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Embark on Epic Adventures: The 5 Best PC RPG/ARPG Video Games
PC gaming has long been a haven for immersive role-playing games (RPGs) and action RPGs (ARPGs) that transport players to fantastical worlds filled with captivating stories, challenging quests, and deep character progression. In this article, we present our selection of the five best PC RPG or ARPG video games that have enthralled players with their rich gameplay, stunning visuals, and engrossing narratives. So grab your sword, ready your spells, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through these virtual realms.
Game | Release Year | Developer | Setting | Gameplay Mechanics | Notable Features | Check Price |
"The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" | 2015 | CD Projekt Red | Dark fantasy | Open world exploration, action-based combat, choices and consequences | Rich narrative, stunning visuals, expansive open world | |
"Divinity: Original Sin 2" | 2017 | Larian Studios | Fantasy | Tactical turn-based combat, deep character customization, cooperative play | Player choices with significant impact, interactive world | |
"Dark Souls III" | 2016 | FromSoftware | Dark fantasy | Challenging real-time combat, interconnectd world, atmospheric design | Difficult gameplay, intense boss battles, immersive atmosphere | |
"Path of Exile" | 2013 | Grinding Gear Games | Dark Fantasy | Online multiplayer, complex character customization, deep item system | Expansive skill tree, regular updates and expansions | |
"Mass Effect 2" | 2010 | BioWare | Science fiction | Third-person shooter/RPG hybrid, branching narrative, character relationships | Engaging space opera story, player-driven choices and consequences |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
CD Projekt Red’s magnum opus, “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” takes the top spot on our list. This open-world RPG masterpiece sets players in the shoes of Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster hunter, as he embarks on a quest to find his adopted daughter amidst a war-ravaged land. With its meticulously crafted narrative, morally ambiguous choices, breathtaking visuals, and a massive open world teeming with memorable characters and side quests, “The Witcher 3” offers an unparalleled gaming experience.
PRO
CON
- Rich narrative with engaging characters and morally ambiguous choices.
- Stunning visuals and immersive open world.
- Varied quests and side activities.
- Deep character progression and customization.
- Expansive DLCs that offer additional content.
- Combat mechanics can feel clunky at times.
- Some players may find the game’s size and scope overwhelming.
- Certain technical issues and bugs on launch (mostly resolved with patches).
Divinity: Original Sin 2
Larian Studios’ “Divinity: Original Sin 2” is a true modern classic that embodies the spirit of classic tabletop RPGs. Set in a richly detailed and interactive world, this game gives players the freedom to shape their characters and the game’s narrative through choices that have far-reaching consequences. Boasting deep tactical combat, compelling storytelling, and a robust multiplayer mode that encourages cooperative play, “Divinity: Original Sin 2” is a must-play for RPG enthusiasts.
PRO
CON
- Deep and complex RPG mechanics.
- Tactical turn-based combat with environmental interactions.
- Extensive character customization and class options.
- Cooperative multiplayer that allows for enjoyable co-op experiences.
- Rich storytelling and engaging quests.
- Steep learning curve for new players.
- Occasional pacing issues in the story.
- Some quests may feel overwhelming or convoluted.
- Inventory management can be tedious.
Dark Souls III
FromSoftware’s “Dark Souls III” is the pinnacle of the dark fantasy ARPG genre, renowned for its challenging gameplay and atmospheric world design. Players venture through a desolate kingdom, battling grotesque creatures and powerful bosses in a test of skill and perseverance. With its tight combat mechanics, intricately interconnected world, and hauntingly beautiful art direction, “Dark Souls III” offers a deeply rewarding experience that keeps players hooked from start to finish.
PRO
CON
- Challenging and rewarding gameplay.
- Atmospheric and interconnected world design.
- Satisfying combat mechanics with diverse weapon options.
- Memorable boss battles.
- Deep lore and environmental storytelling.
- High difficulty level may not be suitable for all players.
- Limited narrative exposition, requiring players to seek out the story.
- Occasional frame rate drops on certain systems.
- Some players may find the lack of direction or hand-holding frustrating.
Path of Exile
Grinding Gear Games’ “Path of Exile” is an online ARPG that has captured the hearts of countless players with its complex character customization and deep gameplay mechanics. Set in a dark and foreboding world, this game offers a wealth of content, including a vast skill tree, diverse classes, and an ever-evolving item system. The constant updates and expansions make “Path of Exile” a game that continually reinvents itself, ensuring that there’s always something new to discover.
PRO
CON
- Deep and complex character customization through the skill tree and item system.
- Regular updates and expansions that introduce new content and gameplay mechanics.
- Engaging and challenging online multiplayer experience.
- Free-to-play model with fair monetization practices.
- Strong community and active player base.
- Steep learning curve for new players due to the complexity of the game systems.
- Lack of a traditional linear story.
- Graphics and visuals may not be as polished as some other games in the genre.
- Some players may find the in-game economy and trading system overwhelming.
Mass Effect 2
BioWare’s “Mass Effect 2” combines the best elements of RPG and third-person shooter genres, offering a captivating space opera experience. As Commander Shepard, players assemble a team of diverse characters and embark on a suicide mission to save the galaxy from a relentless alien threat. With its deep character interactions, morally challenging decisions, and a branching narrative that evolves based on player choices, “Mass Effect 2” delivers an unforgettable and emotionally charged journey.
PRO
CON
- Compelling space opera narrative with memorable characters.
- Meaningful choices that impact the story and character relationships.
- Engaging third-person shooter gameplay.
- Strong voice acting and character development.
- Immersive and detailed sci-fi universe.
- Limited exploration compared to the first game in the series.
- Some players may find the inventory and equipment management cumbersome.
- Character customization options are relatively limited.
- The game’s ending may polarize some players.
Conclusion
PC gaming has provided us with an abundance of incredible RPG and ARPG experiences over the years, and these five games represent the cream of the crop. From the vast open world of “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” to the challenging battles of “Dark Souls III” and the tactical depth of “Divinity: Original Sin 2,” each game offers a unique and immersive adventure. Meanwhile, “Path of Exile” and “Mass Effect 2” showcase the versatility and innovation within the genre.
Whether you prefer to embark on a solo quest as a legendary monster slayer, unravel mysteries in a complex world, overcome unforgiving challenges in a dark fantasy realm, dive into an online community-driven experience, or save the galaxy with a team of unforgettable characters, these five PC RPG and ARPG games have something for everyone.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, new titles may emerge to captivate players with their immersive worlds, engaging narratives, and innovative gameplay mechanics. However, the enduring appeal and impact of these five games make them timeless classics that every RPG and ARPG enthusiast should experience.
So, sharpen your sword, ready your magic, and dive into these virtual realms to embark on epic adventures that will leave a lasting impression. The world of PC RPGs and ARPGs awaits, beckoning you to immerse yourself in its rich tapestry of stories, characters, and challenges. Prepare to lose yourself in these extraordinary experiences that push the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of video games.