10 Great RPGs Available Right Now on Xbox Game Pass

In the realm of Role-Playing Games (RPGs), there’s an abundance of fantastic choices available. Some transport you into enchanting Medieval journeys, while others whisk you away to exotic locales brimming with mystery and elegance. Xbox Game Pass boasts quite a few impressive RPG offerings, including both third-party and first-party games. However, deciding which ones to invest in can be tricky. To help, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-play titles that are worth revisiting, whether it’s your initial, second, or hundredth time playing.

It’s worth mentioning that the following games are currently accessible. They could potentially be added or removed from the list, and there might even be new, exceptional titles that surpass some of those mentioned here. However, if you’re looking for a game that will consume numerous hours of your time, whether it’s through Xbox Game Pass or not, you can rest assured that these games won’t disappoint.

Dragon Age: Inquisition (2014)

Bioware has a knack for creating outstanding role-playing games (some of which are featured on this list). One such gem is the critically acclaimed “Dragon Age: Inquisition,” the third installment in the Dragon Age series. As the Inquisitor, you and your band of unique and endearing characters work together to seal a mystical rift in the sky as conflict simmers across Theras. This game leans more towards cooperative RPG play, allowing you to take control of other party members and delegate tasks on the expansive battlefield. Additionally, it offers romance options, crucial decisions, and numerous quests within the game world. Having received several Game of the Year accolades, “Inquisition” is a must-play for fans of dark fantasy who crave an immersive adventure experience.

Fable II (2010)

Everyone adores a captivating fairy story, so it’s not unexpected that Fable resonated strongly among Xbox players. The debate may continue, but Fable II, developed by Lionhead Studio, appears to be the preferred choice among fans. In this game, you can create your own character and aid the citizens of Albion in their struggle against an unjust ruler. Combat is included (now with guns), but a significant part of the experience involves living the life of your character—eating, getting married, having children, and helping those in need. In essence, it’s as if you’re immersed in a fairy tale, making it a game worth playing for Xbox Game Pass subscribers (particularly with the reboot of Fable expected this year).

Fallout 3 (2010)

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but share the thrill of discovering that “Fallout 3,” released in 2008, is now accessible to Xbox Game Pass subscribers. This game marked a significant shift from its predecessors, swapping the turn-based top-down view for immersive 3D action FPS, and boy, did it hit the mark!

In this gripping tale, you’ll step into the role of a Vault Dweller hailing from Vault 101, embarking on a journey through the radioactive wastelands of Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland. Your quest? To find your father. With its open-world combat, recruitable NPCs, intricate character customization, and the legendary V.A.T.S targeting system, the post-apocalyptic world has never felt so engaging, even with later games like “Fallout 4” (2015) and “Fallout: New Vegas” (2010) also gracing our screens.

Mass Effect Legendary Edition (2021)

Considered questionable but justifiable, including the entire Mass Effect trilogy on the list is a good idea because of its exceptional quality. Combining them into one, such as in the 2021 release of Mass Effect Legendary Edition, offers a remastered version of the first three Mass Effect games (excluding Andromeda). The trilogy follows Commander Shephard’s battle against the menacing Reapers, an enemy that could potentially annihilate various alien and human civilizations scattered throughout the Milky Way. Each installment offers intriguing narratives that you can influence through dialogue and choices, thrilling combat sequences, and a diverse cast of party members, some of whom are even romantic options. To fully appreciate the Citadel and prepare for Mass Effect 4, it’s recommended to play them in order.

Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered (2022)

Experience an exhilarating fantasy action RPG, meticulously crafted by the acclaimed Studio Ghibli, known for their enchanting work in “Spirited Away.” Who wouldn’t be captivated?! This game is an upgraded version of the DS title “Ni no Kuni: Dominion of the Dark Djinn,” titled “Wrath of the White Witch.” In its enhanced form, it offers improved visuals and gameplay. Join young Oliver on his adventure through a captivating new world alongside intriguing companions, in an attempt to revive his late mother. Combat is open, allowing you to engage using your party members and extraordinary Familiars to maintain balance. The music, composed by the exceptional Joe Hisaishi, and production, handled by Studio Ghibli, promise a nostalgic, delightful journey. If you’re interested, you can also enjoy “Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom.

