Role-playing games (RPGs) stand out from other genres by providing players with a unique opportunity to fully engage in a vibrant world and intricate narrative. By allowing control over both character development and the adventures they undertake, the most captivating Game Pass RPGs enable players to savor the journey of progression and achievement.
While RPGs often demand significant time investment, this only highlights their immersive nature. Fortunately, Xbox Game Pass offers an impressive array of RPG titles accessible with just a few clicks. Whether players are fans of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs), expansive Western narratives, or charming indie creations, Microsoft’s subscription service presents excellent options. So, which are the best RPGs on Game Pass right now?
Updated December 28, 2024 by Mark Sammut: This list now includes a section dedicated to upcoming releases, reflecting the latest trends in the RPG landscape. Click below to explore this section.
The average game lengths referenced here are sourced from HowLongtoBeat.com. University rankings do not rely solely on the quality of the Xbox Game Pass RPGs; recent additions may initially receive higher rankings to maximize visibility.
1 S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Primarily A Survival Open-World Game, But Has Enough RPG Elements To Warrant A Mention
After a long and complex development period, GSC’s S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is available on Game Pass. Despite launching with several technical issues, the game’s ambitious open-world elements easily outweigh its flaws, making it worthy of cautious endorsement, though player experiences may differ based on encountered bugs.
While primarily recognized for its survival and open-world features, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 also fits within the RPG framework. It boasts a rich narrative and detailed setting, empowering players to make choices that shape not only their character’s journey but also the broader world around them.
2 South Park: The Fractured But Whole
The Greatest Superhero RPG Story Ever Told
Building on the success of Obsidian’s The Stick of Truth, South Park: The Fractured But Whole features similar gameplay but introduces an engaging superhero narrative. Players take on the role of the New Kid, thrust into a chaotic civil war among fictional heroes, largely instigated by the ever-dramatic Cartman.
Fans will appreciate the familiar humor and themes. The turn-based combat system is not only polished but visually captivating, striking the right balance between challenge and entertainment throughout the game’s storyline.
3 Mass Effect Legendary Edition
An All-Time Great Sci-Fi RPG Trilogy
Owners of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate can access the entire Mass Effect universe. While the original Xbox 360 versions remain playable, the Mass Effect Legendary Edition offers the definitive experience of Commander Shepard’s saga. It comprises amplified and remastered versions of BioWare’s iconic trilogy, along with most downloadable content.
This Legendary Edition not only provides graphics enhancements but also revamps the gameplay experience of the original game to align more closely with its sequels, creating a seamless trilogy experience that is remarkably consistent. Collectively, Mass Effect is widely regarded as one of the finest trilogies in video game history.
4 Persona 3 Reload
Top-Notch Remake Of Atlus’ Brilliant Turn-Based JRPG (With Demon Collection System)
While Persona 5 has certainly cast a long shadow over the series, Atlus’s 2024 remake of the 2006 classic Persona 3 is true to its roots. It retains the original’s dark tone, captivating narrative, and unique gameplay combinations. Among the franchise’s impressive lineup, P3 stands out as a remarkable achievement, and Reload honors its legacy admirably.
Blending dungeon exploration with social simulation, P3R masterfully balances both genres, enhancing the overall experience. During daytime, players navigate the life of a Japanese high school student, attending classes and building friendships, while nighttime brings the challenge of delving into Tartarus, battling and collecting Personas. With a rich cast of characters and strategic turn-based combat, players will find captivating challenges throughout their adventure.
5 The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim Special Edition
Bethesda’s Eternal RPG
Since its release in 2011, Skyrim has been a titan in the open-world RPG genre, making it an essential game for any RPG aficionado. Although it may simplify some mechanics compared to its predecessors, Bethesda showcased its proficiency in creating expansive worlds filled with an abundance of content that hooks players for years.
Skyrim has become a staple reference point in gaming culture, appealing to a broad audience and undeniably influencing the RPG landscape.
Players can also explore Morrowind and The Elder Scrolls Online via Xbox Game Pass.
6 Dragon Age: Origins
BioWare’s Fantasy RPG Masterpiece (Best On PC, But Good On Consoles)
The inclusion of EA Play on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has opened the door for numerous outstanding RPGs, showcasing legendary trilogies like Dragon Age: Origins. This epic journey delivers political intrigue, profound narratives, intricate combat, and memorable characters.
