Top-tier Role-Playing Games on Game Pass: Embark on Epic Journeys Now
Game Pass is your one-stop shop for folks hankering after role-playing games (RPGs). It's a player's paradise, brimming with timeless classics, indie gems, and freshly-minted titles - all available under that sweet subscription model. With Game Pass, the risk of shelling out big bucks on a game you may not vibe with is, well, a thing of the past.
For RPG enthusiasts, Game Pass is a veritable treasure trove, serving up a smorgasbord of games spanning a plethora of genres,including high-fantasy epics, gritty sci-fi sagas, and everything in between. Let's hop into a few of these fantastical worlds!
Why Game Pass Is a Playground for RPG Fans
Game Pass has earned itself a spot as one of gamers' go-to destinations, boasting an extensive library of titles. For RPG fans, this buffet of goodies is particularly appealing, with a medley of beloved franchises, indie hits, and day-one releases on offer. With a subscription, you can dip your toes into various RPG styles, from turn-based JRPGs to action-packed escapades.
Game Pass's partnerships with venerable developers like Bethesda and Obsidian also play a part in the steady stream of top-tier RPGs coming your way. New games get added regularly, ensuring the experience stays fresh and exciting. The list below showcases some of the best RPGs on Game Pass; we've hand-picked these babies for their captivating stories, addictive gameplay, and the lasting impact they've had on the RPG scene.
The Finest RPGs in Game Pass
1. Mass Effect Legendary Edition
Now, here's a trilogy that's been incinerating the sci-fi RPG scene for ages. The Mass Effect Legendary Edition is BioWare's magnum opus, meticulously remastered to bring the legendary trilogy to contemporary platforms. This titanic trilogy follows Commander Shepard as they rally an intergalactic force to stamp out an ancient synthetic threat: the Reapers. The continuous narrative lets you carry your choices across each title, so every decision you make has the power to alter the outcome of the entire saga.
With the remaster, you can customize Shepard's appearance, class, and morality, giving your story a deeply personal touch. The dialogue system, chock-full of branching paths, fosters meaningful bonds with crew members, like the loyal Garrus or the mysterious Liara. And hey, did we mention the combat? Blending third-person shooter gameplay with biotic and tech abilities, the battles are fast-paced and downright thrilling.
2. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition
Technically, Skyrim doesn't need any introduction, but for the love of dragons, let's do it anyway. Bethesda's open-world masterpiece remains a staple of the RPG scene, even after being gorged by years. Positioned in the frigid climes of Tamriel, you play as the Dragonborn, destined to duke it out with ancient dragons. One of the game's greatest strengths is its freedom - you can push through the main quest, join guilds, or simply explore the vast landscape, discovering hidden dungeons and lore.
The Special Edition enhances the game's visuals and includes all add-ons, ensuring you'll experience Skyrim in its most polished state. And with a vibrant modding community, the possibilities are nearly endless. Skyrim's sheer depth and replayability make it a must-play for adventurers and storytellers alike.
3. Dragon Age: Origins
Dragon Age: Origins is BioWare's high-fantasy epic, demonstrating their expert storytelling skills. You play as a character born from various origins, such as a noble human, mage elf, or dwarven rogue, each offering a unique perspective on the world of Thedas. The game's narrative centers on reuniting factions in order to halt the spread of a demonic Blight. As you progress, the choices you make significantly shape the story's outcome.
The game's cast of companions adds emotional weight through their personal quests and potential romantic relationships. Strategic, party-based combat also factors in, demanding strategic planning, especially on harder difficulty levels. Despite its vintage feel, Dragon Age: Origins remains a gem for fans of classic RPGs.
4. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
Fresh off the production line, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has garnered rave reviews as one of the best RPGs on Game Pass. Developed by Sandfall Interactive, this turn-based RPG tempts you with striking visuals and innovative combat mechanics. Set in a dystopian world with a mystical aesthetic, you guide a ragtag group of adventurers through a gripping narrative that's both eerie and exhilarating.
The combat doles out dynamic fights where precision timing determines the outcome, transforming traditional turn-based battles into nail-biting, skill-based encounters. Each character is fleshed out with intricate backstories, depth and unique abilities to bring your party to life and elevate your tactical choices. Critics have lauded its dark atmosphere and intricate world-building, making it a standout for players seeking fresh and captivating RPG experiences.
5. Persona 3 Reload
Jump into the resurgence of the 2006 classic, Persona 3 Reload, as it shines afresh for contemporary audiences. This JRPG centers around a high school student fighting supernatural forces during the eerie Dark Hour. The unique blend of social simulation and turn-based combat distinguishes Persona 3, setting it apart from other RPGs on the market.
During the day, you engage in social activities to build relationships and advance your skills. At night, you traverse dungeons and battle shadows using Persona summons. The remake refines the visuals and includes the Expansion Pass with additional content. The game's stylish aesthetic, great soundtrack, and emotional narrative satisfy JRPG enthusiasts, boasting upwards of 60 hours of content.
