5 Upcoming RPGs You Should Play This Year

In a sea of games, RPGs are one of the most popular genres. It's understandable as these games usually have compelling characters, a solid narrative, and thrilling action. It's an irresistible combination that lets you feel completely immersed in the world around you. Not only that but RPGs are usually derived from an inspiring story that can even draw some heavy emotion. You're basically getting a movie and game in one, except you get to be the main character.

Each year the genre sees a lot of tough competition, however, this means more titles for us gamers to play. So far, the bar has been set high for RPGs in 2022 with Elden Ring and Horizon Forbidden West. Even Dying Light 2: Stay Human was a huge step up from its previous version. Basically, the competition in 2022 is fierce for RPGs and will only grow fiercer. It is one of the most exciting years for the genre and with so many titles being released it's hard to keep track. Therefore we compiled a list of five upcoming RPGs that you should definitely keep your eye on.

5. Starfield

Release date: November 11, 2022

For the first time in 25 years, Bethesda is releasing its very own RPG with Starfield. Set in the 24th century, the game is focused on an explorative space adventure. Very fitting to the companies style with Skyrim, which was popular for its in-game exploration. The game's world is set in our own solar system but is being called the “Settled Systems”. This is because in this universe humankind has expanded out across the solar system. In a 50 light-year radius to be exact.

So far what we know about the story is that the game will be focused on two factions known as the United Colonies and the Freestar Collective. These factions do not live in peace and will most likely drive the story arc to a galactic battlefield. This isn't even to mention what other enemies you might face as you traverse across the Settled Systems. Keep an eye on this game and expect a lot as Bethesda has a knack for surprising fans with their games.

4. Final Fantasy XVI

Release date: June 16, 2022

Final Fantasy fans around the world have been on a rollercoaster of emotions for Final Fantasy XVI. This is because the game's developer, Square Enix has been delaying the game's release date for almost a year due to the pandemic. However with the announcement of a release date so came a lot of news about the game's world and its characters.

The game's world is Valisthea – A land blessed in the light of the mother crystals. It's a mountainside landscape that is filled with crystals that topple over the city below. Within Valisthea are six realms. These are The Grand Duchy of Rosaria, The Holy Empire of Sanbreque, The Kingdom of Waloed, The Dhalmekian Republic, The Iron Kingdom, and The Crystalline Dominion. You can read up on the website here for each of their specific lore.

Right now, the page list three of the main characters. These are Jill Warrick, Clive Rosfield, and Clive's younger brother Joshua Rosfield. The role they play in the story is uncertain but their lore is already got us excited for what they will bring.

3. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands

Release date: March 25, 2022

Coming at the end of the month is Tiny Tina's Wonderlands brought to you by Gearbox Software. If you were a fan of the Borderlands series, then this game is a perfect fit for you as Gearbox Software has followed a very similar style. Just like Borderlands the game is presented in a comic art style that is to die for. Some changes this time around are that the game will offer armor alongside guns and melee weapons. Also, instead of explosives, the game will feature a variety of spells. It is after all a magical wonderland.

The new RPG will feature six classes class that can be progressed and built up. Choose between a Brr-Zerker, Clawbringer, Graveborn, Spellshot, Spore Warder, and Stabbomancer. Each of these classes come with special abilities that work alongside certain spells fitting the class type.

The world is nothing short of exciting as there are an infinite number of areas to explore and quests to do. So far, the games page features 12 different areas all with their own fair share of sub-areas. They are all unique in their own way, with some areas consisting of dungeons, castles, depleted ruins, and even huge beanstalks.

2. Hogwarts Legacy

Release date: 2022 (TBD)

Hogwarts Legacy has been a long-overdue game with a very angsty fanbase ready to step into the wizarding world. That's because more information is constantly being released on the title with no confirmation for an exact release. It is said to come out in 2022 and here is what we know so far.

The game is set in the same world as the books by J.K. Rowling but follows a completely original story. Meaning there will be no Harry Potter. Instead, you play as a student of Hogwarts with an ability to possess and master ancient magic. The game has hinted at using these magical powers for good or evil which depending on how you wish to play, will alter your storyline. Alongside this, there will be a great deal of character creation in the game with a variety of ways to construct your Wizard or Witch.

1. Zelda Breath of the Wild 2

Release date: 2022 (TBD)

Undoubtedly, one of the most anticipated RPGs of the year is Zelda Breath of the Wild 2. Unfortunately, the game has no set release date yet but is expected to come sometime this year. For now, I am okay with Nintendo taking their time as the bar is set very high after the original game.

The game will be open-world of course, but with a dark twilight style for the lands of Hyrule. Some gameplay screenshots have even shown Link hanging out high in the sky, in lands above the clouds. These areas can be traveled to through a new traversal mechanic featured in the game.

The storyline will pick up where the last game left off and will most likely include both Link and Zelda. From the trailers, we can gather that you will be dealing with a dark spirit energy that can bring the dead back to life. So far Nintendo has done a pretty good job of keeping the contents of the game secret, but definitely keep an eye out for more info to come.

So what RPG are you most excited to play? If we didn't list a title you're anticipating let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here.

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