The PlayStation 2 boasted a plethora of fantastic games, some of which were so impressive that they were remade or remastered for newer consoles. A lot of fans are eagerly anticipating the re-release of their favorite PS2 games. Nevertheless, the original titles still hold their value and are worth playing.

Role-playing games (RPGs) are immensely popular in the gaming world, and the PS2 offered a slew of memorable titles in this genre. Particularly, Japanese RPGs gained widespread acclaim, and a few standout PS2 RPGs captured players' hearts.

1. Final Fantasy 12

Initially divisive due to its departure from the franchise's established norms, Final Fantasy 12 managed to gradually rebuild its reputation in the following years, especially after the introduction of The Zodiac Age version. This rendition offers the optimal way to experience the RPG, incorporating several quality-of-life improvements. However, the game's fundamental strengths lie in its original PS2 version, particularly the Japan-exclusive International Zodiac Job System edition.

In FF12, random encounters are replaced with on-field enemies, enhancing immersion—a positive change. Although opinions on the protagonist vary, the story itself stands out as one of the best in Square Enix's franchise. The same can be said for the supporting characters. While the combat system may require some adjustment, once mastered, it truly shines.

2. Persona 4

Releasing long after the introduction of the PS3, Persona 4 served as the final masterpiece for the PS2, marking a brilliant conclusion for the console. Even though the eventual release of the superior P4 Golden made the original version seem outdated, it doesn't diminish the excellence of the PS2 original. Like all modern Persona games, the campaign combines dungeon-crawling and social simulation segments, with the latter dominating most of the gameplay. Fortunately, these non-combat sections are often the highlight of each game, as Atlus consistently weaves compelling narratives, unafraid to venture into dark territories if necessary.

Persona 4 not only stands as the finest turn-based JRPG on the PS2 but also the console's premier monster-collecting game. While exploring the TV World, players encounter Personas, with whom they can negotiate to recruit them to their team. Additionally, players can fuse Personas together, creating even more potent monsters.

3. Dragon Quest 8

Considered the pioneer of the JRPG genre, Dragon Quest has maintained its prominence for decades, especially in Japan, where it has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Dragon Quest 8 stands out as the epitome of the series, encapsulating all the qualities that make Dragon Quest great while providing a traditional turn-based JRPG experience. On the surface, this might suggest that the game could feel outdated in the contemporary gaming landscape. However, Journey of the Cursed King possesses an enduring charm and refinement that makes it utterly timeless.

Featuring captivating cel-shaded visuals and narrating an enjoyable journey with a compelling cast of characters, Dragon Quest 8 reigns supreme as the ultimate PS2 JRPG for those seeking a classic adventure with a quintessential battle between good and evil.

4. Suikoden 3

Set 15 years after Suikoden 2, one of the standout JRPGs on the PS1, Suikoden 3 often finds itself in the shadow of its predecessor. However, it stands as another masterpiece, showcasing Konami's peak capabilities.

The narrative is exceptional, unfolding through three distinct character viewpoints, and is notable for its well-crafted character development. Similarly, Suikoden 3 impresses with its battle system and visuals, especially when considering the standards of its time.

5. Kingdom Hearts 2

The collaboration between Square Enix and Disney has mostly resulted in outstanding games, with Kingdom Hearts 2 arguably being the franchise's pinnacle. This 2006 sequel builds beautifully on its predecessor's concepts, refining some of its rough edges. The game boasts stunning visuals and a generally good storyline, although it occasionally becomes needlessly complex. Featuring 15 diverse worlds, KH2 offers the most robust selection of stages in the series, spanning a wide range of intellectual properties and settings.

The combat system is dynamic and swift, evolving smoothly as the story progresses, setting KH2 apart from its numbered sequel. However, the gameplay can be relatively easy at times, intensifying primarily during optional boss battles.

6. Dark Cloud 2

Dark Cloud 2, also recognized as Dark Chronicle, earned a cult following upon its 2003 release, surpassing the original Dark Cloud in ratings. The game guides players through procedurally generated dungeons, focusing on the progression of their weapons rather than character levels. Level-5 created an ambitious title featuring a vibrant art style that has gracefully stood the test of time.

In addition to dungeon exploration, players gather components of towns and cities to aid in their reconstruction. However, the game presents a challenge, as certain villagers impose specific conditions regarding the placement of buildings.

7. Shadow Hearts 2

Released in 2004 as the sequel to Shadow Hearts, known as Shadow Hearts 2 in Japan, this Japanese RPG unfolds six months after the events of the original game. It continues the series' trademark blend of alternate history and Lovecraftian horror, captivating fans with its dark themes, humorous moments, mystical elements, and compelling narrative.

Despite its cult classic status, Shadow Hearts: Covenant remains a distinctive and memorable experience even after almost two decades. The game features the satisfying Judgment Ring combat system, capable of producing incredibly gratifying combos. Moreover, the story stands out for its mature themes and is enriched with a cast of unforgettable characters.

8. Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance

Launched in 2001, Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign of Dungeons and Dragons, marking several significant milestones. It stood as the first Baldur's Gate installment to be available on a console and was also the pioneer in implementing real-time gameplay according to the game's rules.

Upon its release, Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance received the prestigious Academy of Interactive Arts and Science Award for "Role-Playing Game of the Year." As a robust hack-and-slash RPG, it was exceptionally impressive for its time and continues to offer enjoyment even years later. Although it may not reach the same heights as Diablo 2, this PS2 release is still commendable for its unique qualities.

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The cyberpunk genre, originating from and deeply rooted in the 1980s, has surprisingly become relevant again in recent times. It embodies both a distinct aesthetic, with neon lights and rain-soaked cityscapes at night, as well as an underlying ethos. It serves as a counter to traditional sci-fi, shifting focus from pristine spaceships to gritty urban settings of the near future. In these dark environments, antiheroes from the fringes of society employ technology to navigate their struggles and carve out their place in the shadows.

The resurgence of interest in cyberpunk within video games was epitomized by Cyberpunk 2077, though its release turned out to be underwhelming and marred by technical issues. The game's limited narrative ambition clashed with its expansive open-world structure, leaving players somewhat dissatisfied.

