The enduring appeal of RPG games lies in their ability to immerse players in rich narratives, expansive worlds, and dynamic character development. In 2025, a few titles stand head and shoulders above the rest, continuing to captivate gamers with their depth and creativity. Let’s dive deeper into the top five RPG games still making waves, and explore their pricing, unique features, and even the costs of in-game purchases that enhance the overall experience.
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Release Date: May 19, 2015
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X, Nintendo Switch
Base Price (2025): $39.99 (Complete Edition)
Why It Stands Out
Nearly a decade after its release, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains a benchmark for storytelling and character development. Players step into the boots of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating moral dilemmas, political intrigue, and deeply personal quests. The game’s expansions, “Hearts of Stone” and “Blood and Wine,” add dozens of hours of content, making it an exceptional value.
- Unique Features:
- Dynamic weather systems and day-night cycles that impact gameplay.
- A branching narrative with multiple endings based on player choices.
- Gwent, an addictive in-game card game, offers a break from the main story and its own subculture of fans.
Additional Costs
While the base game is affordable, dedicated players often invest in:
- Expansion packs: $10–20 each.
- Cosmetic DLCs: Up to $10 for armor sets or weapon skins.
Summary: The Witcher 3 combines masterful storytelling with expansive gameplay, making it a staple for RPG enthusiasts.
2. Elden Ring
Release Date: February 25, 2022
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X
Base Price (2025): $59.99
Why It Stands Out
Elden Ring redefined open-world RPG gaming. A collaboration between game director Hidetaka Miyazaki and author George R.R. Martin, the game offers a sprawling universe filled with cryptic lore, tough enemies, and unparalleled freedom to explore.
- Unique Features:
- Non-linear exploration lets players tackle objectives in any order.
- Revolutionary combat that blends the challenge of Dark Souls with flexibility in play styles.
- Co-op multiplayer options that allow friends to team up for boss battles.
Additional Costs
Frequent updates and optional DLC expansions keep the game fresh:
- DLC expansions: $20–30.
- In-game items and cosmetics: $5–15 each.
Summary: Elden Ring’s world is a treasure trove for explorers and a proving ground for those seeking a challenge.
3. Final Fantasy XIV Online
Release Date: August 27, 2013 (A Realm Reborn relaunch)
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4/5, Mac
Base Price (2025): $29.99 for the Starter Edition (includes base game and one expansion)
Why It Stands Out
As a massively multiplayer online RPG, Final Fantasy XIV is more than a game—it’s a community. Players can form parties, embark on epic quests, and even host in-game weddings. The latest expansion, “Dawntrail,” introduced new zones, characters, and quests, keeping players engaged.
- Unique Features:
- A robust housing system where players can design and decorate their homes.
- Seasonal events like in-game festivals bring the community together.
- An engaging storyline that rivals the best Final Fantasy single-player titles.
Additional Costs
The subscription-based model includes optional expenses:
- Monthly subscription: $12.99–14.99.
- Expansions: $39.99 each.
- In-game cosmetics: Up to $15 for outfits or mounts.
Summary: With constant updates and a thriving community, Final Fantasy XIV offers endless replayability.
4. Baldur’s Gate 3
Release Date: August 3, 2023
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Mac
Base Price (2025): $69.99
Why It Stands Out
A faithful adaptation of the Dungeons & Dragons universe, Baldur’s Gate 3 shines with its emphasis on player choice and narrative complexity. The game allows players to create unique characters and experience a story tailored to their decisions.
- Unique Features:
- Turn-based combat system rooted in D&D mechanics.
- A party system where players can form alliances with diverse, fully fleshed-out characters.
- Rich romance options that add emotional depth to the storyline.
Additional Costs
While not heavy on microtransactions, expansions, and mods can add to the cost:
- Expansions (when released): $20–40.
- User-created mods: Free to download but may require additional setup tools.
Summary: Baldur’s Gate 3 is a love letter to D&D fans and a must-play for anyone seeking an intricate RPG.
5. Starfield
Release Date: September 6, 2023
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X/S
Base Price (2025): $69.99
Why It Stands Out
Bethesda’s Starfield takes players on an interstellar adventure, offering a universe filled with over 1,000 planets. The game balances exploration, resource management, and storytelling, making it a unique entry in the RPG genre.
- Unique Features:
- Customizable spaceships that can be upgraded for combat or exploration.
- Faction-based storylines that offer multiple paths and replayability.
- Base-building mechanics that allow players to establish their own outposts.
Additional Costs
As with other Bethesda games, players can expect:
- Expansion packs: $20–30.
- Mods and creation kits: Free or user-determined pricing.
- Cosmetic items for ships and characters: $5–10.
Summary: Starfield’s expansive universe provides endless opportunities for discovery and adventure.
The Hidden Costs of RPG Games
While base prices for RPG games range from $30 to $70, the additional expenses can add up quickly:
- Expansions and DLCs: These extend gameplay but often come at a premium.
- In-game purchases: Cosmetics, mounts, or gear can enhance the experience but aren’t always necessary.
- Subscription services: Games like Final Fantasy XIV require ongoing costs for access.
Gaming Monitors: Elevating the RPG Gaming Experience
For players diving into immersive RPG games like The Witcher 3, Elden Ring, or Starfield, a high-quality gaming monitor can make all the difference. These games are celebrated for their stunning visuals, intricate details, and expansive worlds, and a gaming monitor ensures you experience them as intended.
Why Gaming Monitors Matter
- Enhanced Visual Clarity: RPG games often feature intricate environments, from lush forests to detailed character models. Monitors with high resolutions like 4K and HDR capabilities bring these visuals to life, making every scene feel more vibrant and immersive.
- Smooth Gameplay: Many RPG games rely on fluid animations and combat mechanics. A monitor with a high refresh rate (120Hz or more) and low response time ensures smooth transitions and eliminates screen tearing, which is crucial during fast-paced action sequences.
- Wider Field of View: Ultrawide monitors provide an expanded field of view, perfect for games like Starfield, where exploration and vast landscapes are central to the experience.
- Immersive Lighting: Monitors with dynamic contrast ratios and advanced color reproduction help to showcase the dramatic lighting effects seen in RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3, enhancing the atmosphere and depth of each scene.
Gaming Monitor Recommendations for RPG Games
- Best for 4K Gaming: LG UltraGear 27GP950-B, with a 144Hz refresh rate and HDR10 support.
- Best Ultrawide Monitor: Samsung Odyssey G9, offering a 49-inch curved screen for unparalleled immersion.
- Best Budget Option: AOC CQ27G2, provides a solid 1440p resolution and 144Hz refresh rate at an affordable price.
RPG Games in 2025
Whether it’s the enduring appeal of The Witcher 3 or the innovative mechanics of Starfield, RPG games continue to push boundaries in storytelling and gameplay. While the upfront and ongoing costs can be significant, the value these games provide in terms of entertainment and immersion is unparalleled.
