The Official GF Recommended RPG List

[EpsilonX]

So, I'm gonna make a list of essential (or at least, highly recommended) RPG's by system. I'll start off with my opinion of RPG's i've played, but people feel free to chime in to make this a better list. Any systems you feel I should add, also chime in.

Links may or may not contain spoilers in text and/or picture form.
If you're having trouble deciding whether a game is an RPG or not, THESE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_rvM6hubs8) THREE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8aiEsIW9IM) VIDEOS (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cmkdoz5LjdE) might help.
If you recommend something and I don't immediately add it, don't get offended. I probably just haven't gotten around to it yet.
This list is based on North American releases.

NES:
Final Fantasy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_(video_game))
Final Fantasy II (aka Final Fantasy IV) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_IV)
Final Fantasy III (aka) Final Fantasy VI) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_fantasy_6)
Dragon Warrior (aka Dragon Quest) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Warrior)
Dragon Warrior II (aka Dragon Quest II) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Warrior_II)
Dragon Warrior III (aka Dragon Quest III) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Warrior_III)
Dragon Warrior IV (aka Dragon Quest IV) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Warrior_IV)

SNES:
Chrono Trigger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrono_trigger)
Super Mario RPG (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_mario_rpg)
Earthbound (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EarthBound)
Secret of Mana (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secret_of_Mana)
Illusion of Gaia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illusion_of_Gaia)

N64:
Paper Mario (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paper_Mario)

Gamecube:
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paper_Mario:_The_Thousand-Year_Door)
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_Emblem:_Path_of_Radiance)
Phantasy Star Online (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phantasy_Star_Online#Phantasy_Star_Online_Episode_ I_.26_II)
Tales of Symphonia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tales_of_symphonia)

Wii:
The Last Story (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Story)
Pandora's Tower (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pandora%27s_Tower)
Xenoblade Chronicles (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xenoblade_Chronicles)

Gameboy:
Pokemon Red/Blue/Yellow (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pokemon_Red)
Pokemon Gold/Silver/Crystal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pok%C3%A9mon_Gold_and_Silver)

GBA:
Pokemon Ruby/Sapphire/Emerald (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pok%C3%A9mon_Ruby_and_Sapphire)
Pokemon Fire Red/Leaf Green (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pokemon_Fire_Red)

DS:
Pokemon Diamond/Pearl (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pok%C3%A9mon_Pearl)
Pokemon HeartGold/SoulSilver (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pok%C3%A9mon_HeartGold_and_SoulSilver)
Chrono Trigger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrono_trigger#Nintendo_DS_release)
The World Ends With You (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_World_Ends_With_You)
Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Warrior_IV)
Dragon Quest V: Hand Of The Heavenly Bride (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Quest_V:_Hand_of_the_Heavenly_Bride)
Dragon Quest VI: Realms of Revelation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Quest_VI)
Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Quest_9)
Final Fantasy IV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_IV_(3D_remake))

3DS:
Bravely Default (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bravely_Default)
Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etrian_Odyssey_IV)
Etrian Odyssey Untold: The Millenium Girl (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etrian_Odyssey_Untold:_The_Millennium_Girl)
Fire Emblem Awakening (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_emblem_awakening)
Pokemon X and Y (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pokemon_X_and_y)
Shin Megami Tensei IV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shin_Megami_Tensei_IV)
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soul_Hackers)
Tales of the Abyss (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tales_of_the_Abyss#Nintendo_3DS_port)

PS1:
Chrono Cross (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrono_cross)
Dragon Warrior VII (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Quest_VII)
Final Fantasy VII (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_fantasy_7)
Final Fantasy VIII (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_VIII)
Final Fantasy IX (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_9)
Final Fantasy Tactics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_fantasy_tactics)
The Legend of Dragoon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Legend_Of_Dragoon)
Legend of Mana (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legend_of_Mana)
Parasite Eve (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parasite_Eve_(video_game))
Parasite Eve 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parasite_Eve_2)
Star Ocean: The Second Story (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Ocean:_The_Second_Story)
Wild Arms (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wild_arms)
XenoGears (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xenogears)

PS2:
Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Quest_VIII)
Final Fantasy X (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_10)
.hack series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/.hack)
Kingdom Hearts (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_hearts)
Kingdom Hearts 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingdom_hearts_2)
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persona_3)
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shin_Megami_Tensei:_Persona_4)
XenoSaga (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xenosaga)

PS3:
Dragon Age: Origins (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Age_Origins)
Demon's Souls (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demon%27s_Souls)
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/elder_scrolls_4)
Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skyrim)
Fallout 3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_3)
Fallout New Vegas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_New_vegas)
Ni No Kuni (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ni_no_Kuni)
Star Ocean 4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_ocean_4)
Tales of Xillia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tales_of_Xillia)

PSP:
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crisis_Core)
Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_Tactics:_The_War_of_the_Lions)
Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valkyrie_Profile#Valkyrie_Profile:_Lenneth)

XBOX:
Panzer Dragoon Orta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panzer_Dragoon_Orta)
Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars:_Knights_of_the_Old_Republic)
Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars:_Knights_of_the_Old_Republic_II_The_Sith _Lords)
Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morrowind)
Fable (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fable_(video_game))

