Hidden Gems: Uncovering Underrated AA RPGs That Deserve Your Love

AA RPGs have a similar longevity to their AAA counterparts, yet offer a distinct appeal in the gaming world. These games possess the potential for greatness, often hindered by limitations such as budget restraints, time constraints, or a small development team, thereby leaving players longing for a bit more.

However, it is important not to dismiss AA RPGs as mere hypotheticals. The absence of immense pressure to produce an instant blockbuster with stellar graphics and record-breaking sales allows developers to explore uncharted territory and develop genuinely unique experiences. In fact, some AA RPGs have accomplished this in ways that surpass many AAA RPGs.

1 ELEX (Piranha Bytes)

Piranha Bytes made an ambitious decision in 2017 with ELEX, incorporating medieval fantasy, sci-fi technology, and magic into a post-apocalyptic world. Similar to their previous series Gothic and Risen, ELEX offers a challenging combat system with hitboxes that aren't always perfect, but it becomes truly satisfying once the protagonist, Jax, levels up and gains new equipment and magic abilities.

The game features an excellent story centered around the Albs, a mysterious group who aims to consume all the valuable ELEX in the world. Jax and the other factions must join forces to stop this world-ending threat. The captivating story and intriguing setting led to the release of a sequel in 2022.

2 Kingdom Come: Deliverance (Warhorse Studios)

Kingdom Come: Deliverance is a captivating historical epic, expertly blending compelling storytelling and meticulous attention to historical accuracy. The game is set in early 15th century Bohemia, also known as the modern-day Czech Republic. It follows the journey of Henry, the son of a blacksmith and the sole survivor of his village's devastating massacre. Determined to seek justice, Henry joins the resistance against the Hungarian King, who ordered the brutal invasion.

What sets Kingdom Come: Deliverance apart is its innovative combat mechanics, which emphasize precision and targeting weak spots, as opposed to the typical hack-and-slash approach found in other RPGs. With its realistic medieval setting and absence of fantastical elements, this game offers a truly distinctive experience. It is a must-play for history enthusiasts and gamers alike.

3 Greedfall (Spiders)

Incorporating a mythical and magical element into the colonialism of the early 18th century, Greedfall presents a captivating setting and premise. Players are faced with intriguing moral dilemmas as they decide whether to aid the indigenous people of a newly discovered island filled with magic and creatures or align with the colonial forces. With different potential outcomes, the game allows for multiple playthroughs, enhancing replayability.

Greedfall's gameplay centers around making dialogue choices, offering various approaches to completing quests. The combat mechanics themselves are neither extraordinary nor lackluster, providing an enjoyable and satisfying experience as players engage in battles against unique monsters scattered across the island of Teer Fradee. Alongside a diverse group of companions, players can uncover hidden treasures and explore vibrant locations.

4 Divinity 2 Ego Draconis/The Dragon Knight Saga (Larian Studios)

Distinguishable from Divinity: Original Sin 2, Divinity 2 Ego Draconis (also known as The Dragon Knight Saga re-release) marked Larian Studios' inaugural and ultimate venture into the realm of third-person RPGs. This 2009 undertaking resulted in an incredibly captivating and distinctive world, featuring impeccably crafted witty dialogues, an enjoyable action-oriented combat system, and the thrilling ability to assume the role of a genuine dragon.

Divinity 2 presented an ambitious RPG experience, offering a plethora of intriguing abilities and diverse playstyles. The quest design and storyline successfully captivate, unveiling numerous unique locations ripe for exploration, where plentiful treasures await alongside intriguing and amusing characters.

5 Shadowrun Returns (Harebrained Schemes)

Shadowrun Returns is a visually appealing turn-based RPG that seamlessly merges cyberpunk and fantasy elements. Set in a futuristic society where advanced technology coexists with mythical races like elves, dwarves, trolls, and orks, the game offers players a one-of-a-kind experience to delve into the intricacies of this unique world. As they explore, interact with intriguing characters, and uncover the enigmatic plot, players are driven by the desire to solve the murder of their trusted companion. This quest is made even more enticing with the added incentive of a cheeky reward of 100,000 nuyen (the in-game currency).

6 Titan Quest (Iron Lore Entertainment)

Titan Quest is a captivating game that transports players to a vibrant landscape in the ancient world, immersing them in the realms of Greek mythology. With its fantastic isometric gameplay and exploration opportunities, the game offers a truly enriching experience. The combat is enjoyable, and the progression system allows for diverse play styles, ensuring longevity in the RPG genre. From battling legendary creatures like the Gorgons and Minotaur to catering to history buffs, Titan Quest pays meticulous attention to detail and remains true to its ancient Greek mythology setting, creating an exceptional adventure for players.

7 Two Worlds II (Reality Pump Studios)

Gandalf, Harry Potter, and Merlin would be envious of the player character's magical abilities in Two Worlds II. While the game offers an intriguing storyline and decent melee combat, its greatest accomplishment lies in its extensive and awe-inspiring magic system. Prioritizing a complete magic build is the recommended approach.

Never before has a game featured such an expansive magic system, allowing players to create explosive and unprecedented spells. Whether it's summoning an army of skeletons, causing rocks to rain from the sky, or even crafting a magical stone stair lift to reach mountain peaks, Two Worlds II offers incomparable possibilities through its remarkable spell crafting system.

8 The Witcher 1 (CD Projekt Red)

The introduction to The Witcher introduces players to Geralt of Rivia, an iconic character in the world of video games. This captivating story is filled with intrigue and fascinating characters. Despite some flaws in gameplay and character models, the writing hides an exceptional game. With significant decisions that shape the outcome of the game and a diverse cast of intriguing characters, including moments of humor, The Witcher sets the standard for the series' epic tale.

9 Wasteland 3 (inXile entertainment)

Before Fallout even existed, the Wasteland series maintained its isometric gameplay while Fallout transitioned to a first and third person RPG. Wasteland 3 now stands as the latest and greatest installment in the series. Taking place in the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Colorado, the Arizona Rangers arrive to aid the 'Patriarch' in stabilizing the region.

Wasteland 3 features a fully customizable team and turn-based squad gameplay, offering players a multitude of choices with branching outcomes. Players are brought to Colorado to determine the fate of the land, as well as the player character's home and faction. One of the game's notable highlights is its exceptionally crafted characters, including the Patriarch, Santa Claus, and AI Ronald Reagan.

10 Pillars of Eternity (Obsidian Entertainment)

Discover the harrowing reality of being born without a soul in Pillars of Eternity. Embark on a journey to bring solace to countless individuals afflicted with this condition in this profound and immersive RPG. Prepare to delve into a vivid, enchanting world filled with both awe-inspiring marvels and chilling terrors. It comes as no surprise that Pillars of Eternity has rightfully earned its place among the greatest AA RPGs ever crafted, a testament to the dedication poured into its creation through the collaborative effort of its Kickstarter origins.