RPGs (role-playing games) place players in the shoes of a fictional character in a fictional setting. By influencing the outcomes of a game, players notice that actions can have great consequences. In an RPG, players can turn a town's guards against them, form romantic relationships, barter for goods, and develop their character into a force to be reckoned with.
We've seen great PC RPGs from developers like Obsidian Entertainment and Bethesda Softworks, among others. RPGs can be set in open worlds, but it's often the story that draws players in. An intriguing plot can make or break an RPG. Which storylines were the most compelling?
10 Undertale
In Undertale, players assume the role of a child who has fallen in the Underground, a place where monsters run rampant. Monsters can be subdued or slain. Whether you choose to slay or pacify a monster, it affects the story of Undertale. Your goal is to make it back to the surface by any means necessary, yet it is possible to beat the game without killing a single monster. The dynamic storytelling of Undertale couldn't be more exciting.
9 The Outer Worlds
The Outer Worlds is an award-winning RPG available on PC. On each of the planets you visit, you'll find a new story to be a part of. There is an overarching story, but it's the small interactions that make the game enjoyable. Already played The Outer Worlds? Try The Outer Worlds: Peril on Gorgon DLC for the game's narrative expansion from Obsidian Entertainment.
8 Final Fantasy VI
The Final Fantasy franchise contains various deeply compelling storylines, but only a handful are available on PC. The sixth main series installment in the series is undoubtedly the best story-driven Final Fantasy game on PC. Differing from other games in the series, there is no central protagonist in Final Fantasy VI. The cover character is Terra Branford, but we are also put in the shoes of characters like Celes Chere. Multiple storylines intertwine and come together for one seamless adventure.
7 Horizon Zero Dawn
In a post-apocalyptic world where machines are in an ongoing war against humans, a Nora Brave named Aloy is searching to find out her mother's identity. There are various storylines in Horizon Zero Dawn, and they are all affected by artificial intelligence. Humans have regressed to their primitive state and must learn to rebuild to defeat the machines. Horizon Zero Dawn's compelling story stands out from other RPGs.
6 The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition
Players will continue to play The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim years after its release because they are invested in the lore. Nestled within the game, there are books of information and extra storylines to be a part of.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim DLC, like Dawnguard and Dragonborn, add chunks of content and story while introducing new landmasses to the game. There is never a shortage of things do in this game's immersive world.
5 Fallout: New Vegas
Fallout: New Vegas was not developed by Bethesda Softworks like other Fallouts, but the resulting game blew us away. Developer Obsidian Entertainment took over this project's reins, introducing a new story set in the future. After the protagonist is left for dead then rescued, they decide to seek revenge. There are four main endings with variations, and each is more satisfying than the next.
4 Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic
It wouldn't be a stretch to say that Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is the best Star Wars game of all time. The multiple branching storylines come together at the end for one epic conclusion. It's a story that deals with the Light Side and Dark Side of the Force and a power struggle between conflicting forces. As the protagonist, you get to walk the Jedi path, making meaningful decisions that impact the story.
3 Persona 4
Unless you've been hiding out for the past generation of video games, you may have heard of Persona 5. Persona 5 influenced the genre in uncanny ways, yet it wouldn't exist without Persona 4. Persona 4, unlike its successor, is available on PC.
The lengthy murder mystery story is the crown jewel of the game. Revolving around an unnamed protagonist in a unique setting, Persona 4 is a PC RPG that lives up to the hype.
2 Mass Effect 2
Not only does Mass Effect 2 have the most intriguing storylines, but it could also be considered one of the greatest RPGs of all time. Players assume the role of Commander Shepard, a protagonist whose background and appearance is chosen. The amount of control you have over the story is inspiring. You and your squad can die at the end of the game, based on your decisions. As a game with a rich story and fascinating characters, Mass Effect 2 is a must-play!
1 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
In the world of RPGs, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a masterclass. Geralt of Rivia is the central protagonist who is deeply involved in the plot. This game is defined as an RPG because you play as a character whose outcome is influenced. It's not a traditional RPG since the game puts you in the shoes of a character with a background, yet it's still an RPG. If you only play one PC game this year, please let it be The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt.