Level Up Your Gaming: Unveiling the Ultimate RPG Collection for the Steam Deck

The launch of the Steam Deck on February 25, 2022 marked the beginning of a new era in portable gaming, allowing gamers to bring their extensive Steam libraries with them without the need for a gaming laptop. While not without flaws, the console has received a decent reception, receiving both praise and valid criticisms that may be addressed in the future.

Since its introduction, Valve has been testing and verifying games for compatibility with the Steam Deck, ensuring they run smoothly on the platform. Naturally, this process will take time given the vast number of games available on Steam, but several popular RPGs have already been confirmed. Which RPGs stand out on the Steam Deck?

Cassette Beasts

Steam offers a variety of monster-taming/collecting games that draw inspiration from Pokemon. Two notable options, Temtem and Coromon, have been Deck Verified and are sure to satisfy the desire to "catch 'em all." However, a new game released in April 2023 called Cassette Beasts stands out as a genuine contender for the best Pokemon alternative in recent years. This comparison, though, fails to capture just how distinct Cassette Beasts is compared to Game Freak's beloved franchise. Set on a captivating island, players embark on a journey that leads them through a village and ultimately into the ranks of the Rangers. Along the way, they acquire the incredible ability to transform into monsters during battles, and can even fuse with their partners' beasts to unleash a temporary but formidable fighter.

Cassette Beasts boasts stunning visuals, offering players a visually appealing gaming experience. Its gameplay strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and challenge, making it enjoyable for gamers of all skill levels. Moreover, the game features a vast and immersive world, providing ample opportunities for exploration. In addition to the main storyline, Cassette Beasts offers an abundance of optional content, encouraging players to delve deep into the map and uncover hidden secrets. The turn-based combat system, while rooted in traditional RPG mechanics, introduces unique elements that set it apart from other games in the genre.

The Legend Of Heroes: Trails From Zero

Originally launched in 2010 exclusively for the PSP in Japan, it took over ten years for The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero to arrive in Western countries. However, now accessible on PC and modern consoles, Nihon Falcom's game has stood the test of time remarkably well, thanks in large part to its exceptional writing.

As part of the renowned and consistently outstanding Legend of Heroes series, this installment is no different. Not only is it a must-play for fans of Trails in the Sky and Trails of Cold Steel, but Trails from Zero also serves as an excellent entry point for newcomers. Its largely self-contained story allows players to dive into the franchise without prior knowledge.

South Park: The Stick Of Truth

Obsidian's RPG, South Park: The Stick of Truth, has already received the Deck Verified stamp on Steam, while its successor, The Fractured but Whole, is yet to achieve this milestone. The game flawlessly captures the beloved show's art style, offering fans an unparalleled immersive experience in this unique universe.

Fan service is not the sole offering of The Stick of Truth. In addition, it is a well-designed turn-based RPG that pays tribute to the genre while also playfully mocking some of its traditions. Players assume the role of the New Kid, and it doesn't take long before they become entangled in an epic conflict driven by a powerful MacGuffin.

Tales Of Arise

The combat in Tales of Arise is exceptional, ensuring that the gameplay is as enjoyable as the captivating storyline and well-developed characters.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Among the multitude of exceptional RPGs, only a few have truly revolutionized the genre, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as a prime example. This relatively recent release has not only raised the bar for excellence but has also redefined the gaming landscape as a whole.

Since its release, RPGs in general have made a notable effort to provide more substantial side quests. While The Witcher 3 was not the first game to offer exceptional secondary content, it undoubtedly perfected it. Additionally, the game excels in terms of its open-world design, captivating main storyline, and remarkable voice acting. However, opinions on the combat mechanics may vary, but as players become more accustomed to its systems, everything starts to fall into place.

Hogwarts Legacy

Hogwarts Legacy, an open-world RPG by Avalanche, takes a different approach compared to traditional Harry Potter games. Instead of solely focusing on the novels' stories and characters, the game explores the broader universe of the franchise. Its success indicates that there is a significant interest in the Wizarding World as a whole, beyond just Harry's journey.

The game is set in a time period roughly a century before the events of the books, and players assume the role of a transfer student joining Hogwarts. While the narrative has its positive aspects, the true appeal of Hogwarts Legacy lies in the opportunity it provides for fans to fully immerse themselves in the magical world and explore its most iconic locations. Despite being Avalanche's first foray into the Harry Potter license, the RPG manages to get a lot of things right, although it is not without its flaws. With any luck, a sequel will be able to build upon the strengths of the 2023 game.

Yakuza: Like A Dragon

After over ten years of intense hand-to-hand combat and following the adventures of Kazuma Kiryu, Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio boldly decided to shake things up by making significant changes to the Yakuza formula. Like a Dragon presents a turn-based combat system that pays homage to the iconic Dragon Quest series while also introducing a fresh new central hub.

Even with the numerous modifications, at its core, Like a Dragon continues to embody the essence of the franchise with its heartfelt moments, witty humor, and boundless creativity. The game aims high and, despite a few initial challenges, achieves remarkable success.

Elden Ring

Elden Ring, released on the same day as the Steam Deck, served as a true testament to the handheld system's capabilities. It successfully demonstrated that Valve's platform is more than capable of running a massive open-world RPG with an abundance of content that can keep players engaged for hundreds of hours. The experience of playing Elden Ring on the go is nothing short of awe-inspiring, akin to the exhilaration one feels when booting up The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the Nintendo Switch.

Set in the nightmarish world known as the Lands Between, FromSoftware's 2022 title invites players to immerse themselves in an expansive and hauntingly beautiful environment. With its robust customization system, thrilling encounters against formidable bosses, and a captivating lore, Elden Ring truly stands out as an extraordinary game.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade

Square Enix's Final Fantasy 7 Remake goes beyond a mere visual upgrade for the iconic PS1 JRPG. In the first part of the narrative, players are immersed in Cloud Strife's early days as a member of AVALANCHE, a determined group aiming to disrupt the actions of the Shinra Corporation. Departing from turn-based combat, the remake introduces a dynamic real-time action system that adds a remarkable level of complexity to the diverse range of playable characters.

Intergrade, included in Yuffie's DLC, expands upon the core game with thrilling combat sequences and opportunities for character growth. Despite facing initial backlash upon its PC release, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade remains an overall positive addition and a standout RPG on the Steam platform.

Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection

Capcom has introduced several spin-offs of Mega Man over the years, with one of the most successful being the Battle Network series. These games, initially available on the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS, took the franchise in a completely new direction in terms of both story and gameplay. In terms of storytelling, Mega Man Battle Network follows the journey of a child who utilizes their MegaMan avatar to combat web-based terrorism. While not considered high art, the games offer enjoyable narratives with entertaining villains and non-playable characters.

The combat system in Battle Network is the standout feature. Players create a deck by collecting Battle Chips that can be summoned during battles, which take place in real-time on a grid. Although enjoyable from the beginning, this battle system evolves in subsequent sequels by introducing a wider range of options for the player's arsenal.

Vol.1 comprises Mega Man Battle Network, Mega Man Battle Network 2, and Mega Man Battle Network 3 (Blue & White). On the other hand, Vol. 2 consists of Mega Man Battle Network 4 (Red Sun & Blue Moon), Battle Network 5 (Team Protoman & Team Colonel), and Battle Network 6 (Cybeast Gregar & Cybeast Falzar).

Marvel's Midnight Suns

Marvel's Midnight Suns, developed by the team behind XCOM, offers players a unique and exciting tactical RPG experience. Unlike its predecessor, Midnight Suns stands on its own, providing a fresh and distinct gameplay. With a diverse roster of over 10 iconic superheroes to choose from, players assemble their team and embark on thrilling missions, battling against formidable adversaries and their henchmen. In this game, superheroes do not require cover, resulting in more direct and fast-paced battles. However, strategic decision-making remains crucial in determining the outcome of each encounter.

