RPGs That Get Better the Second Time Around—You Won’t Believe Which Ones!

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Summary

  • RPGs offer endless replayability due to unique quests, character perspectives, and multiple endings.
  • Games like Nier: Automata and Undertale provide multiple story paths and endings for players to discover.
  • Customizable RPGs like Cyberpunk 2077 and Fallout: New Vegas reward exploration and multiple playthroughs.

In simpler terms, games that allow customization, particularly role-playing games (RPGs), often offer a high level of replayability due to their flexible story structure. Since each play session can lead to unique experiences, these games remain fresh and engaging even after multiple plays.

Automata and Undertale!)

1. Nier: Automata

Ending (A) Is Just The (B)eginning

To provide a fresh take, the game Automata switches things up after completion, shifting the focus from lead character 2B to supporting character 9S. While the overall narrative in route B remains consistent, playing as 9S alters the gameplay dynamics and his perspective offers a distinct take on the story’s events, presenting a completely different viewpoint compared to 2B’s.

After moving forward, there are yet three more conclusions left for dedicated gamers to savor revisiting. The shocking Ending C introduces fresh content and characters, serving as a pivotal milestone in the game, until the genuine ending, Ending E, is unlocked. Yet, enthusiastic players have the opportunity to unearth bonus endings labeled F-Z if they so choose.

2. Dragon Age: Origins

Choose Your Story

In contrast to later Dragon Age games, what makes Origins stand out is its unique origin system. Players aren’t just limited to picking among human, elf, or dwarf characters; they also get to select from six different background stories that correspond with their character’s race and class.

While other systems may have attempted to replicate it, none have achieved the same level of success or scope as Origins. Each origin serves as a two-hour long prequel to the subsequent story, and the choices made during these initial hours often intersect with the main narrative. This ensures that players will experience at least six unique playthroughs.

3. Undertale

The Game That Ends Thrice

Toby Fox utilizes traditional elements of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPGs) to subtly guide players towards achieving the Pacifist conclusion after completing the Neutral path. Generally, players would feel content with the “True Ending” that many RPGs offer, which typically wraps up all loose ends.

Yet, Toby Fox masterfully delivers a dual surprise. A conclusion exists beyond the Pacifist ending, serving as a critique of player autonomy, multiple story paths, and game-related violence. This hidden finale features an unforgettable final boss that has become synonymous with gaming culture. The creator is not explicitly mentioned because he’s already widely recognized!

4. Fallout: New Vegas

War Never Changes, But Fallout Does

To the present day, the video game “Fallout: New Vegas” remains one of the most open-ended Role Playing Games (RPGs) ever developed, with “Baldur’s Gate 3” being its closest rival. Any fan of RPGs understands why this game is so engaging and replayable. Characters can be tailored to individual preferences, there are numerous factions to align or oppose, the quest design encourages creativity, and the world responds dynamically to player actions, showcasing the exceptional talent of developers at Obsidian Entertainment for “Fallout: New Vegas“.

The game offers rewards for delving into its narrative and exploring its fictional universe. As you accumulate more information about this imaginary world, your experience improves. Remarkably, the main storyline is designed with flexibility, enabling players to bypass tutorials or even significant portions of the game if they prefer. This feature caters to seasoned players who can skip over early-game tasks.

5. Disco Elysium

Choose Your Copotype

Disco Elysium provides an exceptional form of gameplay variety by incorporating it into the dialogue itself. For instance, if your character has developed physical skills, you may hear suggestions in the narrative that nudge you towards a physical approach to solving problems. On the other hand, if your character is more intellectually inclined, you’ll encounter more guidance leaning towards a mental solution to the detective’s challenges. Each playthrough will offer a unique experience due to these differences.

Another strong point about it is its simplicity. The writing is so engaging that players may find themselves eagerly replaying it, looking for any new dialogue line. During their replay, they might also consider altering the amnesiac detective’s skill set, thought processes, and potentially even his name.

6. Mass Effect Trilogy

Paragon Or Renegade?

On a second playthrough of the Mass Effect Trilogy, the impact of the paragon/renegade dichotomy becomes more profound because instead of numerous small choices, players can choose between two extreme paths: paragon or renegade. The game’s skill system reinforces this choice, requiring players to fully embrace one side, resulting in characters who are typically either completely paragon or completely renegade.

Though these types of decisions have faced criticism, it’s clear that playing as a paragon versus a renegade offers a unique experience. When going through the game again, players may find it interesting to experiment with choosing the opposite gender for their character, and perhaps even opt for a different romantic interest.

7. Cyberpunk 2077

The Game That Was Saved In The Edit

Although Cyberpunk 2077 does offer an extensively customizable combat system, origin system, and a variety of choices, these elements are not entirely unique to the game as other RPGs have also incorporated similar features. However, what sets it apart is its deeply engaging redemption storyline.

If you’re one of the many who dived back into the neon-lit streets of Night City after its rocky 2020 debut and again with the rollout of Phantom Liberty in 2023, there’s no denying that Cyberpunk 2077 shines brighter on the second go. Over the three-year span, it underwent a metamorphosis, shedding its initial bugs, finding harmony in its combat mechanics, and sprouting fresh content like a cybernetic bloom.

Cyberpunk 2077 stands as a living testament to both the pinnacle and pitfalls of gaming masterpieces, stirring up profound questions about artistic evolution. Today, it’s often hailed alongside New Vegas as the cream of the RPG crop, but let’s not forget its bumpy start. When dissecting the medium, should we overlook these initial stumbles?

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2025-04-21 16:35