The Ultimate List of the Best Turned Based RPG Games to Play in 2025

Every year, I get asked which games are really worth your time, and with 2025 shaping up to be a huge year for turn-based RPGs, I figured it was time to put together my own list. Whether you love old-school classics, new indie surprises, or just want to see what’s changing in the genre, there’s something here for everyone. I’ve picked out the best turned based RPG games that stand out for their strategy, stories, and fresh ideas. If you’re ready to plan your next big adventure, let’s get into it.

Key Takeaways

• Turn-based RPGs are making a strong comeback in 2025, mixing classic strategy with new twists.
• Games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Sea of Stars show how combat can be both smart and exciting.
• Remakes such as Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters and Suikoden 1&2 Remaster bring old favorites to a new generation.
• Indie games like Undertale and Chained Echoes prove that smaller studios can deliver unforgettable stories and gameplay.
• Upcoming releases and fresh ideas, like real-time elements and deeper player choices, keep the genre feeling new.

Defining Features of the Best Turned Based RPG Games

Understanding what makes a turned based RPG truly stand out is important for anyone who wants the best experience. These games often offer layers of complexity, but their appeal goes beyond just the surface tactics. Let’s break down what sets the top titles apart in 2025.

Strategic Combat Systems That Stand Out

Turned based RPGs rely on tactical decision-making that lets players control every step of a battle. Instead of simply pressing buttons quickly, you need to think turns ahead and make meaningful choices. The best examples mix old mechanics with new ideas, blending:

• Distinct combat roles for each character (healer, damage dealer, support, etc.)
• Environmental factors (terrain, weather, or hazards) that influence outcomes
• Unique skills or special moves that shift the battle in unexpected ways

Sometimes developers bring in real-time elements—like timing your blocks for bonus defense or quick button presses for bigger attacks—to keep every turn engaging.

The most engaging combat systems are those that make every decision feel like it could swing the battle, no matter how small.

Deep Storytelling and World-Building

One of the strengths of the genre is the focus on expansive stories and memorable worlds. Because the pace is slower, there’s more space for character growth and rich lore. Top-tier turned based RPGs in 2025 often provide:

1. Well-written party members with their own arcs
2. Large, coherent worlds full of history, politics, and mystery
3. Big choices that impact the story’s direction, sometimes leading to different endings

Many fans stick with these games not just for the gameplay loop, but because they become invested in what happens to the characters and the worlds they explore.

Balancing Innovation With Tradition

The challenge for modern RPGs is updating the formula without losing what made classics great. There’s a sweet spot between nostalgia and new ideas:

• Keeping the turn-based format, but adding clever twists (like simultaneous actions or combo attacks)
• Updating visuals and sound to feel current, while keeping that old magic
• Integrating puzzles or exploration between fights for more variety

Sticking too closely to the old ways can feel stale, but throwing out tradition can lose what fans love most. The best games find a way to respect both.

Ultimately, today’s standout turned based RPGs owe their strength to careful game systems, strong writing, and just enough new ideas to keep the genre fresh for another year.

Modern Classics: Must-Play Turned Based RPGs in 2025

You can’t talk about turn-based RPGs in 2025 without noticing how the genre has made a massive comeback. Some of the best games released lately don’t just stick to old traditions—they add smart changes that keep things fresh. Below are three modern titles you should absolutely check out.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s Dynamic Approach

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is at the front of the pack for 2025, making a big impression with its flashy art direction and combat. This game doesn’t just go with the flow; it shakes things up by introducing real-time commands you need to nail during fights. This little twist means success isn’t just about picking the right skill, but also getting your timing right.

Key features include:

• Fast-paced, reactive turn-based combat with interactive moments
• A mysterious story filled with layered worldbuilding
• A memorable and growing cast

Players can expect every combat encounter to require as much focus as puzzle-solving, keeping tension high and making every choice matter.

Sea of Stars and the Puzzle-Combat Hybrid

Sea of Stars keeps its roots in classic RPG feels, but it goes beyond simple attack and defend. What stands out is its attempt to blend puzzles right into the combat itself. Instead of zoning out and tapping the same command, you’ll have to:

1. Use timing-based skills for extra damage or defense
2. Solve environmental puzzles that impact combat and exploration
3. Coordinate abilities across party members to create combos

If you’re looking for an RPG where you need to stay sharp both inside and outside of battle, Sea of Stars fills that spot.