While best experienced on PC, the Xbox 360 version offers a satisfactory experience. Although some aspects may feel outdated, Origins shines in critical areas like world-building, storytelling, and character-building diversity. The subsequent sequels are worth exploring too, but few fantasy RPGs have reached the heights achieved by this initial entry.
Players can also enjoy Dragon Age 2 and Dragon Age: Inquisition on Xbox Game Pass.
7 Palworld (Game Preview)
Blends Multiple Genres To Create Something New & Exciting
Among the notable AAA releases of 2024, Pocket Pair’s Palworld has gained significant attention. Currently in early access on Xbox, this title offers a solid experience while still allowing for future enhancements. The success of Baldur’s Gate 3 during its early access phase demonstrates how prolonged testing can elevate a game to greatness, and Palworld appears to be on a similar trajectory.
Initially described as a “Pokémon with guns,”this project encompasses a variety of mechanics, including survival, monster collection, base construction, third-person shooting, and cooperative play. Though it may seem ambitious, the components converge to create a surprisingly cohesive gaming experience. Players will find themselves engaged for hours, enjoying the addictive gameplay despite a minimal narrative.
8 Crusader Kings 3
Blends Grand Strategy & RPG Elements Really Well
For newcomers, strategic games can seem daunting, but Crusader Kings 3 is a standout title, representing the best of the grand strategy genre. While familiar to seasoned players, it offers accessibility that newcomers will appreciate. Though it has a steeper learning curve, CK3 introduces players to the intricate world of grand strategy lucidly.
More importantly, the game delivers RPG elements that focus on family dynamics, allowing player choices to shape kingdoms and influence history. Emphasizing character traits, aspirations, and interactions, CK3 stands out as a character-driven title, intertwining personal decisions with broader historical contexts.
9 Tales Of Arise
Great Combat, Fun Characters, & Mature Story For The Franchise
Although not as ubiquitous in discussions of JRPGs as Final Fantasy or Dragon Quest, the Tales franchise remains highly regarded, with Tales of Arise emerging as a standout entry in 2021. This game serves as a perfect entry point for newcomers, as its narrative does not require prior experience with the series.
Presenting a narrative exploring themes of oppression and discrimination, Arise combines a robust storyline with dynamic combat and appealing characters. Players will enjoy a lengthy campaign filled with new environments and mechanics that keep gameplay fresh and engaging, with each character bringing unique abilities and challenges to the forefront.
10 Lies Of P
Masterful Soulslike RPG
While belonging to the action RPG genre, Lies of P offers a fresh take on the Soulsborne formula. Players step into the shoes of Pinocchio, exploring the Gothic city of Krat, which is now overwhelmed by deadly puppets of various forms.
Unlike other entries in the genre, Lies of P employs a fixed protagonist and provides limited customization options in the initial phases. Players can choose between three combat styles while gradually unlocking new weapons, ensuring the gameplay feels gratifying without overwhelming complexity. The game’s mechanics emphasize fast-paced combat and meticulous enemy engagement, particularly through effective parrying.
11 Diablo 4
Controversial Action RPG That Has Improved Due To Updates
Blizzard’s Diablo 4 has sparked considerable debate in the gaming community. Launched to wide acclaim as a strong evolution of the franchise, opinions have since shifted as updates have polarized the player base. Nevertheless, the game remains a noteworthy option, particularly after the Loot Reborn patch that addressed many player concerns.
While Diablo 4 doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it continues to engage players with a familiar hack-and-slash loop. The narrative may not be groundbreaking, but it serves its purpose of keeping players invested until they reach the endgame. Despite mixed reviews, at its core, Diablo 4 offers a solid action RPG experience that may appeal to both fans and newcomers, especially with its availability on Xbox Game Pass.
12 Cassette Beasts
More Than Just A Pokemon Clone
Cassette Beasts is an exciting indie title competing in the monster-collecting genre now available on Xbox Game Pass. This game invites players to the mysterious, vibrant island of New Wirral, where they have the unique ability to transform into captured creatures, a mechanic that offers novel gameplay experiences.
Players capture monsters by recording them with cassette tapes, opening up new possibilities during challenging battles. With its distinctive open-world design, Cassette Beasts delivers a refreshing twist on the familiar RPG formula while incorporating an engaging narrative. Beyond the main questline, ample side activities encourage exploration and creativity.
