The Best Action RPGs Of All Time, Ranked

In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, you'll step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia as he embarks on a quest to rescue his adopted daughter from the clutches of the nefarious Wild Hunt. With its masterful blend of hack-and-slash combat, engaging choice-driven narrative, and sprawling open world, this game single-handedly raised the bar for the RPG genre. To call it a masterpiece would be an understatement; it's a triumph that'll have you slaying monsters and navigating morally grey dilemmas until the wee hours of the morning.

Dive into the depths of darkness in Diablo II as you pick from one of seven classes and embark on a journey to rid Sanctuary of the Prime Evils. The game's randomized dungeons and addictive loot system provide an adrenaline-pumping experience that keeps players on their toes. This legendary hack-and-slash action RPG not only defined a generation but also left a demonic mark on the gaming industry forever.

Strap yourself in for a galactic adventure in Mass Effect 2 as Commander Shepard battles against the enigmatic Collectors threatening to annihilate humanity. Featuring intense third-person shooter combat and an unforgettable cast of allies, player choices greatly influence the outcome of this thrilling sci-fi saga. Widely regarded as the pinnacle of the trilogy, this game boldly goes where no RPG has gone before, cementing its place in gaming history.

Join Link on his iconic quest to save Hyrule and Princess Zelda from the evil grasp of Ganondorf in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. With its groundbreaking 3D graphics, intricate puzzles, and timeless story, this game revolutionized the action-adventure genre. The impact of Ocarina of Time echoes throughout gaming history, proving that heroism, resourcefulness, and courage stand the test of time.

Prepare to die (a lot) in Dark Souls, a game that transports players to the unforgiving realm of Lordran as they uncover its cryptic lore and face the perils lurking within its twisted corridors. Combining atmospheric storytelling with brutally challenging combat, this title reinvigorated the action RPG, leaving gamers equal parts enthralled and frustrated. Dark Souls' legacy lives on, reminding us that in the darkest depths, there's always a glimmer of hope - or at least another bonfire just around the corner.

Welcome to the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Fallout: New Vegas, where players must navigate the treacherous Mojave Desert while embroiled in a power struggle between various factions vying for control of the titular city. This open-world, choice-driven RPG offers deep character customization, a vast expanse to explore, and satisfying shooter mechanics. Regarded as a shining star in the Fallout series, New Vegas remains a high-rolling fan favorite that proves war never changes - but games and their impact certainly do.

Delve into the rich world of Cyrodiil as you join the fight to thwart Mehrunes Dagon's invasion in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. This vast, open-world RPG delighted players with its stunning graphics, enthralling stories, and diverse gameplay choices. Oblivion captured the hearts of gamers worldwide, forging a lasting legacy and raising the bar for future entries in The Elder Scrolls series.

Set in a galaxy far, far away, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II – The Sith Lords drops players into an epic struggle against the enigmatic Sith Triumvirate, thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader. With deep character development, meaningful choices, and intense lightsaber combat, this game is an exhilarating jaunt through the Star Wars universe. Praised for its nuanced storytelling and morally complex narrative, The Sith Lords boldly asserts that not everything is black and white – not even the Force.

From Software's Elden Ring combines the intricate lore and brutal combat famously known in Dark Souls with an expansive open world. As you venture through the Lands Between, the rich narrative unfolds around your character, the Tarnished, seeking to reclaim the Elden Ring and become the Elden Lord. With its groundbreaking horseback gameplay and dynamic action, this game sparks a bonfire of innovation that leaves lasting imprints on the souls of gamers everywhere.

Embark on a fantastical adventure in The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind, where players step into the shoes of a mysterious prisoner destined to reshape the destiny of an alien land. This groundbreaking RPG offered unparalleled immersion, depth, and freedom for its time, redefining what role-playing games could be. Morrowind's awe-inspiring sense of wonder and discovery still captivates gamers today, proving that the heart of the dreamer can live on, even against the march of time.

