Some gamers may steer clear of the RPG genre due to the especially dense elements many role-playing games feature. These include grinding character levels to defeat the next boss, relentless side-quests for better gear, and mundane, turn-based combat. However, there are a few RPGs out there that bend the genre’s rules to make themselves more enjoyable, even for those who hate role-playing games.
When discussing RPGs, it’s hard not to think of the most popular titles of the genre, like Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, and Persona, but these may steer players away from trying more role-playing games. Few of these series' games are bad, but their core gameplay loops don't appeal to the broadest audience. More recent titles in all of these franchises have steered away from some of the worst stereotypes of RPGs, but the genre itself can still carry negative connotations.
Skeptical gamers shouldn’t write off RPGs just yet, as there are plenty of titles out there that claim the genre but ditch its worst components. This article will introduce a few RPGs - LISA, Undertale, Mother, and Moon - that are sure to be enjoyed by those who normally hate role-playing games. These games may not be for everyone, but they are worth giving a try.
Lisa: The Painful - An RPG Of Many Layers
Lisa: The Painful is an eccentric side-scrolling RPG released on Steam in 2014, and it has to be one of the wildest and most emotional rides delivered by an indie game in recent history. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, players are forced to make game-altering decisions that affect towns, characters, and even themselves. On the outside, Lisa is a darkly hilarious adventure that will keep players entertained for hours. But beneath the surface, it is a gritty story that explores morality and other heavy topics. It’s a game that lends itself to be played either for pure entertainment or for a deeper look at serious issues.
Undertale - An RPG Filled With Determination
Undertale is one of the most iconic "anti-RPGs" of the modern era, though some may be avoiding it on of its infamous fanbase. Regardless, Undertale is an amazing experience that is more than deserving of its recognition. It’s considered an anti-RPG because of how it uses RPG elements to mock the genre. Beyond its clever usage of turn-based battles and equipment, Undertale offers an incredible storyline that’s affected by the player’s decisions, as well as an amazing soundtrack that carries players through the unforgettable adventure. Undertale has been made available on many platforms, meaning almost anyone can pick it up today.
EarthBound - The Grandmother Of Offbeat RPGs
Anyone who is looking to get into RPGs but doesn’t want to deal with storylines that take themselves too seriously should look no further than EarthBound and the Mother series. There are three entries in the series that all offer standalone stories, meaning players can enjoy them in any order. Ness and Lucas, the famed characters from Super Smash Bros., each star in their own Mother adventures filled with offbeat humor and interesting stories. Their trippy hijinks are also accompanied by a delightful arrangement of chiptune music. The availability of these titles is a hurdle, however, as they have only been made available on vintage consoles, and Mother 3 has yet to leave Japan.
Moon: Remix RPG Adventure - The Original Anti-RPG
Moon is one of the lesser-known games on this list, but it is equally as brilliant as the others. First released in 1997 in Japan, Onion Games started the "anti-RPG" trend with Moon's spin on the genre. Players don't search for monsters to kill and loot, instead restoring life to the creatures a "hero" character has previously slain. Moon parodies the essential elements of RPGs and delivers a beyond-charming experience. Moon was recently translated and released on the Nintendo Switch, allowing those outside Japan to experience Moon: Remix RPG for the first time in 23 years.