Furthermore, Midnight Suns incorporates a card-building element, where each hero possesses a deck of cards for battle. Players must carefully choose the most suitable cards for each round, relying on both luck and tactical thinking. This gameplay mechanic encourages experimentation and allows for a dynamic and engaging experience. Additionally, players can interact with other heroes outside of combat, nurturing and strengthening their relationships. These moments serve as a refreshing break from the intense action. The game also encompasses various RPG elements such as unlockables, upgrades, and other conventions that enhance the overall experience.

Octopath Traveler 2

The sequel to 2018's Octopath Traveler focuses on refining the exceptional work of its predecessor, resulting in a similar yet enhanced gaming experience. For those unfamiliar with the game, the campaign revolves around eight characters, each with their own unique storylines that rarely intersect. While this creative decision does lead to a slightly disjointed experience, the individual quests maintain a consistently high level of quality.

Octopath Traveler 2 embraces a turn-based combat system that pays homage to the beloved Square Enix productions of the 1990s. This tried-and-tested system seamlessly blends with the game, capturing the essence of old-school JRPGs and catering to the preferences of nostalgic gamers.

Monster Hunter Rise

Monster Hunter Rise stands as a distinctive game within its own genre, much like Soulslikes. Despite being classified as an RPG by Steam, it should be noted that Rise deserves recognition. While lacking a substantial narrative, the gameplay loop of Monster Hunter Rise provides immense satisfaction, especially for those who revel in creating new weapons and armor. The game follows a straightforward yet effective structure: Engage in monster hunts to acquire materials necessary for crafting superior equipment, which in turn enables the pursuit of even more formidable creatures. This cycle repeats endlessly, offering a perpetual sense of accomplishment.

Although Rise incorporates a campaign through village quests, it essentially serves as an extended tutorial rather than a significant challenge, as it can be completed in approximately 10 hours. The true essence of the game unfolds after the campaign concludes, allowing players to focus on Hub Quests. These quests not only demand greater skill and knowledge of Rise's mechanics but also provide a more rigorous experience. Furthermore, with a selection of 14 unique weapon types, each offering a distinct playstyle, players are encouraged to explore and experiment until they discover one or two categories that truly resonate with their preferences.

Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling

Bug Fables offers a satisfying alternative to Paper Mario on PC. Drawing inspiration from the early Nintendo franchise, this game presents a humorous storyline set in the enchanting realm of Bugaria. Divided into kingdoms ruled by different ants, players embark on an adventure as a trio of explorers in search of a series of artifacts that will lead them to the Everlasting Sapling.

Bug Fables employs a turn-based combat mechanism that requires players to stay fully engaged by timing their button presses accurately. Although the combat may become somewhat repetitive, it manages to maintain a level of challenge that prevents boredom throughout the extensive campaign.

Divinity: Original Sin 2 - Definitive Edition

Divinity: Original Sin 2 stands out as a strong contender for being the most comprehensive RPG of the 2010s. With its exceptional world-building, well-crafted writing for both primary and secondary quests, extensive customization options, and a sophisticated grid-based combat system, it sets the bar high for this style of gameplay. This game easily earns its place among the top offerings in the genre, and its replay value ensures that players can remain engaged with this RPG for years to come.

However, it is worth noting that Divinity: Original Sin 2 may not initially appeal to newcomers. Those unfamiliar with CRPGs may find themselves disoriented and struggling through the first few hours, facing numerous challenging encounters. Yet, once players grasp the mechanics and immerse themselves in the game, the experience truly comes alive.

Cyberpunk 2077

CD Projekt Red's Cyberpunk 2077 has had a complex journey. Its release received mixed reviews due to optimization problems, and the game's unplayable state on certain systems caused significant controversy. However, on PC, the game performed relatively better, though still with room for improvement. Since 2020, CD Projekt Red has been diligently working to enhance Cyberpunk 2077's reputation, resulting in a noticeable recovery. As a testament to this progress, the company recently announced a substantial expansion called Phantom Liberty, scheduled to launch in September 2023.

