Every Genre Of RPG Explained – Investment Policy

Summary

RPGs encompass diverse categories like ARPGs, TRPGs, and MMORPGs with unique gameplay styles and mechanics.
JRPGs and WRPGs differ in storytelling, character development, and gameplay design, catering to various player preferences.
Action RPGs offer fast-paced combat, while turn-based RPGs provide sequential gameplay with strategic elements for deeper challenges.

Among different game categories, Role-Playing Games (RPGs) stand out as one of the most widely appreciated, versatile, and enduring genres within the gaming industry. They offer a mix of rapid, action-filled gameplay and strategic mechanics that cater to a variety of playstyles. In other words, RPGs provide an extensive array of choices to suit any gamer’s preferences.

Most role-playing games (RPGs) have common fundamental ideas typical of the genre, yet there’s a vast array of categories and subcategories within RPGs, each with unique designs and gameplay features that make them distinct. This can make it quite perplexing for newcomers to the genre as they navigate through its diverse offerings.

1. JRPG vs. WRPG

Regional RPG Differences

Initially, it’s important to note that there are two primary styles when it comes to role-playing games: Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) and Western Role-Playing Games (WRPGs). Despite sharing a common structure based on the typical RPG design, they have distinctive differences in their game designs.

JRPGs (Japanese Role-Playing Games) are known for their origin in Japan and emphasize storytelling and character development with an emotional element woven into both. They often follow a somewhat linear narrative. On the other hand, WRPGs (Western Role-Playing Games) provide a more flexible experience, allowing players to shape their own adventures according to their choices.

Each approach has its own charm and neither is inherently superior to the other. It ultimately boils down to the player’s individual taste regarding which style resonates more with them. The two genres of Role Playing Games can exhibit significant differences in gameplay mechanics, aspects that will be delved into further in the following sections.

Examples:

JRPGs: Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Persona

WRPGs: The Elder Scrolls, Dragon Age, Ultima

2. Action RPGs (ARPG)

Fast-Paced, Action-Packed Combat

Action role-playing games may not be the oldest subgenre, but they are certainly among the most prevalent in today’s gaming landscape. Many prominent RPG titles lean towards an action-oriented approach.

Action Role-Playing Games (ARPGs) are generally perceived as easier to grasp and master their mechanics compared to other RPG types, depending on the specific game. Many of them offer fast-paced, real-time combat that can involve linking attacks together for combos or even a more straightforward button-mashing, hack-and-slash experience. ARPGs are often accessible and easy to start playing due to their straightforward nature, except for certain exceptions such as Soulslike games, which can be quite challenging.

Examples: The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, Elden Ring, Mass Effect 3

3. Turn-Based RPGs

Sequential Gameplay With A Variety Of Options

Belonging to the genre of turn-based role-playing games, the title might appear straightforward at first glance. However, within this category, the subgenre can encompass a broad range of formulas, from the mechanics of gameplay to the level of challenge.

In essence, the game’s main confrontations involve a back-and-forth between players and opponents, while the majority of exploration takes place in real-time within what could be likened to a vast open world. Over time, various adaptations of this format have emerged, with some allowing for an unlimited number of turns, others requiring a pause between moves or actions, and still others employing a system where actions are determined by the character’s readiness rather than strict turn-taking. For instance, early instalments of the Final Fantasy series embodied pure turn-based combat, where turns are taken in sequence without a time limit. Yet, the franchise has also adopted an Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which takes into account character abilities and effects to determine turn order and timing.

Examples: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Persona 5, Paper Mario

4. Tactical RPGs (TRPG)

Slow & Strategic Battles

Instead of strategic role-playing games often resembling their predecessors by incorporating turn-based battles, they might captivate those seeking a tougher experience due to their complex mechanisms.

In contrast to turn-based RPGs that mainly emphasize combat and character abilities, Tactical Role-Playing Games (TRPGs) incorporate the strategic placement of units, which significantly impacts battle outcomes. This subgenre often shares mechanics but with variations, particularly when it comes to difficulty. Some games offer simple and newcomer-friendly mechanics, while others prioritize complex unit management, leading to challenging gameplay experiences overall. It’s worth noting that TRPGs aren’t strictly turn-based; titles such as “Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun” and “Commandos” feature real-time gameplay.

Examples: XCOM 2, Final Fantasy Tactics, Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun

5. Computer RPGs (CRPG)

The Classic Roleplaying Experience

Computer role-playing games (CRPGs) are often used to describe video games with a similar style and mechanics as classic role-playing games from the 1990s and early 2000s on PC. These games, due to their resemblance to older RPGs, are sometimes referred to as “Traditional RPGs.

Traditional Computer Role-Playing Games (CRPGs) often used a turn-based system viewed from an isometric or overhead angle, yet this style isn’t the only one found in this genre. Notable CRPGs from the 90s, including titles like Ultima, Icewind Dale, and Jagged Alliance, feature turn-based combat, while others, such as Diablo, System Shock 2, or Daggerfall, offer real-time action-based fighting. What sets these CRPGs apart is their emphasis on character building and skills, which play a far more significant role in combat and interactions than in other RPGs.

Examples: Baldur’s Gate 3, Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, Planescape: Torment

6. Massively Multiplayer Online RPGs (MMORPG)

Bringing The RPG Experience Online With Thousands Of Other Players

In the broader category of role-playing games, Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMO-RPGs) are among the most widely played titles. Some of these MMOs still attract a massive number of players – up to tens of millions – worldwide, even after many years.

Fundamentally, Multiplayer Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) have retained their essence, which is the online aspect. Over the decades, numerous MMOs have sprung up, resulting in a rich tapestry of diverse gaming experiences. For instance, from the medieval fantasy realm of Gielinor in Runescape, to the futuristic space-exploration of New Eden in EVE Online. Besides variety, MMORPGs are packed with a plethora of content to discover, as many of these games continue to grow steadily with regular updates.

Examples: Runescape, World of Warcraft, Elder Scrolls Online

7. Roguelike / Roguelite RPGs

Hardcore RPGs With Little In The Way Of Hand-Holding

In terms of Roguelike and Roguelite role-playing games, they share some key commonalities. For instance, both genres frequently utilize randomly generated stages, and they often demand a decent level of practice and skill – which can be more demanding than what’s typically required in traditional RPGs.

Traditional “Roguelike” games often centered around exploring dungeons with a grid system for movement, where each level was randomly generated. These games frequently included permadeath, making the gameplay more challenging. On the other hand, the “Roguelite” genre, though similar in nature, usually offers additional features and more forgiving mechanics, such as allowing progression between playthroughs to make the experience less daunting for players.

Examples: Hades, Dead Cells, Mystery Dungeon Series

2025-08-20 05:35