Open-world RPGs have enthralled players since the dawn of the gaming world. The allure of embarking on epic quests, forging unique destinies, and unraveling rich narratives in sprawling virtual realms is undeniably enticing. With so many titles withholding higher and higher price tags though, it can be tough for budget-conscience gamers to find worthy experiences in the genre.
Fortunately, there are plenty of games, old and new, for fans of RPGswith vast worldsto play for under $20. Whether it is a small indie title or a famous AAA game, these games all have enticing experiences fit for any gamer with a sense of adventure.
8The Elder Scrolls Online
The Elder Scrolls Onlineis an MMORPG that wasreleased back in 2014, yet remains entirely relevant today.ESOalso has one of the largest maps in video gaming history, as it seeks to take all of Tamriel and tie it together through expansions that fans can purchase.
Players can visit Skyrim, Cyrodiil, and even Morrowind. For beginners though, it is best to explore the main sections of the map before diving into expansions. Throughout the base game’s main quests, players will be thrown on a journey to fend off Molag Bal, one of the cruelest Daedric princes in theElder Scrollslore.
7Fallout 4
2015 was a fantastic year for gaming, as players were given titles likeBatman: The Arkham Knight, andThe Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. One of the best games released in 2015, and a close contender for Game of the Year, isFallout 4. This post-apocalyptic game places players in the shoes of their custom character, who is married and has a child. When a nuclear bomb threatens all existence, players are forced into a vault to survive the event, and that’s when the game really starts.
Fallout 4has a large world full ofrandom events, quests, and charactersto encounter, which offers up hundreds of hours of amazing gameplay. Players can even to partake in different quests that can change the game’s ending, along with the choices made throughout the game.
6Black Desert
Black Desertis another great MMORPG that fans of the genre will find to be an incredible experience. As one of the more unique MMO experiences,Black Desert Onlinehas a well-developed open world to explore, magnificent combat mechanics to flaunt, and enthralling quests to undertake.
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In a fantastic fantasy setting, the game’s narrative centers around the clash between two ancient civilizations: the powerful and mysterious Black Desert Empire and the valiant and noble Republic of Calpheon. As players delve into the story, they uncover a web of political intrigue, hidden conspiracies, and the struggle for power and dominance.Black Desertalso has some of the best graphics in the MMO field, adding to its immersive elements.
5Cassette Beasts
Developed by Bytten Studio,Cassette Beastsoffers a unique twist in the monster-collecting genre by introducing a cassette-based theme. Players explore a mysterious island teeming with diverse and captivating creatures called “Beasts.” With the ability to capture and combine these Beasts, players are bestowed with limitless customization options, encouraging creativity and strategic thinking in their quest to build the ultimate team.
Cassette Beastsis a brilliant game for fans ofPokemonandPokemon-like RPGs, especially fans of open-world indie games.Cassette Beastsis a shining example of how indie developers continue to push the boundaries of the RPG genre, appealing to new and seasoned players alike.
4Dysmantle
The apocalyptic setting has been utilized in many video games, butDysmantleis one of the most unique apocalyptic titles that fans of the RPG genre should jump into. One of the most exciting parts aboutDysmantle(as true to its name), is that players are rewarded for destroying almost everything.
Destroying things will give players vital materials to upgrade their gear, a crucial aspect inDysmantle. There is also a rich history in the world. Players can sift through its intense lore while completing discovering new places, completing puzzles, and, once again, deconstructing the world.
3Dragon Age: Inquisition
Dragon Age: Inquisitionis a fairly recognizable name, because it wonGame of the Year in 2014.Dragon Age: Inquisitionis such an important RPG because it laid the groundwork for future RPG titles. Though it may not have the large open world thatSkyrimorNo Man’s Skyhas,Dragon Age: Inquisitiondoes have a vivid world that players can explore.
With dragons lurking in a dark time with war plaguing the world, players are sent on a journey to lead a crucial defense against villainous nations, dragons, and other dangerous antagonists. As one of the first games to receive heavy acclaim for its RPG aspects, like character customization and dialogue choices,Dragon Age: Inquisitionis still a relevant choice when looking for RPGs to play.
2Genshin Impact
Waking up in the world of Teyvat, players are separated from their character’s twin sibling and eventually set on a quest to reunite with them. On the way, gamers will unveil the truth about the siblings' separation. Out of all the free-to-play games that players can download straight away,Genshin Impactis arguably one of the best. Gamers play asvarious anime charactersthat they can acquire through purchases or by ‘wishing’ them with the game’s unique character acquisition system.
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Each character has a different elemental type, weapons, and moves to utilize while adventuring through theBreath of the Wild-esque open world. There’s also plenty of do for a free-to-play game, making it one of the best games o get into without spending too much money.
Dread Delusionis an adventure game styled after old-school RPGs such asThe Elder Scrolls. Throughout the broken world ofDread Delusion, players will face horrific dangers that threaten the existence of humanity. Set in a series of floating islands after an apocalyptic event had occurred, players will unearth secrets, and change the game with each action they take.
Dread Delusionboasts an array of developed characters to meet, along with the freedom to create a custom character. Players will also find themselves exploring a mysterious world brimming with captivating lore, while facing crucial decisions that impact the story. This indie gem stands out for delivering one of the finest open-world experiences, with its meticulously hand-crafted environments captivating fans and drawing them deeper into its intriguing narrative.