The forthcoming expansion will coincide with significant enhancements to the core game, including reworked combat and skill tree systems. As a result, it might be advisable for newcomers to hold off on immersing themselves in Cyberpunk 2077, as they may otherwise experience a subpar gaming experience. However, it should be noted that, in its current form, the RPG still offers a highly enjoyable experience.

Triangle Strategy

Triangle Strategy, a Square Enix JRPG, was originally exclusive to the Nintendo Switch but has now made its way to PC. Drawing inspiration from beloved classics like Final Fantasy Tactics, the game features grid-based combat and a stunning pixel art style. Set in the post-war continent of Norzelia, the narrative unfolds as the land recovers from a conflict that occurred three decades ago.

While tactical RPGs may seem daunting to newcomers, Triangle Strategy manages to strike a balance between accessibility and deep gameplay mechanics. The game presents challenging scenarios that keep players engaged. Although it has a few flaws, the project boasts several strengths and has the potential to become the start of an exciting new franchise.

Remnant: From The Ashes

Remnant: From the Ashes stands apart from the flood of Soulslikes on Steam, as it offers a truly worthwhile gaming experience. Gunfire Games takes a fresh approach by combining the intense combat of third-person shooters with the essence of the Dark Souls formula, resulting in a highly engaging gameplay. With its procedurally generated stages, the game ensures replayability and allows for multiple playthroughs. Alongside its satisfying gunplay, Remnant also boasts impressive visuals and a compelling storyline that adds depth to the overall experience.

Sousllikes may not appeal to everyone, typically catering only to the most ardent Dark Souls enthusiasts. However, Remnant: From the Ashes introduces enough distinctive concepts that it has the potential to resonate with individuals who may not necessarily be avid followers of FromSoftware's games.

Nobody Saves The World

Nobody Saves the World is an enthralling dungeon crawler that introduces a captivating central concept. In this game, players embody an actual blank canvas, but one that possesses the remarkable ability to transform into various archetypes using a magical wand. Each form boasts distinct and context-specific abilities, making the process of experimenting with different builds a delightful experience in discovering the most effective approach for each unique situation.

Beyond its innovative mechanic, Nobody Saves the World offers much more, including its visually stunning art style and captivating world. This action RPG exudes charm and personality in every frame, making it a perfect fit for a portable gaming system like the Steam Deck.

Darkest Dungeon

Darkest Dungeon is a game that is not suitable for the faint-hearted, yet it possesses an undeniable addictive quality. The setting of the game is a gothic world that is immersed in horrifying imagery and concepts. As the player, you assume the role of the new owner of a sinister mansion that is conveniently situated on top of a treacherous dungeon. Tempted by the allure of potential wealth and influence, brave adventurers are lured into the depths of this unforgiving realm, although only a few will survive the harrowing experience. In order to unravel the mysteries concealed within the dungeon, players recruit these warriors and embark on treacherous journeys filled with challenging turn-based battles against truly nightmarish creatures.

Darkest Dungeon's extensive range of classes and the presence of permadeath mechanics push players to continually experiment with their party compositions in search of the most effective setup. The procedurally generated nature of the dungeon adds to the game's replayability factor. While the battle system may not deviate significantly from the norm, it possesses unique elements that help it stand out. Furthermore, Darkest Dungeon incorporates a stress meter that gradually increases as adventurers navigate the dark corridors and confront the terrifying horrors lurking within.

In the case of Darkest Dungeon 2, it is also a remarkable RPG, albeit with notable differences. However, it is worth noting that the sequel can only be played on the Steam Deck platform.

Chained Echoes

Steam is filled with a plethora of 16-bit indie games that pay homage to the golden era of the SNES, particularly in the realm of platformers and Metroidvanias. While not as prevalent, developers occasionally draw inspiration from beloved classic JRPGs such as Chrono Trigger, Mana, Final Fantasy, and Dragon Quest. Chained Echoes skillfully embraces its influences without descending into a mere carbon copy; instead, it demonstrates that certain ideas are truly timeless.