This hilarious, irreverent looter-shooter sends players on a wild ride through the alien world of Pandora, where they must hunt for the mythical Vault while facing off against the fiendish Handsome Jack. Combining first-person gunplay with RPG elements, Borderlands 2 offers a bazillion guns and a rollicking adventure that keeps players coming back for more. Its unique blend of humor, style, and gameplay cemented the Borderlands franchise as a fan-favorite mainstay in gaming.

Embark on a perilous mission to save the galaxy from an ancient threat in Mass Effect, where players take command as the heroic—and fully customizable—Commander Shepard. Boasting a deep storyline, engaging dialogue system, and squad-based combat, this epic space opera set the stage for what would become one of gaming's most beloved franchises. An instant classic, Mass Effect launched us into the stars and left a lasting impression on the heart of every gamer.

Delve into the haunting city of Yharnam in Bloodborne, where you play as a Hunter seeking a cure for a deadly blood-borne illness. Known for its methodical combat and punishing difficulty, this game offers a dark, Lovecraftian tale that keeps players on the edge of their seats. As part of the illustrious Soulsborne series, Bloodborne etches its sinister mark on the annals of gaming with its cryptic lore and relentless challenge.

Choose your own path through a magical, storybook kingdom in Fable, an action RPG that lets players chart their hero's journey from humble beginnings to the stuff of legends. With its memorable cast of characters, moral choices, and engaging combat, this charming game offered a fairy-tale world ripe for exploration. Fable bewitched players and critics alike, planting the seeds for what would grow into a beloved fantasy franchise.

Embark on a breathtaking adventure with Link as he awakens to explore a vast and ruined Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Offering unparalleled freedom, non-linear gameplay, and countless hidden secrets, this game redefined what an open-world experience could be. Breath of the Wild captures the hearts and minds of gamers everywhere, bringing the winds of change to the industry with its indomitable spirit of discovery.

In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, players step into the role of the Dragonborn, an ancient hero destined to save the world from the return of the dragons. From its stunning open-world environment to its deep lore and immersive gameplay, this game took the gaming world by storm and redefined the meaning of freedom in RPGs. With its far-reaching impact, Skyrim continues to shape the hearts and minds of gamers everywhere, proving that legends never die.

The original Diablo unleashed hell on earth, inviting brave heroes to battle the titular Lord of Terror and his demonic cohorts in the labyrinthine depths beneath Tristram. This genre-defining action RPG offered an addictive loot system, pulse-pounding combat, and an atmosphere that oozed dread. Diablo's impact on gaming cannot be overstated; it opened the gates of hell, and in doing so, forever changed the landscape of action RPGs.

Venture out into the irradiated ruins of Washington, D.C., in Fallout 3, as you seek your missing father and unravel the secrets of the Capital Wasteland. Combining first-person shooter mechanics with an expansive, choice-driven open world, this game redefined the Fallout series, bringing it roaring into the modern era. The war may never change, but Fallout 3 changed the game, forever carving its place in the pantheon of gaming legends.

Return to the monster-infested world of the Witcher in The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings, as Geralt of Rivia seeks to clear his name and hunt down those responsible for assassinating the rulers of the Northern Kingdoms. Boasting rich storylines, satisfying hack-and-slash combat, and a branching narrative, this game laid the groundwork for the masterpiece that would follow in The Witcher 3. Assassins of Kings may live in the shadows of its successor, but its lasting impact endures like a well-sharpened silver sword.

Embark on an epic journey to save the realm from the Blight, a dark force threatening to consume the land, in Dragon Age: Origins. This choice-driven RPG captivated players with its deep tactical combat, engaging narrative, and memorable cast of characters. Origins breathed new life into the RPG genre, proving that heroes can arise even in the face of overwhelming darkness.