360:
Dragon Age: Origins (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Age:_Origins)
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Elder_Scrolls_IV:_Oblivion)
Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Elder_Scrolls_V:_Skyrim)
Fallout 3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_3)
Fallout New Vegas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_New_Vegas)
Fable 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fable_2)
Fable 3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fable_3)
Infinite Undiscovery (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infinite_Undiscovery)
Lost Odyssey (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lost_odyssey)
Mass Effect (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_effect)
Star Ocean 4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_ocean_4)

PC
Baldur's Gate (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baldur%27s_Gate)
Baldur's Gate II (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baldur%27s_Gate_II:_Shadows_of_Amn)
Diablo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diablo_(computer_game))
Diablo 2/Diablo 2: Lords of Destruction (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diablo_2)
Dragon Age: Origins (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon_Age_Origins)
Fallout (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_(video_game))
Fallout 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_2)
Fallout Tactics (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_Tactics:_Brotherhood_of_Steel)
Fallout 3 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_3)
Fallout New Vegas (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallout_New_vegas)
Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morrowind)
Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/elder_scrolls_4)

Games with RPG elements:
Borderlands (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borderlands_(video_game)) (360/PS3)
Legend of Zelda series (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legend_of_Zelda) (NES/SNES/N64/Gamecube/Wii/GBC/GBA/DS)
System Shock 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/System_shock_2) (PC)

As you can see, this is far from finished. Just name some suggestions and I'll add them, I want to make a list of RPG's by system that we as a forum think are worth playing.

[Ilyich Valken]

.Hack games for PS2. Assassin's Creed games for either PS3 or 360.

[EpsilonX]

I personally wouldn't consider assassin's creed an RPG by any means, but then again i haven't played it personally (i've watched people play enough to say this) If other people disagree and say it's an RPG, i'll add it.

i'll add .hack though.

[Ilyich Valken]

Oh. RPGs. Herpderp. Fallout 3/NV (either PS3, Pc, or 360), Fable(s), Infinite Undiscovery.

[Aizen]

NES / SNES :
Zelda : A Link to the Past

N64:
Zelda : Ocarina of Time

[Kenoi]

man, thanks for putting this up, I'm looking forward to newer games to be on this list... I'll actually try some of the ones you mentioned. I STILL gotta try out 'Xenogears' though.

[EpsilonX]

My friend actually got me Xenogears for christmas, I haven't played it yet since i started playing Xenosaga again like a week earlier.

[Ilyich Valken]

|: 360 - Infinite Undiscovery
PS2 - Kingdom Hearts 1/2 (maybe?)
PSP - Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep

[EpsilonX]

Lol, you're probably the first person i've heard say anything good about infinite undiscovery.

[Ilyich Valken]

I thought it was good. It was a little weird/cliche/annoying at points, but what JRPG isnt? lol

[Muffincat]

It might be nice if you added links to the games (like a wikipedia page or something) for people who are unfamiliar with them, unless you feel like that is too much work for you :P

A nice list so far; I will have to pick my brain for ones that are missing. Can't think of them right now @_@

[EpsilonX]

It might be nice if you added links to the games (like a wikipedia page or something) for people who are unfamiliar with them, unless you feel like that is too much work for you :P

A nice list so far; I will have to pick my brain for ones that are missing. Can't think of them right now @_@

Hmm, not a bad idea. Lots of work though :|

[BobTD]

I noticed your NES, SNES, N64, Gamecube, and Wii sections where lacking in good RPGs. =P

Sooooo.... I guess here:

NES:
Wizardry
Zelda, Links awakening was more so an RPG then the first.
Dragon Warrior 1-4 (thankfully you can find 1&2 on the GBC)

SNES:
The complete list of english games:
7th Saga
Arcana
Breath of Fire 1
Breath of Fire 2
Chrono Trigger
Dragon View
Drakkhen
Dungeon Master
Earthbound (Mother 2)
Estopolis 1 (Lufia & the Fortress of Doom)
Estopolis 2 (Lufia 2: Rise of the Sinistrals)
E.V.O. Search for Eden
Eye of the Beholder
Final Fantasy 2
Final Fantasy 3
Final Fantasy Mystic Quest
Front Mission 1
Illusion of Gaia (Soul Blazer 2) (Illusion of Time)
Illusion of Time (Soul Blazer 2) (Illusion of Gaia)
Inindo: Way of the Ninja
Lagoon
Lord of The Rings
Lufia & the Fortress of Doom (Estopolis 1)
Lufia 2: Rise of the Sinistrals (Estopolis 2)
Might & Magic 3: Isles of Terra
Mother 2 (Earthbound)
Paladin's Quest
Robotrek
Romancing Saga 3
Secret of Evermore
Secret of Mana (Seiken Densetsu 2)
Secret of the Stars
Seiken Densetsu 2 (Secret of Mana)
Shadowrun
Soul Blazer
Soul Blazer 2 (Illusion of Gaia) (Illusion of Time)
Soul Blazer 3 (Terranigma)
Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars
Terranigma (Soul Blazer 3)
Ultima 6: The False Prophet
Ultima 7: The Black Gate
Ultima: Runes of Virtue 2
Uncharted Waters
Uncharted Waters 2: New Horizons
Wizardry 5: Heart of the Maelstrom

