The Ultimate Guide to the Most Anticipated Upcoming Role-Playing Games!

Role-playing games have been a mainstay of the gaming industry for over three decades. Every month, the genre sees the release of several notable titles, ranging from high-profile games such as Hogwarts Legacy, Octopath Traveler 2, and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, to more niche projects like Labyrinth of Galleria: The Moon Society, 8-Bit Adventures 2, and Little Witch Nobeta. The horizon is always adorned with new RPGs.

Given the ambitious nature of AAA projects in this genre, they are often announced years ahead of their release, resulting in sky-high expectations. Once the hype train starts rolling, it becomes nearly impossible to stop. So, which upcoming RPGs are the most sought-after?

Atlas Fallen

Upgraded on July 6, 2023 by Mark Sammut: The months of May, June, and the initial days of July 2023 brought forth several noteworthy RPGs. Final Fantasy 16 and Diablo 4 garnered significant attention and are anticipated to be among the most significant releases of the year. Nevertheless, they may face competition from several upcoming RPGs.

Release Date	August 10, 2023
Developer/s	Deck13 Interactive
Genre	Action RPG
Platforms	PC PS5 Xbox Series X/S (Release Date TBA)

Deck13 spent the majority of the 2010s establishing itself as a prominent player in the Souls-like genre, reaching a pinnacle with the impressive The Surge 2 in 2019. Their journey began with the divisive Lords of the Fallen, which is set to undergo a reboot soon, although it will be developed by Hexworks instead of Deck13. Instead of creating another Souls-like game, the developer has shifted their focus to Atlas Fallen, an action RPG set in a desert-themed world.

Compared to The Surge, Atlas Fallen appears to offer a more fast-paced and accessible adventure. The combat takes inspiration from hack and slash titles like Devil May Cry and the old God of War games, while also introducing unique elements such as transformable weapons. The early previews of the game have been promising, although there is a certain level of skepticism due to Atlas Fallen being such a significant departure from the developer's recent endeavors.

Baldur's Gate 3

Release Date	August 3, 2023 (PC)
Developer/s	Larian Studios
Genre	Turn-Based RPG
Platforms	PC PS5 Xbox Series X/S (Release Date TBA)

Contrary to some other upcoming RPGs in 2023, Baldur's Gate 3 stands out as a familiar title due to its prior availability in early access for a significant period. While disregarding spin-offs such as Dungeons & Dragons: Dark Alliance and expansions, it has been nearly two decades since the release of the last primary installment in the Baldur's Gate series, Shadows of Amn from 2000, which continues to be revered as one of the most exceptional RPGs ever created.

Larian Studios has demonstrated its ability to develop immersive role-playing games with its Divinity series, and they are now applying that expertise to the highly anticipated Baldur's Gate 3. While the forthcoming release in 2023 introduces turn-based combat, it still maintains the core elements and traditions that have made Baldur's Gate a beloved franchise.

Scheduled for release on September 6, 2023, the PS5 version of Baldur's Gate 3 promises to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience.

Starfield

Release Date	September 6, 2023
Developer/s	Bethesda Game Studios
Genre	Sci-Fi RPG
Platforms	PC Xbox Series X/S

In addition to their recent polarizing releases, Bethesda has created a number of highly revered RPGs. Both Skyrim and Fallout 3 continue to attract dedicated communities, showcasing just a portion of the publisher's impressive accomplishments. Presently, Bethesda seldom ventures into developing new intellectual properties, a factor that significantly contributes to the public's intrigue surrounding Starfield.

The sci-fi RPG allows players to freely explore numerous planets within an expansive open-world setting, which has the potential to become the most impressive in the subgenre's history. Starfield offers gameplay options in both first- and third-person perspectives, enabling players to switch between them based on the circumstances. Although specific information is currently limited, the game is showing remarkable promise.

Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster

Release Date	2023
Developer/s	Konami Digital Entertainment
Genre	JRPG
Platforms	Nintendo Switch PC PS4 Xbox One

Although spin-offs kept the franchise going for a while longer, the last mainline Suikoden game was released in 2006. Despite not all entries being considered masterpieces, Konami's JRPG series maintained a commendable standard of quality during the PS1 and PS2 eras. Each numbered game is worth playing, but the PS1 releases, especially Suikoden 2, are highly regarded. Suikoden 2 is often hailed as one of the best JRPGs on Sony's first home console, and that recognition is well-deserved.

Konami has announced plans to release an HD remaster collection that includes the first two games in the franchise, both of which have lengthy campaigns. So far, it appears that the changes in the package will mainly focus on updating the surface-level aspects, which is understandable since the project aims to remaster rather than remake the games. Nevertheless, Suikoden and its sequel have aged gracefully, and the successful PS Plus launch of The Legend of Dragoon has shown that there is still a demand for PS1 JRPGs in the gaming world.

Persona 3 Reload

Release Date	2024
Developer/s	P-Studio
Genre	Turn-Based JRPG
Platforms	PC PS4 PS5 Xbox One Xbox Series X/S

Persona 3 Reload, a complete remake of Atlus' beloved turn-based JRPG, was announced in conjunction with the highly anticipated release of Persona 5 Tactica, a treat for all fans of tactical games. Given that the original version was highly acclaimed on both the PS2 and PSP platforms, the remake must truly excel in order to meet the lofty expectations set by its predecessor. Fortunately, P-Studio's impressive track record suggests that they are more than capable of delivering a worthy successor.

Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth

With a fresh visual style inspired by Persona 5's aesthetics, Persona 3 Reload aims to present a modernized appearance rather than a simple enhancement of the original PS2 version. While the extent of the gameplay changes in the remake remains uncertain, there will be at least a few adjustments incorporated.

Release Date	2024
Developer/s	Square Enix
Genre	Action JRPG
Platforms	PS5

Square Enix's Final Fantasy 7 Remake achieved great success and paved the way for an even more anticipated sequel. While not much has been revealed about Rebirth's content, it is expected to expand upon the foundations set by the Remake and introduce new playable characters such as Red 13.

Released in 2020, the Remake established that this project is a reimagining of the 1997 JRPG rather than a simple retelling, and the storyline has already started to deviate from the original. The direction of the sequel remains uncertain, but Rebirth has the potential to propel Final Fantasy 7 further along its new timeline, providing an experience that will surprise both newcomers and long-time fans.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Release Date	2024
Developer/s	Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Genre	Turn-Based JRPG
Platforms	PC PS4 PS5 Xbox One Xbox Series X/S

The release of Yakuza: Like a Dragon signaled a significant shift for Sega's long-standing franchise, introducing a fresh protagonist, an entirely new setting, and an innovative combat system. With its turn-based battles, the game ventured into the realm of JRPGs, a departure from its traditional action-focused approach. Impressively, the series successfully captured the essence of beloved genre classics like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, breathing new life into the Yakuza universe.

Hades 2

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth seems poised to improve upon the achievements of its predecessor, both in terms of storytelling and gameplay mechanics. Ichiban will once again take on a central role, but he will now share the spotlight with the renowned Kazuma Kiryu making a comeback. Based on its teaser trailer, Infinite Wealth appears to be venturing beyond the borders of Japan, providing a fresh setting for the series.

Release Date	TBA
Developer/s	Supergiant Games
Genre	Action RPG, Roguelite
Platforms	PC Consoles TBC

Hades, released in 2020, is widely recognized as a notable achievement in the roguelite genre; however, it should be noted that it is also an exceptional action RPG. The developers, Supergiant, have confirmed that a sequel is currently in development, with Zagreus' sister as the protagonist. Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology, Hades 2 presents a tumultuous Underworld caused by Chronos, the Titan of Time and Hades' father.

The primary character, Melinoë, is likely to be entrusted with the responsibility of thwarting the Titan, although Supergiant's storytelling tends to be intricate and multifaceted. According to the game's FAQ, Hades 2 may delve into witchcraft as one of its central themes, with Melinoë being portrayed as a sorceress.

