Top 10 RPGs Releasing in 2021
2021 has the makings to be a big year for video games, and specifically the RPG genre as well. However, this depends heavily on production schedules, as many of the following games do not have a set window aside from the year. While we’ve seen games released early to much disappointment, we hope developers take their time and release the games when they feel ready. Here are our top ten RPGs scheduled to release in 2021.
Ys IX: Monstrum Nox
The Ys series has gained an increased following in recent years, particularly due to the latest release, Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana, as well as remasters and compilations, to easily access earlier titles. As always, the game features protagonist Adol Christin alongside a varied cast of characters. Although the games feature the same main character, there is no need to have played all the previous games to understand the story. Having already been released in Japan, it has been noted to have a strong exploration element as well as a balanced difficulty.
Gotham Knights
We knew the Batman Arkham series had come to an end, but we have all been waiting for what was next. Gotham Knights takes things up a notch despite being separate from the Arkham series. This time around, Gotham is left to the bat family as players take control of Batgirl, Robin, Nightwing, and Red Hood. In this action RPG, each of the characters has a different move set and playstyles, though players can only use one character at a time. On the other hand, the game features a drop-in cooperative feature for two-player play. We are extremely excited to experience to Batman universe through the lenses of different characters, with increased RPG mechanics, and alongside a co-op partner.
Bravely Default 2
Bravely Default 2 is the latest game in the franchise, following Bravely Default and Bravely Second. Despite having the number 2 in the title, the game is actually the third game in the series, though is unrelated to the first two titles. The game continues to use the franchise’s turn-based battle system and class/job system, which are definitely positives for the game. With improved graphics and producers revisiting the series after the success of Octopath Traveller, Bravely Default 2 looks to bring the series to the forefront of JRPGs. There is currently a demo available on the Nintendo eShop.
Scarlet Nexus
Scarlet Nexus is the latest action RPG from Bandai Namco. Armed with a unique aesthetic and setting, the game features a dual story in which you can select between two characters whose stories will intertwine with each other. The game pits you against mutants from the sky known as Others, and players will have access to psycho-kinetic abilities to dispatch these enemies. With fast-paced combat, slick visuals, and what appears to be a decent story, we can’t wait to get our hands on Scarlet Nexus.
Ruined King: A League of Legends Story
We all know how big League of Legends has gotten over the years, so it comes as no surprise to see the universe continue to expand. Ruined King: A League of Legends Story is a turn-based RPG, featuring familiar champions Miss Fortune, Illaoi, Braum, Yasua, Ahri, and Pyke as playable characters. Developed by Airship Syndicate (of Battle Chasers: Nightwar fame), Ruined King could be a gateway for non-League of Legends players to get turned onto the MOBA game, which may have seemed daunting before. Regardless, we are looking forward to seeing Airship Syndicate take on such a renowned IP.