Introduction

The past decade has been a golden era for role-playing games (RPGs). With advancements in storytelling, world-building, graphics, and gameplay mechanics, RPGs have pushed the boundaries of interactive entertainment. From vast open-world adventures to deeply personal character-driven stories, these games have captivated millions worldwide. Let’s explore some of the best RPGs of the past ten years that left a lasting mark on the industry and players alike.

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015)

CD Projekt Red’s masterpiece redefined open-world RPGs with its rich storytelling, morally complex choices, and vast world. Geralt of Rivia’s journey across the Continent remains a benchmark for narrative-driven RPGs. Its expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, elevated it even further.

2. Elden Ring (2022)

FromSoftware combined the difficulty of Dark Souls with a sprawling open world co-created by George R.R. Martin. The result? A breathtaking game filled with exploration, mystery, and brutal but rewarding combat. Elden Ring redefined the soulslike genre and became one of the most influential RPGs of the decade.

3. Persona 5 (2016)

Stylish, emotional, and unforgettable, Persona 5 blended life-simulation mechanics with dungeon crawling. Its story about rebellion, friendship, and justice resonated deeply with players. The soundtrack, characters, and aesthetics turned it into a cultural phenomenon.

4. Cyberpunk 2077 (2020 – Relaunch 2023)

Despite a rocky launch, CD Projekt Red redeemed Cyberpunk 2077 with patches and the Phantom Liberty expansion. Today, it stands as a vivid RPG experience, offering deep role-playing elements, branching narratives, and a breathtaking futuristic world in Night City.

5. Divinity: Original Sin 2 (2017)

Larian Studios delivered a masterclass in turn-based RPGs, with unparalleled freedom in combat, exploration, and decision-making. Its co-op system made it one of the most engaging multiplayer RPGs of the decade, setting the stage for Baldur’s Gate 3.

6. Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023)

Larian’s magnum opus brought Dungeons & Dragons to life in an interactive medium like never before. With branching choices, immersive storytelling, and tactical combat, it instantly became one of the most critically acclaimed RPGs ever made.

7. Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)

Square Enix reimagined a beloved classic with modern visuals and hybrid combat mechanics. By expanding Midgar’s story, it created a fresh yet nostalgic experience that appealed to both longtime fans and newcomers.

8. Disco Elysium (2019)

A narrative-driven RPG unlike any other, Disco Elysium put dialogue, philosophy, and moral dilemmas at the forefront. With its unique skill system and noir-inspired setting, it proved RPGs don’t always need combat to be unforgettable.

9. Mass Effect Legendary Edition (2021)

While technically a remaster, this trilogy collection reignited love for one of gaming’s most iconic sci-fi RPGs. It allowed a new generation to experience Commander Shepard’s epic journey through choice-driven gameplay and unforgettable characters.

10. Monster Hunter: World (2018)

Capcom’s RPG-action hybrid brought monster-slaying to the global mainstream. With deep progression systems, cooperative gameplay, and challenging encounters, it became one of the most successful RPGs of the decade.

Conclusion

The last decade has proven that RPGs are not only about levels, loot, and combat—they’re about stories, choices, and emotional connections. From epic open worlds like The Witcher 3 and Elden Ring to experimental masterpieces like Disco Elysium, RPGs have continued to evolve and captivate. With the success of Baldur’s Gate 3 and the growing influence of indie developers, the future of RPGs looks brighter than ever.