Thankfully, a multitude of alternative cyberpunk games, both old and new, delve into the essence of the genre and its potential significance in our era. From classic titles from the 1990s and early 2000s to the revivalist creations of the late 2010s and the resilient gems that endured the dark times in between, a treasure trove of cyberpunk experiences exists, surpassing the allure of Cyberpunk 2077. Here, we present the finest among them.

1. Deus Ex

Deus Ex follows the journey of JC Denton, an augmented government super-agent, who becomes entangled in a perilous conspiracy that poses a grave threat to the world's future. Taking matters into his own hands, he embarks on a mission to hold the responsible parties accountable. The game offers players remarkable freedom, allowing them to approach it as a series of stealthy challenges, a role-playing adventure, or an action-packed shooter.

As one of the pioneering immersive simulation games, Deus Ex may feel somewhat clunky not due to its age, but because it was developed during the genre's early stages. However, the Give Me Deus Ex mod (GMDX) comes to the rescue by smoothing out some of the rough edges. Similarly, its direct sequel, Deus Ex: Invisible War, receives enhancements through the Deus Ex 2 Visible Upgrade mod.

2. Blade Runner

Blade Runner presents the tale of Ray McCoy, who embarks on a point-and-click adventure through the rain-soaked streets of Los Angeles, tracking down a group of rogue replicants. The game draws heavily from its movie inspiration, and that's precisely what makes it appealing. The chance to explore a stunning rendition of Ridley Scott's influential world while enjoying Vangelis' music creates a blissful experience. Standing on your balcony, overlooking the city with the soaring soundtrack in the background is truly mesmerizing. However, the "enhanced edition" released in 2022 turned out to be quite a disaster.

3. Neuromancer

In contrast to Blade Runner's close adherence to its source material, Neuromancer, an adventure-RPG based on William Gibson's novel, takes a different path. While it retains some elements of Chiba City from the book, the game introduces its own eccentricities courtesy of Interplay. Notable locations include the House of Pong, where Pong Monks delve into the mysteries of the One True Computer Game, and a body shop where you can sell body parts like your spleen or tongue for money.

Playing as a destitute hacker who had to pawn their computer, you must rebuild yourself by collecting warez and skill chips before venturing into cyberspace. There, you encounter AI opponents that can be defeated using your expertise in Logic, Philosophy, Phenomenology, and Sophistry. Interplay's rendition of cyberspace is just as offbeat as its portrayal of Chiba City, adding to the game's distinctive appeal.

4. Syndicate Wars

Syndicate Wars stands out as the prime entry in Bullfrog's darkly satirical Syndicate series. This tactical real-time strategy game unfolds within a grim dystopia governed by malevolent corporations. The totalitarian regime faces a viral threat, and as a EuroCorp Executive in command of a squad of cyborg agents and a budget of 50,000 EuroCorp credits, the responsibility falls on you to prevent a rebellion among the populace. Alternatively, you might align yourself with the Church of the New Epoch. Whichever path you choose, you'll inevitably resort to utilizing miniguns and mind control to achieve your objectives.

5. System Shock 2

System Shock 2, an ingenious blend of horror, first-person shooter, and RPG, takes place aboard a distressed starship and served as a major inspiration for the more famous but less ingenious BioShock series. Its standout feature is the sinister AI antagonist, Shodan. Within the realm of cyberpunk, rogue artificial intelligences are a recurring theme, and Shodan represents one of the most exceptional examples of this concept in PC gaming.

6. Gunpoint

Gunpoint presents a unique blend of classic cyberpunk personas: that of a hacker spy breaking through corporate security and a noir detective unraveling a perplexing case. Framed for a crime you didn't commit, you take matters into your own hands, engaging in further actions while seeking out the true culprits. Armed with a rewiring tool, you infiltrate 2D buildings, manipulating technology to your advantage—turning a light switch into a door opener or causing a motion sensor to overload a power point.

Each level serves as a self-contained puzzle, tightly sealed with challenges, yet sometimes solvable through sheer force, aided by your Bullfrog Hypertrousers. Jumping through windows, landing on guards, and giving them a sound thrashing becomes a common occurrence, complementing the game's humorous atmosphere. The story unfolds through text messages, where you find yourself embroiled in a corporate duel, though the game rarely demands taking the situation too seriously, maintaining a lighthearted and absurd tone throughout.

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The association between Xbox consoles and JRPGs is comparable to Nintendo machines and violent FPS titles. JRPGs are not commonly found on Xbox, mainly due to Microsoft's limited success in the Japanese market. However, there is hope for Xbox fans who enjoy colorful and charming role-playing games.

This list focuses on the best JRPGs available on Xbox systems, with an emphasis on exclusives. It also acknowledges remasters and multiplatform entries that are noteworthy.

10. Resonance Of Fate (Xbox 360)

Despite some flaws, this JRPG stands out for its unique mix of Eastern and Western influences and its flashy combat. It may not have received as much attention as Final Fantasy, but it offers an enjoyable blend of action and strategy in an atmospheric steampunk setting.

Resonance of Fate is an underrated gem with imaginative sci-fi themes and enjoyable shooting duels.

9. Ys Origin (Xbox One)

Similar to Xbox's struggle in Japan, the long-running Ys series has also faced challenges in Western markets. However, those who have discovered this hidden gem appreciate its depth, enjoyable combat, and colorful settings. This action RPG serves as a prequel, taking place centuries before the first Ys game.

Ys Origin captivates players with its real-time battles and sprawling dungeons, making it a great starting point for those unfamiliar with the Ys universe.

8. Blue Dragon (Xbox 360)

As one of the rare exclusive JRPGs for Xbox, Blue Dragon piqued the interest of RPG fans, especially with Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi involved. While it didn't meet everyone's expectations, Blue Dragon remains a joyful journey.

The game combines modern sensibilities with a classic turn-based battle system that is both deep and accessible. Its combat and rich fantasy settings showcase the influence of Final Fantasy. For Xbox players looking for a break from darker and grittier WRPGs, Blue Dragon offers an epic and lighthearted adventure.

