Top 10 Best Fantasy Video Games Of All Time
#10: “Diablo II” (2000)
Video Game Classics: Diablo
While hack-and-slash titles generally rely on over-the-top violence and fast-paced gameplay, “Diablo III” has an expansive world as the main selling point. Set in a world known as Sanctuary, the game has an epic story split into multiple acts. Because of this, players can enjoy different backdrops and characters as they take the brave journey to rid Sanctuary of the titular villain. With specific abilities for each character class, “Diablo II” offers great replay value, as fans can have entirely unique experiences from multiple playthroughs. Although gameplay mechanics are relatively simple, the overall aesthetic and plot execution give “Diablo II” its own identity. Thanks to an equally engaging multiplayer system, it became one of the most popular games of the 2000s.
#9: “World of Warcraft” (2004)
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Even if you haven’t played this game, you must have heard of it. “World of Warcraft” remains the biggest MMORPG there’s ever been, commanding a reported 100 million accounts at its peak. Much more inclusive than other titles in its genre, players can immerse themselves in the fantastical world of Azeroth filled with possibilities. Despite its massive size, quests aren’t repetitive and keep surprising players at every turn. Because of frequent updates, the game evolved over the years, turning Azeroth into a complex land suited to old and new fans alike. “World of Warcraft’s” penchant for encouraging teamwork brings another layer to an already awe-inspiring game that inspired an enduring legacy for the MMORPG genre.
#8: “Dragon Age: Inquisition” (2014)
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Closing a tear in the sky and resolving growing conflict in the magical world of Thedas sounds fun from the get-go. Choosing from three different classes, players can either assume the role of the Inquisitor or their companion. The standard route is an option, but being strategic in combat is more rewarding. Aspects such as curating the skill tree bring out the tactical side of a player and connect fans to their characters on a deeper level. Things can be intense, and there’s nothing more exciting than executing a perfect battle sequence. “Dragon Age: Inquisition” makes the best of its intriguing premise, delivering an epic storyline that’s as exhilarating as its gameplay.
#7: “God of War” (2018)
Top 10 Final Fantasy Video Games
A creative take on Nordic mythology sets the platform for a heartwarming father-son story. Kratos and Atreus’ journey to Jötunheim brims with trouble. Everything from giants, ogres, elves, and valkyries appear in the heroes’ path. With Kratos’ trusty Leviathan Axe and Atreus’ bow, fans head into the many Nordic realms to uncover Odin’s plot against them. Along with the series’ trademark hack-and-slash style, “God of War” lays out puzzles that balance the action-heavy elements. Collecting magical weapons and unlocking the heroes’ special abilities gears up toward the action-packed finale, where all of Kratos and Atreus’ adventures come to a head. Although its lore isn’t as grand as other fantasy games, “God of War” uses its narrative to keep fans engaged through each realm they explore.
#6: “Elden Ring” (2022)
Malenia Blade of Miquella's Origin Story | Elden Ring
The RPG landscape changed thanks to the success of 2011’s “Dark Souls,” which featured a highly difficult world to traverse. 2022’s “Elden Ring” perfects the formula with an open world for the ages. In addition to its beauty, the Lands Between is a breathtaking place that feels limitless in both scope and complexity. It might be difficult overall, but “Elden Ring” empowers players by letting them choose their battles, and implements a helpful checkpoint/fast travel option. The Lands Between’s accessibility is its winning quality – fans can complete their goal of becoming the Elden Lord or travel the open world to their hearts’ content. “Elden Ring’s” accessibility and frequent challenges received massive critical acclaim, ultimately winning it 2022’s Game of the Year Award.
#5: “Final Fantasy IX” (2000)
Top 10 Best Final Fantasy Video Games
The “Final Fantasy” series is synonymous with RPGs set in imaginative worlds. The ninth mainline entry has a medieval setting in the world of Gaia. Players take control of the protagonist and his allies to end a great war, uncovering the many wonders that Gaia contains. The game was lauded for its combat system, with greater focus on strategy and character involvement. While there’s a slight learning curve, it’s friendly to new gamers with easy-to-use controls. Combining different traits and abilities within battle makes room for creativity. RPG elements guide players in their journey around Gaia, as things get progressively challenging the longer you play. “Final Fantasy IX” isn’t particularly revolutionary, but packs the franchise’s best elements all into one.
#4: “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” (2011)
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In 2011, no title dominated the gaming world like “Skyrim.” From critical praise over Skyrim’s open-ended features to memes about “arrows in the knee,” the game was everywhere. Its success spawned several expansions and special editions that extended its replay value, as “Skyrim” remains the mainline “Elder Scrolls” installment since its release. The primary plotline of the Dragonborn’s conflict with World-Eater Alduin takes dozens of hours. However, “Skyrim” allows players to free-roam wherever they please, meaning fans can just do their own thing without worrying about the story. At the time, this kind of liberty in gameplay was practically unheard of at such a large scale. Because of this, “Skyrim’s” seemingly endless experience continues to entertain over a decade later.
#3: “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” (2015)
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Filled with dangers and various adventures, “The Witcher 3” never fails at thrilling its fanbase. Geralt of Rivia's status as an iconic character was solidified with this action RPG that has him searching for his adoptive daughter, Ciri. Although the land of the Continent is as immersive as any other, the game’s narrative is arguably its strongest factor. Decisions have a heavy impact on how things play out, making it the most important aspect of the playthrough. Even with the large number of allies and foes that show up, fans are kept invested by the layered characterizations and engaging plotline. Among the best-selling video games of all time, “Wild Hunt’s” success also contributed to the popularity of “The Witcher” brand.
#2: “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time” (1998)
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“The Legend of Zelda’s” successful streak has never wavered. Recent years have seen remarkable entries like “Breath of the Wild” and “Tears of the Kingdom” as the best in the business. However, “Ocarina of Time” stands as one of the greatest in gaming history. Innovation is its biggest strength, as the game introduced elements like target-locking and a context-specific control scheme that are now commonplace. Instead of forcing players to finish the story, “Ocarina of Time” gives them the freedom to complete side quests that are equally fun. Navigating around the Kingdom of Hyrule, engaging in boss fights, and solving puzzles are all spread out to enjoy. More than two decades since its release, the fun factor of “Ocarina of Time” is just as evergreen.
#1: “Baldur's Gate 3” (2023)
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We’ve mentioned RPGs that provide a lot of freedom, but there’s arguably none more liberating than this. Building on the template set by the well-received “Divinity: Original Sin II” and “Baldur’s Gate II,” “Baldur’s Gate 3” achieves prime status on all fronts. Players can take on any mission they want in whatever sequence they desire. It’s hard to find a game with as much character depth as this, with the supporting cast having their own backstories and motivations. The richness of the dialogue and the resulting quests can lead to a completion time of over 100 hours in the first playthrough. Figuring out the intricacies of combat and exploration is an absolute treat, tying players into the larger “Dungeons & Dragons” mythos in all its glory. Which fantasy title is your dream game? Let us know in the comments.
