RPGs With The Best Respec Systems

Summary

Many RPGs now offer respec systems to fix character build mistakes and experiment with playstyles.
Games like Cyberpunk, Baldur’s Gate, and Divinity offer respec options at different costs and in various scenarios.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard sets a player-friendly trend by allowing unlimited, free respecs directly from the Skills menu.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the convenience of respec systems in modern RPGs is a game-changer for me. I remember the days when I had to start from scratch every time I wanted to try out a new build or tweak my character’s abilities – it was frustrating and time-consuming.

Role-playing games (RPGs) are increasingly lengthy, which is generally beneficial, considering the rising cost of video games today. For countless gamers, the value received for their money is crucial. Nonetheless, this extended gameplay comes with its own set of drawbacks. Nothing is more disheartening for an RPG enthusiast than investing a dozen or so hours into a game they’re enjoying, only to discover that their character’s build isn’t optimal and there’s no way to adjust it later on.

In the ideal situation, this change makes the game less enjoyable for players because they’re compelled to play a character they no longer find appealing. At its worst, advancement becomes almost impossible due to an ineffective character build. This is why many games with excellent progression systems incorporate respec options. While it’s important for choices in RPGs to matter, nobody enjoys wasting their time. Here are some examples of RPGs with robust respec systems that recognize that most players have limited spare time.

1. Cyberpunk 2077

A Limited System That’s Better Than Nothing

Attribute Points can be reallocated once
Perks can be changed at any time, at no cost

The latest iteration of Cyberpunk 2077, contrasts significantly from the version released in 2020. Following a notoriously challenging debut, CD Projekt Red has put in considerable effort to regain gamers’ confidence, an achievement they accomplished with the 2.0 update. This update introduced numerous modifications, one of which was a long-awaited respec system – a feature essential for the game given the numerous changes it underwent.

In essence, Cyberpunk 2077 is considered one of the top open-world FPS games with an RPG core. Crafting a character that aligns with your gaming style is crucial. If players find themselves making mistakes early on, Cyberpunk offers just one opportunity to reallocate attribute points. Although it would be beneficial to have additional respec chances, perhaps by visiting a ripperdoc at a cost, having this single chance is preferable to none at all. Fortunately, the game is lenient when it comes to perk points, allowing players to modify them freely without consequences, offering some adaptability. Despite the limitations, the respec system maintains the significance of character-building choices and fosters a level of roleplaying.>

2. Baldur’s Gate 3

Rebuild Your Characters For A Small Fee

Players can respec their characters after rescuing Withers from the Dank Crypt
Each respec costs 100 gold

2023 saw Baldur’s Gate 3 as one of its standout games, an impressive feat given its accurate portrayal of some challenging Dungeons & Dragons elements. This is a Role-Playing Game (RPG) that spans over 100 hours, and if played improperly, can be quite harsh. The game’s RPG class system is one of the best, requiring careful consideration when developing your player character and companions, as it’s easy to make mistakes in the process.

In the grand tradition of role-playing games, Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a respec feature, which allows players to adjust their character builds. Early in the game, players can save an NPC named Withers from the Dank Crypt dungeon. Should they manage to rescue Withers, he can become a permanent fixture at the player’s camp and offer valuable services such as reviving fallen party members and respec-ing characters for a fee of 100 gold. Although this cost may seem substantial at the beginning, it becomes insignificant by the game’s later stages. This respec system strikes a delicate balance between encouraging thoughtful character development and providing players with the opportunity to rectify their choices or explore new strategies.

3. Elden Ring

Give Lucaria All Your Larval Tears

Players can respec after reaching the Academy of Raya and meeting Lucaria
Each respec costs one Larval Tear

The Soulsborne series by FromSoftware has consistently focused on refining a player’s character setup. These games can be incredibly challenging (for many), and if a mistake is made in building a character, it may necessitate extensive grinding to correct. Although Elden Ring does offer the ability to respec characters, players must complete certain tasks beforehand.

