each location feels hand-crafted. Its side quests are equally memorable, often taking unexpected, emotional, or morally ambiguous turns.
Another reason for Skyrim’s lasting legacy is the modding community. Skyrim mods have added everything from new lands and quests to enhanced graphics that rival modern releases. Because of this, no two players’ experiences are truly the same. Mods keep the game alive, offering new content, new characters, and unlimited replayability.
Ultimately, Skyrim is the kind of RPG that invites you to live another life — a life filled with adventure, danger, magic, and choice. It remains a masterpiece because it gives players the chance to build their own stories in a world that always has something more to offer.
When discussing the best RPG games ever made, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt almost always enters the conversation. Released in 2015, it set a new standard for storytelling and worldbuilding in RPGs. What makes this game stand out is how deeply personal and emotional its narrative feels.
Players step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, a seasoned monster hunter navigating political chaos, war-torn regions, and dangerous supernatural threats. But beneath the action lies a heartfelt story about searching for someone you love. Every quest — from major story arcs to the smallest side missions — feels meaningful. Many side quests are so well-written they could serve as the main plot in another game.
The world of The Witcher 3 is dense, alive, and morally complex. Choices are rarely simple. There are no “good” or “evil” options — only decisions that shape relationships, outcomes, and the fates of entire regions. This level of narrative consequence makes players stop, think, and reflect before acting.
Combat blends strategy with skill, requiring knowledge of enemy weaknesses, potions, oils, and magical signs. Monster hunting is not just action-packed; it’s rooted in lore, investigation, and preparation. Each creature feels unique and dangerous.
The Witcher 3’s characters — Yennefer, Ciri, Triss, Dandelion, and many others — remain iconic because they feel real. Their personalities, conflicts, and emotional journeys are unforgettable. Combined with its atmospheric soundtrack, stunning landscapes, and deep role-playing elements, The Witcher 3 is widely regarded as one of the best RPGs ever crafted.
Final Fantasy VII Remake is a bold reimagining of the legendary 1997 classic, and it manages to honor the original while reinventing its world for modern audiences. Rather than simply updating graphics, Square Enix expanded the narrative, added emotional depth, and introduced a dynamic combat system that blends strategy and action seamlessly.
One of its strengths is how it revitalizes the beloved characters. Cloud, Tifa, Aerith, Barrett — each receives more backstory, personality development, and emotional nuance. Their interactions feel natural, heartfelt, and sometimes heartbreaking. This makes players more invested than ever in their struggles and dreams.
The game’s visuals are a major highlight. Midgar, once limited by hardware constraints, now feels alive: glowing neon lights, industrial smokestacks, grimy alleys, and massive steel structures create an immersive cyberpunk atmosphere. The modernized soundtrack updates iconic themes while preserving their emotional power.
Combat in the remake is fast, fluid, and tactical. Players switch between characters, each with unique abilities, creating strategic layers that keep battles exciting and fresh. The game also introduces new characters, expanded story arcs, and surprising twists that differentiate it from the original while deepening its emotional impact.
Final Fantasy VII Remake succeeds because it understands what fans loved — the heart, the characters, the world — and rebuilds it with care, respect, and innovation. It proves that remakes can be more than nostalgia; they can be new masterpieces.
Each of these RPGs offers a unique experience that players never forget. Skyrim gives unmatched freedom to explore and create your own story. The Witcher 3 provides rich, emotional storytelling and moral depth. Final Fantasy VII Remake blends nostalgia with modern design, creating a fresh yet familiar journey.
If you’re searching for the best RPG games to play, these three titles are essential. They’ve shaped the genre, inspired countless developers, and continue to captivate new players every year. Ultimately, the best RPGs are the ones that stay with you — the ones you remember long after the adventure ends.
Amanda has a degree in Languages, is a postgraduate student, and is passionate about content creation. After joining Cenário Capital, she discovered a strong interest in games. She currently works on the Marketing team, in the SEO and Content squad.
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