Over the years, turn-based RPGs have taken a backseat to more real-time battle experiences. Despite this, the games that do utilize this mechanic can still hit pretty hard and even become critically acclaimed. It’s all about what can be added to spice up the flavor of the genre.
There are so many turn-based RPGs to choose from, each with its own distinct game mechanics. Some are gacha games that have you collecting characters, while others give you unlimited combat freedom despite being tied to having characters take turns before attacking each other. These are the best turn-based RPGs you can play on PC.
10 Baldur’s Gate 3
The Ultimate Turn-Based RPG
Baldur's Gate 3
Released August 3, 2023 Developer(s) Larian Studios Publisher(s) Larian Studios
Baldurs Gate 3 is the ultimate turn-based RPG. Every character has their own speed that determines the order they get to attack. Extra enemies can even join in at any time, which means you could suddenly become swarmed during battle.
Baldurs Gate 3 is also very flexible in how you tackle enemies and obstacles. Using the environment, your position, and your abilities, you can create your own battle strategies. You can even set up the field with buffs and obstacles for your enemies before starting a fight.
9 Honkai: Star Rail
Find Your Favorite Character
Honkai: Star Rail
Released April 26, 2023 Developer(s) HoYoverse (Formerly miHoYo) Publisher(s) HoYoverse (Formerly miHoYo)
Honkai: Star Rail has all the same character styles you love from Genshin Impact. This time, the gacha game takes the form of a sci-fi adventure set in space. Turn-based combat consists of attacking enemies, taking hits, and unleashing your ultimate move.
Each character has their own set of unique abilities and items that can be used to make them stronger. The game can be played on PC, but you can take it with you on mobile to make progress on the go.
8 TemTem
A Well-Made Pokemon Clone
Temtem
Released September 6, 2022 Developer(s) Crema Publisher(s) Humble Bundle
If you're looking for a Pokemon-like experience that you can play legally on PC, then look no further than TemTem. TemTem has all the good turn-based combat you love and over 100 creatures to collect and upgrade.
Customize your character and use cards to capture TemTems. Then, use them in exciting double battles to gain XP and progress through the story. You also don’t have to do it alone as there are constantly other players around you on their own journeys.
7 Persona 3 Reload
A Classic Remastered
Persona 3 Reload
Released February 2, 2024 Developer(s) P-Studio Publisher(s) Atlus
If you’re looking for a classic turn-based RPG with more than just a fresh coat of paint and some quality-of-life updates, check out Persona 3 Reload. It also includes elements found in games that came after the original launch.
You can control each character in your party individually as you deal with enemies. You can even wipe out everyone in a single hit if you set it up right. From classes to combat to socializing, the game raises the bar for turn-based RPGs.
6 Octopath Traveler 2
Eight Paths, Eight Characters
Octopath Traveler 2
Released February 24, 2023 Developer(s) Square Enix , Acquire Publisher(s) Square Enix
Octopath Traveler 2 blends 3D and 2D with a shadow box feel to its pixelated presentation. There are eight different characters and paths to choose from. Each one has its own distinct playstyle and stories that cross over with each other.
Each enemy has their own unique weaknesses to exploit, and you can discover, record, and utilize them in future battles. There is also a boost system that allows you to earn extra moves over time. Time both of these gameplay elements well if you want to get through the beautifully crafted narrative.
5 Yakuza: Like A Dragon
The Mundane Made Fantastical
Yakuza: Like A Dragon
Released November 10, 2020 Developer(s) Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio Publisher(s) Sega
Like a Dragon is a silly adventure that takes comedy to absurd levels. Rather than be set in a fantasy realm, it treats the mundane as magical, such as using a cell phone to summon other characters to help you or pulling out a chicken to produce eggs.
One of the most iconic aspects of the game are the special summon animations for characters that come in to lend a hand during a fight. New characters will become available for summons by completing side quests which are just as wacky as the animations themselves.
4 Sea Of Stars
Breathtaking Retro Graphics
Sea of Stars
Released August 29, 2023 Developer(s) Sabotage Publisher(s) Sabotage
If you want a game that captures the true feeling of one of the classic turn-based RPGs, then Sea of Stars has the look and gameplay to satisfy you. You can interact during combat by pressing the right buttons at the right time, resulting in you blocking or buffing attacks.
You can also interrupt some enemy’s attacks, which makes the game more than just a button masher. You need to think ahead as you fight and explore in the world around you. There are even secret endings for you to find.
3 Wasteland 3
Nuclear Colorado Adventure
Wasteland 3
Released August 28, 2020 Developer(s) inXile entertainment Publisher(s) Deep Silver
Wasteland 3 will show you just how bad the post-apocalypse can get as you venture forth through the snow-ridden fields of Colorado. The element that ties everything from combat, recruitment, and story is your ability to make choices and see their effects unfold for better or worse.
In some cases, you can save a character that can join your squad, but later on down the road you might see civilians die because of it. Other times, you will become buddy buddy with a recruit only to later make them angry and have them turn on you.
2 Divinity: Original Sin 2
Mass Customization
Divinity: Original Sin 2
Released September 14, 2017 Developer(s) Larian Studios Publisher(s) Larian Studios
Divinity: Original Sin 2 offers plenty of flexibility for players who like to customize their characters and stats. If you want to jump right into the action, there are also premade characters you can choose to get the ball rolling. You can play with up to four party members, or you can even play with friends.
While the combat is turn-based, it takes a twist with an action point system. This means you can perform as many actions during your turn as you have points. Afterward, it’s the enemies' turn to make choices.
1 Dragon Quest 11
Entry-Level JRPG
Dragon Quest 11
Released September 4, 2018 Developer(s) Square Enix Publisher(s) Square Enix
If you’re looking for a perfect entry point to JRPGs, then Dragon Quest 11 is the turn-based RPG to play. The game is not as complex as other JRPGs, but features plenty of staples from the genre, such as skill trees, distinct party members, and colorful monsters to bash for XP.
You can also utilize Pep to perform special combo moves depending on which characters are currently in your party. This makes getting to know each character and mastering their individual skills a blast.