The ones I personally recommend:
Super mario RPG
Secret of Mana
Chrono Trigger
Earthbound

N64:
(oh dear not much to pick from)
Quest 64
Paper mario

Gamecube:

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Tales of Symphonia
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Phantasy Star Online: Episode I & II
Evolution Worlds

Wii:

Super Paper Mario
Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World
Phantom Brave: We Meet Again

[Polishkid]

diablo 1 and expansion... diablo 2 and expansion... for the PC

[Flab-Ender]

I personally wouldn't consider assassin's creed an RPG by any means, but then again i haven't played it personally (i've watched people play enough to say this though) If other people disagree and say it's an RPG, i'll add it though.

i'll add .hack though.

Ummm, I don't see how Assassins Creed doesn't fit the bill of an RPG? You assume the role of a fictional character, what else is there?

[Jayhmmz]

Ummm, I don't see how Assassins Creed doesn't fit the bill of an RPG? You assume the role of a fictional character, what else is there?

I would class it as a near-sandbox, action adventure game. It's a bit too different from general RPG games, to be an RPG game.

[Samus-Fan]

Final Fantasy XIII. 8 hours in, and I love it. It's also has some of the best graphics available right now.

Borderlands. Beat it 2 times, I love the game and the original graphics.

Flab-Ender, it's more of a Action Platformer, just like Uncharted. You do take a role as a player, but there are no attributes to level up and expand on. You can't have allies in a sense, and there just are a lot of things missing. If it counted, most games would.

[Flab-Ender]

I would class it as a near-sandbox, action adventure game. It's a bit too different from general RPG games, to be an RPG game.

Well Kingdom Hearts is about as close to an RPG as Assassins Creed. And I would consider it near-sandbox.

[Samus-Fan]

Well Kingdom Hearts is about as close to an RPG as Assassins Creed. And I would consider it near-sandbox.

Yes but in Kingdom Hearts, you have allies, you can level up, with attributes going up as well. You don't pick them, but it is the same idea. You also can choose equipment with plenty of options.

[Flab-Ender]

Yes but in Kingdom Hearts, you have allies, you can level up, with attributes going up as well. You don't pick them, but it is the same idea. You also can choose equipment with plenty of options.

You can do almost the exact same thing in Assassins Creed Brotherhood.

[Samus-Fan]

You can do almost the exact same thing in Assassins Creed Brotherhood.

They aren't the same though, they are completely different games. It's genre is Action Platformer.
Just because you take the role of a person doesn't make it an RPG.

[Flab-Ender]

They aren't the same though, they are completely different games. It's genre is Action Platformer.
Just because you take the role of a person doesn't make it an RPG.

How in the world is it a Platformer? It's 3D and free roaming. And of course they're different games, but similar in game play it seems, I mean Kingdom hearts isn't in anyway free roaming.

[Samus-Fan]

How in the world is it a Platformer? It's 3D and free roaming. And of course they're different games, but similar in game play it seems, I mean Kingdom hearts isn't in anyway free roaming.

Yea it is, there isn't a selected path. You can go freely from world to world as you like, finding new treasure with the new abilities earned. Platformers aren't all 2D. I guess AC isn't completely a platformer, the first was, just a crappy one.

[Flab-Ender]

Yea it is, there isn't a selected path. You can go freely from world to world as you like, finding new treasure with the new abilities earned. Platformers aren't all 2D. I guess AC isn't completely a platformer, the first was, just a crappy one.

I do agree with that, but the first from the latest is completely different. And you're right. Yet I still find AC to be an RPG.

[Jayhmmz]

I think to class a game as an RPG is just down to personal opinion. There will always be conflicting opinions.

I haven't ever seen an actual official genre check list that a game must fit for it to be, for example, an RPG. I think some games are just loosely labelled as a particular genre based on past games.

[EpsilonX]

Final Fantasy XIII. 8 hours in, and I love it. It's also has some of the best graphics available right now.
Sorry, I can't recommend FFXIII to anybody.


Borderlands. Beat it 2 times, I love the game and the original graphics.

I consider this more a shooter with leveling up as opposed to a full-fledged RPG



Btw, Assassin's Creed is NOT an RPG. Watch this video series, it explains it pretty well.

Part 1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_rvM6hubs8) Part 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8aiEsIW9IM) Part 3 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cmkdoz5LjdE)

[Ilyich Valken]

How in the world is it a Platformer? It's 3D and free roaming. And of course they're different games, but similar in game play it seems, I mean Kingdom hearts isn't in anyway free roaming.

Assassin's Creed is DEFINTELY a platformer.

Platforming Games (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Platform_game) - "The platform game (or platformer) is a video game genre characterized by jumping to and from suspended platforms or over obstacles (jumping puzzles). It must be possible to control these jumps and to fall from platforms or miss jumps. The most common unifying element to these games is a jump button; other jump mechanics include swinging from extendable arms, as in Ristar or Bionic Commando, or bouncing from springboards or trampolines, as in Alpha Waves."

