RPGs are one of the best genres for telling a detailed story. Whether you like turn-based or action versions of the genre, the massive worlds and length of the games gives developers storytelling options that just are not available in other genres.
Over the next year some fantastic games are ready to release. We've already look at some of the biggest upcoming MMORPGs, but for those of you who prefer to keep your role playing fun offline, you will definitely enjoy these single player games. They bring much of the same fun as the ever-growing online version of the genre, but without the monthly fees, micro-transactions, and online trolls that tend to appear in MMOs.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher was a great game. The Witcher 2 was an even better game. It only stands to reason that the third entry into the series will make strides to top the previous two. If you like RPGs that force you to really dig into the story and made hard decisions, The Witcher series is definitely exactly what you need. The beautiful, violent and downright fun RPG is coming to the PS4, Xbox One, and PC sometime in 2014, and personally, I cannot wait to get my hands on it.
CD Projekt RED, the developers of the game, claims that the Witcher 3 will have "a living open world larger than any other in modern RPG history." Coming off the heels of Skyrim, a game renowned for its massive world that felt truly alive, this is a lofty claim. The developers also say that its game is "20% bigger than Skyrim." If it turns out to be true, we could be looking at something truly special. Early impressions from previews have been overwhelming positive, which only adds to my excitement.
South Park: The Stick of Truth
In a world where we have some of the most epic science fiction and fantasy RPGs on the horizon, who would have thought South Park would deserve a mention? Alas, after some development problems with the closing of THQ, the game has found a new home at Ubisoft (publishers of famed Assassin's Creed). An abundance of South Park games have hit the market over the shows long run, but this one looks to be taking things to another level, both in terms of the show's trademark humor and the actual gameplay, which looks like it could be on par with any current RPGs.
The combat uses a very traditional turn-based system, but since the South Park characters don't have actual magic powers, instead they do traditional attacks like shooting fireballs by passing gas and lighting it. Exploring the large world also has a feel that should be right at home to fans of the show. If you don't find the South Park show to be funny, you probably won't like this game, but for fans, this game is like the ultimate dose of fan service, and it looks like a really good time. It comes out this December, so you'll be able to get your hands on it soon enough.
Pokemon X and Y
There isn't much I can say about Pokemon and how fantastic the games are that hasn't been said before. While the target market might still be children, Pokemon X and Y both feature more than enough depth to keep even the most savvy adult gamers entertained and challenged all the way through the end of the epic games.
For the first time in the storied history of the Pokemon games, all of the graphics are in 3D. I am not talking about the visual aspect offered by Nintendo's latest portable system. No, I am talking about actual 3D polygons for the characters and other elements in the world. That, along with all the new Pokemon and the new types of evolutions creates an RPG that everyone who owns Nintendo's portable console needs to play! The game is out on October 12 (the same day as the Nintendo 2Ds), so you don't have long to wait!
Dark Souls II
Do you like games so hard they make you want to throw your controller across the room in fits of rage? Well Demon Souls and Dark Souls are perfect for you! Now, the beloved (and hated by some) franchise is back in the form of Dark Souls II.
The game is said to be twice the size of the original, and it supposed to have more forgiving gameplay at the very beginning to help newcomers get started. However, once out of that area, the developers promise the same brutal gameplay for which the series is known. It's a fine line to walk, as the RPG is known for being hard, which scares away a lot of players, but it can't change too much, as hardcore fans will surely be upset. Right now things are looking good, and this is a game to watch when it comes out early in 2014.
Get Ready!
As with most RPGs, you need to get ready to sink some serious hours into these games. Role playing games are an incredible value. Much like GTA V, they tend to feature massive worlds to explore, which means you really get your money's worth. So keep your eyes on these games, and get ready to have some fun!
What RPGs are you looking forward to? Hit the comments section and let us know!