Octopath Traveler II’s Multilayered Narratives

Octopath Traveler II manages to improve almost everything fans loved about the first game, particularly with its branching stories. Instead of forcing all characters onto a single path, it lets their stories merge—and sometimes head in surprising directions. Players are encouraged to pick their favorite party and chase down storylines in any order.

What makes it unique:

• Eight different heroes, each with separate backgrounds
• Interconnected story arcs leading to shared climaxes
• Strong visual style mixing modern and retro sensibilities

The freedom to explore the world on your terms gives Octopath Traveler II endless replay value, appealing to those who favor storytelling and character growth just as much as strategic battles.

In 2025, these modern classics prove turn-based RPGs can be just as inventive and rewarding now as they were in previous generations.

Remakes and Revivals Bringing Timeless RPGs to New Audiences

The current wave of remakes and revivals is doing more than just feeding nostalgia—it’s bringing classic turn-based RPG experiences to a brand new, wider audience. These reimagined and remastered titles update decades-old mechanics, art, and sound to modern standards, sometimes improving accessibility along the way.

Players who missed these RPG gems the first time around now have refined new ways to enjoy them without dealing with dated design or technical quirks. Even longtime fans are discovering surprises, as these polished returns often include quality-of-life updates, new content, and even story tweaks. If you’re a fan of the genre or just want to see why older games matter in 2025, these releases should top your list.

Old-school RPGs aren’t just making a comeback—they’re stepping into the spotlight, showing that strong storytelling and strategic gameplay don’t have an expiration date.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters: Honoring the Classics

The Pixel Remaster series takes the first six entries in the iconic Final Fantasy series and brings them all together with beautifully refreshed pixel art, enhanced music, and a handful of practical improvements.

Key features of these remasters:

• Updated graphics and sound while preserving the original spirit
• Faster progression thanks to added EXP and Gold boosts
• User-friendly settings (such as toggling random encounters)
• All mainline stories before Final Fantasy VII, bundled and easy to access

Suikoden 1&2 Remaster: A Nostalgic Journey

Konami’s remastered package brings two cult-favorite PlayStation RPGs back, both praised for large casts of recruitable heroes and stories that mix war, betrayal, and hope. These versions introduce new portraits and quality-of-life updates, so they feel familiar but also easier to play.

Three things fans should expect with this Suikoden revival:

1. Sharper art and new character portraits that don’t clash with classic sprites
2. Modern menus and fast-forward options to speed up gameplay
3. The same massive party-building quests that made the originals stand out

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door’s Fresh Take

Nintendo’s classic Paper Mario entry stands out for its witty writing and unique paper-themed mechanics. The Switch remake brings subtle visuals upgrades and smoothed performance, keeping the game’s identity.

This updated version is more accessible for newcomers and smooths out some rough edges from the original GameCube release. The appeal lies not just in its humor, but in how its turn-based combat adds real-time action as a twist.

Why Remakes and Revivals Matter

• They keep beloved stories and characters alive for new players
• Old mechanics are improved, removing outdated frustrations
• Long-term fans get a chance to replay them without rose-tinted glasses—just solid game design

The best thing about these remakes and revivals: They prove that a good RPG doesn’t go out of style, it just waits for the right moment to return.

Indie Innovations in Turned Based RPG Experiences

Gone are the days when only big studios could shape RPG trends. Indie developers are stepping into the spotlight, delivering fresh interpretations of turned based mechanics that breathe life into the genre. By taking risks on unconventional systems and storytelling angles, these creators often find unique ways to leave a mark on players. Many of the most memorable RPG moments in the past few years come from indie titles that aren’t afraid to experiment.

Undertale’s Lasting Emotional Impact

• Undertale, launched by a solo developer, breaks the mold with its morality-driven choice system.
• Choices aren’t just cosmetic; they can change story events, character fates, and the gameplay itself.
• The game’s simple visuals hide surprisingly complex emotional storytelling—players often remember how their actions affected the outcome, not just the final boss fight.

Sometimes the simplest graphics and mechanics do the best job at connecting with us—Undertale proves it by making every decision feel personal and meaningful.

Across the Obelisk and Deck-Building Mechanics

• This game mixes RPG and deck-building for a hybrid experience—every turn requires strategy, not just quick reflexes.
• Players assemble parties, collect cards, and experiment with playstyles that constantly keep battles engaging.
• Multiplayer features add to the replay value, turning a solo genre into a cooperative adventure.

