E3 2021 is finally coming to a close, and we got to see a ton of new games get announced over the course of the week. For all the RPG fans out there, however, here are our picks for the best-looking RPGs that we got to see at E3 2021 that should be making your shortlist.
Elden Ring
We’ve heard basically nothing about Elden Ring since its initial announcement, but we finally got to see some actual gameplay footage of the George R.R. Martin and Hidetaka Miyazaki collaboration project during Summer Game Fest. It pretty much just looks like Dark Souls, but with a heavier emphasis on world-building and perhaps even more direct storytelling.
We also got a glimpse of some large, grotesque, Dark Souls-esque bosses, along with that same chunky action gameplay Souls fans will likely enjoy. And honestly, I’m here for that.
Salt and Sacrifice
Best E3 2021 RPGs to Keep on Your Radar
This one came as a surprise. Announced during Summer Game Fest, Salt and Sacrifice is a follow-up to the indie Souls-like RPG, Salt and Sanctuary, developed by Ska Studios.
If this one is anything like its predecessor, we can probably expect to see large, sprawling levels with interconnected areas done in the iconic 2D hand-drawn art style, as well as a Path of Exile-like skill tree that feels like it could go on forever.
Tales of Arise
Tales of Arise is easily one of the most highly anticipated JRPGs we saw at E3 2021, and it looks impressive. Truly, just from a graphical standpoint, Arise is a huge jump for the series in terms of aesthetics and graphical fidelity, and we can’t wait to see just how it performs on the new consoles.
We got to see more footage of the new characters and the enemies they’ll face, as well as the iconic turn-based, action hybrid combat system in action.
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
Best E3 2021 RPGs to Keep on Your Radar
Because releasing one Monster Hunter game this year just wasn’t enough for Capcom, we’ll be getting Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin as well.
Unlike your traditional mainline Monster Hunter games, Wings of Ruin is more of a classic JRPG with elements like a turn-based combat system and a bigger focus on the story and narrative. You’ll be able to embark on your adventure with monster companions by your side, fight other monsters in turn-based combat, and get monster parts as a reward to be used in crafting.
It’s a big deviation from the formula of the mainline series, but it should appeal to general RPG fans looking to get a taste of the Monster Hunter universe.
Shin Megami Tensei V
Shin Megami Tensei V was one of the earliest games to get announced for the Nintendo Switch, but it had been literal years since we heard anything about it after that initial reveal. This year, though, Atlus finally showed off some proper gameplay footage, and even revealed that it’d be releasing this November.
Much like its predecessors, SMT V takes place in a pretty messed up version of modern Tokyo, and features a turn-based combat system, as well as a negotiation system where you can recruit demons to join your party. The menus and UI look a lot cleaner, and it’s definitely shaping up to be an exciting one to check out whether you’re a series fan or newcomer.
Metal Slug Tactics
Best E3 2021 RPGs to Keep on Your Radar
Another surprise announcement at E3 2021, the beloved Metal Slug franchise is making a return in the form of a tactical RPG. Metal Slug Tactics is, as its name suggests, a tactical game where you have to move your units around on a grid and use abilities and attacks to take your enemies out.
Only time will tell whether it’ll be as in-depth and enjoyable as some of the classics like Final Fantasy Tactics, but for now, Metal Slug is looking pretty good.
Diablo 2: Resurrected
We’ve already seen a good bit of footage of Diablo 2: Resurrected, but a proper remake of a classic RPG is still something to be excited for. We got to seen even more of Resurrected during E3 2021, and yes, it still looks damn good.
The graphical overhaul in Diablo 2: Resurrected is impressive, to say the least, and the character models and animations have been redone to make the game look and feel a lot more modern. It might be an oldie, but Diablo 2: Resurrected continues to be one of our favorite RPGs we’ve seen during E3.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes
Best E3 2021 RPGs to Keep on Your Radar
Finally, for all the Suikoden fans out there, we also got a good look at Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes. The game features beautiful 2D character sprites and lovely 3D environments, giving the game a much more dynamic look.
The developers also promise that each of the characters will have extensive, fleshed out backstories, as well as an action combat system to hold everything together. The game is still pretty far out from its 2023 release window, but it’s definitely one to keep an eye on.
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