It's one of the very embodiments of platform and freeroam gaming.

[Samus-Fan]

no. just no
I consider this more a shooter with leveling up as opposed to a full-fledged RPG


Might as well change the Title to "The Official Epsilon X Recommended RPG List" then.
You also haven't added like 10 RPG's here that actually sparked modern ones to exist.

[Flab-Ender]

Might as well change the Title to "The Official Epsilon X Recommended RPG List" then.
You also haven't added like 10 RPG's here that actually sparked modern ones to exist.

Some one needed to say that, but do you really think it has the best graphics available now?

[Samus-Fan]

Some one needed to say that, but do you really think it has the best graphics available now?

I wasn't strictly talking about FFXIII, but with that, on Xbox 360, I believe so. I think Heavy Rain has it beat on PS3 though.

We could also change the name to, "The Offical STRICTLY RPG AND NO OTHER MIXED GENRE Recommended RPG List" since Borderlands (An RPG) isn't being counted.
How can Fallout 3 be counted, but Borderlands not counted?

[Flab-Ender]

I wasn't strictly talking about FFXIII, but with that, on Xbox 360, I believe so. I think Heavy Rain has it beat on PS3 though.

We could also change the name to, "The Offical STRICTLY RPG AND NO OTHER MIXED GENRE Recommended RPG List" since Borderlands (An RPG) isn't being counted.
How can Fallout 3 be counted, but Borderlands not counted?

And Kingdom Hearts, and not AC. But I see what you're saying. Though I think when Skyrim comes out it will beat it in graphics, if all that has been said about it is true.

[EpsilonX]

Might as well change the Title to "The Official Epsilon X Recommended RPG List" then.
You also haven't added like 10 RPG's here that actually sparked modern ones to exist.

this topic was meant for full-fledged RPG's, not shooters where u get items and have some leveling up systems, but if the rest of the forum disagrees and says it should go on, then i'll put it on.


And Kingdom Hearts, and not AC. But I see what you're saying. Though I think when Skyrim comes out it will beat it in graphics, if all that has been said about it is true.

ASSASSINS CREED IS NOT AN RPG


We could also change the name to, "The Offical STRICTLY RPG AND NO OTHER MIXED GENRE Recommended RPG List" since Borderlands (An RPG) isn't being counted.
How can Fallout 3 be counted, but Borderlands not counted?

Fallout 3 is an RPG with guns. Borderlands is a shooter where u level stuff up.

[Flab-Ender]

this topic was meant for full-fledged RPG's, not shooters where u get items and have some leveling up systems, but if the rest of the forum disagrees and says it should go on, then i'll put it on.



ASSASSINS CREED IS NOT AN RPG



Fallout 3 is an RPG with guns. Borderlands is a shooter where u level stuff up.

According to who?! If you find me a quote or anything that says that AC is not an RPG, i'll stop right now.

[Jayhmmz]

"Genres Third person, Action, Stealth, Open World"

I haven't yet found anything to say that it is an RPG I'm afraid

Sorry :(

[Flab-Ender]

"Genres Third person, Action, Stealth, Open World"

I haven't yet found anything to say that it is an RPG I'm afraid

Sorry :(

But does it say its not?

[Jayhmmz]

But does it say its not?

Doesn't say it's not, no. But nothing at all mentions anything about it being related to an RPG

[EpsilonX]

According to who?! If you find me a quote or anything that says that AC is not an RPG, i'll stop right now.

Everbody except you. Hold on, i'll prove it to you right now. gonna post on the amazon forums.

edit: this computer is a piece of junk and won't let me go on any websites other than facebook and gf

[Flab-Ender]

Doesn't say it's not, no. But nothing at all mentions anything about it being related to an RPG

But I still don't see how it's not. I mean RPG is such a large genre, and very broad. A lot of games can be included, and they don't have to be very specific. I just think the fact that you assume the ROLE of a character and play through a story pretty much puts it in that category.

[Samus-Fan]

NES / SNES :
Zelda : A Link to the Past

N64:
Zelda : Ocarina of Time


I noticed your NES, SNES, N64, Gamecube, and Wii sections where lacking in good RPGs. =P

Sooooo.... I guess here:

NES:
Wizardry
Zelda, Links awakening was more so an RPG then the first.
Dragon Warrior 1-4 (thankfully you can find 1&2 on the GBC)

SNES:
The ones I personally recommend:
Super mario RPG
Secret of Mana
Chrono Trigger
Earthbound

N64:
(oh dear not much to pick from)
Quest 64
Paper mario

Gamecube:

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Tales of Symphonia
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Phantasy Star Online: Episode I & II
Evolution Worlds

Wii:

Super Paper Mario
Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World
Phantom Brave: We Meet Again

Ignored those.
Those first 7 completely started RPG's and you haven't added those.

And Fallout is a RPG with guns.
Leveling up, attributes, quests.

