Best Games That Emulate The Feeling Of An Epic D&D Campaign

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Few can withstand the charm of a well-crafted and reliable game of Dungeons & Dragons. With an engaging DM at the helm, it offers one of the most liberating gaming journeys out there. For those less inclined towards traditional tabletop games, there are numerous excellent adaptations like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance available as well.

As a devoted Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast, I can’t help but share my passion for experiences that capture the essence of an extraordinary campaign with friends. Luckily, there’s a plethora of role-playing games (RPGs) across numerous platforms that deliver just that. For fellow D&D aficionados who yearn for more, here are some RPGs that I wholeheartedly recommend to quench your thirst for adventure!

Crimson Shroud

An Underrated 3DS Gem

The game titled “Crimson Shroud” was digitally launched on the 3DS in North America as part of a unique project by Level-5 named “Guild“. Unfortunately, it’s no longer available for purchase through the eShop. However, fans can still import it, which is great news for those interested. This game might be brief but offers an exciting journey with three playable characters venturing deep into a dungeon seeking adventure. The unique aspect of this game lies in the movement mechanics that involve small statues that move during exploration or combat, making it feel distinctly like a Dungeons & Dragons game. However, it offers much more than just that. Fans of “Final Fantasy Tactics” will particularly enjoy it as Yasumi Matsuno, the director of that game, played a significant role in designing “Crimson Shroud”.

Demeo

FULLY Immersive

For enthusiasts of Dungeons & Draggers and VR users, including PSVR owners, Demeo is an essential pick. Although not mandatory, it significantly boosts the gaming experience as players delve into dungeons from a bird’s-eye view. While these dungeons are short, they brim with monsters, traps, and loot. The narrator is present, but she doesn’t dwell excessively on an elaborate narrative. Instead, Demeo prioritizes its strategic card gameplay, which should cater well to many Dungeons & Dragons fans.

Dragon’s Crown

A 2D Detour

The game “Dragon’s Crown” doesn’t resemble a traditional tabletop game setting, but it captures the essence of “D&D”. This game by Vanillaware was influenced by Capcom’s 90s “Dungeons & Dragons” games such as “Tower of Doom” and “Shadow over Mystara”, and “Dragon’s Crown” incorporates several familiar fundamental elements. Players can select one of six characters, ranging from physical combatants to spellcasters.

As I delve into the depths of these digital dungeons, real-time battles ensue, with forking paths appearing after encounters with NPCs – moments that feel as if a Dungeon Master is steering the game. This setup invites players to replay the experience should they wish to explore alternative choices. Gathering up to four comrades, we can create our own unique D&D-inspired adventures together or brave the challenges on our own.

Hand Of Fate 2

Heart Of The Cards

Hand of Fate 2 can be described as a blend between a choose-your-own-adventure story and Dungeons & Dragons. In this game, a mysterious character serves as your guide, shaping your destiny towards either glory or destruction. Navigation is done by using cards to move around a table, where random encounters can lead to real-time combat with enemies. Apart from the action-packed battles, the game’s design maintains an engaging atmosphere due to the stranger’s eerie presence. While revealing too much might spoil the experience, it’s worth mentioning that Hand of Fate 2 offers more depth than meets the eye in this adventurous card game setting.

Knights Of Pen And Paper

Gather Round The DM

  • Developer: Behold Studios
  • Publishers: Paradox Interactive, Seaven Studio
  • Released: October 30, 2012
  • Platforms: Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One

Knights of Pen and Paper closely emulates traditional Dungeons & Dragons adventures, with a Game Master (GM) overseeing a group of characters seated in chairs. The narrative unfolds, moving from serene forests to fiery dungeons as the storyline evolves. It’s a turn-based RPG game that may seem straightforward but remains engaging and enjoyable. There are subsequent games such as Galaxy of Pen and Paper, set in sci-fi landscapes, each worth exploring. However, if you’re just starting out, I’d recommend diving into the original version of Knights of Pen and Paper, whichever edition suits your fancy.

Pillars of Eternity

A Baldur’s Gate Successor

Obsidian Entertainment developed one game within the D&D universe, namely Neverwinter Nights 2. However, Pillars of Eternity is more akin to a spiritual sequel to other D&D games such as Baldur’s Gate. This game takes place in a freshly created world called Eora. Players have the opportunity to create their character and embark on a leisurely journey, forming new companions as they progress through the storyline.

Initially requiring some time to immerse yourself, “Pillars of Eternity” evokes memories of classic PC role-playing games and Dungeons & Dragons. You’ll embark on exciting journeys to discover new territories, uncover hidden treasures or foes lurking in the shadows, and unravel a captivating narrative by making significant dialogue decisions.

Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands

Fantasy Guns

In essence, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands is an extension of the Borderlands series, initially stemming from downloadable content (DLC) for Borderlands 2, titled Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep. The game commences with Tiny Tina as a Dungeon Master introducing another tabletop RPG-like game called Bunkers and Badasses. Players are given the opportunity to select their character class before embarking on an adventure across a world map, venturing into dungeons that appear along the way. Although it maintains its shooter roots, this game offers a fantasy spin, allowing players to use enchanted crossbows to destroy skeletons and other fantastical creatures. Essentially, it combines two beloved genres – fantasy and science-fiction – and Tiny Tina adds humor to her role as the Dungeon Master.

Voice of Cards: The Isle Dragon Roars

Choose Your Fate

Voice of Cards: The Isle Dragon Roars” is the first installment in the series, followed by two more, each expanding the game’s world. It’s a card-based game like “Demeo” and “Hand of Fate 2”, but with its unique twist. Characters are represented by cards, whether they’re interacting with NPCs or engaged in combat. In turn-based battles, each party member takes turns to attack using cards. The gameboard is set up with face-down cards, and players navigate around them using what appears like a chess piece. Despite its modest design, the game is well-crafted, featuring many unexpected twists as you explore the game world.

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2025-09-05 10:35