Seriously, who doesn’t love a good role-playing game, eh? Of course, this concept wasn’t borne specifically to video games, but the move from tabletops to consoles certainly hasn’t hurt anything. In fact, since bursting onto the scene via 3D open world gaming, RPG’s have basically taken center stage in most gamer’s minds. Each new release of a significant title is often heralded across the internets these days, with triumphant shouts emanating from forums and message boards. Naturally, the PlayStation 4’s enhanced capabilities have really pushed the technical envelope as well as our expectations, forcing game makers to really dig in and get creative. The following role-playing games are the best RPG’s of this year (2014) available for the console. Let’s work from average to best, starting with…
How To Survive: Storm Warning Edition
Coming off as some type of zombie apocalypse-driven isometric RPG, “How to Survive: Storm Warning Edition” actually delivers crafting, resource-gathering and survival mechanics too. For all intents and purposes, this is a great little game that two people can really dig into via co-op mode as well, offering hours of adventure and drama. This particular edition (Storm Warning) packs in all the extra DLC previously released too, so it’s definitely the one to tune in to if this is your first encounter with the game itself.
Child of Light
Shoring things up on the side-scrolling platformer front, “Child of Light” takes high marks in terms of its presentation and storytelling. Of course, the fact that the developer took the time to include all sorts of great RPG features (like leveling up your character as well as the battle system) certainly adds to the fun.
Destiny
Bungie’s “Destiny” has certainly garnered a lot of criticism as well as praise. As it turns out, the surrounding hype about this title is likely what has caused the backlash, because it’s actually a wonderful game (if you approach it with a fresh set of eyes and ears, that is). Basically, it merges all sorts of video game mechanics into one potent stew – there’s the obvious sci-fi RPG element, as well as its shooter logistics, for example. In short, this is the RPG for the gamer who also loves gun play and looting. In this sense it’s sort of like a supped up version of borderlands, but don’t let haphazard comparisons drive you away from “Destiny”, check it out for yourself and experience what is currently one of the top role-playing titles available for the PS4.
Mercenary Kings
Lying somewhere between the modern and retro school of game development is “Mercenary Kings”. Basically, this game hearkens back to the days of “Super Contra” (and more recently) “Metal Slug” to deliver non-stop side-scrolling 2D action via its shoot ‘em up architecture. Of course, the fun doesn’t end there though, this title also lets you upgrade weapons and armor while also fighting alongside up to three other players (yes, online as well as offline).
Natural Doctrine
Those looking for a challenge will definitely want to sink their teeth into “Natural Doctrine”, which is a fantasy-themed RPG echoing the sort of action you’d find in games like “Dark Souls”. Don’t get the wrong idea here though; this game has more in common with classic JRPG’s than traditional 3rd person real-time combat titles. Again, those who really enjoy challenging experiences will definitely want to check out “Natural Doctrine”.
Dynasty Warriors 8: Xtreme Legends Complete Edition
Basically, if you love playing story mode campaigns and prefer hack and slash action to other types of combat, “Dynasty Warriors 8: Xtreme Legends Complete Edition” is definitely for you. Many will probably instantly recognize the series from the PS3 days, but this PS4 edition is what you should be looking for, especially since it contains all the extra content you’d have to otherwise purchase separately.
Transistor
“Transistor” is a fairly unique offering, pairing science fiction and basic RPG elements with a dual real-time / frozen action mechanic. In other words, there is combat which unfolds as you’re playing (in real time) as well as a “planning mode” that allows you to pull off impressive maneuvers. Naturally, you’ll need to master both in order to complete the game.
Bound by Flame
Speaking of games which may or may not have been inspired by the Dark Souls franchise, we have “Bound by Flame”. It’s basically a medieval fantasy-themed dungeon crawler with all sorts of choices laid out in addition to character customization and branching quest lines. Oh yeah, it looks pretty neat visually too…
Diablo III
Lastly, we come to what is perhaps one of the best RPG’s you can play (alone or with friends) on the PS4 (currently) – Diablo III. Trading in the PC control system for something a bit more conventional, this game is perfectly at home on Sony’s flagship console. All in all, D3 has a bit of something for everyone buried inside, be it looting, character building, trading, exploration, branching quests, great story, etc.
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