Borderlands only has leveling up, quests, tons of different types of weapons, different attribute changes (Class Mods), and upgrades you can have for your player.
I'm not seeing how they are any different, other than in Fallout you can specifically choose the stats you up on where on Borderlands, they are thrown into Class Mods and player upgrades.

[Flab-Ender]

The only difference is that Borderlands is a wee bit simpler.

[EpsilonX]

1. There's a difference between "ignored" and "haven't gotten around to adding to the list" Maybe you should learn the difference.

2. The purpose of this list is so that if somebody wants some good RPG's to play, they can just check the list. Thus, the list is meant for games that are mainly RPG's as opposed to games with RPG elements. I'll still honor your request, by A. opening a topic on another forum and seeing if they think Borderlands and Assassin's Creed can truly be called RPG's, as well as adding a second list for games that have RPG elements but aren't full-blown RPGs. Can we settle with doing this?

[Flab-Ender]

Is it really that big of a deal to add it to the list? I mean really?But ok, whatever.

[EpsilonX]

I'm not going to add an action-adventure game to a list of games to recommend to people looking for an RPG. The point of this list was just to list the best in the genre, not every game in the genre. RPG or not, Borderlands and Assassin's Creed aren't good examples of RPGs. I wouldn't recommend Metal Gear Solid 4 to somebody looking for a game similar to call of duty, even though it's basically a shooter. But I figured Borderland's RPG elements might interest people that like RPGs, which is why I'm going to add an "rpg elements list"

edit: this guy on the amazon video game forum said "Borderlands is more FPS than RPG, and Assassin's Creed... wait, what?" I'm still waiting on more responses.

[Samus-Fan]

Fair enough, I have no arguments with that compromise.

[EpsilonX]

I updated with some of bob's suggestions, although some of them seem to be fairly un-liked based on reviews (quest 64) so I didn't include them. I'll add some more stuff to the NES and SNES sections, as well as adding the zelda games to the "rpg elements" section, since, while they're not truly full-fledged rpgs, they're influential to the genre

[Jayhmmz]

But I still don't see how it's not. I mean RPG is such a large genre, and very broad. A lot of games can be included, and they don't have to be very specific. I just think the fact that you assume the ROLE of a character and play through a story pretty much puts it in that category.

So effectively you're saying every single game with a campaign is an RPG game, even the Call of Duty campaign. There's just no solid evidence for AC to be classed as RPG.

In Assassins Creed, you're not questing as such, it's different. You don't level up at all, apart from leveling your Assassin Brotherhood up, but that's pointless anyway; it's more of a third person combat game, with the adventure side added onto it.

Each to their own opinions, and you're entitled to yours, but personally I don't see the link to RPG in Assassins Creed. As I've said, the point you brought forward could license any game's campaign with a character to play as, to be an RPG.

[BobTD]

I updated with some of bob's suggestions, although some of them seem to be fairly un-liked based on reviews (quest 64) so I didn't include them. I'll add some more stuff to the NES and SNES sections, as well as adding the zelda games to the "rpg elements" section, since, while they're not truly full-fledged rpgs, they're influential to the genre

quest 64 got terrible reviews, and it was kinda hard. But its still one of the only RPGs of its type. I know a few people who liked it, I think its an amazing classic. =P

*goes and hugs his copy* its ok I love you Quest....

[Gilgamesh]

SNES had Final Fantasy IV, V, VI, and the Breath of Fire games for some good old school action. Star Ocean and Illusion of Gaia were pretty good too but I never finished those so....partial recommendation. XD

[GypsyRose]

love love love love, kingdom hearts :)
and fallout is good too!

[paecmaker]

what about oblivion ( I saw morrowind on the list)

Now I dont think you take pc games but if you do: fallout 1/2

And alpha protocol, you might not think its good but it stand "the espionage rpg" on the case.

[Exentenzed]

If you wouldnt mind adding PC RPG's then Baldurs Gate 2 is something i would like to see on the list. :)

[williamkills]

check out fallen earth

[Jayhmmz]

check out fallen earth

Wow, the first semi-constructive post I have seen you do.. congrats?

[paecmaker]

Wow, the first semi-constructive post I have seen you do.. congrats?

Wow he deserves a price:D

[Jayhmmz]

Wow he deserves a price:D

Thank the Lord, he is banned!!!

[EpsilonX]

I didn't include a PC section cuz it would probably be longer than all of the other consoles combined haha. But If everybody really wants I guess I could add one.

[Exentenzed]

Nah i understand why you didnt :P Was just tossing in a suggestion. :)

Im sorry to bring this up again though but i just have to say my oppinion.

AC is definitely not an RPG, yes it contains a few limited elements that is often used in RPG's but its in NO way a RPG.
Saying its a RPG because you take on the role of a fictional character would label almost every game out there an RPG.

What defines it is that you have a character that you develop as you play,(usually trough leveling) this includes everything from skillset, to appearance and personality.

Example: in AC you arent allowed to kill civilians or friendlies as this will eventually desync you. and because of this alone you can say that this game is somewhat predefined in how you are supposed to play it and is as such not a true RPG.

