Today’sRPGlandscape is thriving with games likeBaldur’s Gate 3andElden Ring. But these blockbusters didn’t come out of nowhere, as they’re standing on the shoulders ofCRPGclassics that laid the groundwork.
However, many of those older games, and even some more recent ones, didn’t get the love they deserved. Whether they were too niche, ahead of their time, or just unlucky, these criminally underrated CRPGs are full of incredible stories, complex systems, and unforgettable worlds that inspiredthe best RPGs of all time.
10 Best RPGs for Beginners
Want to try a new genre? Ranging from classics to modern masterpieces, check out our top 10 best RPGs for beginners!
Although some of them are well-known among the staunch fans of the genre, the games in the list below are still far from achieving solid recognition. Without further ado, let’s attempt to change that!
Before Skyrim, There Was Gothic
Gothicis an unforgettable classic that has stood the test of time, but somehow, no one seems ever to give this game its due.
Its open-world design, NPC behavior, and gameplay formula made it a titan of the genre. Not to mention, its progression system was also great, as it made every small improvement feel earned.
Gothic games are some of the most immersive RPG games ever, too. The first title’s open-world design offers pure immersion thanks to NPCs who follow schedules and a world that reacts to your choices.
Thanks to those features, Gothic became a pioneer in immersive RPG design beforeThe Elder Scrollshit mainstream success. Although its clunky controls and difficulty curve turned off casual players, any CRPG fan will still find much to love about Gothic. Or they can also wait forGothic: Remake.
13Icewind Dale
Dungeon-crawling In The Frosty Wastes
Icewind Dale
Icewind Dalemight not fit the typical “underrated” mold, as it has a solid fanbase, but it’s still somewhat overshadowed by the bigger successes of its time, likeBaldur’s GateandPlanescape Torment.
Known for its combat-focused gameplay, it ditches deep dialogue in favor of tactical party-building and dungeon-crawling.
Set in the harsh, frozen lands of the Forgotten Realms, it’s a great pick for players who love strategic battles and character customization.
While the story might be a bit straightforward, the immersive world and challenging combat make it a gem that deserves more recognition than it usually gets.
12Druidstone: The Secret of the Menhir Forest
Tactics, Treasure & Turn-Based Triumphs
June 09, 2025
Developers
Ctrl Alt Ninja
Despite being a labor of love from the creators ofLegend of Grimrock,Druidstone: The Secret of the Menhir Forestremains largely underrated.
This tactical, turn-based RPG blends modern RPG elements with the strategic depth of board games and allows you to guide a party of heroes through 35 challenging missions.
With a unique fantasy world, compelling characters, and a gripping story, Druidstone checks all the right boxes as a modern CRPG. It definitely deserves more attention for its tight gameplay and meaningful character upgrades, too.
11UnderRail
Major Old-School Fallout Vibes
UnderRailis another CRPG hidden gem that draws inspiration from games like Fallout and Arcanum. It’s a hardcore RPG that caters to fans of tough and strategic gameplay.
Its sprawling underground setting is also a fresh departure from the fantasy tropes of the genre.
While UnderRail’s difficulty curve is quite steep, and it doesn’t hold your hand, it’s still a brilliant take on the classic CRPG formula.
Despite having a loyal following among the RPG purists, it sadly never gained mainstream attention. If you’re itching for an old-school challenge, UnderRail is worth your time.
10Atom RPG
Fallout Goes Soviet
A love letter to Fallout 1 and 2,Atom RPGtransplants the post-apocalyptic formula into a Soviet-inspired setting. It’s filled with quirky characters, dark humor, and a gritty atmosphere that captures the hopelessness of its world.
While it takes inspirations from classics, Atom RPG also takes after the younger titans of the genre with its turn-based combat and open-ended quests.
Like a solid CRPG, it also offers plenty of replayability as well. If you’re tired of the same old wastelands, Atom RPG offers something fresh and distinctly Eastern European.
9The Age of Decadence
Diplomacy or Death
July 13, 2025
Iron Tower Studio
Set in a post-apocalyptic Roman-inspired world,The Age of Decadenceprioritizes choice and consequence over combat.
In fact, you can finish the game without fighting at all. This 2015 indie also offers branching storylines and intricate political intrigue to create a uniquely replayable experience, which is one of the most vital aspects of an RPG.
While the learning curve is quite serious, and the difficulty might scare off casual players, The Age of Decadence is one of the most reactive and challenging RPGs out there.
But I think it’s criminally overlooked, even among hardcore fans of the genre.
8Dungeons & Dragons: Ravenloft Series
Vampires, Curses, and Classic DnD
August 07, 2025
Ctrl Alt Ninja Ltd.
Dungeons & Dragons: Ravenloft Seriescaptures the eerie magic of its gothic horror setting and offers a darker take on D&D adventures.
Games like Strahd’s Possession and Stone Prophet immerse players in a world of vampires, haunted castles, and cursed lands.
While clunky by modern standards, the atmosphere and faithful adaptation of the Ravenloft setting make these games worth exploring.
However, their obscurity, even among D&D fans is baffling, especially when considering the quality of the storytelling and world design.
7Heroine’s Quest: The Herald of Ragnarok
A Norse RPG Epic
July 27, 2025
Crystal Shard
Alongside being an underrated CRPG gem,Heroine’s Quest: The Herald of Ragnarokis also a passion project that blends Norse mythology with the old-school RPG formula.
This brilliant indie title channels the spirit of classics like Quest for Glory and offers puzzle-solving, combat, and exploration in a beautifully retro package.
Despite being free-to-play, it’s still under-the-radar to many. This game is a must-try if you’re a fan of mythological storytelling and old-school design.
6Betrayal at Krondor
Old School Charm
August 09, 2025
An overlooked gem in the CRPG genre,Betrayal at Krondorfeels like a chapter-based epic fantasy novel with rich characters and a sprawling world.
Probably because it’s based on Raymond E. Feist’s Riftwar Saga, and it offers an unforgettable narrative-driven experience.
Although it has been more than three decades, Betrayal at Krondor remains an unforgettable classic that stood against the test of time with its storytelling.
That said, even though it’s turn-based combat and first-person exploration were groundbreaking back in 1990s, they might be too ancient for a CRPG newcomer today.
Still, Betrayer at Krondor is an underrated CRPG that brilliantly showcases a glorious period of the genre’s history.
5The Temple of Elemental Evil
D&D Mechanics Done (Mostly) Right
July 19, 2025
Troika Games
A buggy launch and lack of polish doomedThe Temple of Elemental Evil, but under the surface lies a brilliant cRPG and one of thebest D&D gamesever.
Its turn-based combat system is one of the most faithful adaptations of D&D mechanics ever created, and it still delivers today with its depth and tactical challenge.
The story, on the other hand, is based on the classic module, a straightforward but well-told tale of adventurers battling evil forces.
With fan patches, it becomes a must-play for D&D fans and strategy enthusiasts. It’s tragic how such a faithful adaptation became a forgotten gem, though.