7. Eternal Sonata (Xbox 360)

As the title suggests, this RPG from tri-Crescendo incorporates musical melodies and a lavish fantasy world. It offers a unique experience in terms of mechanics and revolves around the real musician Chopin.

Eternal Sonata engages players with its vibrant visuals, rich settings, and thrilling combat that blends action and turn-based tactics. It provides an enjoyable RPG adventure while taking players on a cerebral and dream-like journey through music, offering action, imagination, and fun in its 20-hour duration.

6. Final Fantasy 15 (Xbox One)

Square Enix's RPG franchise, Final Fantasy, has seen numerous iterations over the years, each with distinct themes, premises, and gameplay. Final Fantasy 15 represents a unique shift in style reminiscent of Final Fantasy 7. It blends modern and fantastical elements, captivating players with intense battles.

While some purists may have been turned off by its unusual style and vehicular travel, FF15 shines with dynamic open-world gameplay and majestic design.

5. Tales Of Vesperia: Definitive Edition (Xbox One)

The Tales series from Bandai Namco has become a respected JRPG staple known for its consistent quality. While the series has evolved towards darker and more Western-inspired themes with Tales of Arise, this lesser-known entry serves as a reminder of its lighthearted origins.

In classic Tales fashion, the game presents its story through a delightful visual style reminiscent of playing an anime. The combat feels like an exciting fighting game with satisfying real-time mechanics. The plot, centered around a vital energy source called Blastia, is memorable, as are the diverse cast of characters. The remastered version enhances the visuals and adds even more content, including new party members.

4. Phantasy Star Online: Episodes 1 & 2 (Xbox)

Although it may feel dated now, this epic from Sonic Team was ahead of its time with its expansive scope and online elements that foreshadowed MMO gameplay. This type of social RPG was relatively new for home consoles at the time and has since been popularized by many studios.

This expanded port of the Dreamcast classic still shines after almost two decades, thanks to its addictive gameplay, in-depth combat, and its enjoyable blend of sci-fi and magic. The sprawling saga offers hours of joy, especially when playing with a friend.

3. Lost Odyssey (Xbox 360)

Another hidden gem from Mistwalker, Lost Odyssey, provides an interesting and unique take on the genre by Sakaguchi. Unlike the more lighthearted Blue Dragon, Lost Odyssey targets an older audience with its darker themes and emotional storytelling.

The combat system is turn-based and showcases a variety of visually impressive abilities. Despite some long loading times, Lost Odyssey remains a memorable journey that combines modern elements with classic JRPG elements.

2. Final Fantasy 10 + 10-2 HD (Xbox One)

When it comes to remasters, Final Fantasy 10 sets a high standard by offering two memorable adventures featuring the charismatic Tidus. The HD enhancements particularly benefit FF10, enhancing engaging cutscenes and epic landscapes. The game strikes a balance between a captivating cinematic plot and satisfying gameplay with streamlined combat.

While some fans may find the sequel, FF10-2, less strong, the amount of content included in this budget title is impressive. Experiencing the remastered version of the classic FF10 in high resolution, along with the addictive Blitzball mini-game, makes it worthwhile.

1. Shenmue 2 (Xbox)

Sega surprised Dreamcast players with the inventive RPG Shenmue, which diverged from flowery fantasy and focused on grittier themes and realism. The sequel, Shenmue 2, was a great fit for Xbox, which generally leans toward darker, open-world titles.

Shenmue 2 takes players on an atmospheric and cinematic journey, prioritizing plot, character interactions, and worldbuilding over traditional gameplay elements. This ahead-of-its-time RPG adventure remains a cult classic that holds up well today.

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Sometimes, cutscenes play a crucial role in conveying the narrative intended by a game. However, there are instances where certain games go overboard with the number of cutscenes, exceeding what is necessary or beneficial. While these games may still be enjoyable and possess a compelling story, they are hindered by the fact that they are meant to be played and experienced through gameplay, rather than having players passively watch like an interactive movie.

These games often prioritize cutscenes over player control, leaving players holding their popcorn with the controller set aside more often than actually controlling the characters they are supposed to embody. Nevertheless, this does not diminish the potential enjoyment that these games can provide; it simply means that they contain an abundance of cutscenes.

8. Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic 2

Given that Star Wars is primarily a cinematic franchise, it comes as no surprise that a game set in the Star Wars universe, such as Knights of the Old Republic 2, includes numerous cutscenes. This game allows players to embark on their own adventure in a time period thousands of years before the Skywalker Saga. However, these cutscenes often interrupt the player's progress, frequently dominated by Kreia's extensive dialogues.

7. Kingdom Hearts 3

Kingdom Hearts 3 brought the Kingdom Hearts franchise back, and fans were ecstatic and adored it. When players finally got their hands on the game, their excitement started to fade a little because they had to suffer through endless cutscenes.

The main criticism directed at Kingdom Hearts 3 revolves around the frequency and duration of its cutscenes. They appear too frequently and tend to linger excessively, forcing players to endure iconic Disney moments that may not resonate with them, all while Sora awkwardly lingers in the background.

6. The Witcher 3

When players assume the role of the renowned Witcher, Geralt of Rivia, they might discover that their monster-hunting and involvement in political affairs take a backseat during certain scenes. The Witcher 3 features numerous cutscenes that divide gameplay and the seemingly endless array of quests and activities available.

Many of these cutscenes involve conversations with other characters, allowing players to carefully select dialogue options to shape their own version of Geralt. However, there are also instances where cutscenes are mandatory, depriving players of control. Nonetheless, these cutscenes are often thrilling and integral to the overall game experience.

5. Final Fantasy 16

Promoted as the "first fully-fledged Action RPG" in the Final Fantasy series, Final Fantasy 16 has garnered significant acclaim, with fans eagerly engaging in the latest mainline installment. Nevertheless, some fans have expressed concern regarding the excessive use of cutscenes in the game.

