The 2010s marked a golden era for best Western RPGs, where developers pushed the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and visual fidelity. Games like Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, with its intricate cyberpunk setting and thought-provoking narrative, captivated players with immersive worlds and unforgettable experiences. From sprawling open worlds to tight, linear narratives, these games offered diverse experiences for players of all tastes. Whether you were exploring the vast landscapes of The Division or delving into the morally grey world of Deus Ex, there was something for everyone.
The 2010s laid the foundation for the future of Western RPGs. Games like Deus Ex: Human Revolution and Mankind Divided, developed by the talented team at Eidos Montreal, redefined the genre with their innovative gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and compelling stories. These games and other classics like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Fallout 4 continue to inspire developers and captivate players. As we look to the future, we only hope the lessons learned from this golden age will lead to even more groundbreaking and immersive RPG experiences.
Let’s dive into the top 5 best Western RPGs of the 2010s to 2019s:
Best Western RPGs of the 2010s: A Comparison
| Game Title | Similarities | Minimum PC Requirements | The unique blend of action RPG and third-person shooter, engaging combat, rich storytelling |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | Open world, choice & consequence, character progression, engaging combat, rich storytelling | Intel Core i5-2400, 8GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660, 40GB Storage | Intel Core i7-3770K, 16GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060, 40GB Storage |
| Deus Ex: Mankind Divided | Open world, choice & consequence, character progression, engaging combat, rich storytelling | Intel Core i5-2400, 8GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660, 40GB Storage | Intel Core i7-3770K, 16GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060, 40GB Storage |
| Mass Effect 2 | Choice & consequence, character progression, engaging combat, rich storytelling | Intel Core i5-2400, 8GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660, 40GB Storage | Intel Core i7-3770K, 16GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060, 40GB Storage |
| Tom Clancy’s The Division | Open world, co-op gameplay, deep loot system, engaging combat | Intel Core i5-2400, 8GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660, 40GB Storage | Intel Core i7-3770K, 16GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060, 40GB Storage |
| NieR: Automata | Unique blend of action RPG and third-person shooter, engaging combat, rich storytelling | Intel Core i5-2400, 8GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660, 40GB Storage | Intel Core i7-3770K, 16GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060, 40GB Storage |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
| Developer | CD Projekt Red |
| Release Date | May 19, 2015 |
| Platform | PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Game Genre | Action RPG, Open World |
| Top Critic Rating | 97 |
| Critics Recommend? | Yes |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the RPG genre. With its expansive open world, rich lore, and unforgettable characters, it stands tall as one of the greatest gaming experiences ever. From the heart-pounding battles against fearsome monsters to the morally complex choices that shape the world’s fate, The Witcher 3 offers an immersive journey that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
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If you’re a fan of RPGs, action-packed adventures, or simply a lover of great storytelling, The Witcher 3 is an absolute must-play. Prepare to lose yourself in a world of magic, monsters, and unforgettable characters. It’s a game that will challenge your decisions, test your skills, and leave you yearning for more.
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
| Developer | Eidos-Montréal, Feral Interactive, Nixxes Software |
| Release Date | August 23, 2016 |
| Platform | PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One, Linux, macOS |
| Game Genre | Action role-playing |
| Top Critic Rating | 87/100 |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, a direct sequel to the critically acclaimed Human Revolution, continues the legacy of immersive gameplay and thought-provoking storytelling. Set in a future Prague divided by fear and prejudice, players once again step into the role of Adam Jensen, an augmented agent with a unique blend of human and machine.
The game offers a rich, detailed world with intricate design and stunning visuals. The dynamic gameplay system allows players to approach challenges in various ways, whether through stealth, combat, or hacking. The emphasis on player choice and consequence creates a truly immersive experience where every decision significantly impacts the story.
While Mankind Divided received praise for its gameplay and world-building, some critics felt that the narrative lacked the same level of innovation as its predecessor. Nevertheless, the game remains a standout title in the action RPG genre, offering a compelling blend of action, stealth, and role-playing elements.
Mass Effect 2
| Developer | BioWare |
| Release Date | January 26, 2010 |
| Platform | Windows, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 |
| Genre | Action role-playing |
| Top Critic Rating | 96/100 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
Mass Effect 2 is regarded as the series’ pinnacle, captivating players with its gripping narrative and unforgettable characters. The game’s loyalty missions, where players forge deep bonds with their squadmates, add a profound emotional layer to the experience. BioWare meticulously addressed the shortcomings of the original Mass Effect, delivering a tighter, more cinematic story, diverse environments, and intense combat. As a result, Mass Effect 2 became one of the most acclaimed sequels of its time, sweeping numerous Game of the Year awards.
