The 20+ Best PlayStation 5 RPGs, Ranked

Metacritic Score: 92 Standout RPG Mechanics: Skill Trees and Character Development, Blueprints and Crafting, Narrative and Choices Why The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Complete Edition is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Well over a decade after its initial release and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains a standout in the action RPG genre, and a staple in many a-gamers rotation of games. Combining an expansive world with richly woven narratives and complex characters, players engage in a profound journey as the famed Geralt of Rivia that is filled with meaningful quests and decisions that affect the game world. With literal hundreds of hours of gameplay, there is no lack of content here, but what makes this game so special is the fact that even with so much content, each mission, boss, companion, and NPC feels real, believable, and special.

Metacritic Score: 96 Standout RPG Mechanics: Turn-Based Combat, Dice Roll Mechanics, Companion Characters Why Baldur's Gate 3 is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Once every few years, a game comes along that is so revolutionary, so unbelievably popular, and so undeniable, it changes the game, both literally and figuratively, and that game is Baldur's Gate 3. An open world turn-based RPG might not sound like a world-beater, but this game just scratched an itch many gamers didn't even know they had. Utilizing the Fifth Edition ruleset of Dungeons & Dragons, Baldur's Gate 3 allows players unparalleled freedom in shaping their character's journey, from combat tactics to morally complex decisions, from romances to complete death and destruction. The opportunities are nearly endless, and you will quickly understand why people say this game ruined every other game for them.

Metacritic Score: 96 Standout RPG Mechanics: Character Customization and Creation, Skill-Based Progression System, Companion System Why The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - Special Edition is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: I know Skyrim, you know Skyrim, damn near every gamer in the world knows Skyrim, and it continues to be one of the most accessible and flat out outstanding RPG experiences known to the gaming world. The Special Edition revitalizes this classic with enhanced graphics and performance, but manages to keep that classic charm and addictiveness of the series alive and well. Players can explore a vast, open-world teeming with epic quests, diverse landscapes, and rich lore, and mold their hero however they desire. The game is a legend in the gaming world for a reason, and continues to be a standout to this very day.

Metacritic Score: 95 Standout RPG Mechanics: Open World Exploration, Leveling and Attributes, Summoning and Spirit Ashes Why Elden Ring is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: In 2022, a revolution in gaming occurred when Elden Ring became a global phenomenon the likes of which many RPG's can only dream of becoming. Whether it be the sprawling open world that's rife with mystery and danger, the brutal combat system that keeps players coming back for more, or simply the need to prove that you are better than that stupid Tree Sentinel, FromSoftware's game-changing masterpiece set the gaming world on fire. With a story from the minds of the team at FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin, the rich world of The Lands Between, and so many boss battles that will make you hurl your controller to the sun, this devilishly addictive delight isn't for the faint of heart, but is for those who want to experience something like never before.

Metacritic Score: 86 Standout RPG Mechanics: Cyberware Implants, Hacking and Quickhacks, Weapon Customization and Crafting Why Cyberpunk 2077 is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: With multiple years under its belt and plenty of refining and fine tuning, Cyberpunk 2077 has firmly established itself as one of the biggest and best RPG's of the modern era. Offering a sprawling, dystopian open world that draws players into the vibrant and gritty streets of Night City, Cyberpunk is able to blend futuristic elements with a heartbreaking and powerful narrative in a world that feels like nothing before it. The game’s narrative is driven by complex, multifaceted characters and a web of branching storylines that respond dynamically to player choices, making each session feel unique and special. Cyberpunk 2077's blend of FPS combat, hacking, and social interactions creates a versatile gameplay experience, while its stunning visuals and atmospheric design push the boundaries of what the future can possibly hold for gaming.

Metacritic Score: 87 Standout RPG Mechanics: S.P.E.C.I.A.L. System, V.A.T.S., Settlement Management Why Fallout 4 is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Fallout has consistently been a staple in the RPG genre, and while it has certainly changed over the years, with each new iteration, new ideas, gameplay mechanics, and stories are told, and that is no different in Fallout 4. Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, there is more of an emphasis on action that traditional RPG gameplay, however with the new crafting and settlement systems, the open world feels just that, open. On top of this, the game’s detailed character progression system allows for a wide range of playstyles, from brute force fighters to persuasive diplomats, and the VATS combat system offers strategic depth, letting players target specific enemy parts in slowed time. Fallout 4’s narrative richness is enhanced by branching quests and a world teeming with hidden lore and endless possibilities, ensuring that exploration and player choice are paramount to the experience and create a unique and special story for each and every player.

Metacritic Score: 87 Standout RPG Mechanics: Dialogue and Morality System, Squad Management, Galactic Exploration and Progression Why Mass Effect Legendary Edition is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Imagine a saga where your choices not only define you but reverberate across an entire galaxy—Mass Effect Legendary Edition brings the acclaimed trilogy to the PS5, offering enhanced graphics and improved performance that make the galaxy-spanning adventure more realistic, immersive, and epic than ever. As Commander Shepard, whose choices and relationships shape the fate of the universe, players have the opportunity to play the series’ hallmark blend of narrative depth, character development, and strategic combat is refined across all three games. Enhanced mechanics and consolidated DLC content ensure a seamless and massive experience for both new players and veterans. Mass Effect Legendary Edition is the definitive way to experience one of the greatest sci-fi RPG series ever made.