In Elden Ring, you can reallocate your character’s abilities or skills (respec) once you reach the Academy of Raya and converse with Lucaria. Each time you respec costs a Larval Tear, an item that is not abundant; there are only 18 in the base game and 9 in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. The Academy is situated deep within the game, so it may take most players several hours to find it. As Elden Ring is an open-world game promoting player autonomy, it needed a respec feature. While it might seem limiting at first, it aligns well with Elden Ring’s challenging nature and offers tenacious gamers multiple opportunities to redesign their character.

4. Divinity: Original Sin 2

The Magic Mirror Gives Unlimited Respecs

Find the Magic Mirror at either Fort Joy or The Lady o’ War after enabling Gift Bags in the menu
The Magic Mirror is free to use and offers unlimited respecs

Prior to gaining renown for Baldur’s Gate 3, Larian Studios was primarily recognized for Divinity: Original Sin 2, another highly acclaimed CRPG. This game features one of the most flexible character respec systems found in any RPG. To activate this feature, players simply need to enable Gift Bags (a type of developer-sanctioned mod) from the game’s menu and then interact with a Magic Mirror.

In the games “Divinity: Original Sin 2”, you’ll discover these mirrors first in Fort Joy during Act 1, and then later on The Lady o’ War. Using these mirrors allows players to completely redesign their character, transforming a melee warrior into a magical Wizard if desired. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those new to CRPGs as it helps ease the challenge presented by the game, especially since “Divinity: Original Sin 2” can be quite tough.

5. Mass Effect 3 / Andromeda

Respec-ing Is As Easy As Visiting The Med-Bay

The player character and companions can be respec-ed using a terminal in their ship’s med-bay
The first respec comes with a discount but they become progressively more expensive

In the Mass Effect series, character customization wasn’t always readily available. For instance, in the original Mass Effect, there was no built-in method for this, and you had to edit save files manually. In Mass Effect 2, it became possible by reaching a specific stage in the storyline and purchasing an upgrade. Fortunately, character respecing was made more accessible in Mass Effect 3 and Andromeda. In these two games, all you need to do is step foot in the med-bay on your ship and use a terminal to modify Shepard, Ryder, or any selected companion’s skills between missions.

Although there’s a price to pay for it, the initial respec comes with a generous discount, but further respecs will progressively get more expensive. The appeal of the Mass Effect games lies in their high replay value, and it’s advantageous that altering one’s gameplay style doesn’t necessitate starting from scratch again. Given the advanced technology and rich backstory of the Mass Effect universe, it’s logical that characters can modify their abilities instantaneously.

6. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Respec Geralt With A Costly Potion Of Clearance

Use a Potion of Clearance to reset Geralt’s ability points
Potions can be bought from certain merchants for 1,000 Crowns or looted after reaching level 30
Receive one free Potion of Clearance when starting New Game +

In The Witcher 3, personalizing Geralt’s gameplay involves choosing the optimal skill set by allocating ability points wisely. However, since the game is extensive, repeatedly using the same skills for numerous hours may become repetitive. Fortunately, CD Projekt Red thoughtfully included an in-lore method to rejuvenate Geralt, allowing for a fresh start.

In the realm of Witcher folklore, concocting and consuming potions plays a significant role, and to refine Geralt, the player simply requires a Potion of Clearing. These elixirs are priced at 1,000 Crowns (not an insignificant amount), but once you’ve advanced to level 30, they can also be discovered in chests as extremely rare treasures. While this cost may appear burdensome initially, it serves to prevent exploitation of the system. By the time a player has likely grown tired of their chosen build, 1,000 Crowns should not represent a substantial hurdle.

7. Kingdoms Of Amalur: Re-Reckoning

Visit A Fateweaver And Spend Some Gold

Visit a Fateweaver in any of the game’s major cities
Respecs get progressively more expensive based on the player’s level and the number of respecs already purchased

Back in 2012, the game Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning created quite a stir, but unfortunately, it didn’t maintain its popularity. It’s regrettable because this role-playing game offered exceptional combat and a wealth of opportunities to customize your ideal warrior. The narrative focused on altering destiny, which was fittingly reflected in the ability for the player character to be re-specialized using an NPC named Fateweaver.

