- 9.75/10 1. Editors choice: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- 9.90/10 2. pick: Elden Ring
- 8.90/10 3. Best value: The Elder Scrolls Online
- 8.85/10 4. Kingdom Hearts 3
- 8.80/10 5. Cyberpunk 2077
- 8.65/10 6. Call of Cthulhu
- 8.80/10 7. Dark Souls III
- 8.90/10 8. Skyrim
- 8.85/10 9. Final Fantasy XV
- 8.75/10 10. Mad Max
Role-playing games, or RPGs as they’re also popularly known, feel like novels come to life. You not only get to read each story but live it too, through the eyes of the main character, and Xbox One has some of the very best.
You become just what they are, their flaws and their fears. Best of all you gain a whole new set of abilities that only grow along with that whole new persona as you play.
It’s hardly any surprise that the genre remains one of the most popular in multiplayer options in many instances.
Here you will find the very best role-playing games on the Xbox One which have compelled gaming fans to sit for hours on end and lose themselves in the marvels they had to offer.
Are you a fan of the novels or were you right there at the beginning when Geralt of Rivera first emerged in living albeit dated color in 2007? No matter, the third release in this hit series is bound to draw you right into that world of magic, danger, and wonder which has enchanted fans from the very first.
Once again in this third release, you step into the skin of the Witcher, a mysterious creature of magic and prodigious swordmastery, who is not only resistant to poisons, but to illness, and physical harm. Abilities which come at a heavy price.
This time you get to enjoy even greater levels of interaction with the world about you as you swim and leap for the very first time.
You also have different weapons at your disposal for keeping foes in check: different swords, telekinetic blasts, disorientation, and slowing spells, and even protective auras.
This time there’s a day and night cycle to look out for, since certain foes gain strength during a full moon, for example.
In this new release, you confront a fearsome enemy capable of harnessing incredible power and of crossing worlds. And at last, a terrible catastrophe must be averted by only one being who has the power to stop it.
At this point, you’re probably thinking that this is one game which has it all. And we can’t help but concur. Making it worthy of occupying a spot in your games collection.
- Swimming and leaping abilities available for the first time
- A vast arsenal for keeping foes in check
- A night and day cycle with real in-game effects
- Prequels(s): Array
- Released: 2015-05-19
- Genre(s): Array
- ESRB: M for Mature: Use of Alcohol, Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Engine: REDengine 3
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/463/the-witcher-3-wild-hunt
- OpenCritic Rating: Mighty
- Top Critic Rating: 93
- Critics Recommend %: 95
- Cross-Platform Play: yes
- Cross Save: yes
- Multiplayer: Array
- How Long To Beat: 52 Hours
- X|S Optimized: yes
- PS Plus Availability: Extra &
- Steam Deck Compatibility: verified
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- Wiki:
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- Metascore: 94
- test: Array
- Genres: Array
- Impressive levels of interaction with the environment
- New previously unavailable abilities
- An impressive arsenal with varied purposes
- Issues with reloading may be noted
- Issues with saving may be noted
When a brand has consistently proven its ability to delight its fanbase with franchises which stand the test of time, chances are any new offering it produces is likely to achieve those same results.
And with Elden Ring it’s clear that FromSoftware, the Japanese giant has proven it never took its finger off the pulse of its fanbase.
So what can you look forward to from the franchise which brought you Tekken and Dragon Ball Z and the director of the Dark Souls series?
Like the best RPG games, the 2022 release comes with an open-world design enhancing the depth of your interaction with your environment. It also comes with breathtaking landscapes, and the option of fast travel — all the better to get through them promptly.
The three main classes are the staple of games of the genre: melee fighters, spell casters, and ranged attackers.
There’s also the option of going solo or teaming up for a multiplayer experience. There’s even PvP too, providing another dimension of excitement.
And like all the best works of fantasy there’s a rich background of lore, brought to you by none other than the man himself, G.R.R Martin.
With a depth of immersion few other options are capable of providing, and endless possibilities for adventure, it is easy to see why players simply can’t get enough of Elden Ring, and why you might not be able to either.