Players are enamored with the combat and gameplay mechanics of Final Fantasy 16, making it understandable that they may feel frustrated by the frequent interruptions caused by cutscenes. Although essential for the story, these cutscenes detract from the enjoyment of the intense battles players have been relishing.

4. Yakuza 0

The alluring life of a Yakuza has never appeared so appealing to Kiryu, or so he initially thought. Yakuza 0 serves as an origin game in the iconic series, later renamed "Like A Dragon" in the West. In Yakuza 0, players can immerse themselves in quirky side quests, a captivating storyline, and even karaoke! However, these experiences often come with a plethora of cutscenes.

Yakuza 0 includes an excessive number of cutscenes in various moments. Instead of engaging in the beatdown gameplay that players enjoy, they may find themselves watching lengthy cutscenes for a significant amount of time. Nonetheless, these cutscenes offer immense entertainment value, capturing the thrills and campiness that define the Yakuza series.

3. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2's rich open-world setting, the Wild West, offers players a stunning yet dangerous region to explore. The game's enormous breadth makes its several extended cutscene sequences unsurprising.

Each mission in Red Dead Redemption 2 incorporates multiple cutscenes, including encounters with strangers, progression in the main story, or even interruptions along the way. Players may find themselves involved in numerous cutscenes throughout the game, but the rich storytelling centered around Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang makes these interruptions worthwhile.

2. The Last Of Us

The Last of Us strives to distance itself from conventional zombie narratives, prioritizing its compelling story over gameplay. Players follow Joel, a weathered survivor of an infected outbreak, who has experienced both the good and bad sides of humanity. Everything changes when he is entrusted with smuggling a young girl named Ellie across post-apocalyptic America to aid in developing a cure.

While The Last of Us delivers exciting gameplay moments, allowing players to strategize stealth or confrontations based on their preferences, the game heavily relies on numerous cutscenes that take center stage. The abundance of cutscenes led to its adaptation into an HBO show, underscoring the narrative's prominence.

1. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns Of The Patriots

Solid Snake has remained an iconic figure in the gaming world for years, and Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots offers players the chance to embark on the final mission as "Old Snake," the renowned espionage master. However, players may find themselves becoming disengaged as Old Snake maneuvers and coughs through his mission, with extensive cutscenes often preventing them from interacting with their controller.

Metal Gear Solid 4 is infamous for its considerable number of cutscenes, with some lasting over 30 minutes before players regain control. While the Metal Gear Solid series is renowned for its extensive storytelling, MGS 4 takes the crown for the most prevalent use of cutscenes.

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Many players start a new game and after having played it for a couple of hours, they feel that they have done what they did before. This is because many games share common functionalities, similar features and similar look and feel. Many JPRGs have a similar battle system and similar storylines, many smash-and-grab games have similar mechanics and many sports-themed games offer an almost identical gaming experience as that of their main competitors. This is not something that is out of the ordinary, as many developers try to create a better version of a game that already offers something similar.

Having Common Functionalities Is not Wrong of Bad

Gaming studios do not just develop new products. They also try to evolve products that already exist. There is no harm in having similar functionalities when these functionalities improve the gaming experience. For example, the God of Storms version of Age of Gods slots was developed using coding that has many similarities to other Age of Gods games. These slot games have a huge gaming audience and players expect to see features that they are familiar with when they play the game at their favorite casino. Not everything is the same of course, but many of the well-functioning features are cloned from one Age of Gods game to another.

The Similar Look and Feel of Soulslike Games

FromSoftware and its Souls games mainstreamed the horror action RPG genre. Suddenly, everyone wanted to play a Souls game or a game that looks and feels like a Souls game. This is how we got Mortal Shell, Nioh, Nioh 2 and Wo Long Fallen Dynasty. FromSoftware’s contributions are bigger than the contributions of its competitors of course, but the gaming industry gives every developer the opportunity to launch a product and to see it succeed. Every single action RPG mentioned above has offered players hundreds if not thousands of hours of gameplay, even though many of them offer more or less the same thing.

Everyone Needs Some Kind of Inspiration

There is no shame in replicating something that another person has created as long as you do not cross the copyright border. In gaming, every game has something in common with another game, but the details are the factor that creates the diversity. If it were not so, players would only be able to play Pong and a couple variations of Tetris and Donkey Kong, instead of being able to play adventure games, RPGs, racing games, strategy games and sports games.

Even the biggest studios look to their past projects or to the works of competitors in order to develop their next product. For example, RockStar is known for implementing the best-received features of its previous games to the games which it plans to release in the future. GTA 6 promises to be one of the best games ever released but for it to become the best will need to offer some of the features which players loved in Red Dead Redemption 2. These features can be anything from in-depth NPC interaction to open-world features that bring the environment’s background to life. These two features were something that RDR2 excelled in and it is more than certain that they will be available in Grand Theft Auto 6.

Due to its heavy reliance on the role-playing element, AAA publishers and developers today typically view the CRPG genre as long-dead. Since the 2000s, 3D games with an action-driven rather than narrative focus, like Fallout 3 and Mass Effect, have surpassed them. Even while such games are fantastic, older CRPGs like Planescape: Torment and Baldur's Gate gave much more in the form of plot, choices, and outcomes.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the 6 best CRPGs to play on PC in 2023.

1. UnderRail

Underrail is a turn-based RPG set in a dark, post-nuclear wasteland, featuring an isometric view and reminiscent of Fallout 2 in terms of game structure, but without the option of a party system. Players can enjoy classic RPG gameplay with diverse character development options that allow for various playthrough experiences. A vast selection of passive and active abilities, unlockable with level and attribute requirements, as well as Specialization points and Veteran perks, offer a chance to upgrade skills and focus on a class's purpose.

Exploring the depths of Underrail will put players in different situations, including dealing with bandit gangs, exploring old world outposts, and encountering inexplicable events. Crafting mechanics, divided into subcategories, add depth to commerce, looting, and progression. Combat is highly tactical and varies based on character types, with each build requiring a unique strategy. The game offers two XP gain choices: Classic, where XP is obtained from quests and enemies, and Oddity, where XP is received from artifacts only. Underrail is a deep, complex, and gratifying experience, comparable to the best classic RPGs like Baldur's Gate, with a huge amount of content at a great price, including DLC. Fans of RPGs should not hesitate to get this game.

2. Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire

The narrative of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire centers on the Watcher, who travels to Eothas with a variety of companions and overcomes a number of challenges by fighting, cajoling, or plotting their way past them. Players experience political entanglements, betrayals, and quests that call for going to certain locations and carrying out specified duties as they go through the game. There are many unexplored areas in the Deadfire Archipelago, and four factions, each with a different covert goal, fight for control of the isles.

The original 2D text-based RPGs from the 1990s are updated in Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire, which has a top-down perspective, a fixed camera angle, and rich text explanations that can deepen immersion and players' vocabulary. The fighting system is akin to the first Pillars of Eternity, where a character's recovery time is based on their equipment, stats, and past actions. To succeed in intense battles, players must manually position and command their units, as relying on AI is not advisable on higher difficulty levels.

One notable addition to the game is the use of ships as home bases, allowing players to manage their party composition, resources, and character interactions. Sailing through the Deadfire requires adequate resources and personnel.

3. Wasteland 2

To fully appreciate Wasteland 2, it's recommended to spend around 10-20 hours playing this expansive RPG. While the user interface is outdated and the first half of the game may not be very remarkable, investing in the Outdoorsman skill can help with random encounters and lengthy travel times.

Despite being a slow game, Wasteland 2 offers a lot in terms of quest and map design, as well as interesting factions and story choices in the second half of the game. The roleplaying aspect is particularly enjoyable, as you can create specialized characters and explore the story with real consequences. It's a game that requires patience, but the potential for a tremendously enjoyable experience makes it worth the investment of time.

4. Planescape: Torment

Interplay Entertainment and Black Isle Studios initially released Planescape: Torment in 1999, a cult favorite RPG among fans. The Nameless One, an amnesiac man who awakens in a zombie-infested morgue, is the protagonist of the game. A funny floating skull named Morte joins him and assists him in navigating the perplexing planet.

The two embark on an adventure to revive The Nameless One's memories and learn the significance of the tattooed scribbles on his back. The Dungeons and Dragons multiverse, which contains numerous planes of reality, is where the game is set. This multiverse is called Planescape. The game does a fantastic job at explaining this background despite how complicated it is. The game's characters are memorable as well, and many of them have interesting backstories.

5. Divinity: Original Sin 2

One of the best things about DOS 2 is its gameplay. It's a turn-based game with a slow pace, but it's very interactive with various elemental combinations and cool interactions between abilities and the surrounding environment.

For instance, you can create a chain reaction of explosions by combining Fire and Poison, and any kind of liquid on the battleground can react to Air, turning it into a pool of Electricity, which damages and stuns anyone in it.

Moreover, buffs and debuffs have more than one effect and may interact with each other. For example, Stone Armor not only increases physical armor but also prevents bleeding and burning because you're solid rock. Peace Of Mind is a skill that provides stats boost, cures Blindness, and removes frenzy status Rage, making the target wiser and less prone to bold actions. Rage, on the other hand, increases damage output but lowers defense.

Talents in the game allow you to play in various styles depending on your choice. Lone Wolf or One Man Army lets you play solo, while Leech turns you into a vampire, allowing you to heal when standing near blood, and Zombie makes Poison heal you instead of damaging you. Since the game is classless, you can be anything and mix and match whatever you like. You can even be born a warrior but dream of becoming a mage; learn some magic and become a battlemage. Warriors can also be sneaky, so go ahead and get some rogue abilities!

6. Symphony of War: The Nephilim Saga

Turn-based tactics games like Ogre Battle and Fire Emblem haven't been available on the PC gaming platform for 30 years; instead, the market has been dominated by real-time and turn-based strategy games. Even if titles like Total War, Starcraft, and Command & Conquer are fantastic, they don't quite quench the need of fans of the turn-based tactics subgenre like turn-based tactics games do.

Thankfully, Symphony of War: The Nephilim Saga has arrived to provide a breath of fresh air. This game artfully combines the classic squad-based unit formation of Ogre Battle with the general aesthetic and grid map of Fire Emblem. Building your squads and watching them in action is immensely gratifying. If you're familiar with Fire Emblem, you'll feel right at home with this game. But if you're new to the turn-based tactics genre, The Nephilim Saga is an excellent place to start.

Honkai: Star Rail is an RPG that follows a turn-based gameplay model and bears a strong resemblance to classic JRPGs, particularly the Final Fantasy series. The game comprises two distinct modes: overworld and battle. In the overworld mode, you navigate the map, and when you come across an enemy group, you will switch to the battle mode, where you must engage in turn-based combat to emerge victorious.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase what to do in Star Rail right after the game start in order to be the most efficient as possible.

The tutorial in Honkai: Star Rail takes approximately 30-60 minutes to complete, and it does a decent job of familiarizing you with the basic mechanics of the game. However, after unlocking Warping and performing your initial pulls, the game becomes more open-ended, allowing you to pursue your own interests.

Nevertheless, before embarking on a quest to explore Herta Station and uncover all the chests and lore items, we advise that you concentrate on completing the Main Story quests. Why? Because even though you have finished the tutorial, there are numerous other features that remain locked behind the main storyline, such as Daily Missions, Leveling Rewards, Trailblaze Power (stamina), and so on.

Missions

Upon opening your Mission log in Honkai: Star Rail, you will be presented with an array of mission types to undertake, as follows:

• Trailblaze Missions (gold color): These missions are essential for advancing the storyline, and you should prioritize them if one is available. As depicted in the image above, your progress through the main story may be impeded by your Trailblaze Level. At this juncture, you should engage in other missions to earn experience and level up.
• Companion Missions (purple color): These missions delve into the histories of certain characters who have joined your team. While they are not as lengthy as Trailblaze missions, they are more story-driven and will take up a considerable amount of your time.
• Adventure Missions (blue color): These are your typical side-quests that are brief but provide you with experience and some rewards.
• Daily Missions (green color): While not displayed in the above image, these missions are even shorter than Adventure missions and are randomized daily.

