7 RPG’s all gamers need to play

The Role-Playing Game (RPG) has evolved over the years. There are turn-based, western, strategy, action, and many other forms and sub-forms of RPGs that players and gamers enjoy. Not every type of RPG is suitable for players, but there are definitely games out there that all gamers should play. Here is my list for the 7 RPGs that gamers should play. 

Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars

Developer: Square

Publisher: Nintendo 

This game is one of the few games that brought the best of both worlds. Nintendo and Square (Now Square Enix) joined up and made a turn-based RPG that became a staple for the SNES. The fighting system was excellent, the bosses challenging, and there were so many side-quests and collectibles to boot. It’s still one of the most well-done RPGs to date, and a must play for all RPG fans. 

Final Fantasy Tactics

Developer: Square

Publisher: Square

If you’re a fan of the game Chess, you’re going to love this strategy RPG from Squaresoft (which is still now Square Enix). Final Fantasy Tactics is one of those games where every turn and decision matters, including what characters you select to go into battle, and what classes you use. The classes were essentially your abilities with a specific character, and if you went into a fight with the wrong class, you could lose instantly. If you like using that beautiful brain of yours, this is your game. 

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

Developer: Bethesda

Publisher: 2K Games

It’s one of the best action RPGs out there, and you have the option to play it in the 1^st person or the 3^rd person view. The Elder Scrolls as a series has always been an impressive one. You can name and create your character, be good or evil, and have the freedom to do essentially anything you want. Oblivion took the series to the next level, with smoother mechanics and in HD format. If you want to start playing this series, go with Oblivion. 

Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance

Developer: Snowblind Studios/High Voltage Software

Producer: Black Isle Studios

This game is another action RPG, but it uses a bird’s-eye view instead. The game has a lot of hack-and-slash feel to it, but you have to remember to check your health, as you can die very quickly if you’re not aware. You have three unique classes to choose from, all of which have various abilities and bonuses to each, making it a game that you can easily replay. Also, if you don’t want to switch a character once you’ve beaten the game, you can continue with your already super-strong character and repeat the story.

Chrono Trigger

Developer: Square

Publisher: Square

Chrono Trigger is a polished masterpiece. There is little wrong with this game, and it is often listed as one of the best SNES games of all-time, as well as one of the best games of all-time. The combat is great, the boss fights are great, and what makes this game so unique is that there are multiple endings available that are based on your actions in the game. So if you didn’t like your ending the first time, you have an excuse to go back and play it a second time.

Warhammer

Publisher: Games Workshop

Not all RPGs have to be played with a controller, and Warhammer is one of those games. This tabletop RPG started back in 1983, and is still popular today. This game uses a variety of miniatures, ranging from humans, elves, dwarfs, goblins, undead, and more. Like many RPGs, your class gives you unique bonuses and abilities. I must warn you that this game is highly addicting, and can be really expensive. If you have the time and the money though, it’s worth the investment. 

Star Wars: The Old Republic

Developer: BioWare

Publisher: Electronic Arts

There a plenty of awesome massively multiplayer online RPGs (MMORPG) out there, but I really like what BioWare did with this one. It’s classic Star Wars in a lot of ways. You can choose the Galactic Republic or the Sith Empire, but you have some freedom in how good or bad you are. The missions are what sell this game for me. Being able to work with other players from around the world to tackle certain objectives never gets old, plus it’s fun to fight them as well. 

These games are just the tip of the iceberg, and if you're like me, you're always wanting a new and exciting challenge. Give these a try, and let me know in the comments if there is another game that you feel should be on the list.