Here are the top classic RPGs that stood against the test of time with their enduring narrative and brilliant writing.
Classic role-playing games hold a special place in gaming history. Despite the unforgiving test of time and advanced gaming standards, these brilliant RPGs still deliver in 2024. And those that can’t are remade by their developers, like the Super Mario RPG Remake.
There is no doubt that some mechanics would feel janky. The visual quality will also be outdated. But these games are still timeless, thanks to their immersive worlds and compelling writing. They are also quite iconic with their cel-shaded graphics, strange quests, and memorable characters.
Let’s not wait further and dive into the top classic RPGs that still shine brightly decades after their initial release.
5. Final Fantasy VI
Final Fantasy VI, released in 1994, is a masterpiece known for its rich storytelling, memorable characters, and inventive gameplay. This impeccable RPG influenced a myriad of games that were released in the last three decades. Those include the highly anticipated Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, as well.
Many factors set it apart from other games of its genre. It stands out among the top classic RPGs with its deep, emotional narrative that explores the things that make us what we are.
Those who spent hours in it appreciated the game’s iconic soundtrack as well. Composed by Nobuo Uematsu, the original soundtrack further enhanced the game and its emotional highs and lows. With a 2D remaster now available on Steam, it’s one of the best RPG games that you need to play. It’s also a great option to consider if you want a nostalgic ride into the past.
4. Chrono Trigger
The most hardcore fans of the RPG genre believe that Chrono Trigger is the best RPG out there. The genre’s fans still celebrate this 1995 game decades after its initial release. RPG fans especially love it for its engaging plot, diverse characters, and groundbreaking time travel mechanics.
Developed by a dream team of Japanese RPG designers, the game follows a group of unlikely heroes on a quest to save the world from a catastrophic event. Although the premise sounds a bit generic, Chrono Trigger gets quite complicated when the concept of time enters the equation.
As one of the classic RPGs, Chrono Trigger is a one-of-a-kind game that still delivers a solid RPG experience. Even its slightest issues yield a much preferable obstacle when compared with flopping modern games.
3. Baldur’s Gate 2: Shadows of Amn
Baldur’s Gate 2: Shadows of Amn takes you to the magical Dungeons & Dragons universe. As the superstar of classic RPGs, it offers a rich, detailed world implemented with well-developed characters. It also featured a strategic combat that yielded challenging and rewarding gameplay.
Baldur’s Gate 2 emphasises player choice, and the consequence is still not found in many so-called RPGs. That’s why it’s one of the finest role-playing games out there that is well worth your time. Although it’s not as appealing as Baldur’s Gate 3, Shadows of Amn is a timeless piece of art.
2. Planescape: Torment
Another one among the best classic RPGs is Planetscape: Torment. It’s a philosophical game that wonderfully endured the test of time. It masterfully interweaves complex themes into its isometric RPG formula and encourages you to question life, death, and mortality.
Set in the Planetscape universe, Planetscape: Torment focuses on player choices that will alter the game’s outcome. This glorious RPG laid the groundwork for many other games of the genre. It’s still a delight to play, thanks to its diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and agendas.
1. The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind
The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind is one of the most esteemed titles of the RPG genre. Regarded as Bethesda’s magnum opus, this amazing RPG game blew minds when it first arrived. That’s because it offered total player freedom on one of the biggest video game maps of its time.
Before everything, Morrowind was incredibly immersive, thanks to great writing and scripted scenes. Even the biggest fans of Bethesda still believe that Morrowind is the studio’s best game. That’s an interesting argument, considering that Starfield made its debut last year.
Those who want to return to the roots of RPG gaming must dive into the fantasy world of this game. It takes place in Morrowind, a vast open world enriched with deep lore and an immersive atmosphere. Naturally, it tops our classic RPGs list.
Players uncover hidden secrets and unravel the mysteries of the world, fully immersed in the world of Tamriel with endless opportunities for discovery and adventure.
Final Thoughts
In short, the five old-school RPGs above exemplify the timeless appeal of the genre like no other. Despite their technical limitations, they offered immersive worlds, compelling narratives, and solid writing that still kicks in 2024.
Fortunately, most of the classic RPGs are still available on GOG.com, and they continue to captivate years after their debut. If you want to see their influence on their modern successors, check out the list of best action RPG games as well.
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- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.