Step back in time to rescue Princess Zelda and save the mythical land of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. Boasting top-down gameplay, intense dungeons, and a sprawling world filled with secrets, this classic title laid the groundwork for future action-adventure games. As one of the crown jewels in the Zelda series, its legacy is as enduring and enchanting as the Triforce itself.

In Kingdom Hearts II, players take control of Sora once again as he navigates a world filled with the beloved characters of Disney and Final Fantasy while searching for his missing friends. The game dazzles players with its trademark fusion of real-time action combat, whimsical storytelling, and joyous nostalgia. This high-flying sequel captured hearts across the gaming world, cementing the Kingdom Hearts series as a force to be reckoned with.

Ride into the sunset with Red Dead Redemption, an open-world action-adventure game that immerses players in the gritty, lawless world of the Wild West. Featuring a compelling story, unforgettable characters, and a vast, untamed landscape, this game sets a new standard for the Western genre in gaming. Red Dead Redemption leaves an indelible mark on gaming history, reminding us that even in the harshest of environments, redemption is always just a bullet away.

Delve into the untamed realm of Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, a captivating action RPG where players join forces with an ancient wraith to exact revenge on the forces of darkness. Featuring groundbreaking Nemesis System and engaging combat mechanics, this gritty entry in the Tolkien universe brought something new and exciting to the table. Shadow of Mordor stands tall among gaming's greats, proving that even in the darkest corners of Middle-earth, there's always a glimmer of hope.

Embrace a new adventure with Kingdom Hearts, as Sora joins forces with iconic Disney and Final Fantasy characters to save the multiverse from the darkness. Mixing magical storytelling, fast-paced action combat, and stunning visuals, this game enchanted players with its unique blend of childhood wonder and RPG elements. Kingdom Hearts sparked a phenomenon that continues to captivate the hearts and imaginations of gamers, proving that friendship is the key to unlocking untold worlds.

Venture into the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout 4, where players awaken in the ruins of Boston and embark on a journey to find their missing child and forge a new life. Boasting an expansive open world, deep crafting system, and engaging first-person shooter mechanics, this action RPG builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessors while breaking new ground. Fallout 4's impact on gaming can still be felt today, proving that even amidst the wreckage, there's always room for hope and invention.

Enter the realm of Gransys in Dragon's Dogma, a dark fantasy action RPG where players must reclaim their stolen heart from a dragon; it's a classic tale of heroes, monsters, and destiny. Featuring a unique Pawn system and thrilling combat mechanics, this title stands out from the crowd, offering a world ripe for exploration and discovery. With its innovative gameplay, Dragon's Dogma carved its own niche, proving that even in a crowded genre, there's always room for a fresh take.

Take on the role of the courageous Link in the original The Legend of Zelda, as he quests to rescue Princess Zelda and save the land of Hyrule from the evil Ganon. With its top-down perspective, challenging puzzles, and non-linear exploration, this game blazed a trail for future action-adventure titles. The impact of The Legend of Zelda is as timeless as the Triforce itself, shaping the dreams of countless gamers and laying the groundwork for a franchise that would captivate the hearts of millions.

Complete Commander Shepard's epic trilogy in Mass Effect 3, where the fate of the galaxy hangs in the balance as players face off against the ancient, unstoppable Reapers. Featuring intense combat, impactful choices, and a thrilling conclusion to a beloved series, this game left fans on the edge of their seats. Despite its controversial ending, Mass Effect 3's impact on gaming is undeniable, proving that we all must make sacrifices when the fate of the universe is at stake.

In The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, Link embarks on a race against time to save the doomed world of Termina, trapped in a harrowing three-day cycle that culminates in the moon's impending crash. Featuring a unique time-travel mechanic, eerie atmosphere, and masks that unlock new abilities, this captivating adventure offers a darker, more personal tale than its predecessor, Ocarina of Time. Majora's Mask left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, reminding us all that even in the darkest hour, hope can still shine through.