In most significant cities within the game, there existed an option. For a gradually increasing cost that escalated with each character reallocation, or ‘respec’, one could reset all their skill and talent points. Although the game wasn’t overly challenging, this feature allowed for exploration of various playstyles and enabled the use of advanced equipment previously unavailable to the character. In 2012, respec systems in RPGs were scarcely found, but the user-friendly system of Kingdom of Amalur was ahead of its time, and even today, developers are still working towards matching its convenience.

8. Fallout 76

Uses A Controversial Card-Based System

Perk Cards can be swapped in and out at will
Use Perk Card Machines to pre-make perk loadouts and experiment with builds

Over the past few years, the game “Fallout 76” has experienced one of the most remarkable comebacks in the gaming world. Initially, its launch was met with significant criticism, but subsequent updates have significantly improved almost every aspect of its gameplay. A game that was once a contentious addition to the series is now among the most played. However, certain elements remain relatively unchanged. For instance, respec-ing perks and S.P.E.C.I.A.L. traits were not an option in “Fallout” games previously, but “Fallout 76” has always employed a perk card-based system instead.

At first, not everyone appreciated this gaming system because they felt it simplified too much the RPG elements already struggling in Fallout. However, considering Fallout 76 is an MMORPG, its system works effectively. As players progress through the game primarily by leveling up, they gain access to perk cards which can be enhanced if duplicates are available, traded, or used. These cards can be freely swapped in and out with no charges (apart from legendary perks), offering the player a chance to adapt their character on-the-go. The game promotes trying out different builds and Perk Card Machines can be utilized for creating customized setups. In essence, for the type of game Fallout 76 is, this system allows for flexible respecing while still encouraging persistent effort to unlock all top legendary perks.

9. Diablo 4

Pay Gold To Reassign Skill Points And Craft Your Perfect Build

Skills can be refunded in the Abilities menu
Respecs are free for the first 8 levels, but become more expensive with each level afterward

This one might be a controversial pick, as not all Diablo purists are happy with Diablo 4‘s respec system. Respec-ing in the game couldn’t be easier. All the player needs to do is go to the Abilities menu, where they’ll have the option to either refund single skills points, Paragon levels, or their entire build. At lower levels, respec-ing one’s character is cheap, but the costs can mount up.

In Diablo games, crafting structures serve as a key aspect. However, not everyone is entirely content with the recent introduction of respec-ing. Although this system offers an unprecedented level of build customization, it also enables advanced players to effortlessly switch builds during late-game grinding activities, which was previously only achievable by starting a new character altogether.

It’s important to note that Blizzard has attempted to deter such actions. Respeccing a level 50 character would set you back 52,000 gold, and when considering Paragon levels, the cost could skyrocket to a staggering 400,000 gold or more. The release of Diablo 4 in 2023 has sparked much controversy, but even so, many players still appreciate the option to respec.

10. Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Respec-ing Rook And Their Companions Couldn’t Be Easier

Access the Skills Menu and press the Refund Points button
Respecs are unlimited and cost nothing

Many gamers often voice concerns about modern RPGs lacking respec systems, but that could be shifting now. For instance, the latest addition to our list, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, stands out for its straightforward and user-friendly respec system. Players simply need to navigate to the Skills menu and click on the “Refund Points” button. They have the option to refund all points at once or do it individually. There’s no need to seek out a specific NPC, hunt for rare items, or spend valuable gold. It’s as simple as pressing a button.

In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, it’s comforting to know that respec-ing, or changing your character’s skills, is straightforward given that the game could easily consume 80+ hours of playtime and most players are likely to invest at least 30-40 hours. This feature enables players to try out various playstyles and delve deep into the game’s expansive skill system. Here’s hoping future big-budget AAA RPGs will follow suit, making respecing less of a hassle for gamers.

2024-12-20 07:34