Chained Echoes and Retro-Inspired Adventures

• Chained Echoes offers a homage to classic 16-bit RPGs while refining old mechanics for a modern audience.
• Its narrative is layered, with unpredictable plot twists and a cast that avoids cookie-cutter tropes.
• Combat draws from the best of ’90s JRPGs but updates pacing and customization to suit today’s player expectations.

Key strengths found in indie turned based RPGs:

• Willingness to experiment with structure, letting choices matter
• Blended genres, like deck-building and strategy, for fresh gameplay
• Strong focus on characters and stories despite small budgets

Indie RPGs prove that inventive ideas still matter in a space often dominated by nostalgia and big names. With each new release, they manage to pull in fans of classic and modern gaming alike, proving there’s still plenty of uncharted territory left in the world of turned based role-playing games.

Emerging Trends in Turned Based RPG Game Design

As we move further into 2025, it’s very clear that turn based RPGs are shifting and growing. The slow pace and strategic depth everyone expects are still there, but developers are tweaking the formula in fresh ways to grab both hardcore fans and new players. Here are some of the most interesting trends you’ll find shaping the best games right now.

Real-Time Inputs Integrated Into Classic Systems

The old approach of static menu navigation is being mixed with action-oriented micro-interactions. Now, you might press a button to time your attacks for more damage, block at the last second, or trigger a unique skill during an enemy’s turn. These options make battles more engaging:

• Player skill is more important, not just character stats
• Keeps combat feeling lively without losing strategy
• Promotes replay, as players perfect their timing and methods

Some fans worried these additions would take away from strategy. Instead, well-designed real-time moments have actually made the slower format more tense and fun.

Narrative Complexity and Player Choice

Turn based RPGs now often feature branching storylines and detailed choices. This isn’t just about deciding who lives or dies; it’s about:

• Multiple paths that meaningfully change the world
• Dialogue that changes available quests or outcomes
• Moral dilemmas with no clear answer
• Ongoing consequences that ripple through the plot

Players get a sense of agency, and the story doesn’t always go the same way twice. This has turned RPGs into a playground for rich, replayable experiences.

Hybrid Approaches Blending Genres

Modern turn based RPGs are borrowing freely from other genres, leading to experiments that don’t always fit the usual box. Here’s what’s happening:

1. Puzzle mechanics are appearing in combat (think: matching gems, solving logic sequences)
2. Deck-building elements are working into party and skill management
3. Light or heavy roguelike runs with persistent progression
4. Even platforming sections blending into exploration between battles

All these shifts mean that a player in 2025 might encounter three or four different gameplay styles all inside a single RPG.

The way these genres are blending doesn’t just keep things interesting — it feels like a long-overdue update, making even classic-inspired games feel new again.

Upcoming Turned Based RPG Titles to Watch in 2025

2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for turn-based RPG fans. New games are coming from both legendary studios and exciting indie creators, and each one promises to bring something new or refine a classic formula. If good combat systems, smart storytelling, and innovation are what you’re after, here’s what should be on your radar for the rest of the year.

Mercenaries Lament: Requiem of the Silver Wolf

Mercenaries Lament gives a tactical spin with its isometric battles and focus on clever unit placement. The story centers on Johann, a mercenary facing a mysterious fate in a world troubled by plague. If you liked Final Fantasy Tactics, you’ll feel right at home, but there’s more emphasis on the dynamic between characters and the environment. It’s not just about stats—position matters, and every movement could turn the tide.

Key Features:

• Heavy focus on positioning for both offense and defense
• Bonus attacks for effective unit coordination
• Story with a ticking-clock mechanic driving the narrative

Avowed’s Promise in Expanding the Genre

Obsidian’s Avowed ventures into the Pillars of Eternity universe, but with a twist: you play as a Godlike, making choices and building your character in ways that shape the world around you. While the studio is known for RPGs with sprawling stories, Avowed looks set to bring in more player decision-making than ever.

• Branching paths and character-driven storylines
• Dynamic relationship systems between party members
• Mix of classic turn-based combat and modern RPG elements

Metaphor ReFantazio: A New Atlus Adventure

Atlus, creators of Persona and Shin Megami Tensei, brings Metaphor ReFantazio to the table. This game promises a blend of fantasy drama, monster battles, and life simulation—with a twist borrowed from their signature style. Expect psychological themes, layered world-building, and a combat system that rewards smart planning over twitch reflexes.