Return to the enchanting world of Albion in Fable II, an action RPG that expands upon the foundation of its predecessor by offering deeper choices, moral dilemmas, and a rich narrative. Players are free to pursue their destiny as a hero or villain while discovering new lands and forging relationships with the game's memorable characters. Fable II captivated gamers with its whimsical charm and dark humor, proving that sometimes, the line between legend and reality is as fragile as the threads of a fairy tale.

Venture into the brutal world of Wraeclast in Path of Exile, a free-to-play online action RPG boasting complex character customization, a sprawling skill tree, and addictive loot-driven gameplay. With its ever-evolving content and devoted community, this indomitable title continues to challenge and delight fans of the hack-and-slash RPG genre. Path of Exile demonstrates that an indie game can have a colossal impact, proving that you don't need a AAA budget to create something extraordinary.

Enter a post-apocalyptic world beset by machine lifeforms in NieR: Automata, where androids 2B, 9S, and A2 forge their own paths amidst the ruins of human civilization. This stylish action RPG captivated players with its unique blend of hack-and-slash combat, existential storytelling, and jaw-dropping visuals. With its devastating impact on gaming culture, NieR: Automata took us to the stars and back, leaving us thrilled and asking poignant questions about our own humanity.

The war against the forces of darkness continues in Diablo III, where players choose from a diverse cast of heroes to confront the Prime Evil himself, Diablo. Featuring addictive gameplay, endless loot, and a gripping storyline, this action RPG builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessors while offering fresh delights for fans and newcomers alike. With its demonic charm and polished execution, Diablo III stands tall in the annals of gaming history.

Step into the vibrant world of Amalur in Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, an action RPG that defies fate as players wage war against the oppressive Tuatha Deohn. Boasting fluid combat, rich storytelling, and a vast open world, this game offers an unforgettable journey that leaves players yearning for more. Despite its turbulent development history, Reckoning's impact resonates with action RPG fans, proving that destiny can be rewritten if one dares to challenge the odds.

Unleash hell on Count Dracula as Alucard, the son of the infamous vampire lord, in Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Featuring addictive exploration, non-linear gameplay, and classic side-scrolling action, this title defined the "Metroidvania" subgenre that remains popular today. Symphony of the Night's impact casts a long shadow over gaming history, proving there's always more to discover in the darkest corners of Dracula's castle.

Dragon Age: Inquisition invites players to lead the charge against a catastrophic breach in the sky, which threatens to consume the world of Thedas. With its vast open world, deep tactical combat, and branching narrative, this epic action RPG offers the most ambitious entry in the Dragon Age series to date. Inquisition casts its spell on gamers far and wide, proving that even in our darkest hours, the power to shape our destiny lies within us all.

Embark on an enchanting journey in Secret of Mana, as players guide hero Randi and his companions through a mystical world to save the legendary Mana tree. Boasting beautiful graphics for its day, real-time action combat, and an unforgettable soundtrack, this game defined a generation of action RPGs. The magic of Secret of Mana still echoes with gamers today, reminding us that some secrets are worth uncovering time and time again.

Step into a dystopian future in Deus Ex, a revolutionary action RPG that combines stealth, exploration, and player choice to create a truly immersive experience. As players assume the role of agent JC Denton, they will make choices that not only affect the game's narrative but also the very fabric of its world. Deus Ex's lasting impact on gaming reminds us that in the face of uncertainty, it's our choices that define who we are.

Set sail on a grand adventure in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, as Link ventures across a vast ocean to save his sister and ultimately the world from the malevolent Ganondorf. Boasting a vibrant, cel-shaded art style, compelling exploration, and thrilling combat, this entry in the Zelda series charmed gamers with its whimsical take on the classic franchise. The Wind Waker's enduring impact proves that sometimes, a fresh gust of creativity can carry a beloved series to new heights.