- Open world design for enhanced interaction with the environment
- Single and multiplayer options
- Breathtaking landscapes and the option of fast travel
- Prequels(s): Array
- Released: 2022-02-25
- Genre(s): Array
- ESRB: M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Engine: Proprietary
- Expansions: Array
- Expansion Packs : Shadow of the Erdtree
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/12090/elden-ring
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/12090/elden-ring
- OpenCritic Rating: Mighty
- Top Critic Rating: 95
- Top Critic Rating: 95
- Critics Recommend %: 98
- Critics Recommend %: 98
- Cross-Platform Play: PS4 & PS5 and Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S
- Cross Save: no
- Multiplayer: Array
- How Long To Beat: 58 Hours
- X|S Optimized: yes
- PS Plus Availability: N/A
- Steam Deck Compatibility: yes
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- Wiki:
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- Metascore: 96
- Platforms That Crossplay: PS4 & PS5 and Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S
- test: Array
- Release Date : 2024-06-21 (Shadow of the Erdtree DLC)
- Genres: Array
- A rich lore background by G.R.R.Martin
- In-depth interaction with the environment
- Stunning vistas and landscapes
- Excessive levels of difficulty
- No in-game tutorials provided
For several years fans of this massive franchise had to make do with navigating various cities and regions solo. From Morrowind, to Oblivion, to Skyrim. And while each of those games made for an in-depth exploration of key areas with loads of endless fun — think accruing wealth by pick pocketing like a pro — the fact is sharing all your adventures can present a whole new dimension of excitement.
If you love games with loads of races, then this MMORPG’s for you. From feline Khajits to serpentine Argonians, not to mention elves, too, you’ll be spoiled for choice. What if Orcs are your thing? You’d be able to play as one too. A caveat here: your choice of race will also affect attributes such as your skill with weapons, for example.
There’s also an immense map to explore with the potential for endless adventure since it only keeps on growing with each new expansion pack.
What’s more, there’s also the opportunity to learn about the lore of this vast wonderful world and go on adventures with other players while earning reward points. You’ll also be able to test your skill against them too, in duels or as a group, thanks to the availability of different PvP options.
And if you like making things, you’d be able to do just that — and for your own house no less. Yes, real estate is a thing in ESO.
With such a depth of immersion and awesome graphics too, it’s pretty easy to understand why players can’t get enough of The Elder Scrolls Online, and why you might not be able to either.
- A variety of PvP options
- A selection of races which each influence gameplay
- An ever-growing adventure thanks to expansions
- Prequels(s): Array
- Released: 2014-04-04
- Genre(s): Array
- ESRB: M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Sexual Themes, Use of Alcohol, Violence
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Engine: proprietary engine, heroengine
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/2212/the-elder-scrolls-online
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/2212/the-elder-scrolls-online
- OpenCritic Rating: Fair
- Top Critic Rating: 71
- Top Critic Rating: 71
- Critics Recommend %: 38
- Critics Recommend %: 38
- Multiplayer: Array
- Number of Players: 1-4 (Co-Op)
- How Long To Beat: 160+ Hours
- PS Plus Availability: Extra &
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- Metascore: 71
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- test: Array
- Genres: Array
- Wiki:
- Different varieties of PvP excitement
- Crafting and trading available
- A vast map with the possibility of limitless adventure
- Quests may feel repetitive
- Server connectivity issues may occur
4. Kingdom Hearts 3
Our next game is the twelfth release of a game franchise that is the perfect seamless blend of some of the biggest animated movie and gaming franchises in their own right. And once more Kingdom Hearts III speaks effortlessly to the inner child in us all in a way nothing else can, thanks to that winning blend of Final Fantasy, Disney, and Pixar.
Once again as a player, you will make the acquaintance of Soru, the lovable protagonist and his trusty keyblade. With Donald, Mickey, and Goofy (and other faithful companions) in tow, you will get to explore various new worlds all artfully created. And you'll get to do so while being able to take advantage of a brand-new ability bestowed by your keyblades to enable you to change forms at will.
This is one excitement-packed offering with several other favorites from Disney and Pixar making an appearance in different worlds, including Arendelle, the Caribbean, the Toy Box, and the famed Twilight Town. And there's plenty more as you seek to stop a sinister being from bringing about the repeat of a cataclysmic event. Not to mention loads of side quests too. Making this yet another release worthy of being invested in by every fan.
