Best Fantasy Video Games
Fantasy video games transport players to imaginative worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. These games often feature complex narratives, rich lore, and immersive gameplay mechanics that allow players to explore vast landscapes, develop characters, and engage in battles against formidable foes. From classic franchises to indie gems, the fantasy genre has something for everyone.
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Among the best fantasy video games, titles like "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" and "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" stand out for their deep storytelling and expansive open worlds. "Skyrim" invites players into a richly detailed realm where they can choose their path as a dragonborn hero, while "The Witcher 3" offers a gripping narrative centered around Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a morally complex world. Other notable mentions include "Dark Souls," known for its challenging gameplay and intricate lore, and "Final Fantasy" series, which has defined the genre with its iconic characters and innovative combat systems. Additionally, newer titles like "Elden Ring" have garnered critical acclaim for their blend of open-world exploration and challenging gameplay, pushing the boundaries of the genre. Whether players seek adventure, strategy, or storytelling, the best fantasy video games continue to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of gamers.
The Witcher 3: Wild HuntView AllThe Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Epic open-world fantasy RPG with monster hunting.
Dark SoulsView AllDark Souls - Challenging action RPG with deep lore and atmospheric world.
The Elder Scrolls V: SkyrimView AllThe Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim - Open-world RPG with dragons, quests, and vast exploration.
Final Fantasy VIIView AllFinal Fantasy VII - Epic RPG about heroes battling against a powerful corporation.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the WildView AllThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Open-world adventure, puzzle-solving, and exploration in Hyrule.
Darkest DungeonView AllDarkest Dungeon - Gothic RPG, turn-based combat, stress management, dungeon exploration.
Dragon Age: InquisitionView AllDragon Age: Inquisition - Fantasy RPG with epic quests, strategic combat, and rich lore.
Hollow KnightView AllHollow Knight - Challenging action-adventure game set in a mysterious insect kingdom.
Divinity: Original Sin 2View AllDivinity: Original Sin 2 - Turn-based RPG with deep storytelling and tactical combat.
Nier: AutomataView AllNier: Automata - Philosophical action RPG exploring androids and existential themes.
Best Fantasy Video Games
1.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an action role-playing game set in a dark fantasy world. Players take on the role of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a Witcher, as he searches for his missing adoptive daughter and battles against a dangerous and chaotic force known as the Wild Hunt. The game features a vast open world filled with diverse landscapes, intriguing characters, and challenging quests. With its immersive storytelling, captivating visuals, and engaging combat system, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has been widely acclaimed as one of the greatest role-playing games of all time.
Pros
Engaging story- vast open world
- deep character development.
Cons
Some technical issues- steep learning curve for new players.
2.
Dark Souls
"Dark Souls" is an action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware, celebrated for its challenging gameplay and intricate world design. Set in the dark fantasy realm of Lordran, players undertake the role of an Undead hero on a quest to uncover the fate of the world and link the fire. The game features a deep lore, atmospheric environments, and a unique multiplayer system that allows players to summon allies or invade others. Known for its punishing difficulty, "Dark Souls" emphasizes strategic combat, exploration, and character customization, establishing itself as a cornerstone of modern gaming.
Pros
- Challenging gameplay
- deep lore
- immersive world
Cons
- Steep difficulty curve
- frustrating mechanics
- niche appeal
3.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an open-world action RPG developed by Bethesda Game Studios. Released in 2011, the game immerses players in the vast, richly detailed province of Skyrim, where they assume the role of the Dragonborn, a hero destined to confront the ancient dragon Alduin. Players can explore diverse landscapes, engage in quests, and develop skills through a flexible character progression system. With an engaging narrative, deep lore, and a vibrant community, Skyrim has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its modding potential and enduring gameplay experience.
Pros
- Immersive world
- rich lore
- extensive modding community.
Cons
- Bugs
- repetitive quests
- dated graphics compared to newer titles.
4.
Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII is a critically acclaimed role-playing game developed by Square (now Square Enix) and released in 1997 for the PlayStation. Set in a dystopian world, the story follows Cloud Strife, a mercenary who joins the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE to combat the oppressive Shinra Electric Power Company, which exploits the planet's resources. The narrative intertwines themes of identity, friendship, and environmentalism, featuring memorable characters like Tifa, Aerith, and Sephiroth. With its groundbreaking 3D graphics, engaging turn-based combat, and an iconic soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu, it remains a landmark in gaming history.