Chained Echoes stands out not only for its ambitious nature but also for its impressive level of polish. The game weaves a compelling storyline that showcases a diverse cast of memorable characters, captivating players for approximately 30 hours. To support such a lengthy campaign, strong gameplay is essential, and Chained Echoes excels in this aspect. While the battle system may initially appear familiar to genre enthusiasts, the game introduces a unique risk-reward mechanic that injects a strategic element into every encounter. This innovative addition significantly enhances the longevity of the combat experience.

Victor Vran

Victor Vran is frequently discounted and offers great value for a small price. This isometric RPG, similar to Diablo 3, focuses on gameplay rather than loot, resulting in a streamlined and highly enjoyable experience.

Players are given access to a variety of weapons that drastically change the flow of combat, creating a deep and intense combat system. Haemimont draws inspiration from hack and slash games like Devil May Cry and God of War, prioritizing skill over statistics. With the main campaign being completable within a long weekend, Victor Vran is an ideal RPG for short trips or as a refreshing break between longer gaming sessions.

Ni No Kuni: Wrath Of The White Witch Remastered

Originally launched on the PS3, Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch received an enhanced edition for the eighth generation, allowing a broader audience to experience the game. The 2019 version primarily focuses on improving the resolution and frame rate, while keeping the core gameplay intact. Despite its flaws, Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch is a visually stunning JRPG that showcases the beautiful animation of Studio Ghibli and presents a captivating storyline that isn't afraid to explore darker and more somber themes.

The young Oliver is transported to a whimsical realm plagued by heartbreak, compelling him to embark on a quest for change. Along his journey, he forges friendships and tames powerful creatures called Familiars, which prove invaluable in battles. While the combat system, which emphasizes action, may elicit mixed reactions from players, the overall package is of exceptional quality.

Persona 5 Royal

Steam is gradually expanding its collection of Persona games, with Persona 5 Royal being a notable addition. This PC JRPG follows the journey of the Phantom Thieves, a group of young individuals who combat injustice by delving into the minds of influential and dangerous figures. The game's turn-based combat mechanics are both straightforward and engaging, and its dungeons boast distinctive designs that captivate the eye. Alongside the thrilling battles and persona collection, players also have the opportunity to build relationships and attend school in their free time.

Shin Megami Tensei 3 Nocturne HD Remaster

Persona may steal the spotlight, but it's important to remember that it is a Shin Megami Tensei spin-off. In comparison to its younger counterpart, SMT delivers a more intense and demanding experience without any social simulation elements. Nocturne is perfect for those who enjoy Persona's turn-based combat and monster-collecting mechanics, but prefer to focus solely on dungeon exploration. It's worth noting that players must also have an appreciation for grinding, as it will be a necessary aspect of the game.

Nocturne originally released on the PS2 in 2003, and despite a few changes in the remaster, it remains an experience that is two decades old. However, the battle system has stood the test of time, and the post-apocalyptic setting complements the game's tone and narrative. A crucial aspect of the package is negotiating with Demons, and the game's structure encourages players to continuously update their party. This adds significance to most battles, as random enemies hold value beyond just earning EXP points. Additionally, fusing Demons together to create more formidable creatures is a system that players must master in order to progress further.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley, an indie game that emerged during the booming years of the 2010s, stands as one of the most remarkable accomplishments within the indie gaming scene. This farming simulation, intertwined with RPG elements, offers players an abundance of freedom to shape their own land and make a lasting impact on the charming Pelican Town.

With its ambitious nature, intricate mechanics, and limitless replayability, Stardew Valley presents itself as a captivating alternative to more tranquil titles, such as Animal Crossing. It caters to individuals seeking an RPG experience rooted in the simplicity of everyday life, rather than embarking on a grand quest to rescue the world.

Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen

Capcom's action RPG, Dragon's Dogma, has gained a devoted following over the past decade. Initially released on the PS3 and Xbox 360, the game received a generally positive reception. However, it was the expanded version, Dark Arisen, that truly captured players' attention. Today, Dark Arisen is considered the definitive iteration of the game, offering not only the original content but also introducing a challenging new area.

Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen thrives on the prowess of its combat system, which is both versatile and gratifying. Players have the freedom to choose from a vast array of character builds, allowing for both melee and ranged playstyles to excel. Although not sprawling in size, the game's primary realm, Gransys, presents a captivating and eerie dark fantasy backdrop teeming with unforgettable creatures and a handful of awe-inspiring cities.

Scarlet Nexus

Scarlet Nexus, developed by Bandai Namco, pleasantly surprised gamers in 2021, especially those in the JRPG community. The game takes place in an alternate reality where humans possess unique powers and face threats from mysterious entities called Others. With its captivating and extensive storyline, Scarlet Nexus offers a rewarding experience that encourages players to replay the game due to its dual protagonist feature.

The narrative wastes no time in picking up the pace after a brief introductory chapter, maintaining a consistent momentum throughout the campaign. Scarlet Nexus' combat system is fast-paced, visually appealing, and surprisingly intricate. Although there are only two playable characters, players have the ability to switch out party members, allowing them to utilize various support abilities.

SteamWorld Heist

SteamWorld Heist is considered the better of the two projects in the franchise, offering a unique blend of strategy and space exploration. As a space captain, players assemble a team of mercenaries to navigate spaceships and complete missions, which often involve engaging and defeating a variety of enemies.

SteamWorld Heist features a comprehensive class system that promotes the regular rotation of a team's roster to effectively tackle the challenges of each mission. As characters are selected, they gain experience and level up, acquiring new abilities and improving their stats.

Pathologic 2

Pathologic 2 stands out among other RPGs on Steam Deck, offering a distinct and acquired taste. The game is set in 1910s Russia, where a surgeon returns to his hometown only to uncover the murder of his father and the outbreak of a deadly plague. With a mere 12 days to find a cure, players must navigate the community, prioritize information, and fight for survival.

Pathologic 2 fully engulfs players in its merciless world, leaving no room for respite. It not only serves as an RPG but also a hardcore survival horror experience, demanding players to juggle various meters and make agonizing choices. While Pathologic 2 may not aim to provide enjoyment, it undoubtedly offers a unique and terrifying encounter.

Project Zomboid

Since its launch in 2013, Project Zomboid has remained a popular choice among gamers, consistently ranking high on Steam's best-selling list. This open-world survival game immerses players in a zombie-infested sandbox and presents them with the challenge of survival. Rather than focusing on its narrative, Project Zomboid prioritizes gameplay, specifically emphasizing resource management and crafting.

The project developed by The Indie Stone has received extensive acclaim in the past ten years. Despite its challenging gameplay, Project Zomboid is considered a must-play for enthusiasts of survival games.

Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition

Dragon Quest 11 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of one of the most influential turn-based JRPG franchises of all time. Despite staying true to its tried-and-true combat system and narrative, the game manages to feel fresh and revitalized with the Definitive Edition, which addresses most of the minor issues found in the original version.

Embarking on a vibrant and captivating adventure, Dragon Quest 11 immerses players in a world brimming with captivating characters and stunning locales. As expected from the franchise, the story is an epic journey that will easily keep players engaged for over 50 hours. It's no surprise that, among the many contenders, DQ11 could arguably be considered the top JRPG on the Steam Deck.

Disco Elysium - The Final Cut

Disco Elysium stands out as a masterpiece, offering a unique experience unlike the majority of RPGs available on Steam. Instead of emphasizing combat, the game centers around engaging dialogue and the development of characters. This is closely linked to the skills that players choose to focus on when advancing in levels.

Disco Elysium is set in a richly detailed open-world that seamlessly blends elements of reality and fantasy. It delivers a captivating detective narrative that delves into profound philosophical and ethical themes. This exceptional RPG places a strong emphasis on player agency, ensuring that every spoken word and decision holds immense weight and impact.