- The ability to change forms at will
- A seamless blend of the biggest entertainment franchises
- An impressive array of new worlds to explore
- Prequels(s): Array
- Released: 2019-01-25
- Genres: Array
- ESRB: E10+ For Everyone 10+ due to Alcohol Reference, Fantasy Violence
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/1532/kingdom-hearts-iii
- OpenCritic Rating: Mighty
- Top Critic Rating: 84
- Critics Recommend %: 84
- Genre(s): Array
- Multiplayer: Array
- Engine: Unreal Engine 4
- How Long To Beat: 30 Hours
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- PS Plus Availability: Extra &
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- test: Array
- The ability to meet much-loved characters from animated movies
- The opportunity to explore worlds inspired by animated movies
- The ability to change your form whenever you want to
- Issues with cutscenes may be noted
- Issues with combat mechanics may be noted
5. Cyberpunk 2077
Ever wondered what life would be like if you were cybernetically enhanced and were something more than human as a result? Or if you had a chance of seizing immortality in your grasp? You can find out in Cyberpunk 2077. And even though its creators have taken special care to name it an action-adventure game, fans dare to argue otherwise. And we feel inclined to agree.
Especially in light of the attention given to character creation and progression, a selection of final outcomes which are determined by you the player, not to mention its storyline and the wonderful characters you meet along the way.
But enough about classifications. It’s time to take a peek at what you can expect from this delightful offering. First of all, you have a reputation to build all while you coax a futuristic city to yield its secrets to you. Thankfully, the developers have made it supremely easy for you to want to do just that.
And if you don’t like violence at all, there’s also the option to complete the game using your wits alone. What’s more, there’s also the opportunity to relive the experiences of others, and even interpret foreign languages using special implants. Mini-games too also enhance the experience, as do companions to aid you in your quest for eternal life.
Sound exciting? We think it does. Making this one game worthy of a purchase.
- Free digital products provided (soundtrack, art booklet, and wallpapers)
- Free map of the megalopolis, postcards, and stickers
- Compendium containing detailed lore
- Prequel Games: Array
- Released: 2020-12-10
- Genre(s): Array
- ESRB: M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Use of Drugs and Alcohol
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Engine: REDengine 4
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/8525/cyberpunk-2077
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/8525/cyberpunk-2077
- OpenCritic Rating: Strong
- Top Critic Rating: 76
- Top Critic Rating: 76
- Critics Recommend %: 64
- Critics Recommend %: 64
- PC Release Date: 2020-12-10
- Xbox Series X|S Release Date: 2022-02-15
- PS5 Release Date: 2022-02-15
- Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date: 2025-06-05
- Cross-Platform Play: ps, xbox, pc
- Cross Save: yes
- Multiplayer: Array
- Number of Players: Single-player
- How Long To Beat: 25 Hours
- X|S Optimized: Yes
- PS Plus Availability: N/A
- Steam Deck Compatibility: yes
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- Wiki:
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- Metascore: 75
- test: Array
- Genres: Array
- Free digital and physical products
- An expansive megalopolis to explore
- Exciting features such as translation implants and mini-games
- Free products may be omitted
- Game may crash suddenly
6. Call of Cthulhu
Ever since famed horror writer H.P. Lovecraft released the tale of a series of a sinister ancient deity, dark dreams, and several chilling encounters, fans of fantasy and horror alike have found themselves quite incapable of letting go of its sense of dread and wonder.
The title brought to you by Focus Entertainment and released on October 30, 2018 is just one such incarnation. In it you get to put your detective skills to good use to investigate the very suspicious demise of a family.
But before long, you begin to experience weird and frightening whispers. You have unlocked a Pandora’s Box, it seems. Of Old Gods, their followers, and conspiratorial plots.
Each decision you make counts, enabling you to create a riveting story of your own choosing, as you navigate a suitably gloomy setting of filtered light and gray twilight.
Although inspired by Chaosium’s pen-and-paper version of the same name, this title is actually the brainchild of Focus Games, an outfit renowned for its versatility, original gaming concepts, and cutting-edge graphics.
If you are a fan of horror, you will find this game the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in another reiteration of the famed author’s work.
