Top 5 Non-D&D RPGs Based on Tabletop Games You Must Play

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For many years, game developers have been bringing Tabletop Role-Playing Games (TTRPGs) to personal computers and consoles, with varying levels of achievement. While not all attempts have been triumphant, several titles based on tabletop games have become timeless classics. Games like Neverwinter Nights, Planescape: Torment, and the upcoming Baldur’s Gate 3 are prime examples of successful adaptations from TTRPG adventures. Interestingly, while many games have been influenced by Dungeons & Dragons, some developers have sought inspiration in other tabletop games as well.

Longtime enthusiasts of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) are well aware that there’s a wealth of gaming experiences beyond just Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). Although D&D is the most well-known and widely played, numerous other outstanding TTRPGs cater to diverse genres and styles. From futuristic sci-fi adventures to dark, supernatural noir mysteries, there’s a plethora of TTRPGs to explore, and some exceptional games have emerged as alternatives to D&D. For gamers who have enjoyed titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 and are seeking fresh experiences, these RPGs based on various tabletop game systems make excellent choices.

The Release of Cyberpunk 2077 Helped Revive the TTRPG

The initial Cyberpunk tabletop role-playing game was launched as far back as 1988 and went by the complete name of Cyberpunk 2013. This game is set in an alternate reality whose timeline deviated from ours in the ’80s. The first edition focused on depicting life in the western United States during the early 21st Century.

In subsequent iterations, the timeline was pushed forward, with “Cyberpunk 2020” and “Cyberpunk V3.0” moving the setting through the 20s and into the 30s. These early versions of the game garnered a dedicated fanbase that appreciated the style and sci-fi ambiance, but the RPG failed to achieve mainstream popularity or significant success. However, CDPR’s choice to create a game based on the Cyberpunk universe altered this trend.

In a new leap, Cyberpunk 2077 moved the scene forward into the latter part of the 21st Century, offering a peek at Night City. The game remained faithful to its origins, preserving the same visual style and reintroducing cherished characters, factions, and corporations. Later developments by CDPR managed to revitalize the action RPG and make it successful.

Not only did the creation of the Cyberpunk 2077 video game spark renewed interest in the original tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG), but the launch of Cyberpunk Red, a fresh take on the tabletop experience, in 2020 was specifically designed as a prequel to the video game. As the first addition to the TTRPG series in over a decade, Cyberpunk Red has retained a devoted fanbase and is an excellent complement to the popular video game.

The Cult Classic is Still Loved Today

In rankings of outstanding video games, Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines often sits at the pinnacle, surrounded by timeless favorites and unique masterpieces with their own flaws. This role-playing game immerses players in a dark, noir universe filled with secrets, supernatural perils, looming existential fears, and ever-present danger. With more than a dozen vampire clans to choose from, each embodying distinct tropes and archetypes of the undead, players can shape their own vampire’s destiny by deciding friendships and enmities as they navigate the treacherous night.

In spite of a hasty creation process and a rocky debut marked by technical issues and imperfections, VTM – Bloodlines managed to cultivate a devoted fanbase who appreciate its intricate narrative and multiple plotlines. However, some enthusiasts might not realize that this cherished PC title is in fact, a remodeled version of an earlier game.

In 1991, the role-playing game (RPG) titled “Vampire: The Masquerade” made its debut and swiftly garnered a significant following among tabletop RPG enthusiasts. It also fostered a strong live action role-playing (LARP) community. As years passed, updated versions were introduced, and more games set in the same universe joined the fold. Other titles such as “Werewolf: The Apocalypse”, “Mage: The Ascension”, “Wraith: The Oblivion”, and others expanded upon what became known as the “World of Darkness” universe.

In essence, this setting bore a resemblance to reality, yet it sported a gothic-punk vibe at its core. Bloodlines adhered to this concept, even though it didn’t thrive financially, it faithfully represented Vampire: The Masquerade and the broader World of Darkness. Since then, numerous smaller games have been launched within this universe, with varying levels of success. Now, a genuine sequel is under development.

The Star Wars TTRPG Was Short-Lived But Influential

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic consistently ranks among the greatest RPGs ever made, offering a unique tale set centuries before the original films, memorable characters, and groundbreaking gameplay.

The gameplay of Knights of the Old Republic was modeled after the Star Wars Roleplaying Game launched by Wizards of the Coast in 2000. This roleplaying game drew much of its influence from the third edition of Dungeons & Dragons, and when it was first introduced, it received positive reviews from critics. However, its fame didn’t last long.

The tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) obtained multiple source books between 2000 and 2002, followed by two updated versions. The second edition was released in 2007, but sadly, the TTRPG’s latest book came out in 2010, and it has since been discontinued. However, the system continues to thrive as a key component of one of the most remarkable video game RPGs ever made.

A Fantasy Game With a Twist on the D&D Style

If you’re a fan of Dungeons & Dragons but crave something with a unique twist, you’ll likely be captivated by Pathfinder: Kingmaker. This game takes inspiration from the tabletop RPG Pathfinder and brings one of its narratives to life. It offers isometric combat, exploration, and even a kingdom-building mechanic, setting it apart from other games in the genre. Although it didn’t have the financial backing or polish of role-playing games like Baldur’s Gate 3, it still garnered high praise for its engrossing storyline and grand scale. Additionally, it was commended for accurately translating the Pathfinder system to PC gaming.

Pathfinder, published by Paizo in 2009, has strong roots in D&D 3.5. Due to Wizards of the Coast’s shift towards the fourth edition of Dungeons & Dragons and modifications to their third-party licensing agreement, this new game introduces a wealth of creatures and ideas from the original fantasy series, but sets them within a wholly unique world.

For those D&D enthusiasts who found later editions too streamlined and preferred a more intricate gaming experience, Pathfinder has become their cherished choice. Fantasy-loving gamers seeking novelty should definitely explore Pathfinder, and Pathfinder: Kingmaker serves as an exceptional starting point to immerse oneself in its captivating setting and gameplay.

Cyberpunk and D&D Fans Will Find Something to Love About Shadowrun

Similar to Pathfinder: Kingmaker, Shadowrun Returns is an isometric RPG that received funding through crowdfunding, and it wasn’t widely noticed by many gamers upon release in 2013. However,

In a future that’s both high-tech and darkly mystical, Shadowrun Returns is set. This setting is characterized by a cyberpunk dystopia where magic has made an unexpected comeback, bringing with it elves, dwarves, orcs, and other classic fantasy races. The fusion of technology and the arcane creates an intriguing environment. Mercenaries band together in this world to fight against corrupt corporations, all while reaping the rewards of their victories. Whether you’re a fan of cyberpunk, science fiction, fantasy, or dystopian narratives, you’ll find elements that resonate with you and aspects to cherish in the storyline.

Similar to the impact of “Cyberpunk 2077”, the video game “Shadowrun Returns” attracted new enthusiasts towards the long-standing tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) known as “Shadowrun”. Launched in 1989, the “Shadowrun” tabletop game has garnered numerous awards across its six editions. Although it never reached the commercial heights of “Dungeons and Dragons”, it consistently appealed to players who enjoy a blend of hacking, corporate intrigue, and fantasy elements in their role-playing experience.

Remarkable for its player freedom, Shadowrun stands apart by not using classes. Instead, players can freely choose and combine any skills they wish to master, specializing in areas like technology, magic, or combat, or even a combination of them. Drawn from one of the most distinctive tabletop role-playing games, Shadowrun Returns is an outstanding indie game that role-playing game enthusiasts should check out.

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2025-05-07 06:54