Next steps

Having acquainted yourself with the different types of missions, it's time to refocus on the Main Story!

The upcoming Trailblazer Mission will introduce Herta and the Simulated Universe. The Simulated Universe is a game mode that follows the roguelike format, in which the player must pick a team of four characters and enter a simulated world to acquire a randomized set of power-ups that can be utilized to bolster their team's abilities when fighting against foes within the simulation.

Make your way to Herta's office and complete the trial run of the Simulated Universe. This will grant you access to Herta, but she is not particularly powerful, so it's best to keep her on the bench. Although you could undertake another Simulated Universe run immediately, it's better to hold off for now and return to the Main Story.

Before long, you will depart from Herta Station and embark on a journey to the Astral Express. There, you will gain access to two new systems: Operation Briefing and Trailblaze Level Rewards.

Operation Briefing is a collection of missions that bestow various rewards upon completion. In total, there are nine pages, each containing its own set of missions and primary rewards. Here's an example of what it looks like:

At the same time, you will also gain access to Trailblaze Level Rewards. Moving forward, every time you increase your level, you can return to Pom-Pom to claim some complimentary items:

Following that, some story events will take place and you will eventually find yourself on a new planet, where you will be freezing cold. Luckily, before long, you will encounter your initial Calyx and gain access to your Trailblaze Power, which is essentially the equivalent of stamina in Honkai: Star Rail.

There are multiple sorts of Calyx, but initially, you will only have access to the Bud of Memories Calyx, which provides Character EXP Materials. As your Trailblaze Power will be limited to 180/180, run a few sessions in the Calyx to restart its regeneration, and utilize the materials you've received to enhance your primary team.

At this point, you have gained entry to the majority of the systems, enabling you to go back to the Herta Station and commence completing side-missions or continue with the Main Story on Jarilo-VI. Enjoy yourself!

Tips and tricks for progression

Here is a list of tips and tricks to help you progress smoothly in the early game:

General

• Prioritize the Main Story before exploring the world. Only venture out to level up when necessary to unlock the next Main Story mission.
• Level up your characters to the current level cap as the difference in levels between you and your enemies affects the damage you deal.
• Equip Light Cones that match your character's Path to receive passive bonuses in addition to basic stats.
• Level up your Light Cones to the available level cap.
• Don't spread your resources too thin. Initially, your resources are limited, so focus on farming the EXP Calyx for character EXP materials.
• Only upgrade the Traces of characters you plan to use in the long run.
• Check the Tier List guide for the best early-game characters that are a safe investment.
• Don't let your Trailblaze Power (stamina) exceed 180 TP, which is the maximum you can store. You regenerate 240 TP daily at a rate of 1 per 6 minutes.
• Wait until the last day before reset to do your 3 weekly Echo of War runs for better rewards.
• Reach level 40 cap in the first week to unlock higher difficulty EoW and earn better rewards.
• Complete enough runs in Simulated Universe to unlock all the weekly rewards.
• Remember to check the Region Shops for important materials and Eidolons for the Main Character.
• Obtain the currency for the Region Shop by completing missions in the zone where the shop is located.
• Always send out your characters on Assignments to gain free materials. You can still use them in combat while they're on Assignments.
• Complete Battle Pass Daily and Weekly missions to earn decent free path rewards.
• Explore the world thoroughly to find hidden Treasures, enemies, puzzles, and quests for experience, Stellar Jades, Relics, and various materials.
• If you're stuck on a difficult fight, borrow a character from a Friend.
• Complete Trial of the Equilibrium missions to increase your Equilibrium Level.
• At levels 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 65, you will unlock a mission to upgrade your world level and level up your characters past the current cap.
• Don't rush the Equilibrium upgrade Missions if you don't have enough EXP and Ascension materials saved as monsters will become harder to defeat in the new world tier.

Combat

• Break Effect is the most important thing to focus on in combat. By investing in this one stat, you can easily deal massive damage to the enemy's HP bar once their Toughness Bar is broken. In the early and mid game, it's better to prioritize Break Effect over Crit since it only requires one stat investment instead of three.
• Build a balanced team with skill point spenders and generators. Having a team with only damage dealers can lead to poor damage output due to competition for Skill Points. Generators, typically supports, don't need to use their Skills every turn, which allows your spenders to use their Skills more frequently.
• Make sure to match your damage dealers to the enemy's weakness, especially bosses. Breaking the Toughness Bar takes a long time without matching elements.
• Consider using a more defensive team in the early game, as some bosses have tough mechanics that can chip away at your team's health. Running a healer/shielder combo is a safe option. In Simulated Universe, running a defensive team is necessary if you don't want to waste time.
• Don't hesitate to use Technique Points, as there are items that can restore them scattered throughout the game. Match your character's element to the enemy's weakness when using a Technique.
• If a Technique gives a buff, you can stack them, but offensive Techniques should be used after stacking the buff Techniques. This is especially useful before difficult fights in Forgotten Hall and Simulated World.

Relics

It's not necessary to upgrade every single Relic piece you come across because the materials required for upgrades are scarce. If you use them all up, you will need to obtain more Relics to feed into the ones you want to upgrade. This leads to the next point... In the early game, it's not wise to spend your stamina on farming Relics. Further details on Stamina usage are provided in the section below.

Warps

Avoid using Stellar Jades to pull on the General Warp. Instead, reserve the Basic Passes that you receive from rewards and missions for that banner. Save your Stellar Jades for rate-up banners or for stamina refreshes.

Stamina usage

In the first couple of weeks, it's best to prioritize three things when using your Stamina:

First, focus on farming Golden Calyx: Bud of Memories and Golden Calyx: Bud of Aether to acquire Character and Light Cone EXP Materials. Second, farm Crimson Calyx to acquire materials necessary to level up your Traces to improve your skills and passives. Lastly, farm Stagnant Shadow to acquire materials necessary to ascend your characters. Ascension materials are required every 10 levels starting from level 20, so you'll need plenty of them.