6. Avowed
Obsidian Entertainment's Avowed is a first-person fantasy RPG that immerses you in the awesome world of the Living Lands. This day-one Game Pass title meshes sharp writing with exploration-driven gameplay. As an envoy, you investigate a sinister plague while forging relationships with companions that impact the narrative.
The combat offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor your playstyle between melee, magic, and ranged attacks. The world comes alive with enchanting landscapes and intricate lore that rewards exploration. Although the game's mechanics remain a bit unpolished, Avowed's storytelling and atmosphere make it a compelling addition to the Game Pass lineup. Fans of Obsidian's previous work, like Pillars of Eternity, will delight in its engaging elements.
7. Fallout: New Vegas
Fallout: New Vegas never fails to please fans of choice-driven RPGs. This post-apocalyptic epic sets you in the Mojave Desert as a courier seeking revenge during faction conflicts. Obsidian's writing truly shines with choices that significantly shape the story's end.
The game offers a plethora of playstyles, including stealth, combat, and diplomacy, to customize your character's journey. Visuals reveal its age, but the compelling storytelling and modding community ensure it holds up remarkably well. Gaming enthusiasts searching for title packed with choice-driven adventures won't want to skip Fallout: New Vegas.
8. Octopath Traveler II
Octopath Traveler II builds upon its predecessor's success, delivering a visually stunning HD-2D JRPG experience. In this new installment, eight heroes with distinct backstories converge in the world of Solistia. Battle techniques are enhanced with a Break and Boost mechanic, allowing you to fine-tune strategic combat decisions for each character.
The game's art design harkens back to retro RPGs, blending pixel-style visuals with orchestral soundtracks to create a nostalgic yet modern feel. The captivating narrative, strong character development, and multiple story paths appease veterans and newcomers alike. With each character's story spanning 20-30 hours, Octopath Traveler II offers massive content.
9. Fable II
Fable II, a delightful RPG from Lionhead Studios, graces you with a whimsical fairy-tale charm. As a customizable hero rising from humble beginnings, you embark on a journey to overthrow a corrupt ruler in the enchanting world of Albion. The game's morality system shapes your character's appearance and the world around you based on your choices.
In addition to combat, you can marry, raise a family, or immerse yourself in side activities like real estate. Fable II may not be as modern as some of the other titles, but its immersive world and impactful morality system make it stand out from the pack.
10. Citizen Sleeper
Citizen Sleeper offers a unique narrative-driven RPG experience set on a dystopian space station. You take control of a digitized human consciousness vying to escape corporate control while juggling survival, relationships, and choices. Tabletop-inspired mechanics use dice rolls to determine the outcomes of your actions, adding a layer of strategy to your decisions.
The narrative is expertly written, with numerous branching paths leading to wildly different conclusions. Its simple, alpine-inspired aesthetics and ominous soundtracks amplify the immersive atmosphere. Short-time RPG seekers should give Citizen Sleeper a spin for its captivating story and unique mechanics, clocking in at around 15-20 hours.
10 Alternative RPGs to Explore on Game Pass
If our top picks didn't scratch your RPG itch or you're hankering for more variety, Game Pass offers a slew of additional RPG titles that are well worth your time:
- Wasteland 3: Originally developed by inXile Entertainment, Wasteland 3 is a tactical, post-apocalyptic RPG with intense squad-based combat.
- Pillars of Eternity: Complete Edition: A classic computer RPG that caters to fans of Dungeons & Dragons, with rich lore and strategic battles.
- Sea of Stars: A retro-inspired JRPG with vivid pixel art and dynamic combat, developed by Sabotage Studio.
- Tales of Arise: A modern JRPG from Bandai Namco that blends strategy and storytelling in its exploration of rebellion.
- Diablo III: Reaper of Souls - Ultimate Edition: An action RPG focused on loot-driven gameplay and set in the dark fantasy world of Sanctuary.
- The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered: Updated with improved visuals and refined gameplay, this classic entry in the Elder Scrolls series offers a rich world for exploration.
- Stardew Valley: A charming farming sim with RPG elements, developed by Eric Barone, offering a less intense experience compared to some of the other entries.
- Shadowrun: Dragonfall: A cyberpunk-fantasy RPG with tactical combat, set in a world where magic and technology coexist.
- Dungeons of Hinterberg: An action RPG with a cozy alpine setting, developed by Pixelated Milk.
- Genshin Impact: A free-to-play, open-world RPG developed by miHoYo, with gorgeous graphics and ongoing updates.
Greasy gameplay and charming characters await you in the best RPGs on Game Pass, ensuring countless hours of immersion and enjoyment!
With Game Pass offering an extensive library of role-playing games across various genres, it's not just about exploring fantastical worlds; it's also about embracing the latest technology to enrich your entertainment experience.
Whether it's diving into the futuristic sci-fi universe of Mass Effect or joining a medieval fantasy quest in Skyrim, Game Pass provides a portal for you to step into these lifestyle-altering virtual worlds with ease. Plus, with the option to try multiple RPG styles at an affordable cost, technology is playing an essential role in democratizing access to entertainment.
