Role-playing games (RPGs) are one of the most popular genres in the gaming world. In these games, players assume the roles of characters and proceed through a story, often with the ability to customize their characters and make choices that impact the game's outcome. And the best part is that there are many free RPGs available for PC gamers. Here are some of the best ones:
1. Path of Exile
Path of Exile is an action RPG that is often compared to the Diablo series. It has a complex skill tree, deep crafting system, and a dark, gritty atmosphere. The game also has a hardcore mode that makes death permanent, adding to the challenge. Path of Exile is entirely free-to-play, with no pay-to-win elements.
2. Warframe
Warframe is a sci-fi RPG that has you playing as a member of an ancient race of warriors called Tenno. You'll battle through hordes of enemies, crafting new weapons and armor along the way. The game has a strong focus on co-op play, allowing you to team up with other players to take on the toughest challenges. Warframe is entirely free-to-play, with no pay-to-win elements.
3. Star Wars: The Old Republic
Star Wars: The Old Republic is a massively multiplayer online RPG set in the Star Wars universe. You'll create your own character and embark on epic quests across the galaxy, making choices that impact the story. The game has both free and paid subscription options, with the free version giving you access to most of the content.
4. Neverwinter
Neverwinter is an action RPG set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe. You'll create your own character and adventure through the city of Neverwinter and beyond, battling monsters and completing quests. The game has a focus on player-created content, with the ability to create and share your own quests and dungeons. Neverwinter is entirely free-to-play, with no pay-to-win elements.
5. Guild Wars 2
Guild Wars 2 is a massively multiplayer online RPG that takes place in the fantasy world of Tyria. You'll create your own character and embark on a journey through the game's story, making choices that impact the world around you. The game has a unique leveling system that scales you down to the appropriate level for each area, allowing you to play with friends regardless of their level. Guild Wars 2 has a free-to-play option, with the ability to purchase expansions and cosmetic items.
6. Lord of the Rings Online
Lord of the Rings Online is a massively multiplayer online RPG that takes place in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth. You'll create your own character and journey through the iconic locations of the books and movies, battling enemies and completing quests. The game has a focus on storytelling, with each quest adding to the overall narrative. Lord of the Rings Online is free-to-play, with the ability to purchase expansions and cosmetic items.
7. Dragon Age: Origins
Dragon Age: Origins is a single-player RPG set in a dark fantasy world. You'll create your own character and embark on a quest to save the world from a deadly threat. The game has a deep character creation system, allowing you to customize your character's appearance and backstory. Dragon Age: Origins is not entirely free-to-play, but you can often find it on sale for a low price.
8. The Elder Scrolls: Arena
The Elder Scrolls: Arena is an old-school RPG that was released in 1994. You'll create your own character and explore the world of Tamriel, battling monsters and completing quests. The game has a focus on exploration, with a massive world to discover. The Elder Scrolls: Arena is now available for free on Bethesda's website.
9. Fallout Shelter
Fallout Shelter is a post-apocalyptic RPG where you manage your own vault. You'll recruit new residents, assign them jobs, and keep them happy and healthy. The game has a focus on resource management, with the need to balance food, water, and power. Fallout Shelter is entirely free-to-play, with the ability to purchase cosmetic items.
10. Diablo III Starter Edition
Diablo III Starter Edition is a free-to-play version of the popular action RPG. You'll create your own character and battle through hordes of demons, collecting loot and upgrading your gear along the way. The Starter Edition has some limitations, but it will give you a taste of what the full game has to offer. You can upgrade to the full game at any time.
Overall, these are just some of the best free RPGs available for PC gamers. Whether you prefer a sci-fi setting, a fantasy world, or a post-apocalyptic wasteland, there's sure to be an RPG on this list that will suit your tastes. So pick one, create your character, and embark on an epic adventure.