In the wake of Baldur’s Gate 3, 2024 is shaping up to be a monumental year for role-playing games (RPGs). The resounding success and undeniable influence of Larian Studios’ immersive fantasy RPG have raised the bar for the genre, leaving fans eager to discover what other groundbreaking experiences await them.
Larian Studios’ CEO, Swen Vincke, acknowledged the ever-changing nature of standards in the gaming industry. Vincke stated, Standards change so rapidly that there are no standards. His remarks highlight the vast possibilities within the RPG genre and emphasize that the success of one game does not diminish the achievements of others.
Fortunately, 2024 holds great promise for RPG enthusiasts with a slate of highly anticipated titles. Obsidian Entertainment’s Avowed offers an intriguing fantasy world, while Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth brings cinematic joy to the genre. Additionally, the newly-formed Atlus subsidiary Studio Zero is set to release Metaphor: ReFantazio, a captivating and peculiar RPG.
Obsidian Entertainment, known for their masterpiece Fallout: New Vegas and the Pillars of Eternity series, is in a prime position to create something remarkable with Avowed. With Microsoft’s backing and a rich tradition of narrative design, the studio can blend player agency and immersive storytelling to craft an unforgettable RPG experience.
Metaphor: ReFantazio, developed by Studio Zero, is directed by Katsura Hashino, the creative mind behind the acclaimed Persona series. This high-drama fantasy RPG takes players on a journey through an unexplored world while retaining the symbolic and philosophical elements that Atlus games are known for. Studio Zero’s bold move to use a medieval setting as a conduit for their story promises to take players to captivating new places.
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, the highly anticipated follow-up to the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, aims to not only recreate but reinvent the beloved 1997 classic. With a blend of modern graphics, action-oriented combat, and fundamental changes to the plot, Rebirth confidently stands on its own while honoring the legacy of the original game.
These upcoming RPG releases demonstrate that even timeless classics can be improved and built upon. The genre continues to evolve as new ideas and innovations are introduced, allowing RPGs to stand on the shoulders of giants and push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay.
As we enter 2024, RPG enthusiasts can look forward to a year brimming with captivating adventures, immersive worlds, and groundbreaking experiences. These games remind us that the RPG genre is ever-evolving and that the future holds endless possibilities for both developers and players alike.