However, it's recommended to only farm Golden Calyx when you need EXP Materials. If your team and their Cones are already at the current level cap, then ignore the Calyx until you increase it again. This means that you should focus more on Traces and Ascension materials.

It's not advisable to spend your Stamina on farming Relics in the early game. Initially, in the Cavern of Corrosion, you'll only be able to farm 3★ Relics with a chance to get 4★ Relics. It's only when you reach Difficulty 3 of the Caverns that you have a chance to drop 5★ Relics, which only goes up to 100% drop on Difficulty 4. It may take a few weeks of playing to reach that point.

While farming in the Simulated Universe early on isn't that bad, it's recommended to focus on 2★ Relics and 3★ Relics, as they can give you a significant boost. Simulated Universe is the source of the Planetary Relic Sets that only have 2-piece bonuses. Once you've obtained the sets you wanted or the Main Stat you need, wait until you reach higher World levels in the Simulated Universe to obtain higher Relic rarities.

How to level up quickly?

Are you struggling to increase your Traiblaze Level and the next Main Story mission seems a bit far off? Check out the various sources of EXP available in Honkai: Star Rail below.

• Firstly, complete the Daily Training which can reward you with up to 1000 EXP per day for completing all the missions. Secondly, Adventure and Companion missions are great additional sources of experience with rewards ranging from 100 to 400 EXP per mission.
• Another way to gain EXP is by spending Traiblaze Power. Whatever activity you choose to spend your TP on will provide a set amount of experience. Operation Briefing missions are also a great way to earn EXP.
• Finally, exploring the Open World can yield treasures, monsters, and random encounters that grant additional experience. While treasures can only be opened once, the monsters respawn daily, allowing you to roam around the maps after completing other tasks for the day and gain additional experience, as well as Ascension materials.

>>> Read more: How To Reroll In Honkai Star Rail

When beginning a new journey in Honkai Star Rail, it may seem overwhelming at first. Although the game shares similarities in appearance and feel with Genshin Impact, the gameplay differs greatly. Instead of Genshin's real time combat, Star Rail's 4-character-team takes a turn based approach to fight against enemies. In order to win, players need to understand each character's kit and the strength and weaknesses of enemies.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase a walkthrough for Honkai Star Rail so that you can defeat the hardest bosses.

1. Tips and Tricks for Star Rail's combat

Turn-based combat in Honkai Star Rail is fairly straightforward. There are 3 actions a character can do in combat: basic attack, skill, and ultimate. When you use a basic attack, you get one skill point that you can spend on skill moves. Ultimate attacks, on the other hand, have their own "energy" meters that must be filled before they may be used.

Although ultimate attacks are the most powerful, each character in the game has different roles and their skill moves may differ. For instance, March 7th uses a skill move that provides shields but her basic attack deals direct damage. To use your resources effectively, it is crucial to understand when to use each move.

In addition to knowing which moves to use, understanding the enemy type is also vital. Each attack in Honkai Star Rail has an elemental aspect, and each enemy has specific weaknesses. To maximize damage, it's best to use attacks that target an enemy's weaknesses.

To effectively manage the seven weaknesses in Honkai Star Rail, consider these tips:

1. It's recommended to level up at least one character from each element, with priority given to ice, fire, and wind types as they are commonly encountered weaknesses.
2. Always scout the enemy squad composition before engaging in battle, and choose your squad accordingly for end-game content like world simulation.
3. Players would need both single target DPS and AOE DPS in the team. Bosses in this game tend to summon more minions, which requires clearing out in order to beat.
4. Level up your characters whenever possible, and focus on the light cones that you attach to them. This is also crucial in Honkai Star Rail.

Following the aforementioned steps will boost your chances of winning the majority of battles in the game. However, there may still be cases of bad RNG, in which case you should retreat and retry the battle.

2. How to defeat Bronya in Honkai Star Rail

Bronya is one of the adversaries players will encounter in this game. She is the commander of the Silvermane Guards and the heir to Cocolia, Belobog's Supreme Guardian. The fight against Bronya and her forces will occur during the Jarilo-VI campaign, and players will be ambushed by her midway through it.

By following these tips, players can defeat her easily:

1. The fight takes place in two phases, with the first phase being against three Silvermane Soldiers. Quickly take them down by exploiting their Weakness breaks and using AoE attacks.
2. The soldiers can apply Bleed to your units, causing HP loss over time. Deal with them quickly if they apply Bleed.
3. After defeating the first wave, a cutscene triggers, and Bronya appears with two additional soldiers. Deal with the soldiers first before focusing on Bronya.
4. Finish off the soldiers and then attack Bronya, who can summon reinforcements when her soldiers are down.
5. Bronya has no weaknesses, so use a pure-DPS approach, and use the protagonist's ultimate ability to make her vulnerable to Fire and Physical attacks.
6. Bring March 7th to cast a defensive shield and use her ultimate ability to freeze Bronya and her minions.
7. The strategy is to break Bronya's bar and spam powerful attacks to chip off her HP. However, Bronya can deal consecutive damage after a single attack, so be aware of this.
8. Bronya can recover her Break bar and lose her Weakness immunity. Follow the same strategy as before to weaken her.

The battle concludes when Bronya's HP drops to 1%, after which a cutscene plays.

3. How to defeat Kafka in Honkai Star Rail

The boss fight against Kafka in Honkai Star Rail is considered one of the toughest challenges in the game, requiring players to utilize all their skills and knowledge. It's crucial to be attentive to Kafka's attack patterns and utilize weapons and abilities effectively to gain an advantage in the battle. This guide offers helpful tips and strategies to help players succeed against Kafka.

• It's crucial to evade Kafka's attacks, particularly her Lightning Bolts and Energy Blasts. In Honkai Star Rail, the Kafka boss fight is a Quick Time Event (QTE), a thrilling combat feature. These events are timed, and you must press the buttons rapidly to complete them.
• In addition, Kafka will teleport and summon minions to assist her, making the fight even more difficult. To be successful, you must use your tools and skills effectively to deal damage and avoid her attacks.
• To win this boss fight, you must become skilled at dodging in Honkai Star Rail. It's important to memorize Kafka's primary attacks and their effects quickly, and then adjust your items and abilities to defeat her.