Also, Somewhere it was said that you wouldnt give up on calling it an RPG before you saw a quote that is wasnt one.
1st. It usually isnt mentioned that it isnt anywhere because it is a given.
2nd. And to fullfill your criteria:
Btw, Assassin's Creed is NOT an RPG.

[EpsilonX]

Nah i understand why you didnt :P Was just tossing in a suggestion. :)

Im sorry to bring this up again though but i just have to say my oppinion.

Borderlands, Its a full fledged RPG, with mostly shooter elements. Wouldnt realy reccommend it though, as the only thing that got me pumped up was the intro. :P

AC is definitely not an RPG, yes it contains a few elements that is often used in RPG's but its in NO way a RPG.

See, most people consider borderlands to be primarily a shooter. When I want an RPG i'm more looking for a typical rpg. If I wanted to play a shooter though, I'd look at Borderlands. If somebody said "whats a good RPG" I wouldn't ever say borderlands, even if it IS a good game (i havent played it)

[Muffincat]

Wasn't Baldur's Gate 2 also for PS2?

edit: "Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance/Dark Alliance 2" is what I am thinking of, which apparently is not the same as Baldur's Gate 2. That makes sense... anyway, this game was super fun : D

[Exentenzed]

See, most people consider borderlands to be primarily a shooter. When I want an RPG i'm more looking for a typical rpg. If I wanted to play a shooter though, I'd look at Borderlands. If somebody said "whats a good RPG" I wouldn't ever say borderlands, even if it IS a good game (i havent played it)

Yea i was wrong when it came to borderlands, i did the mistake of typing before thinking. anyways, edited the post afterwards.

[NeonYouki]

You forgot to add "The Illusion of Gaia" to the list of SNES games, as well as "The Legend of Zelda - A Link to the Past." Also for PS2, "Persona 4."

[Thomas_abeln]

Does anyone still play Dark age of camelot or is that all gone?

[SiC TwiSteD]

PS3 - Demon's Souls
360 - Star Ocean IV, Dragon Age Origins I & II, Red Dead Redemption( I personally didnt like RDR but it won GOTY so apparently people liked it)

[R3d M4g3]

Edlers Scrolls III Morrowind, Fire Emblem Shadow Dragon, Final Fantasy I & II (, (NES, PS1, GBA and PSP versions).

[EpsilonX]

Added a few more to the list, as well as a PC section, so help me fill the PC section.

[MIKEFMARKETING]

Good Reviews

[Psychotray]

Im not the biggest fan of RPG's, but I thoroughly enjoyed the Zelda series, one of my favourite games, I remember that a few years back, I played one of them on the Nintendo 64.

[PurePowah]

RPG's aren't that much fun imo.. usually they don't have any PvP

[G33kInTh3Pink]

I can't wait for elder scrolls sky rim it's goingbto be awesome

[EpsilonX]

There are rpg's with PVP. Diablo 2 and Demons souls have PVP.

anyways, Zelda isn't an rpg, we've decided this. stop posting about it T.T

[Slay]

I am not a big fan of Diablo, don't get me wrong, it was great, when 2d was mainly what you saw, besides the funny looking 3D games, now it just seems like.. get with it, ya know? :P

[EpsilonX]

I think it's an awesome game, that just focuses on the core of stats and gameplay. no need for any flashier of graphics. Diablo 1 on the other hand plays like crap

[Slay]

I am not sure wich one I had.. it had an extension for characters, it was like assassin and bluh bluh. I was used to fallout tactics at about that time. :P

[podz101]

The only RPG i played is the fable series...

[Callanrobertson]

I can't wait for elder scrolls sky rim it's goingbto be awesome
Agreed it is gonna be awesome :cheesy:

[riwin019]

How about the last remnant for pc, and monster hunter tri for the WII

[Bertrum]

Digimon World 1 on the PS1 is and will always be a favourite of mine :P

[EpsilonX]

Digimon World 1 on the PS1 is and will always be a favourite of mine :P

I love that game but I wouldn't really recommend it to anyone. It's too hard in my opinion. By the time you get your digimon strong enough to fight some of the boss monsters, it dies. I've NEVER beaten garurumon.

[Bertrum]

I love that game but I wouldn't really recommend it to anyone. It's too hard in my opinion. By the time you get your digimon strong enough to fight some of the boss monsters, it dies. I've NEVER beaten garurumon.

I suppose it's more of a novelty for Digimon fans, I really enjoyed it, I still give it a whirl now and then just for nostalgia purposes :P

The only part I ever got stuck on was the end fight with Machinedramon, that sucked so bad, my champion Angemon versus a mega Digimon :(

[EpsilonX]

See, I've never even gotten that far. I can never get my guys strong enough to fight some of the tougher bosses (like warumonzemon or the guys in factorial town)

and technically, it's only an ultimate, since mega form wasn't introduced until later on.

[Bertrum]

See, I've never even gotten that far. I can never get my guys strong enough to fight some of the tougher bosses (like warumonzemon or the guys in factorial town)

and technically, it's only an ultimate, since mega form wasn't introduced until later on.