Jump headfirst into the chaos of Borderlands, as you explore the alien world of Pandora and shoot your way through hordes of enemies in search of a hidden Vault. Combining first-person shooter mechanics with RPG elements and a zany sense of humor, this game took the gaming world by storm and gave birth to the iconic looter-shooter genre. Borderlands' bold and irreverent style left a lasting impression on countless gamers, proving that sometimes the wildest adventures lie just beyond the edge of civilization.

Embark on a quest to become the ultimate Pokémon master in Pokémon Red and Blue, the original entries in the beloved franchise that ignited a worldwide phenomenon. With engaging gameplay, addictive collecting mechanics, and an expansive world teeming with creatures to catch and battle, these games charmed countless players. The impact of Pokémon Red and Blue continues to be felt today, as new generations discover the enduring magic of their unforgettable journey.

Return to the strife-ridden world of Thedas in Dragon Age II, as players take on the role of Hawke, a refugee-turned-champion caught in the middle of a deadly conflict. With its engaging storytelling, dynamic characters, and streamlined combat, this sequel offered a different approach to the Dragon Age formula. While criticized in comparison to its predecessor, Dragon Age II's impact endures, reminding us that even the most unlikely heroes can rise to greatness.

Embark on a shadowy journey in The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, as Link uncovers the mystery behind the encroaching twilight realm and battles to save Hyrule from its sinister influence. Boasting mature storytelling, engaging gameplay, and a beautiful, intricate world to explore, this game delivered a darker take on the classic Zelda formula. Twilight Princess's impact lingers in the hearts of gamers everywhere, reminding us that even when darkness falls, the spirit of the hero never wavers.

Step into the cursed realm of Boletaria in Demon's Souls, a brutal action RPG that pits players against demonic foes in an unforgiving, atmospheric world. As the precursor to the famed Soulsborne series, this game introduced the challenging gameplay, potent atmosphere, and cryptic storytelling players would come to know and love. With its punishing difficulty and engrossing world-building, Demon's Souls cast a spell on gaming culture that endures to this day.

Enter the dark world of Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines, as players embrace their newfound vampiric nature and navigate the intricate politics of Los Angeles's undead underworld. Combining first-person action, rich narrative, and deep character development, this cult classic RPG immerses gamers in its atmospheric setting and engrossing gameplay. Despite its troubled development and initial reception, Bloodlines' grisly charm continues to resonate with fans, proving that some legends never die.

Step into the shadowy world of Dishonored, an action-adventure game that casts players as the disgraced bodyguard Corvo Attano, seeking vengeance against those who framed him for murder. Boasting a unique blend of stealth, supernatural abilities, and player choice, this game captivated players with its immersive atmosphere and compelling narrative. Dishonored's legacy endures, reminding us that sometimes, the price of power comes with a heavy cost.

Begin Geralt of Rivia's epic journey in The Witcher, an action RPG set in a dark fantasy world filled with monsters, political intrigue, and morally complex choices. Featuring a branching narrative, tactical combat, and a rich, immersive setting, this game introduced players to the gritty, unforgettable world of the Witcher series. As the first chapter in Geralt's saga, The Witcher casts a long shadow over gaming history, proving that sometimes, legends are forged in the fires of destiny.

Join a diverse cast of rebels in Final Fantasy VI as they battle against the malevolent Empire and its twisted leader, Kefka. With its memorable story, deep combat system, and stunning visuals, this iconic RPG stands tall among its peers, captivating fans and newcomers alike. The legacy of Final Fantasy VI endures, proving that sometimes, the most unforgettable adventures are found in the darkest corners of our imaginations.

Explore the treacherous lands of Khorinis in Gothic II, a cult classic action RPG that immerses players in a dark, atmospheric world filled with danger and intrigue. With its unique approach to character development, branching narrative paths, and brutal combat, this game left a lasting impact on fans of the genre. Gothic II's legacy may be overshadowed by its more widely-known contemporaries, but its influence remains, proving that some tales refuse to be forgotten.