• Social mechanics reminiscent of Persona games
• Fantasy setting with political intrigue
• Engaging turn-based battles combined with day-to-day activity planning

New RPGs in 2025 are focusing just as much on building out their characters and worlds as they are on refining the nuts and bolts of battle. That’s likely to keep both fans of old-school mechanics and newcomers invested for the long run.

In summary, if you’re looking for something fresh in turn-based RPGs, these titles should be at the top of your to-play list this year.

Storytelling Excellence in Turned Based RPGs

Turned based RPG games have always found their strength in thoughtful storytelling. There’s something about the slower rhythm that gives players time to reflect and really get to know the characters. In 2025, these games still lean into powerful narratives, moral choices, and party bonds, making them more personal than ever. Every decision and bit of dialogue tends to matter, often steering the whole experience in unexpected ways.

Character-Driven Party Dynamics

A strong party is often at the heart of any memorable RPG. You spend dozens of hours with these characters—so their growth, quirks, and relationships turn into a big part of why you keep playing. Here’s what sets party dynamics apart in modern titles:

• Group banter happens right alongside battles, so you get insight into everyone’s motivations while fighting monsters.
• Choices you make in dialogue don’t just affect the story but can change how party members see you.
• Background stories are unlocked as you progress, rewarding curious players with more depth.

Connecting with a game’s cast can genuinely impact your attachment to the main story—sometimes you replay just to see all the possible group interactions.

Exploring Moral Dilemmas and Political Intrigue

It’s not just about defeating the villain. Many of the best new RPGs drag players into complex situations with no easy answers. You might face factions at war, personal loyalties split, or tough calls that can’t please everyone. Political plots introduce layers to the usual “save the world” arc and keep players on their toes.

Common themes in modern RPG storytelling:

1. Tough ethical choices—with no clear right or wrong.
2. Factions and alliances that shift based on player actions.
3. Unpredictable story turns influenced by party loyalty and politics.

Emotional Arcs and Personal Connections

The most remembered RPGs don’t just have plot twists—they give players emotional moments that stick long after the credits roll. Some games do this by focusing on loss and sacrifice, while others deal with family, belonging, or personal redemption. Every interaction, from small talk to confrontations, can feed into these arcs.

Key reasons emotional hooks work so well:

• They turn the main quest into a personal journey, not just a chore.
• Side stories help flesh out the world and make it feel alive.
• Players get to shape how characters handle grief, love, or betrayal.

In an age where most games try for speed and spectacle, RPGs prove that quiet, heartfelt storytelling will always have a place with players.

Conclusion

Turn-based RPGs have made a real comeback, and 2025 looks like a great year for fans of the genre. Whether you’re into classic tactical battles, deep stories, or just want to try something new, there’s a lot to choose from. The games on this list show how much variety and creativity developers are bringing to turn-based RPGs right now. Some titles focus on strategy, others on story, and a few manage to do both really well. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s probably something here that will catch your interest. If you’re new to turn-based RPGs or a longtime fan, 2025 is shaping up to be a good time to jump in. Keep an eye on updates and new releases—there’s always something exciting around the corner in this genre.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a turn-based RPG different from other RPGs?

Turn-based RPGs have battles where players and enemies take turns making moves. This is different from action RPGs, where everything happens in real time. In turn-based games, you have more time to think about your strategy.

Why are turn-based RPGs becoming popular again in 2025?

Turn-based RPGs are making a comeback because new games are mixing old ideas with fresh features. Players like the deeper stories, smart battle systems, and the chance to plan their next move. Many gamers also enjoy the feeling of nostalgia these games bring.

Can I enjoy turn-based RPGs if I’ve never played them before?

Yes, you can! Many new turn-based RPGs are easy for beginners to pick up. They often have tutorials and guides to help you learn. Plus, the slower pace gives you time to understand the game without feeling rushed.

What are some must-play turn-based RPGs in 2025?

Some of the most exciting turn-based RPGs to try in 2025 are Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Sea of Stars, Octopath Traveler II, and the remastered versions of classic games like Final Fantasy and Suikoden 1&2.

Are indie turn-based RPGs worth playing?

Definitely! Indie games like Undertale, Chained Echoes, and Across the Obelisk offer creative stories and unique gameplay. These games often try new ideas that bigger companies might not risk.

How important is the story in turn-based RPGs?

Story is a big part of turn-based RPGs. These games often have deep plots, interesting characters, and emotional moments. The slower pace lets the story develop more, so you can really get into the game’s world and care about what happens.