Technically it is an ultimate, however we all know it's a Mega :P

But yeah the best thing to do I find is train your Digimon non-stop until it is Champion/Ultimate, then go and kick butt for a few days while you can :D

[EpsilonX]

Technically it is an ultimate, however we all know it's a Mega :P

But yeah the best thing to do I find is train your Digimon non-stop until it is Champion/Ultimate, then go and kick butt for a few days while you can :D

That's what I do, but it's annoying since it takes such a long time to get your guy strong enough, and by the time it is strong enough, you only have like 2 or 3 days left to battle with it.

They're making a new Digimon World based on the first one for the PSP, hopefully it's more balanced. I'm definitely interested

[Bertrum]

That's what I do, but it's annoying since it takes such a long time to get your guy strong enough, and by the time it is strong enough, you only have like 2 or 3 days left to battle with it.

They're making a new Digimon World based on the first one for the PSP, hopefully it's more balanced. I'm definitely interested

Me too, it will be cool to see it :D

[mutilations]

Please don't get mad if any of these were already suggested, I didn't read every page but I think if maybe they are said by more than one user, it could get recognition. Keep in mind that some of these can be considered Strategy with RPG elements as well. :)

SNES
The 7th Saga
Final Fantasy II
Final Fantasy III
Breath of Fire
Breath of Fire 2
Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen

N64
Aidyn Chronicles: The First Mage
Ogre Battle 64

GameCube
Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean
Baten Kaitos Origins
Evolution Worlds
Skies of Arcadia: Legends

Wii
*insert a really angry face here*

GameBoy
Lufia: The Legend Returns

GBA
Tales of Phantasia
Golden Sun
Golden Sun: Lost Age
Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis

DS
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner
Sands of Destruction
Golden Sun: Dark Dawn
Knights in the Nightmare (?)
Luminous Arc2
DisgaeaDS
Hero's Saga Laevatein Tactics
Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift
Final Fantasy IV
Final Fantasy III

PS1
Lunar: Silver Star Story
Lunar 2: Eternal Blue
Grandia
Tales of Destiny II
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 2
Breath of Fire III
Breath of Fire IV
Thousand Arms
Ogre Tactics
Valkyrie Profile
Star Ocean: The Second Story
Dragon Warrior VII
Hoshigami: Ruining Blue Earth*
Wild Arms
Wild Arms 2
Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure
Vagrant Story
Ogre Battle: March of the Black Queen

PS2
Unlimited Saga
Tales of Legendia
Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga
Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga 2
Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner 2
Grandia II
Grandia Xtreme
Grandia III
Tales of the Abyss
Growlanser Generations
Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana
Atelier Iris2: The Azoth of Destiny
Makai Kingdom
GrimGrimoire
Ar tonelico: Melody of Elemia
Ar tonelico: Melody of Metafalica
Shadow Hearts: Covenant
Shadow Hearts: From the New World
Star Ocean: Till the End of Time
Suikoden Tactics
Dark Cloud
Dark Cloud 2
Wild Arms 3
Wild Arms 4
Wild Arms: Alter Code F
Arc the Lad: Twilight of the Spirits
Arc the Lad: End of Darkness
La Pucelle Tactics
Soul Nomad & the World Eaters
Eternal Poison
Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
Disgaea 2: Cursed Memories
Magna Carta: Tears of Blood
Ephemeral Fantasia
Stella Deus: The Gate of Eternity*
Phantom Brave*
Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter

PS3
Disgaea 3: Absence of Justice
Hyperdimension Neptunia
Trinity Universe
Enchanted Arms
Last Rebellion
Atelier Rorona: The Alchemist of Arland
Eternal Sonata

PSP
Lunar: Silver Star Harmony
Shin Megami Tensei: Persona
Riviera: The Promised Land
PoPoLoCrois
Valkyrie Profile Lenneth
The Legend of Heroes: A Tear of Vermillion
The Legend of Heroes 2: Prophecy of the Moonlight Witch
The Legend of Heroes 3: Song of the Ocean
Mana Khemia: Student Alliance
Brave Story: New Traveler
Valhalla Knights 2
Crimson Gem Saga
Final Fantasy IV: The Complete Collection
Tactics Ogre: Let us Cling Together

Xbox 360
Record of Agarest War Zero
Divinity II: Ego Draconis
The Last Remnant
Lost Odyssey


This does not cover all system and not all these games are "ground-breaking rpg titles" but if you are an RPG-fan and you can't get enough, these are some titles that can give you the substance you crave. I will mention that the Lunar Games and Grandia games are some of the BEST RPG games that have come out with Grandia holding the best combat design system title, in my book anyways. All Shin Megami Tensei games should be played because they are all a unique experience. Disgaea is for those that are extremely hardcore to Strategy-based RPGs. The * also denotes extreme difficulty, or at least it was a pain when I was playing. lol

[EpsilonX]

Dang, thats a lot of games. I'll get to updating this eventually, thanks for the post.

[mutilations]

No problem at all. I will keep adding games as I get them if they haven't been put on this list yet. I will help the best I can because I like to stay completely up-to-date with RPGs now that I've seen Playstation get back into the scene and developers following suit. If you have any questions too, let me know.

[BobTD]

Im thinking we should add he first jade Cocoon for the ps1.

