7 Forgotten Heroes In Classic Western RPGs

7 Forgotten Heroes In Classic Western RPGs

Key Takeaways

  • Western RPGs feature unique combat systems rooted in Western heroism and sword-and-sorcery themes. (93 characters)
  • The Exile, The Vault Dweller, and The Nameless One are iconic Western RPG protagonists with compelling storylines. (113 characters)
  • Games like Dragon’s Dogma and Neverwinter Nights offer immersive plots and exciting final battles. (87 characters)

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that these Western RPG protagonists have left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Each one of them has carried me through countless hours of adventure, mystery, and epic battles that have shaped the way I view video games today.


Over the years, numerous role-playing games have emerged that are often classified as ‘classic Western.’ These games were popularized before role-playing games gained traction in Asia, and it was only later that we started seeing more games with distinctly Asian themes and aesthetics.

An RPG set in the West typically emphasizes its interpretation of values like bravery and integrity. It frequently uses common tropes from sword and sorcery lore, which may be traced back to specific historical eras such as the Dark Ages. The game’s setting is designed to resonate with individuals who are well-versed in popular Western fantasy literature like “The Lord of the Rings,” providing an immediate sense of familiarity.

7 The Exile

Game: Knights Of The Old Republic 2: The Sith Lords

As a dedicated fan, I’d like to express my admiration for the epic saga of “Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic” (KOTOR) and its sequel, fondly referred to simply as KOTOR 2. These games are often hailed as some of the finest Western Role-Playing Games ever created, and rightfully so. The gameplay was robust, and the narrative was captivating and engaging. In KOTOR 2, you step into the role of The Exile, a Jedi Knight named Meetra Surik, who was exiled from the Jedi Order due to her actions during the Mandalorian Wars.

As The Exile, I embark on a cosmic journey across the galaxy, seeking to reestablish my connection with the Force. Throughout this adventure, I confront the errors of my past and, at pivotal points in the narrative, make crucial decisions that will shape the destiny of the Jedi Order as a whole.

6 The Vault Dweller

Game: Fallout

In the initial Fallout game, The Vault Dweller serves as the main character. Assigned from Vault 13, they venture into the desolate landscape known as the wasteland in search of a vital water chip. Although this task may seem straightforward, it consumes the entirety of the game to complete.

In your role as The Vault Dweller, you’ll journey through what was once California, a land now known as the wasteland. Along this trek, you’ll face obstacles and overcome them, while also finishing tasks along the way. During these journeys, you’ll encounter different factions, leading eventually to a showdown against the Master and his horde of mutants at the Master’s Cathedral.

5 The Nameless One

Game: Planescape: Torment

In the game “Planescape: Torment”, you assume the character of The Nameless One. This character is immortal but burdened with a curse – they must relive multiple lives, yet cannot recall past incarnations.

In simpler terms, The Unnamed Character ventures into the metropolis of Sigil, moving between various realms of reality, in an attempt to unveil their past mysteries and hidden secrets. Over time, they discover why they’ve been granted eternal life, leading them to embark on a journey to the Citadel of Regret, where they face their past head-on.

4 The Arisen

Game: Dragon’s Dogma

In the game titled “Dragon’s Dogma“, the player assumes the character of The Arisen, embarking on an adventure to pursue and defeat a dragon that ravaged their settlement. Their objectives involve slaying the dragon, recovering their stolen heart, and unraveling the mystery behind the dragon’s decision to spare their life.

In the game Dragon’s Dogma, the protagonist, The Arisen, traverses an expansive open-world map of Gransys. As they delve deeper into the game, they gradually unearth hidden truths and unravel mysteries about why they were the sole survivor of the dragon’s assault on the village. Throughout their journey, The Arisen engages in battles against various creatures, accomplishes tasks, and eventually faces off against the dragon within its lair.

3 The Inquisitor

Game: Dragon Age: Inquisition

In “Dragon Age: Inquisition,” players have the option to select The Inquisitor as their character to command. This individual serves as the head of the Inquisition, a group established with the aim of bringing peace and stability to Thedas.

The task assigned to The Inquisitor is sealing the massive rift known as the Breach, a boundary dividing our world from the Fade. To accomplish this, they need to thwart Corypheus, an ancient entity, in his schemes. Eventually, The Inquisitor will confront a decisive battle at the Temple of Mythai.

2 The Hero Of Neverwinter

Game: Neverwinter Nights

In this game that takes inspiration from Dungeons & Dragons, the central character is known as “The Hero of Neverwinter,” a role the player assumes control over. The primary storyline focuses on The Hero of Neverwinter’s efforts to protect the city of Neverwinter from the relentless spread of a deadly disease known as the wailing plague.

In the tale of Neverwinter, the central character embarks on a mission to track down elements essential for concocting an antidote against the rampant plague. Along their travels, they stumble upon a hidden plot, requiring them to gather specific historic relics. This quest eventually culminates in a confrontation with the cult’s mastermind atop the Arcane Tower of the Host.

1 The Exile

Game: Icewind Dale 2

  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Classic Mac OS
  • Released: August 27, 2002
  • Developer: Black Isle Studios
  • Genre: Role-playing Video Game

As The Exile, the player guides their band of explorers on a perilous journey across the Spine of the World. This mission becomes challenging due to frequent run-ins with dangerous creatures and the relentless pursuit of the Legion of the Chimera. The storyline is engaging and captivating as it progressively reveals its secrets.

While journeying through different lands, The Outcast uncovers a plan to attack the Ten Towns, and decides to prevent this invasion. This task eventually leads them to the Fortress of the Severed Hand, a massive stronghold where the final confrontation takes place between The Exile and their allies against the commander of the invading forces. This climactic battle is nothing less than spectacular in this strategy RPG set from above.

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2024-09-24 05:33