- Rich meaningful dialogue in tandem with an intriguing plot
- Realistic challenges making for immersive gameplay
- A realistic, chilling recreation of popular author H.P. Lovecraft’s universe
- Prequels(s): Array
- Released: 2018-10-30
- Genres: Array
- ESRB: M For Mature 17+ // Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/6734/call-of-cthulhu
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/6734/call-of-cthulhu
- OpenCritic Rating: Fair
- Top Critic Rating: 67
- Top Critic Rating: 67
- Critics Recommend %: 37
- Critics Recommend %: 37
- Genre(s): Array
- Multiplayer: Array
- Engine: Unreal Engine 4
- How Long To Beat: 8 Hours
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- PS Plus Availability: Extra &
- How Long To Beat (Completionist Runs): 13 Hours
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- test: Array
- An exciting skillset for deciphering new puzzles
- Excellent graphics and an engaging plot
- An impressive recreation of the famed fantasy author’s tale
- Poorly rendered cut scenes
- Audio may not sync properly during cut scenes
7. Dark Souls III
Before Elden Ring, there was Dark Souls, a somber fantasy adventure brought to life by the legendary director Hidetaka Miyazaki, the brains behind the former hit title. One in which the flame must remain ever kindled to keep the darkness and all its attendant horrors at bay.
In the third installment of the series, you enter a world on the brink of a new age of dread.
Worse still one of those capable of staving off disaster, has decided that he doesn't quite feel like embracing the duty or sacrifice required making for a rather difficult state of affairs.
So what can you expect in this third release of the series? First of all, there’s the option of resetting your character's attributes as many as five times during the game. The game also comes with those mirage-like walls which conceal the presence of welcome resources.
You will also be able to look forward to the option of pitting your wits and skills against other players thanks to the availability of PvP.
And once you've reached the very end you'll have the opportunity to relive the adventure again with most of your upgrades and acquisitions, albeit at an increased difficulty (which is only fair, after all).
If you love a tale set amid gloom and terror, this marvelous immersive title might be just what you need during those much-needed moments of downtime.
- Exciting combat and gameplay
- Attribute reset option
- Exquisitely detailed scenery
- Franchise: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Genre(s): Array
- Multiplayer: Array
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- test: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/1520/dark-souls-iii
- Top Critic Rating: 90
- Critics Recommend %: 94
- The opportunity to play against other players
- The opportunity to experience the entire game with your upgrades
- A vast, detailed environment
- Players may find progression difficult
- Issues with loading may occur
8. Skyrim
Our next entry has a list of rather impressive achievements including and by no means limited to a rock-solid position in gamers’ pantheon of the best games to ever grace console or PC. Based on the home of the Bretons, a hardy race accustomed to the harsh, cold climes of northern Tamriel, Skyrim offered cutting-edge graphics, hitherto unavailable game mechanics, and dragons, at its release.
And even though that was over a decade ago, it is back as is only fitting having been remastered to provide updated graphics worthy of a present-day hit title.
All so you too can experience the exhilaration of wielding great power through your weapons, spells, and skills, discovering rare items, and battling your way through ancient temples and underground tombs.
What about once you’ve completed the main storyline and are eager for more? Additional able expansions await: Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn.
All you have to do is yield to the call of the rugged north and embark on a quest filled with danger and wonder you’re unlike to forget anytime soon.
- Remastered graphics for updated gameplay
- Ancient temples and underground tombs for added excitement
- A special selection of weapons, spells, and skills
- Prequels(s): Array
- Released: 2011-11-11
- Genre(s): Array
- ESRB: M for Mature: Use of Alcohol, Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Engine: Creation
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/2851/the-elder-scrolls-v-skyrim-special-edition
- OpenCritic Rating: Strong
- Top Critic Rating: 81
- Critics Recommend %: 83
- Multiplayer: Array
- How Long To Beat: 26 Hours
- X|S Optimized: Yes
- File Size Xbox Series: 29 GB (December 2023)
- PS Plus Availability: Extra &
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- Metascore: 73
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- test: Array
- Genres: Array
- Updated graphics ensuring stunning visuals
- A new selection of skills and abilities
- A brand new map to explore
- Disk may not run
- Game may crash unexpectedly
9. Final Fantasy XV
It is the latest release in a long line of anthological adventures in a franchise that has thrilled fans for almost three decades.
And like most of them, it comes with the prerequisite party of disparate individuals, and the quest to save the planet.
This time around you get to play as royalty on the mythical world of Eos whose duty it is to undo a grievous wrong inflicted while your side was determined to do the right thing.
Expect unique companions, an array of different weapons, magic, and real-time combat in a departure from the turn-based styles of previous releases.
And there’s more to look forward to, as well. Such as wonderfully rendered environments, entertaining NPCs, and loads of attention-grabbing quests to get through.