Pros
- Iconic story
- memorable characters
- innovative gameplay.
Cons
- Graphics age poorly
- pacing issues
- some mechanics feel outdated.
5.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an action-adventure game set in a vast open world. Players control Link, the protagonist, as he explores the kingdom of Hyrule in search of Princess Zelda and to defeat the evil Calamity Ganon. The game features a dynamic weather system, a variety of weapons and abilities, and a focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. With its stunning graphics and immersive gameplay, Breath of the Wild has received widespread critical acclaim and is often considered one of the greatest video games of all time.
Pros
- Open-world exploration
- innovative gameplay
- beautiful graphics.
Cons
- Some may find the weapon durability and difficulty level frustrating.
6.
Darkest Dungeon
Darkest Dungeon is a challenging turn-based RPG that immerses players in a gothic, horror-themed world. Set in a grim, decaying estate, players must assemble a team of heroes, each with unique abilities and traits, to explore treacherous dungeons filled with monstrous creatures and psychological stressors. The game emphasizes the importance of managing not only health but also the mental well-being of characters, introducing stress mechanics that can lead to various afflictions. With its rich storytelling, atmospheric art style, and punishing difficulty, Darkest Dungeon offers a deeply engaging and strategic gameplay experience.
Pros
- Challenging gameplay
- rich atmosphere
- strategic depth.
Cons
- Steep difficulty curve
- punishing mechanics
- time-consuming.
7.
Dragon Age: Inquisition
"Dragon Age: Inquisition" is an action role-playing game developed by BioWare, set in the fantasy world of Thedas. Players assume the role of the Inquisitor, a hero tasked with restoring order following a devastating event known as the Breach, which has unleashed demonic forces. The game features a rich narrative, allowing players to make impactful choices that shape the story and world. With a diverse cast of characters, strategic combat, and an expansive open world to explore, "Inquisition" combines deep lore and player agency to deliver an immersive gaming experience.
Pros
- rich storytelling
- diverse characters
- expansive world.
Cons
- some repetitive gameplay
- pacing issues
- and technical glitches.
8.
Hollow Knight
*Hollow Knight* is a critically acclaimed action-adventure game developed by Team Cherry. Set in the hauntingly beautiful, hand-drawn world of Hallownest, players control a silent, insect-like knight on a quest to uncover the mysteries of a fallen kingdom. The game features intricate platforming, challenging combat, and a rich lore that unfolds through exploration and encounters with unique characters. With its atmospheric soundtrack, stunning visuals, and deep gameplay mechanics, *Hollow Knight* offers an immersive experience that has captivated players and garnered a dedicated fanbase since its release in 2017.
Pros
- Stunning art
- deep lore
- challenging gameplay
Cons
- Difficult for newcomers
- some backtracking
- minor bugs
9.
Divinity: Original Sin 2
Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a critically acclaimed role-playing game developed by Larian Studios. Set in the fantasy world of Rivellon, players assume the roles of customizable characters, each with unique abilities and backgrounds. The game features a rich, branching narrative where choices significantly impact the story and world. Players can team up in cooperative multiplayer or engage in solo play, exploring turn-based combat mechanics that emphasize strategy and environmental interactions. With deep character development, a captivating storyline, and lush visuals, it offers an immersive RPG experience that appeals to both casual and hardcore gamers.
Pros
- Deep storytelling
- tactical combat
- rich character customization.
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- can be overwhelming for beginners
- lengthy gameplay.
10.
Nier: Automata
"Nier: Automata" is an action role-playing game developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix. Set in a post-apocalyptic Earth, players control androids 2B, 9S, and A2 as they battle alien machines to reclaim the planet for humanity. The game features a rich narrative that explores themes of existentialism, the nature of consciousness, and the morality of warfare. Its engaging combat mechanics, stunning visuals, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack enhance the immersive experience. With multiple endings and a thought-provoking storyline, "Nier: Automata" has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Pros
- Deep narrative
- stunning visuals
- innovative gameplay.
Cons
- Complex story may confuse
- some combat may feel repetitive.
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