Metacritic Score: 92 Standout RPG Mechanics: Hybrid Combat System, Character Switching, Deep Character Progression System Why Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: The Final Fantasy VII remake is quickly establishing itself as one of the best the gaming world has ever seen, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth builds upon the acclaimed Remake, blending traditional JRPG elements with modern combat mechanics to offer a fresh yet nostalgic experience. The game expands the beloved narrative of Cloud Strife and his companions, allowing players to explore new, open-world areas and engage in deeper character interactions that will only enhance the story for those who have witnessed it before, and shock and awe those who haven't. With stunning cutscenes and a score that pays homage to the original while introducing new compositions, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a masterpiece in melding old with new.

Metacritic Score: 89 Standout RPG Mechanics: Skill Trees, Machine Overrides, Combat and Weapon Variety Why Horizon Forbidden West is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Horizon Forbidden West builds on the rich RPG elements of its predecessor while bringing new and exciting characters, gameplay, and stories to the forefront, offering an expansive open world filled with dynamic mechanical enemies and engaging quests. Players continue the journey of Aloy as she navigates a post-apocalyptic world where technology and nature collide. The original game shocked players to their core with a genuinely unique and almost unheard of world of robot dinosaurs and bow and arrows, and this iteration, while not re-inventing the wheel, does polish it to a mirror shine.

Metacritic Score: 84 Standout RPG Mechanics: Character Customization and Creation, Spellcasting and Combat, Companions and Relationships Why Hogwarts Legacy is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: The Wizarding World has never felt bigger, better, or more real than it does in Hogwarts Legacy. Creating your own wizard or witch, learning spells, crafting potions, and engaging in magical combat gives fans of the franchise the opportunity to make their dream a reality. The game’s deep customization options, extensive skill trees, and branching dialogue choices provide a personalized journey through a lore-rich environment that will feel familiar, but special within the world of Harry Potter.

Metacritic Score: 95 Standout RPG Mechanics: Social Simulation Elements, Turn-Based Combat System, Persona Mechanics Why Persona 5 Royal is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: JRPG's are easily one of the most controversial of the traditional RPG genre, as they have a very distinct vibe and tone to them that might not rub everyone the right way. Persona 5 Royal, however, redefines the JRPG genre with its blend of stylish art, compelling characters, and perfectly tuned turn-based combat that makes it one of the most accessible and fun of the genre for veterans and newcomers alike. Set in modern-day Tokyo, players navigate the dual lives of high school students and phantom thieves, each day offering new gameplay challenges balancing academic life, social interactions, and dungeon crawling. In just a few minutes, hours will seemingly fly by as the game hooks its claws into players with addictive gameplay, stellar characters, and a world you'll never want to leave.

Metacritic Score: 92 Standout RPG Mechanics: Action-Based Combat System, Companions and AI-Controlled Allies, Exploration and Base Mechanics Why Final Fantasy 16 is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Final Fantasy 16 reinvigorates the iconic franchise with a mature, dark fantasy narrative and an intense, real-time combat system that may be a shock to some, but is a much needed and much appreciate change. The game shifts towards a more action-oriented gameplay while preserving the depth that fans expect from a Final Fantasy title, so while it may not be the more “RP” of RPG games, it manages to toe that line well enough and create a world players will absolutely get lost in. Navigating a world teetering on the brink of war, filled with intricate political intrigue and complex characters, that game has twists and turns around every corner, marking this instalment as one that gave a much needed shot of adrenaline to the franchise.

Metacritic Score: 87 Standout RPG Mechanics: Linear Motion Battle System, Boost Attacks and Boost Strikes, Arts and Artes Why Tales of Arise is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Tales of Arise elevates the beloved Tales series with a compelling story, stunning graphics, and refined combat mechanics that is sure to wet any hardcore RPG fans appetite. Players follow the journey of Alphen and Shionne as they uncover the secrets of their worlds in a journey filled with breathtaking vistas and intense, emotionally charged battles. The game features a dynamic "Linear Motion Battle System" allowing for fluid, combo-driven combat and extensive skill trees and character customization ensure varied and strategic gameplay.

Metacritic Score: 84 Standout RPG Mechanics: Turn-Based Combat System, Job System, Party Dynamics and Affinity Why Yakuza: Like a Dragon is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Yakuza: Like a Dragon gave the Yakuza series a much needed shot in the arm with a bold shift to turn-based combat, blending it seamlessly with the franchise's signature storytelling and, let's say, eclectic side activities. Playing as the charismatic Ichiban Kasuga, navigate the intricate streets of Yokohama, engage in dramatic, heartfelt, and often humorous character interactions, and build relationships through the innovative "Bond" system that helps players feel as though they are becoming one with the world of the game. Yes, it's wacky and over the top, but it still manages to keep that heart the franchise is known for, and is a worthwhile experience to have, even if its just for the memes.