While Mass Effect 3 didn’t quite reach the same heights as its predecessor, it still offered a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy despite its divisive ending. The game leaned further into action-oriented gameplay and introduced a co-op multiplayer mode. Mass Effect 2 and 3 together solidified the series’ position as one of the greatest trilogies in gaming history.
Tom Clancy’s The Division
| Developer | Massive Entertainment |
| Release Date | March 15, 2019 |
| Platform | PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One |
| Genre | Action Role-Playing |
| Top Critic Rating | 87/100 |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
The Division series, set in a post-pandemic New York City, has captivated gamers with its stunning visuals, intense co-op gameplay, and deep loot system. The Dark Zone, a PvPvE area where players can fight for valuable loot, adds excitement and danger. This groundbreaking open-world RPG seamlessly blends action and role-playing elements, offering a thrilling adventure for solo players and cooperative squads alike.
The Division promised a bold vision for a co-op open-world RPG from its announcement. The game delivered on this promise, becoming one of the first extraction shooters to integrate deep RPG elements, including character skills, progression, itemization, and weapon customization. The post-pandemic setting in snowy New York City created an atmospheric backdrop that solidified its popularity.
The Division 2 expanded the series with a fully explorable Washington, D.C., while retaining core elements from the original and even featuring nostalgic nods with the Warlords of New York expansion. Both games remain popular titles, and a third entry has already been announced, promising to continue the legacy of this beloved franchise.
NieR: Automata
| Developer | PlatinumGames |
| Release Date | March 7, 2017 (Japan) |
| Platform | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch |
| Genre | Action RPG |
| Top Critic Rating | 90/100 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes (90% recommend on Metacritic) |
NieR: Automata, though technically a Japanese game, undeniably deserves a place among the top-tier Western games. This unique blend of action RPG and third-person shooter elements offers a captivating story, stunning visuals, and incredibly challenging combat. The game’s narrative, filled with philosophical themes and emotional depth, draws players into a world of androids and machines. Its breathtaking visuals, a stunning fusion of anime-inspired character design and detailed environments create a truly immersive experience. The combat system, a perfect balance of strategic depth and fast-paced action keeps players engaged and challenged.
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Whether you’re a fan of action RPGs, third-person shooters, or simply great storytelling, NieR: Automata is a must-play. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking narrative make it a truly unforgettable experience. So, if you’re looking for a game that will push the boundaries of your gaming experience, look no further than NieR: Automata.
The 2010s was a remarkable decade for Western RPGs. These five games represent the best of the genre, offering unforgettable stories, immersive gameplay, and stunning visuals. As we look to the future, we can only hope that developers continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in this exciting genre.
Conclusion
The 2010s was a golden age for Western RPGs, delivering many unforgettable experiences. These five titles, each a masterpiece in its own right, have left an enduring legacy. From The Witcher 3’s vast, open world to Deus Ex: Mankind Divided’s thought-provoking choices, these games pushed the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and visual fidelity. They offered immersive worlds, compelling narratives, and engaging combat systems that captivated players worldwide.
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As we reflect on this remarkable decade, it’s clear that these games have set a high bar for future RPGs. They have inspired countless developers and continue to be celebrated by fans around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, these five titles are essential experiences that will leave a lasting impact.
FAQs: Western RPGs
- What is the best Western RPG of all time?
This question is highly subjective, as the “best” RPG often depends on personal preferences. However, many consider titles like “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” “Baldur’s Gate 2,” and “Planescape: Torment” to be strong contenders for the top spot. - What are some good Western RPGs for beginners?
For those new to Western RPGs, consider these beginner-friendly titles:
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: Offers a great balance of story, combat, and exploration.
- Divinity: Original Sin 2: A fantastic co-op RPG with deep tactical combat and character customization.
- Pillars of Eternity: A classic isometric RPG with a rich story and complex world.
- What are some upcoming Western RPGs to look forward to?
While specific release dates can change, keep an eye on these upcoming titles:
- Baldur’s Gate 3: The highly anticipated sequel to the beloved classic.
- Starfield: Bethesda’s next big RPG, set in a vast space-faring universe.
- Cyberpunk 2077: CD Projekt Red’s ambitious open-world RPG set in a dystopian future.
- What are some of the best RPGs for story and character development?
If you prioritize narrative and character-driven experiences, consider these titles:
- Planescape: Torment: A unique RPG focusing on philosophical themes and player choice.
- Disco Elysium: A detective RPG with incredible writing and a focus on role-playing.
- Mass Effect 2: A sci-fi RPG with strong character relationships and impactful choices.
- Where can I find the best deals on Western RPGs?
To find the best deals on Western RPGs, check these platforms:
- Steam: Offers frequent sales and discounts on a wide range of PC games.
- Epic Games Store: Provides regular free games and discounts on popular titles.
- Digital retailers like Humble Bundle: Often bundle games together at discounted prices.
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