There’s even a multiplayer expansion too, just so you can experience this wondrous new world that will unfold to you in fifteen chapters with friends.
And just in case you were wondering, there will be chocobos, too.
- Real-time combat
- An arsenal of varied weapons
- Unique companions
- Franchise: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Genre(s): Array
- Multiplayer: Array
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- test: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/1512/final-fantasy-xv
- Top Critic Rating: 81
- Critics Recommend %: 74
- The novelty of real-time combat as opposed to turn-based combat
- The welcome familiarity of chocobos
- Exquisitely rendered environments and riveting quests
- Game may freeze suddenly
- Issues with graphics may be noted
10. Mad Max
Are you a fan of post-apocalyptic chaos and fury with all the attendant clashes that come with it?
If so, you might find this title to be the one game dreams are made of. Inspired by the Aussie hit movie franchise which has ruled the cinematic landscape for almost four decades, it manages to encapsulate that very essence of rugged desperation, survival, and conflict that are the essence of each film release.
Here you step into the skin of Mark Rockatansky the protagonist of the series where you must traverse a vast wasteland.
Your destination is the Plain of Silence and reaching it will be no easy task. However, you have on your side, your trusty vehicle which is more than just a means of transport and is also a combat weapon too. Yes, it is customizable with notable changes with each upgrade. And it can be used as a mechanical battering ram of sorts to reduce your enemies’ vehicles to piles of smoldering rubble, resulting in oodles of satisfaction each time you do.
What you don’t destroy of their rides, it will welcome in the form of upgrades — the useful stuff anyway.
Also by your side is a faithful canine, which will serve to sniff out danger in the form of mines.
The game also comes with all the additional staples that make the best RPGs, missions galore, a varied map filled with strongholds to conquer, high-octane encounters, and loads of weapons with which to inflict crushing defeat on your foes.
If the game calls to your inner adventurer, all you have to do is step into the persona of Mark and enjoy the ride of a lifetime.
- Thousands of vehicle-upgrading mods
- Dynamic weather, hostile factions, and enemy encampments
- Thrilling side quests and interactions
- Prequels(s): Array
- Released: 2015-09-01
- Genre(s): Array
- ESRB: M For Mature 17+ Due To Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Strong Language, Use of Drugs
- System: Array
- Platform(s): Array
- Developer(s): Array
- Publisher(s): Array
- Engine: Apex Engine
- Expansions: Array
- Prequel(s): Array
- Sequel(s): Array
- Franchise: Array
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/1518/mad-max
- OpenCritic Page: https://opencritic.com/game/1518/mad-max
- OpenCritic Rating: Fair
- Top Critic Rating: 69
- Top Critic Rating: 69
- Critics Recommend %: 28
- Critics Recommend %: 28
- Multiplayer: Array
- How Long To Beat: 20 Hours
- Director: Array
- Character(s): Array
- Cast: Array
- Writers: Array
- Metascore: 73
- ed VR Headsets: Array
- test: Array
- Genres: Array
- Thrilling side quests
- High-octane encounters
- Novel combat methods
- Disc may not play at all
- Level of difficulty may be too high
RPGs' immense popularity means that there's no shortage to choose from. So how can you avoid having the retailer smile all the way to the bank while you feel the sting of disappointment that can only come from choosing the wrong game? By taking the following factors into :
Your Own Preferences
A good place to begin is always your own particular sphere of interest. Do you love horror? If so then titles like Resident Evil which has cast its spell on the gaming community for decades might be right up your lane.
Fantasy fans are catered to as well with titles such as Diablo, the Dark Souls Trilogy, and the Final Fantasy series being some of the most successful in the genre. If you love Sci-Fi, you won't be left out either thanks to excellent releases such as Deux Ex or the widely praised Mass Effect.
Developers and Publishers
Other key factors worth looking out for are a game's developers and publishers. Many times, brands associated with magic are likely to be capable of duplicating it again and again. Case in point Square Soft/Enix behind Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, CD Projeck Red behind Cyberpunk 2077, and FromSoftware and Bandai Namco both responsible for the hits Elden Ring and the Dark Souls series.
Player Reviews
If that release you've been planning to buy is getting widely panned by players, chances are you may not like it either. On the other hand, if they happen to lavish praise on its gameplay, graphics, and storyline, then getting it might prove to be an excellent choice.