Also I cant believe Final Fantasy Tactics is not included. Hands down my favorite RPG. Unless we arent counting tactics RPGs, but I see Ogre Tactics and they are made by the same group.

[EpsilonX]

I coulda swore I added Final Fantasy Tactics...

edit: yea, tactics and tactics: war of the lions are on my post. and theres no point in posting about games already on the list.

[Kenoi]

I'm curious about Shin Megami Tensei: Persona
and

Tactics ogre: let us cling together

I'm really thinking about getting both but... I wanna know which one's worth playing & worth my time, haha

[mutilations]

I'm curious about Shin Megami Tensei: Persona
and

Tactics ogre: let us cling together

I'm really thinking about getting both but... I wanna know which one's worth playing & worth my time, haha

I could play them and do a review or maybe a summary, as I'm about to beat Hyperdimension Neptunia and need another game.

[Kenoi]

well, if you really feel like it, then go for it. but if you feel like doing it in a summary, I'm fine with that too. either way works. haha. thanks

[EpsilonX]

I'm curious about Shin Megami Tensei: Persona
and

Tactics ogre: let us cling together

I'm really thinking about getting both but... I wanna know which one's worth playing & worth my time, haha

I just started Persona 3, so I can tell you about that.

You basically go to class, run around school talking to classmates and participating in activities. Depending on how well you do in school, who you talk to, what activities you partake in, etc, your athletics, charm, and some other stat will go up. These stats going up increases the realm of people you're able to become friends with. Becoming friends with people creates social links, and the better friends you become with them the higher your social link gets.

At night time, there's a thing called the dark hour, and you explore a place called tartarus, at which point it's a standard rpg, except you only control 1 character. However, the strength of your attacks is affected by how strong your social links are.

Basically, it's a dating sim and a JRPG at the same time.

[Kenoi]

I see. is it like a type of game where I can TAKE MY TIME with? you know what I mean? I make emphasis on that. i mean, every rpg can be a long one, depends on how you play it right? I'll think about it, but yes, thanks epsilon

[Psychotray]

I might rent out Dragon Age when I get my Ps3 this week, Im not sure if its even worth renting out.

[R!nG]

try neverwinter nights or dragon age series for pc.... i liked dragon age 1 the most tho..

[BloNDeWoLF6]

I have only one suggestion to this marvelous list.
On SNES there was a Nintendo released RPG called Mario RPG.
I would say it would rate 8/10 from an RPG stand point,
9.5/10 for die hard Mario lovers, looking for a different Mario fix.

[oreo.slayer]

HOW ABOUT SKYRIM? :p

[zamran87]

Skyrim-xbox360, ps3, pc

[Sunsetforgotten]

I have only one suggestion to this marvelous list.
On SNES there was a Nintendo released RPG called Mario RPG.
I would say it would rate 8/10 from an RPG stand point,
9.5/10 for die hard Mario lovers, looking for a different Mario fix.

I love Mario RPG. Brings back so many memories for me. I'm not even a huge mario fan, but that game is amazing.

I would suggest Suikoden 1/2 if anyone could find it. Older games with intriguing story lines and varying modes of combat.

[danielpunk]

I needed PSP help.

[Newkeh]

PC+ps3+xbox360: Kingdoms of amalur: reckoning

[iNightM4re]

Thx for that post I've bin searching for a good rpg on the PsP forever
thanks again,iNIghtM4re

[DJ@NTG]

Very solid list! I've tried a lot of the ones on there. Now, whether I've finished them is an entirely different story.

[FearTheSpork]

Was anyone else let down by Fable III? It just didn't do it for me. Oh well, can't complain because I loved Fable and Fable II so much. Fabulous list for the most part. I'm glad there are people out there who still play Pokemon Yellow/Red/Blue. Those are my childhood. Found my old Gameboy Color the other day and I've been running around with Pikachu being a badass.

[gamermini]

.Hack games for PS2. Assassin's Creed games for either PS3 or 360.

completely agreed

[dinodinooo]

how about the Fire Emblem series? I strongly recommend Fire Emblem: Blazing Sword (GBA) and Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn (Wii). I also support Final Fantasy XIII-2. The gameplay's better than its prequel although the story is much shorter.

[quynht2007]

Where's FF IX in that list? It was also an awesome RPG game!

[Gilgamesh]

I had fun and would recommend Final Fantasy 12. Borderlands 2 has been pretty good so far also. The DS version of Final Fantasy 4 may be better than the
snes original Imo. The translation and little cut scenes are more...entertaining I think.

[MotoGurl]

Thanks for the list. Very useful advice!

[EpsilonX]

I added some links in the first post to help people decide whether a game is an RPG or not. Also, I added a few more games.

[Trunks]

Had no idea system shock 2 was an RPG type. I thought it was like doom, might have to play it, bought it on steam at some point.

[EpsilonX]

Had no idea system shock 2 was an RPG type. I thought it was like doom, might have to play it, bought it on steam at some point.

It's a horror shooter like doom, but there are classes and skills you level up. It's not a full-blown RPG, though, so that's why I put it under RPG elements.

It's fantastic though, highly recommended.