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Role-playing games have emerged as one of the most sought-after genres, with their emphasis on immersive storytelling and intense combat drawing in a large audience. Players are captivated by the option to either create their own unique character or step into the shoes of a predefined one, as they embark on an adventure through a vast world. Along the way, they interact with intriguing characters and engage in battles against formidable enemies who constantly challenge them.
One significant aspect of many hardcore RPGs is the incorporation of a class system, which dictates the skills, attributes, and weaknesses that players possess. While some games restrict players to rigid class options, others excel in providing the freedom to explore different playstyles, gently guiding players towards a particular path without imposing limitations. Ultimately, players are free to break away from these predefined paths if they so choose.
7 Dark Souls
The Dark Souls franchise is widely regarded as one of the greatest action RPGs to date. Its intricate combat system, immersive lore, and epic boss battles contribute to its immense popularity. However, for newcomers, the game can seem overwhelming, particularly when it comes to leveling up and understanding stat mechanics.
Complicating matters further is the requirement to choose a class without full knowledge of its mechanics. Fortunately, most players need not worry too much about this decision. Dark Souls enables players to invest in various stats regardless of their chosen build. Additionally, later games in the series even offer the option to reallocate character stats if players' preferences change.
6 Divinity: Original Sin 2
The recent rise in popularity of CRPGs has been an exciting sight, especially with Divinity: Original Sin 2 earning the reputation as the top contemporary game in this genre among many fans. The combat in this game is intense and strategic, where the armor stats, whether physical or magical, determine the most effective attacks for each character.
While players can choose specific classes to simplify their build in the short term, they also have the freedom to pursue different paths by learning new abilities and investing in alternative avenues. If players find this process somewhat bothersome, there is a solution: the Lady o' War possesses a mirror that allows for the respec of every recruitable character.
5 Final Fantasy 5
Final Fantasy 5 may have a limited storyline, but players readily overlook this drawback once they delve into the captivating job system of the game. At the beginning, players assume the role of a freelancer, but soon gain access to a plethora of jobs that can be assigned to any character at any time, marking a truly innovative feature.
Each job comes with its own set of levels that can be unlocked by earning sufficient ABP. Although it takes time, party members can gradually master the abilities associated with their jobs, permanently enhancing the Freelancer class. Consequently, this class evolves from being the weakest initially to becoming the most formidable job, as it grants access to the combined skills learned by Bartz and his companions throughout the game.
4 Bloodborne
Being part of the Soulsborne genre, it's understandable why Bloodborne offers a versatile class system. Players are able to select from a variety of backgrounds at the beginning, but the choices made initially don't have a significant impact in the long run as long as players are cautious and thoughtful about allocating their Blood Echoes later on.
Although players may initially create a character tailored for Strength weapons, they are not limited to this choice and can easily shift their focus towards other specialized builds or even opt for a balanced build known as a Quality build. It is this freedom in Bloodborne that allows players to confront the terrifying inhabitants of this eternal dream with relative ease.
3 The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim
Skyrim captivated the gaming world with its immersive open-world RPG experience, showcasing a vast and intricately designed environment that ignites the imagination. What made this game even more remarkable is the extensive mod support, which has allowed the game to remain engaging and relevant over time.
As players journey through the Nordic lands, they have the opportunity to develop their skills through hands-on experience. This straightforward and efficient approach enables them to easily shape their character's abilities. The flexibility of the Dragonborn's journey allows for dynamic and intriguing gameplay, where players can switch classes effortlessly to suit their desires.
2 Bravely Default
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Bravely Default embraces its classic roots, immersing players in a thrilling adventure where they start from humble origins and strive to eliminate menacing creatures plotting the annihilation of their world.
The game's job system offers remarkable flexibility, granting characters the freedom to choose any profession as long as they meet the necessary skill prerequisites. This, combined with the strategic combat mechanics, enriches the gameplay of Bravely Default, resulting in an immensely enjoyable experience.
1 Fallout: New Vegas
In Fallout: New Vegas, character builds play a significant role, greatly impacting a player's abilities and the skill checks they can succeed in. The choices made during each level-up directly determine the class of the player. This aspect of the game is what makes repeated playthroughs so enjoyable, as players can truly immerse themselves in a completely unique experience by investing in different skills each time.