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2

Release Date	TBA
Developer/s	Hardsuit Labs
Genre	Action RPG
Platforms	PC PS4 PS5 Xbox One Xbox Series X/S

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines is widely regarded as a cult classic, offering an imperfect yet captivating RPG experience. With its exceptional writing and well-developed characters, players are afforded a wealth of customization options, allowing for unprecedented creative freedom. Previously believed to be a standalone venture within the realm of video games, the introduction of Bloodlines 2 in 2019 shattered this notion. However, the game has faced multiple delays and inconsistent updates on its production. Nonetheless, various spin-offs based on Vampire: The Masquerade have emerged in recent years, ensuring the continued existence of this beloved IP.

Set in Seattle, Bloodlines 2 will allow players to create a newly-transformed vampire, involving choices such as their human background and preferred discipline. The success of Vampire: The Masquerade can be partly attributed to its thorough clan system, which enables players to align with one of the vampire factions operating in the city. It is crucial for this aspect to be preserved in Bloodlines 2. As for the gameplay, the sequel appears to stay true to its predecessor, featuring immersive first-person action and emphasizing an extensive dialogue system.

The Elder Scrolls 6

Release Date	TBA
Developer/s	Bethesda Game Studios
Genre	Action RPG
Platforms	TBA

It was only a matter of time before The Elder Scrolls 6 was unveiled, although that is essentially the extent of Bethesda's reveal. Apart from a few hints discernible from the scant seconds of footage released thus far, the game remains largely shrouded in mystery. However, TES 6 is one of those upcoming RPGs that merely needs to exist in order to drum up anticipation.

In reality, Bethesda's sequel is still a few years away from its debut, and it is likely that the publisher will not heavily promote the project until after the completion of Starfield's cycle. Nevertheless, it would be astounding if TES 6 does not emerge as one of the highest-selling games of all time.

Dragon Quest 12: The Flames Of Fate

Release Date	TBA
Developer/s	Square Enix
Genre	JRPG
Platforms	TBA

Dragon Quest 12 is an intriguing one. Ever since its announcement in 2021, Square Enix has remained tight-lipped about the highly anticipated next installment in the iconic JRPG series. The impact and popularity of Dragon Quest cannot be underestimated, particularly in its home country of Japan where it has become a cultural phenomenon. While there was a significant lull in releases following Dragon Quest 8, the previous mainline title, Dragon Quest 11, enjoyed immense success in Western countries, propelling the franchise to new international heights after a considerable hiatus. Thanks to the triumph of its predecessor, Dragon Quest 12 is poised to become one of the most significant releases in the franchise's history outside of Japan.

Perhaps, Square Enix announced DQ12's existence a bit prematurely or simply wanted to gauge the public's interest in a sequel; whatever the reason, the post-reveal silence has lasted slightly too long. Hopefully, the publisher expands on the game's development at some point in the near future as the gaming world is ready for a new mainline Dragon Quest adventure.

The New Witcher Saga (Polaris)

The prolonged silence following Square Enix's announcement of DQ12's existence has left fans wondering about the reasons behind this early revelation and piqued their interest in the sequel. However, it is high time that the publisher sheds light on the progress of the game's development, as the gaming community eagerly anticipates embarking on a new and exciting adventure in the beloved Dragon Quest series.

Release Date	TBA
Developer/s	CD Projekt Red
Genre	RPG
Platforms	TBA

The Witcher 3 is undeniably one of the greatest RPGs ever made, regardless of personal opinion. For a while, it appeared that the 2015 release would be the final installment in CD Projekt Red's franchise. However, in 2022, the developer surprised fans by announcing several new Witcher projects. In addition to a remake of the original 2007 game, CD Projekt Red revealed that a new saga is currently being developed. Although details are scarce, the studio has confirmed that these new games will be built using Unreal Engine 5.