Metacritic Score: 92 Standout RPG Mechanics: Stamina-Based Combat, Asynchronous Multiplayer, Soul Mechanics Why Demon's Souls is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: There really is no experience quite like playing your first Soulsborne game. The anticipation and excitement of seeing this massive and mysterious world juxtaposed with getting the ever-loving daylights smashed out of you within the first five minutes is a humbling and jarring experience, and for many, Demon's Souls was their first venture into this masochistic world. This remake of the classic that defines the subgenre, will flood players with nostalgia of their first times experiencing the pain of these types of games, and for those who just got onboard with Elden Ring, it is a fantastically thought out and designed remake that will give the feeling of an entirely new game.

Metacritic Score: 93 Standout RPG Mechanics: Turn-based + real-time combat fusion, party customization through “Archetypes". Why Metaphor: ReFantazio is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Developed by Atlus and published by SEGA, Metaphor: ReFantazio is everything you'd expect from the minds behind Persona 5 and much more. It has all the hallmarks of JRPGs (yes that includes grinding at times) but with incredible dialogue, a beautiful anime art style, a unique combat system, and what feels like endless possibilities for exploration, this might just be Atlus's most ambitious RPG yet.

Metacritic Score: 86 Standout RPG Mechanics: Vocations System, Pawn System, Customizable Characters Why Dragon's Dogma 2 is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: After a decade long wait, players are finally able to step into a world where every shadow could conceal a deadly threat, and every choice has earth shattering repercussions. Dragon's Dogma 2 revitalizes and expands upon the beloved action RPG formula with enhanced mechanics and a richer world, albeit a world that takes some getting used to. Offering a highly immersive experience, the game features a dynamic day-night cycle, complex AI companions known as Pawns, and a deep character customization system that, while providing arguably the richest role playing experience of any game here, is one that players either love, or love to hate. The combat is fluid and exhilarating, allowing players to climb and grapple with massive foes in real-time, relying on both strategy and skill, but the seemingly endless possibilities can overwhelm, just as easily as they can exhilarate.

Metacritic Score: 89 Standout RPG Mechanics: Live Command RPG Battle System, Hype Meter, Job System Why Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: The Yakuza franchise is wacky, weird, and way too much for the average player looking for a “normal” gaming experience, but for those who love this bizarre franchise, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is all those things amplified by about a million. Set in Japan and Hawaii, the game lets players live out both normal and out of this world lives throughout the locals by weaving traditional turn-based mechanics with a rich, character-driven story. Players follow the intertwined tales of Ichiban Kasuga and series veteran Kazuma Kiryu, balancing intense, strategic combat with an emotional and comical narrative. The game's dedication to side content, featuring unique minigames and deep side quests, complements the main story, providing a full-bodied RPG experience.

Metacritic Score: 91 Standout RPG Mechanics: Thought Cabinet, Dialogue and Narrative Mechanics, Non-Linearity and Player Agency Why Disco Elysium is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Disco Elysium stands out in the RPG genre with its unique focus on narrative and character development over combat. Set in a sprawling, rundown city, players take on the role of a troubled detective solving a murder mystery, and the game’s innovative skill system allows for a complex array of personality traits that influence dialogue and decision-making, leading to a multitude of paths and outcomes. With its deep, thought-provoking writing, richly detailed world, and distinctive art style, Disco Elysium offers a cerebral and emotionally resonant experience that challenges the conventions of traditional RPGs.

Metacritic Score: 82 Standout RPG Mechanics: Investigative Elements, Open World Exploration, Companion System Why Lost Judgment is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: A fantastic hybrid of detective thrillers with deep RPG elements, Lost Judgement may be a game that flew over most casual gamers radar, but it is one that is more than worth your time. Players assume the role of Takayuki Yagami, exploring both the streets of Kamurocho and new locations while uncovering dark secrets this sinister world has to offer. With an intricate combat system, blending martial arts with new stealth and parkour mechanics and a robust amount of side missions, mini-games, and complex character, the narrative is a fantastic and terrifying look into the psyche of man, and the evils they can commit.

Metacritic Score: 86 Standout RPG Mechanics: Character Classes and Customization, Procedurally Generated Dungeons, Loot System Why Diablo 4 is one of the Best PS5 RPGs: Dungeon Crawlers were a dime a dozen throughout the 2000s and 2010s, but this unique breed of gaming has become a rarer and rarer sort as of late, so when the preeminent version announced a new instalment, it's safe to say fans were foaming at the mouths. Luckily for them and the gaming world as a whole, Diablo 4 delivers an unparalleled hack-and-slash RPG experience with its dark, gothic atmosphere and addictive gameplay loop. The game builds upon the classic Diablo formula, offering five unique character classes, each with extensive skill trees and customization options. The game might not be the most accessible to newcomers of the dungeon crawler fandom, but this game was built for the hardcore, and it more that lives up to the hype.