Summary
It used to be a debate during days when game consoles only had so much memory of whether a game’s story really mattered. After all, when cutscenes threaten to take up the space where there could be an entire level, it limited just how far a narrative could really go.
But then these RPGs happened, and although they certainly aren’t the sole pioneers of deep and extended writing in games, it’s hard to say they haven’t made an impact. Through somegreat storylines, developed characters, brilliant worldbuilding and so much more, these are the RPGs that stand out as having the best writing in their field.
Updated on May 20, 2025, by Casey Foot:The quality of writing in RPGs can definitely vary, but those with well-written narratives and characters easily stand out as the best in the genre, as it just makes the entire experience so much more memorable. We’ve added a few more RPGs with great writing for you to enjoy.
Xenoblade Chronicles’ first few hours capture you immediately, establishing protagonist Shulk’s thirst for revenge against the Mechon after they invade his home, Colony 9. The narrative keeps you engaged throughout using Shulk’s visions of the future shown to him by the Monado, a mysterious sword.
The characters and their dynamics with each other are also well-written and in-depth, with a large number ofoptional Heart-to-Heart sceneswhere you may see how each character interacts with the rest of the party. The game’s cutscenes and excellent voice acting only serve to enhance the story and characters, too.
All three Mother games have good writing, but Mother 3 is easily the most fleshed out of the series. When the Pigmask army attacks Lucas' home of Tazmily village, a tragic event changes the course of his life, which leads him to go on a journey to pull the Needles from a legendary dragon to save the world.
Mother 3’s story has resonated with many people through its exploration of grief and tragedy, and it also offers critiques on capitalism and consumerism through its representation of technology and money. Its touching story and memorable characters all add up to a greatly written RPG.
Final Fantasy 10 follows a blitzball player named Tidus, who ends up in Spira after Sin attacks his home. In Spira, he meets Yuna and her guardians and joins them on Yuna’s pilgrimage to summon the Final Aeon.
Final Fantasy 10 has some of thebest character writing in the series, especially when it comes to Yuna and her journey as a summoner. Despite the huge responsibility on her shoulders to fell Sin and protect her people, she remains kind and positive. The narrative also explores the complex nature of faith, posing questions about how far you should go to perform your duty.
From its iconic aesthetic to its interesting world, Fallout: New Vegas tells a tale that was all about letting go of the pre-war world of America before a nuclear apocalypse changed everything.
The game has you playing as a courier who can change the fate of New Vegas and its surrounding wasteland as you get caught in a conflict between factions vying for power. Underneath the story are tons of incredible characters, great world-building, and DLC that takes you on a wild journey through some of the most unique settings in the series.
Obsidian Entertainment only proved its worth once again with The Outer Worlds. The sci-fi comedy RPG has all the classic highlights of Obsidian Entertainment, from its interesting setting to its cast of lovable companions.
The game introduced fan favorites like Parvati and Felix and does a great job with its satirical commentary on capitalism through space corporations. It may not have as much depth as the studio’s other titles, but The Outer Worlds still has writing that is fantastic, funny, and sometimes meaningful.
8Dragon Age: Origins
Perhaps one of the best-written RPGs of all time,Dragon Age: Originshas the heavy task of introducing fans to the world of Thedas, and it does so almost flawlessly. From a compelling and detailed history to incredibly fun and unique characters, Dragon Age: Origins tells a story that may seem a little cliche, with evil monarchs and great darkness sweeping the land.
But beyond its plot is something truly special, with memorable moments like Loghain’s betrayal to a brilliant story structure that works well with its gameplay. All of this is what has captivated fans for years, and many are still in love with the series to this day.
The BioWare of old seemingly just can’t be defeated when it comes to a good story and nowhere is that more clear with Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. The story takes the classic Star Wars formula of a characterrealising their Force powersand having to defeat power-hungry Sith, and turns it into a tale that can compete with the very first films.
Though it has characters like the memorable Bastila Shan or the humorous duo of Mission and Zaalbar, the plot of the game is where it really shines. If you haven’t played it, then it’s best to go in blind, but the plot has twists and turns that make it one of the best in the entire Star Wars series.
Disco Elysium is one of the more literary roleplaying games in that it actually could be a book series with a word count of over one million. The game has you following a drunk detective who has lost his memory, and you have to piece together snippets of a detailed world, a grisly murder case, and your own identity.
The themes of Disco Elysium are some of the deepest in the genre, with a heavy focus on the weight of the past, forging an identity, nihilism in the state of the world, and much more.
Mass Effect is an impressive feat with its storytelling and forging of its own universe. You might think it’s easy, but building a world of science fiction with numerous alien species, planets, and histories requires a lot of effort, which the game puts in.
The plot is where Mass Effect gains most of its captivating nature,with player choice reflecting on the worldand pushing its already interesting characters in different directions. Even Commander Shepherd comes across as a likeable protagonist who can have their own great character arc.
Another literary RPG, Pillars of Eternity is a project that oozes with passion. Despite how dark the game and its setting can be, it offers a homely atmosphere that can be likened to a Dungeon & Dragons campaign.
You can get lost in endless discussions with complex characters, finding out the history of the world around you. and exploring the intricate cultures being presented, all wrapped up in a thrilling adventure that will take your party through a world of magic and mystery.