13 Darkest Dungeon
Challenging Turn-Based RPG With Fantastic Combat & High Stakes
Darkest Dungeon presents a unique and punishing challenge for RPG fans. Players assume the role of a lord who has inherited a mansion rife with dark secrets. To uncover its mysteries, they hire heroes to brave the maze-like dungeon below, where death is permanent, heightening the stakes of each exploration.
Utilizing a turn-based combat system with four-character parties, players must strategically manage their heroes’ health and stress levels amidst various challenges that arise in the labyrinth.
14 Sea Of Stars
Throwback To Old-School JRPGs
Sea of Stars, launched in late 2023, is a delightful homage to classic JRPGs. With its rich storytelling and engaging gameplay mechanics, Sabotage Studios delivers a nostalgic experience that pays tribute to its predecessors while forging a unique identity.
Set on an island beset by corruption, players join two heroes on a quest to save their world. Packed with remarkable characters and enjoyable side quests, this title guarantees engaging gameplay that promises to keep players invested from beginning to end, enhanced by a robust turn-based combat system.
15 Stardew Valley
Genre Blender That Is All-Around Brilliant
Since its inception in 2016, Stardew Valley has flourished into one of the most cherished farming simulations, brimming with content and freedom. Players can engage in diverse activities, shaping their unique experiences while exploring farming and building relationships with NPCs.
With charming visuals, extensive customization features, and countless opportunities for discovery, Stardew Valley captivates players for months. Ideal for those seeking a combat-lite experience, this title offers challenges intertwined with a relaxing gameplay loop.
16 Octopath Traveler 2
HD-2D Epic With Polarizing Story Structure
Both entries of Octopath Traveler are available on Xbox Game Pass, providing over 100 hours of gameplay for enthusiasts. Although the original entry is highly regarded, the sequel refines and expands upon familiar elements without being directly related, allowing new players to jump in.
These titles can be seen as nostalgic throwbacks to 1990s JRPGs, comparable to Bravely Default, emphasizing individual character arcs within a unified quest. The turn-based combat plays out in a classic style yet is executed with precision, ensuring an engaging experience throughout.
17 Wasteland 3
Stylish Isometric RPG With Very Solid Turn-Based Combat & Fun Setting
All three Wasteland games are present on Xbox Game Pass, with each improving upon the previous title. Wasteland 3 emerges as a gritty strategy turn-based RPG reminiscent of classic Fallout experiences, enhanced by a dark sense of humor and challenging moral choices.
The combat system is deep and flexible, preventing stagnation throughout the extensive adventure. With a captivating story and intricate world-building, players can also team up with friends through co-op gameplay, enriching the overall experience.
18 Fable 2
Relentlessly Charming RPG With Fantastic World
Selecting a path through the whimsical world of Albion, players in Fable 2 (released in 2008) can shape their destinies through unique choices, impacting how NPCs respond and how the world evolves based on their actions.
This vibrant realm encourages exploration, allowing players to experience a vast world filled with diverse encounters. While the combat mechanics may not break new ground, they provide sufficient variety to keep engagements interesting.
The original Fable and Fable 3 can also be found on Xbox Game Pass.
19 Pillars Of Eternity 2: Deadfire – Ultimate Edition
Obsidian’s Pirate-Themed RPG With Great Writing Throughout
Obsidian Entertainment has established itself as a leading force in the RPG landscape, with Pillars of Eternity standing as one of their finest achievements. Both installments in this series rank among the best role-playing games on Xbox Game Pass, with Deadfire shining for its evolution beyond its Baldur’s Gate roots.
This pirate-themed isometric adventure provides players with a ship and crew to explore numerous islands, engaging in naval battles along the way. While the storyline is compelling, the game excels in combat mechanics, customization, and providing opportunities for exploration and adventure.
The original Pillars of Eternity: Complete Edition is also accessible on Xbox Game Pass.
20 Mount And Blade 2: Bannerlord
Large-Scale Warfare With Strategy Elements
Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord is an ambitious title from TaleWorlds that seamlessly intertwines action RPG elements with strategic gameplay. Players begin from humble beginnings, gradually assembling a mercenary band, aiming to conquer territories and expand their influence.
This title may present challenges to newcomers unfamiliar with previous installments or sandbox strategy games, but it can also fill a unique niche that no other Game Pass title currently addresses.
Leave a Reply