Exploring the Depths of RPGs: First Person and Third Person RPGs with Rich RPG Elements

For fans of role-playing games (RPGs), the quest for a deep, immersive experience can sometimes feel like searching for the Holy Grail. Are there first-person or third-person RPGs that rival the deep RPG elements found in classic isometric/computer RPGs like The Witcher 3 or Fallout New Vegas? In this article, we will explore some of the closest contenders and what makes these games stand out.

Isometric RPGs and Deeper RPG Elements

When it comes to RPGs, the isometric style generally offers a more substantial and nuanced experience with a rich array of RPG elements. Most other RPGs tend to present the illusion of choice and consequence, with your decisions more often influencing the flavor of the story rather than the ending itself. Some titles might have a major decision point at the end of the game, which significantly impacts the story.

Popular Isometric RPGs

Divinity: Original Sin 2Wasteland 3The Outer WorldsCyberpunk 2077GreedfallMass Effect Trilogy

Among these, titles like The Witcher 3 and Fallout New Vegas stand out as the closest matches to what you're looking for. They offer a deep and immersive experience with rich RPG elements, providing players with a wide range of choices and consequences that shape the game world.

After these, The Outer Worlds, Cyberpunk 2077, and Greedfall are considered the next in depth, but they tend to be more RPG-lite compared to titles like Divinity Original Sin 2 or Wasteland 3. These games provide significant choice and consequence, but they might not offer the same level of depth found in isometric RPGs.

Other Notable RPGs

There are other RPGs worth considering, which, although not isometric, are still deeply immersive and offer rich RPG elements. Let's explore a couple of notable games:

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Apart from the isometric perspective, The Witcher 3 is renowned for its deep storytelling, vast open world, and multiple choice options that profoundly affect the narrative and characters. Its deep RPG elements include branching dialogue trees, extensive character development, and a complex world with multiple factions and quests that interconnect in intricate ways.

Fallout New Vegas

Similarly, Fallout New Vegas is known for its sandbox approach, allowing players to explore the Mojave Wasteland in any manner they choose. The game offers numerous end-game choices that significantly influence the story and even the ending. Its extensive dialogue options, character customization, and rich world design make it a standout in the RPG genre.

Baroque: The Lost Memories

For those interested in first-person RPGs, Baroque: The Lost Memories is a unique title released in 1998 for the PS2, with a remastered version in 2007. True to Final Fantasy II’s form, story progression is achieved through death, offering a distinctive and immersive experience. While the PS1 version is a bit creepier, the PS2 remake has an appealing anime feel to its narrative and character design, making it a surprising and enjoyable first-person RPG.

Stalker Series

If you’re interested in third-person RPGs, the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series is highly recommended. These games are often cited as one of the RPGs that rival the depth of isometric RPGs. They offer a rich, immersive world filled with complex storylines, branching dialogues, and meaningful choices that significantly impact the gameplay.

Whether you prefer first-person or third-person perspectives, there are plenty of RPGs that can provide the depth and richness you seek. From isometric classics to first-person and third-person alternatives, there is a wealth of games that offer deep RPG elements and immersive experiences.