Top 8 Action RPGs with Insane Learning Curves

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Over the years, I’ve seen Role-Playing Games (RPGs) evolve dramatically from their tabletop and war strategy beginnings. Modern RPGs have been significantly shaped by the action genre, which has been a game-changer for me as an action enthusiast. If you’re not a fan of turn-based combat, action-RPGs are your best bet, and they’ve undeniably gained immense popularity among gamers.

While it might appear that the intricacy of hardcore RPGs has diminished, this doesn’t make action RPGs any simpler. In truth, they can be just as challenging due to extensive skill trees, demanding difficulty levels, or confusing complexity. Some exceptional action RPGs actually have quite steep learning curves for newcomers.

8. Path of Exile

The New ARPG King

As a devoted fan, I’ve long admired the uncontested reign of the Diablo franchise in the realm of isometric action RPGs, setting the bar high for its competitors and essentially shaping the genre. Yet, in 2013, something unexpected happened—Path of Exile entered the scene as a formidable rival that not only drew inspiration from Diablo, but surpassed it in numerous aspects. By focusing heavily on intricate mechanics and delving deeper into complexity, Path of Exile left beginners trailing behind.

Regrettably, taking up Path of Exile nowadays can be quite a challenge. The game offers complex skill trees, a rich meta, and an abundance of content that could deter new players due to its high learning curve. However, for those who appreciate games in the Diablo genre, it’s definitely worth dedicating time to master it.

7. Lies of P

Puppet On A String

The influence that the Soulslike genre has exerted on gaming since the widespread success of Dark Souls in 2011 is undeniably substantial. One significant outcome is the emergence of numerous other games modeled after it, some of which are decent, but only a few reach greatness. Enter Lies of P, a game that stands out from the rest.

In an unspoken yet potent fashion, Lies of P could be considered a remarkable Soulslike game that FromSoftware might never have created. This action-packed RPG immerses players in a captivating atmosphere while presenting challenges that outdo the high-speed combat seen in Bloodborne. The emphasis lies on mastering intricate parries and lethal combos, which may leave novice gamers utterly bewildered, especially when facing the game’s formidable roster of challenging bosses. However, overcoming the steep learning curve can lead to appreciating Lies of P as one of the finest Soulslike games ever conceived.

6. Monster Hunter: World

Hunt with the Palico Cat Corp

Jumping into an established franchise like Monster Hunter, with its rich history and unique action RPG subgenre, can be quite difficult. The 2018 release of Monster Hunter: World was intended to attract new players, but the success of this soft reboot remains debatable.

Although Monster Hunter: World shows impressive sales figures, it’s challenging to argue against the idea that this game might be daunting for novice players. The combat system is distinct from most other role-playing games, featuring an intricate network of complex mechanics. Additionally, it boasts a vast array of tough bosses and numerous types of equipment and buffs. Yet, with the help of a helpful guide, newcomers can easily conquer the game’s learning curve.

5. Hades

Crawl Back Out Of Hell

In the 2010s, Soulslike games were undeniably the most significant new game design breakthrough. However, if we’re discussing the runner-up, it would be hard to overlook the Roguelike genre. The Roguelike’s permanent death role-playing mechanics served as a blueprint for numerous indie and major studio games thanks to its compelling loop-based gameplay. It was only a matter of time before someone perfected this concept.

In simpler terms, “Hades” by Supergiant Games is an exceptional Soulslike game that offers a deep mechanical experience, coupled with captivating storytelling and art design. However, its intricate improvisatory boon system might initially seem overwhelming to new players as more features are introduced. Nevertheless, for those who stick with it, they will discover one of the finest Roguelikes ever created in “Hades”.

4. Elden Ring

Put These Foolish Ambitions To Rest

Back in the early 2010s, if someone had predicted that FromSoftware would ascend to become a global powerhouse in video game development, they’d likely have been met with derision. However, the emergence and unstoppable growth of the Soulslike genre proved them wrong. This evolution culminated in Elden Ring, released in 2022, which is widely regarded as the zenith of the Soulslike genre and a game destined to be remembered as one of the finest productions of the 2020s. Its roster of formidable bosses is undeniably one of the most impressive ever recorded onto hard drives.

As a gamer diving into Elden Ring, I can’t help but notice the surge of fresh faces in the gaming world, many of whom are new to the Soulslike formula and its notorious difficulty. Even though Elden Ring is more lenient compared to its peers, it’s still an overwhelming challenge for many novices, especially considering its colossal scale. It’s understandable why some might decide to abandon their journey when the game’s complexity becomes too much to handle.

3. Kingdom Come: Deliverance

Jesus Christ Be Praised

Critics often argue that many Role-Playing Games (RPGs) focus too much on power fantasies and fail to provide opportunities for players to experience life as a commoner and gradually rise through the ranks. Warhorse Studios seems to have accepted this criticism head-on, creating Kingdom Come: Deliverance, an RPG that deliberately steers clear of offering power fantasies to its players.

Stepping into combat with a sword in Kingdom Come: Deliverance as a new player, I found myself initially feeble, and the complex combat system took some getting used to. Frankly, it’s a bit peculiar, which led many to leave the game behind. However, the learning curve is quite steep, but once conquered, this RPG offers one of the most satisfying experiences out there, making every moment spent worthwhile.

2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

Blood of the Divine Dragon

Towards the end of the 2010s, many were curious about what FromSoftware would create next since their popular franchise Dark Souls had concluded, and no new Bloodborne game was forthcoming. The solution arrived in 2019 with one of the most contentious yet cherished action RPGs in recent years: Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.

The unique design of Sekiro is often debated due to its extreme challenge level. Unlike Dark Souls where various equipment, builds, or tactics could help conquer a boss, Sekiro is unyielding. If a player fails to master the game’s quick-reflex parry system, they may find themselves struggling. For some gamers, this proved too challenging, but for those willing to invest time in learning it, Sekiro offers one of the most gratifying combat experiences FromSoftware has ever created.

1. Dark Souls

Link The First Flame

Looking back at the release of Dark Souls in 2011, I can’t help but remember how bewildering it was for newcomers like myself. Coming from the few who had dipped into Demon’s Souls, we might have had a slight edge, but even then, the game’s brutal challenge, cryptic guidance, and veiled narrative made it a mysterious puzzle that demanded cooperation within the gaming community to solve.

As a die-hard fan, I can say that when I first dived into the world of Dark Souls, it felt like nothing I’d played before. The learning curve was steeper than any other RPG I’d encountered, pushing me to adapt and master a fresh, challenging action design. But for those who stuck with it, Dark Souls unveiled itself as one of the most exceptional games ever crafted.

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2025-02-16 22:08