Video Game
Top 10 Best RPGs Ever Made
These are the greatest role-playing games ever made — ranked by narrative depth, character progression, and the sheer number of hours they have collectively stolen from humanity. From sweeping Japanese turn-based epics to gritty Western open-world adventures, every RPG on this list has left a permanent mark on gaming history. Think we got the order wrong? Cast your vote below and settle the debate once and for all.
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What Makes an RPG One of the Best Ever Made?
We ranked these role-playing games on four pillars: narrative depth (branching stories and meaningful choices), character progression (growth systems that reward long-term investment), world-building (lore density and environmental storytelling), and lasting cultural impact (critic scores, awards, and community longevity). For reference scores, see [Metacritic's All-Time RPG rankings](https://www.metacritic.com/browse/game/?genre=role-playing) and the [BAFTA Games Award archive](https://www.bafta.org/games).
Are Japanese and Western RPGs judged by different rules? No — this list is style-agnostic. Chrono Trigger and Persona 5 Royal compete on the same criteria as Baldur's Gate 3 and The Witcher 3. The best overall experience wins, regardless of origin.
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Frequently asked questions
What criteria are used to determine the best RPGs of all time?
Rankings typically consider a combination of critical acclaim, cultural influence, sales performance, gameplay innovation, and lasting community engagement across both Western and Japanese RPGs.
Does the list include both Western and Japanese RPGs?
Yes, the list encompasses the best RPGs from both traditions, including classics like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy alongside titles like The Witcher 3 and Skyrim.
Are modern RPGs like The Witcher 3 or Elden Ring included?
Yes, recent critically acclaimed RPGs such as The Witcher 3, Elden Ring, and Divinity: Original Sin 2 frequently appear on best-ever lists alongside foundational titles from the 1980s and 1990s.
Is this ranking definitive or subjective?
No ranking is universally definitive, but this list aggregates opinions from critics, developers, and player polls to reflect a broad consensus on the most influential and highest-quality RPGs.
What are some of the most influential RPGs of all time?
Titles like Ultima VII, Dragon Quest III, Final Fantasy VI, and Baldur's Gate II are often cited for their foundational impact on storytelling, mechanics, and world design in the genre.
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