They might be niche games, but to the people who adore this genre, several of them were the best entries yet in long-running franchises. In fact, a vast chunk of the entries below consist of games that were largely overshadowed by the constant release of AAA games.
While some of the entries on the list are completely expected, you'll also find several surprises below. A healthy mix of games saw fans revel in modern takes on beloved classics, bold reinventions of established franchises, and spin-offs that explored new ground. Games of fantasy and magic, sci-fi adventures, and grim descents into new territory are where the RPG genre flexes its versatile muscles.
Video games are a great form of escapist entertainment, and within them, it's hard to beat RPGs when it comes to distancing yourself from reality.
