Role-playing games (RPGs) have long been a cornerstone of the gaming universe, inviting players into immersive worlds where storytelling, character development, and decision-making reign supreme. Whether you’re battling dragons, exploring vast open worlds, or crafting your own destiny, RPGs offer experiences that stay with you long after the credits roll.

Here’s our carefully curated list of the top 10 RPGs every gamer should experience — titles that have shaped the genre and continue to inspire new generations.

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Why It’s a Must-Play:
The Witcher 3 is renowned for its rich narrative, complex characters, and massive open world teeming with life and danger. Its mature storytelling and impactful choices set a new standard for RPG storytelling.

How to Play:
Explore the open world as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, taking on contracts, engaging in combat using swords and magic, and making choices that affect the game’s outcome.

Gear Needed:

• PC with a powerful GPU for 4K textures and smooth gameplay.
• Controller or keyboard & mouse, depending on your preference.
• High-quality headset for atmospheric sound.

Before You Start:

• Prepare for a deep, story-driven experience.
• Be ready to manage inventory and learn combat mechanics.

2. Elden Ring

Why It’s a Must-Play:
From the creators of Dark Souls, Elden Ring offers a vast, haunting world with challenging combat and player freedom unlike any before it. Its open-world design blends exploration with intricate lore.

How to Play:
Engage in punishing but rewarding combat, customize your character, and explore the mysterious Lands Between. Prepare to die, learn, and conquer.

Gear Needed:

• A strong PC or current-gen console.
• Responsive controller or keyboard & mouse.
• Good headphones to catch subtle audio cues.

Before You Start:

• Patience is key; expect a steep learning curve.
• Explore thoroughly to find upgrades and secrets.

3. Final Fantasy VII Remake

Why It’s a Must-Play:
This remake revitalizes a beloved classic with stunning graphics and real-time combat while honoring the original’s story and characters.

How to Play:
Control a party of heroes battling a corrupt corporation. Mix strategic combat with character abilities and explore Midgar’s vibrant world.

Gear Needed:

• Console or PC with good graphics capabilities.
• Controller recommended for smooth gameplay.

Before You Start:

• Familiarize yourself with the story to appreciate its depth.
• Balance strategic and real-time combat approaches.

4. Cyberpunk 2077

Why It’s a Must-Play:
Despite a rocky launch, Cyberpunk 2077 now offers a sprawling futuristic RPG filled with neon-lit streets, deep narrative, and massive customization options.

How to Play:
Explore Night City as a customizable mercenary, engage in gunfights, hacking, and dialogue choices that shape your story.

Gear Needed:

• High-end PC for best experience.
• Headset and controller for immersion.

Before You Start:

• Keep your game updated to access bug fixes and expansions.
• Explore the world to uncover side quests.

5. Persona 5 Royal

Why It’s a Must-Play:
Persona 5 Royal combines traditional JRPG turn-based combat with stylish visuals and a deep story about rebellion and friendship.

How to Play:
Manage your daily life as a high school student while exploring supernatural dungeons to battle shadows.

Gear Needed:

• Console or PC with moderate specs.
• Headphones for music and sound effects.

Before You Start:

• Prepare for a long, story-rich experience.
• Pay attention to social links—they impact combat.

6. Divinity: Original Sin 2

Why It’s a Must-Play:
This is a deep, tactical RPG that encourages creativity with its rich story and freedom of choice.

How to Play:
Play solo or co-op, customizing characters and using the environment tactically in turn-based combat.

Gear Needed:

• PC with decent specs.
• Keyboard and mouse for tactical control.

Before You Start:

• Expect challenging combat and lots of dialogue.
• Experiment with character builds and tactics.

7. Dragon Age: Inquisition

Why It’s a Must-Play:
A sprawling fantasy epic with compelling characters and meaningful choices that affect the world.

How to Play:
Lead the Inquisition to save the world from chaos, managing your party and engaging in real-time with pause combat.

Gear Needed:

• PC or console with mid-to-high specs.
• Controller or mouse & keyboard.

Before You Start:

• Dive into character backstories for a richer experience.
• Explore the open world for quests and lore.

8. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Why It’s a Must-Play:
Skyrim’s vast open world and endless modding possibilities make it one of the most beloved RPGs ever.

How to Play:
Create your own character and explore the province of Skyrim, completing quests and customizing your skills.

Gear Needed:

• PC or console with moderate specs.
• Mods recommended for enhanced gameplay.

Before You Start:

• Experiment with character builds.
• Take your time to explore and enjoy the world.

9. Mass Effect Legendary Edition

Why It’s a Must-Play:
A sci-fi RPG trilogy known for its strong narrative, character relationships, and player choice impact.

How to Play:
Lead Commander Shepard to save the galaxy, making decisions that carry across all three games.

Gear Needed:

• PC or console with mid-range specs.
• Controller recommended.

Before You Start:

• Pay attention to dialogue and character relationships.
• Choices have long-lasting consequences.

10. Dark Souls III

Why It’s a Must-Play:
A challenging, atmospheric action RPG that rewards patience, skill, and exploration.

How to Play:
Master timing and stamina management in combat, explore interconnected levels, and defeat formidable bosses.

Gear Needed:

• PC or console with mid specs.
• Controller preferred for precise combat.

Before You Start:

• Expect difficulty; learn enemy patterns.
• Explore thoroughly to find weapons and upgrades.

Final Thoughts

RPGs offer some of the richest, most memorable gaming experiences. Whether you crave epic narratives, tactical combat, or open-world exploration, these ten games provide diverse and captivating worlds to dive into.

Gear Tip:
For PC RPGs, a strong GPU and comfortable input devices (controller or mouse/keyboard) improve immersion and gameplay quality. On consoles, keep your system updated and invest in a quality headset for the best experience.

Ready to level up your gaming library? Pick one, prepare your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!