Top RPGs Of 2014: A Look Back

Hey RPG fans! Remember 2014? It was a killer year for role-playing games, guys. We saw some absolute gems hit the shelves, offering everything from sprawling open worlds to deep, narrative-driven adventures. If you're a fan of diving into new worlds and crafting your own destiny, then 2014 was a year you probably spent a lot of time with your controller or mouse in hand. This article is going to take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most iconic and beloved RPGs that defined that incredible year. We'll be exploring what made these games so special, why they still hold up today, and maybe even jog your memory about some of your favorite gaming moments. So grab your potions, sharpen your swords, and let's get started on this epic journey through the RPG landscape of 2014!

The Reigning Champions: Must-Play RPGs from 2014

When we talk about the absolute best RPGs that 2014 had to offer, a few titles immediately spring to mind. These games didn't just meet expectations; they shattered them, setting new benchmarks for the genre. One of the biggest contenders for the crown was undoubtedly Dragon Age: Inquisition. This game was a massive undertaking, offering a vast, interconnected world that players could explore for hundreds of hours. The depth of its lore, the intricate character development, and the strategic combat system made it an instant classic for many. You weren't just playing a character; you were shaping the fate of an entire continent, making difficult moral choices that had real consequences. The sheer scale of Inquisition was breathtaking, from the majestic Frostback Mountains to the treacherous Fade. The companions you gathered were more than just party members; they were complex individuals with their own stories, desires, and flaws, making your relationships with them a central part of the experience. And let's not forget the epic scale of the battles, where you commanded your forces against overwhelming odds. It was a true epic, a sprawling saga that captured the hearts of RPG enthusiasts everywhere. Another game that dominated the conversation was Divinity: Original Sin. This indie darling proved that you didn't need a massive budget to create a masterpiece. Divinity: Original Sin brought back the classic isometric perspective and deep, tactical turn-based combat that fans had been craving. Its emphasis on player freedom, emergent gameplay, and a witty, engaging story made it a standout. The ability to interact with almost every element in the environment, combining spells and physical objects in creative ways, led to some truly unforgettable moments of strategic brilliance and hilarious accidents. Guys, the freedom it offered was unparalleled; you could approach quests in so many different ways, and the world reacted to your choices in surprising and meaningful ways. It was a testament to the power of good design and a deep understanding of what makes an RPG truly special. These games, among others, truly showcased the breadth and depth of the RPG genre in 2014, offering something for every type of player.

The Unexpected Hits and Cult Favorites

Beyond the titans of the genre, 2014 also gave us some incredible titles that might have flown a little under the radar for some but quickly became cult favorites among dedicated fans. One such game is Pillars of Eternity. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment, Pillars of Eternity was a love letter to classic isometric RPGs like Baldur's Gate and Planescape: Torment. It boasted a rich, complex world with deep lore, intricate storylines, and challenging real-time-with-pause combat. The developers really poured their hearts into this one, creating a world that felt alive and brimming with history. The characters you encountered were nuanced, and the narrative choices you made had a significant impact on the unfolding story. It was a game that rewarded patience and attention to detail, offering a truly immersive experience for those who were willing to dive deep. Another game that deserves a special mention is Dark Souls II. While the Dark Souls series is known for its punishing difficulty, Dark Souls II offered a slightly different, yet equally compelling, experience. It expanded upon the series' signature challenging combat, exploration, and cryptic lore, providing a vast and interconnected world filled with secrets and dangers. The sense of accomplishment after overcoming a particularly tough boss or discovering a hidden path was incredibly rewarding. Many players found a unique satisfaction in mastering its intricate combat mechanics and unraveling its enigmatic narrative. It was a game that demanded your full attention and respect, but the rewards for perseverance were immense. These games, while perhaps not reaching the same mainstream heights as some others, provided deeply satisfying and memorable experiences for those who sought them out. They proved that innovation and a commitment to classic RPG design principles could still captivate audiences, offering unique experiences that stood out in a crowded market. Guys, these are the kinds of games that often become legends in their own right, whispered about by those in the know, and replayed for years to come.

Why 2014 Was a Landmark Year for RPGs

So, what exactly made 2014 such a landmark year for RPGs, you ask? Well, it was a perfect storm of factors, really. We saw established franchises deliver incredible installments, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in terms of graphics, storytelling, and gameplay. Developers were leveraging new hardware and technologies to create more immersive and expansive worlds than ever before. This meant bigger environments, more detailed characters, and more complex interactions. At the same time, the indie scene was absolutely exploding. Smaller studios, unburdened by massive corporate expectations, were free to experiment with new ideas and classic mechanics, often bringing back beloved elements of the genre that larger studios had moved away from. This resulted in a fantastic diversity of experiences, from grand, epic adventures to more intimate, character-focused narratives. The accessibility of game development tools also played a role, allowing passionate creators to bring their visions to life. Furthermore, the community's demand for deeper, more engaging RPG experiences was higher than ever. Players were hungry for games that offered meaningful choices, rich lore, and challenging gameplay. This demand fueled developers to create the incredible titles we saw released that year. The convergence of technological advancement, creative freedom in both AAA and indie spaces, and a passionate player base created an environment where RPGs could truly flourish. It was a year where both the old guard and the new innovators delivered, resulting in a rich tapestry of role-playing experiences that continues to be celebrated today. Guys, it’s rare to see a year where so many high-quality, diverse RPGs are released. It really solidified the genre’s popularity and set the stage for future innovations. The sheer variety ensured that no matter what kind of RPG you were looking for, 2014 likely had something to offer you.

The Lasting Impact of 2014's RPGs

The legacy of the RPGs released in 2014 is undeniable, guys. These games didn't just entertain us for a few months; they left a lasting impact on the genre and continue to be influential years later. Dragon Age: Inquisition, with its massive world and deep companion system, set a new standard for open-world RPGs, encouraging players to truly invest in their characters and the world around them. Its success likely inspired many subsequent games to focus more on narrative depth and player choice. Divinity: Original Sin, on the other hand, revitalized interest in classic isometric, turn-based combat and emphasized the power of player freedom and emergent gameplay, proving that these elements are still highly sought after. It paved the way for a new wave of CRPG (Computer Role-Playing Game) successes. Pillars of Eternity solidified the appeal of the 'CRPG revival', showing that there's a dedicated audience for complex, story-driven experiences reminiscent of the genre's golden age. Its success helped fuel further investment in similar projects. Even Dark Souls II, despite its place within a series known for its distinct identity, contributed to the ongoing conversation about challenging combat and environmental storytelling, further cementing the Souls-like subgenre. The innovative mechanics, compelling narratives, and sheer quality of these titles have left an indelible mark on game design. They inspired countless developers, influenced game mechanics in other genres, and continue to be played and discussed by fans worldwide. The games of 2014 proved that RPGs are far more than just games; they are interactive stories, worlds to get lost in, and experiences that can shape our perspective. So, next time you're looking for a truly unforgettable gaming experience, don't forget to revisit the incredible RPGs that 2014 had to offer. You might just find your next favorite adventure waiting for you. They really set a high bar, and honestly, we're still feeling the ripple effects of their brilliance today. It's a testament to their quality and the passion of the developers who brought them to life.