RPGs tell some of the best stories in gaming and weave some of the most complicated and beloved character arcs. Some of the most treasured games and franchises are RPGs. Whether it’s a Western RPG like Mass Effect or Fallout or an Eastern one like Final Fantasy or Dragon Quest there’s something here for everyone to love. This was a strong year for JRPGs in particular. Many franchises considered tired and trite pushed new grounds and broke out of their comfort zone.

Shin Megami Tensei V

Shin Megami Tensei V is the best the series has to offer and some of Atlus’ finest work. A fantastically woven story, fun and wonderful demons to collect, and the game can be as easy as pie or as hard as nails thanks to multiple difficulty options for all players. Lots of dialog, great visuals, and memorable characters pepper the game throughout creating one of the best RPGs of the decade and one of the most anticipated in quite some time.

Runner-Ups

Tales of Arise

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Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

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Scarlet Nexus

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Blue Reflection: Second Light

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