Octopath Traveler (2021)

In the early 2000s, the era of pixelated role-playing games (RPGs) might have concluded, but their essence persists in numerous games. One standout, though, ignited the industry to create stunning 2D HD graphics: Square Enix’s “Octopath Traveler”. This game offers you the chance to select from eight distinct characters, each with their own story that unfolds as you traverse the expansive world of Orsterra. The combat is classic turn-based, reminiscent of RPGs from times past, while also incorporating job choices and unique Path Actions for each hero. This game beautifully encapsulates its predecessors but tailors it for modern players, providing plenty of replay value. Moreover, since “Octopath Traveler II” is accessible on Xbox Game Pass, fans of classic RPGs can’t resist the urge to engage with this title.

Persona 3 Reload (2024)

The Shin Megami Tensei/Persona series by Atlus has rapidly gained iconic status in the RPG genre. One game that helped it gain popularity was 2006’s “Persona 3”, now re-released as “Persona 3 Reload”. As a new transfer student with a sorrowful past, you’ll become part of a group of teenagers known as S.E.E.S. They possess the unique ability to summon entities called Personas during an additional hour of the day called the Dark Hour. This game offers both life simulation elements, allowing you to interact with classmates and attend school, and turn-based RPG combat during the perilous nights in Tartarus. With its excellent music, endearing characters, flawless design, and captivating combat, “Persona 3 Reload” is a must-play game that Xbox Game Pass subscribers should not miss out on to conquer their fear.

Starfield (2023)

Beyond Earth, where fantasy and apocalyptic realms have been explored, lies the next great frontier – space! Bethesda has ventured there with Starfield, a blend of first-person shooter (FPS) and role-playing game (RPG) that invites you to embark on an interstellar adventure alongside other space explorers. Your mission? To uncover enigmatic artifacts scattered across the Milky Way galaxy. Essentially, Starfield is a space-themed RPG by Bethesda, featuring recruitment of team members, customizable spaceships, extensive gameplay, and user-friendly gunplay mechanics. This is Bethesda’s debut into a new intellectual property, and for many fans, it has met the high expectations set by its predecessors like Fallout and Elder Scrolls. If you’re drawn to these series, Starfield promises an out-of-this-world experience that’s available on Xbox Game Pass for those eager to chart a course among the stars.

Tales of Arise (2021)

The Tales of series, often underrated over time, truly came into the spotlight with the remarkable release of Tales of Arise in 2021. As a Dahnan knight named Alphen who is impervious to pain, you’ll embark on a mission to free the Dahnan people from their Renan oppressors. Accompanied by a vibrant group of allies, some of whom are even Renans, you’ll engage in intense real-time combat and RPG-style gameplay that resembles contemporary Final Fantasy. This game surpassed many expectations, earning the title of a dark horse for the year. With its extensive playtime, gripping narrative, and numerous activities scattered across its vivid worlds, Tales of Arise is a must-play for anyone who enjoys modern RPGs.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition (2016)

Isn’t it obvious now? One of the finest games from this decade, “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” is an immersive RPG that could easily consume you. As the legendary Dragonborn, you’ll journey through the realm of Skyrim and transform into a formidable warrior who can vanquish the fearsome dragon, Alduin the World-Eater. The expansive world, captivating narrative, and extensive customization options are all up for grabs if you possess the spirit of a dragon and an insatiable appetite for adventure. It’s been remastered for almost every conceivable console, but Xbox Game Pass offers the 2016 Special Edition, which includes mod support and enhanced graphics. This is the ideal starting point for Elder Scrolls enthusiasts in anticipation of the upcoming release of “Elder Scrolls VI.

2025-01-25 05:40