Top 10 RPGs of 2023 That Will Transform Your Gaming Experience

The role-playing game genre continues to evolve and captivate gamers worldwide. In 2023, developers have pushed the boundaries of storytelling, world-building, and gameplay mechanics to create truly transformative experiences. Whether you're a seasoned RPG veteran or new to the genre, these titles offer something special that shouldn't be missed.

1. Starfield

Bethesda's highly anticipated space epic has finally arrived, and it doesn't disappoint. Starfield offers an unprecedented level of freedom as you explore over 1,000 planets across numerous star systems. The game combines the studio's renowned open-world design with deep character customization and a compelling narrative about humanity's final frontier.

What sets Starfield apart is its commitment to scientific plausibility alongside fantastical space adventure. The ship-building mechanics alone could constitute an entire game, while the faction system creates meaningful choices with far-reaching consequences.

2. Dragon Age: Dreadwolf

BioWare returns to Thedas with a vengeance in this long-awaited sequel. Dragon Age: Dreadwolf delivers on its promise to reform the beloved franchise with modernized combat while retaining the deep character relationships and moral complexity fans adore.

The narrative picks up the threads from Inquisition's shocking conclusion, with Solas/Fen'Harel's plans to tear down the Veil threatening the entire world. Playing as a new protagonist with connections to Tevinter, players navigate political intrigue and ancient magic while assembling a team to confront the Dread Wolf.

3. Avowed

Obsidian Entertainment expands the universe of Pillars of Eternity with this first-person RPG set in the Livingwith Lands. Avowed combines deep worldbuilding with Obsidian's trademark writing excellence and meaningful choice systems.

The game's dual-wielding combat system allows for creative spell and weapon combinations, while the reputation system ensures your actions have lasting consequences across the game's rich, culturally diverse world.

4. Final Fantasy XVI

Square Enix has taken the beloved franchise in a bold new direction with Final Fantasy XVI. The darker, more mature tone paired with an action-oriented combat system has divided some longtime fans, but there's no denying the ambition and technical excellence on display.

The game's stunning visuals bring the medieval-inspired world of Valisthea to life, while the story of Clive Rosfield's quest for revenge against the Dark Eikon offers emotional depth alongside spectacular summon battles.

5. Baldur's Gate 3

Larian Studios has achieved something remarkable with Baldur's Gate 3, successfully reviving one of gaming's most celebrated RPG series while bringing Dungeons & Dragons to life with unprecedented fidelity. After years in early access, the full release delivers a massive adventure brimming with meaningful choices.

From the mind flayer parasites that catalyze the story to the intricate relationships you develop with your companions, BG3 is a masterclass in both adapting tabletop mechanics and creating an engrossing digital storytelling experience.

6. Path of Exile 2

Grinding Gear Games has expanded their free-to-play ARPG juggernaut with Path of Exile 2, which serves as both sequel and expansion to the original game. The completely new seven-act campaign introduces a fresh set of classes while revamping core systems.

The legendary depth of character customization reaches new heights with the revised skill gem system, while graphical improvements and physics-based combat add visceral feedback to the satisfying loop of monster-slaying and loot collection.

7. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

The spiritual successor to Suikoden has arrived in Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes. Created by many original Suikoden team members, this JRPG combines gorgeous 2.5D visuals with traditional turn-based combat and the series' signature army-building mechanics.

With 100 unique characters to recruit, each with their own stories and contributions to your fortress, the game offers incredible replayability alongside its tale of friendship and political conflict in a world where ancient rune-lenses are changing the balance of power.

8. Hogwarts Legacy

While technically released in early 2023, Hogwarts Legacy deserves mention for its groundbreaking approach to the wizarding world. This open-world action RPG finally delivers on the promise of attending Hogwarts as your own custom character in the 1800s.

The combination of spell-casting combat, potion brewing, magical creature care, and exploration of both familiar and new locations makes for an immersive experience that goes beyond mere fan service to create a compelling RPG in its own right.

9. Crimson Desert

Pearl Abyss has evolved beyond their MMO roots with Crimson Desert, a single-player action RPG with optional multiplayer elements. The game's stunning visuals powered by their proprietary engine create a living, breathing medieval fantasy world.

As mercenary leader MacDuff, players navigate a complex narrative of warring nations while building their company of mercenaries. The combat system emphasizes tactical thinking alongside reflex-based action, creating a nuanced experience that rewards skill and strategy.

10. Sea of Stars

Indie studio Sabotage proves that innovative RPGs can come in retro packages with Sea of Stars. This turn-based RPG serves as a prequel to The Messenger, combining gorgeous pixel art with modern game design sensibilities.

Inspired by classics like Chrono Trigger, the game features a unique combat system based on lunar and solar powers, with timed hits and combo attacks adding depth to battles. The sailing exploration, cooking system, and fishing minigames complement the heartfelt story of two Solstice Warriors battling an alchemist's creations.