>>> Read more: Honkai: Star Rail Early Progression Tips & Tricks

The challenging action RPG game called Dark Souls has inspired numerous mobile titles referred to as Souls-likes. It is not an easy task to imitate the dark and gloomy atmosphere and the satisfying combat of the Souls series, especially with limited resources and personnel. Despite this, there have been significant achievements in developing successful Souls-like games that are accessible on the top Android phones.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the top 10 best Soulslike games on Android in 2023.

1. Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a prominent model for Souls-like games available on the Play Store. It is a 2D platformer game that makes each playthrough different by using procedural creation. In reality, you are a revived corpse from a failed scientific experiment, but as the player, you assume the role of a warrior wandering through a dungeon.

The gameplay consists of 2D platforming and dynamic hack-and-slash combat. Exploring the game's environment is encouraged as it rewards you with money and new weapons to battle with terrifying foes. The game is categorized as a "roguevania" because it combines exploration and map navigation with procedurally generated layouts that change after you die. If you enjoy challenging gameplay and procedural runs, Dead Cells is highly recommended.

2. Animus: Revenant

Animus: Revenant is an ambitious game that places you in an isometric 3D world on a linear adventure to save the world. The game draws inspiration from Dark Souls, evident from the combat mechanics that offer a variety of battle approaches such as parrying, backstabs, blocking, and attacking with different weapons. Unlike hack-and-slash games, Animus: Revenant has a slow and methodical combat style that requires players to be deliberate with their attacks.

While the graphics may not be visually dazzling, they can offer a greater frame rate, much like the first Dark Souls. However, a strong device is required to play this challenging game. It is obvious from the slow game pace and disconcerting camera perspective that this is not a game you should rush through.

3. Ronin: The Last Samurai

Ronin: The Last Samurai is a samurai-themed game that puts you in the shoes of a katana-wielding warrior battling multiple enemies in level-based waves. The combat mechanics are similar to Sekiro, with a focus on an aggressive yet cautious fighting style. Touch controls are used to perform strikes, blocks, parries, and special attacks, which are highly responsive and complement the game's art style.

But because of the slow mobility in the game, archers have plenty of time to aim and fire. Even though the game is simple, playing it is still fun, especially for Nioh and Sekiro aficionados.

4. Pascal's Wager

If you've been eagerly anticipating a mobile game in the vein of Dark Souls, your wait is over with Giant Global's Pascal's Wager. The game immerses players in a foreboding and eerie realm, offering an intense action experience with stunning 3D visuals. Combat is challenging and pits players against terrifying foes in a quest to bring light to the world.

Pascal's Wager draws heavily from the Souls series and other similar games like Nioh. The player must traverse perilous environments and reach altars to progress. Bone fragments can be dedicated at altars to level up, and each level-up grants an attribute point that can be used to upgrade stats like vigor or strength. Altars are also used to craft potions and rest, which fully heals the player but respawns all enemies, akin to Dark Souls.

Unlike its inspiration, Pascal's Wager is divided into distinct levels that can be accessed through a map in the player's caravan. While the interconnected world of Dark Souls was a beloved feature, it may have been challenging to navigate such a complex world on mobile devices.

5. Shadow of Death

Shadow of Death is one of the best examples of a 2D hack-and-slash game. The game features a silhouetted world with hostile creatures that want to kill you. You get to choose from four different warriors, each with unique abilities and playstyles, similar to the build concept found in the Souls series. The combat is fast-paced and stylish, with wave-based levels and creatively designed enemies. As you progress through the game, you unlock new abilities and usable items.

The game does not offer much in terms of exploration, likely due to the limitations of the art style. The silhouette environments can be visually confusing, making exploration difficult. Although the game's art design may not be award-winning, the combat in Shadow of Death is satisfying to control and visually appealing, satisfying both the Devil May Cry itch as well as the desire for a Souls-like game.

6. Way of Retribution

Way of Retribution is a unique take on the Souls-like genre that adopts an MMORPG-style gameplay, with the game's design resembling Neverwinter. The game places you in regions with lots of adversaries and a boss to take down, but there's a twist: you have to finish the level's objectives before taking on the boss. There are a variety of starting classes available in the game, each with their own specializations in battle.

Similar to previous games in the genre, the player locks onto foes and uses symbols for particular attacks during combat. Even though the gameplay differs from classic Souls-style games, it's still a unique experience that blends the greatest elements of both genres. The game is also simple to download and play.

7. Watcher Chronicles

Watcher Chronicles wastes no time in identifying itself as a 2D Souls-like game, placing you in a dungeon with a sword and armor. The gameplay is similar to Blasphemous, but with a cleaner art style and less disturbing visual design. The combat is seamless, allowing for dodge rolling, blocking, and ranged combat to aid you in challenging situations.

Though the cartoonish art style may be unattractive at times, it quickly evolves and reveals some truly exceptional enemy designs, making Watcher Chronicles proficient in its basic features. The difficulty is well-balanced, the weapons are satisfying, the bosses are impressive, and the game motivates you to experiment with different play styles, as the best RPGs do.

8. Grimvalor

Strangely similar to the previous game, Grimvalor is a 2D hack-and-slash Souls-like that places emphasis on platforming and agile combat. However, Grimvalor differs by pulling the camera further back to increase visibility of the surroundings, which is beneficial for precision platforming. The game provides a double jump and a powerful dash for level traversal, which seamlessly integrates with combat.

Enemies are fairly predictable in telegraphing their attacks, but the game remains challenging. The difficulty level is well-balanced, with the basics thoroughly tutorialized before the game presents any significant challenges. Although Grimvalor is very linear and can be visually dull at times, the gameplay is enjoyable and satisfying, making players feel powerful.

9. Swordigo

Swordigo is heavily influenced by the Souls-like genre, with an emphasis on difficult fighting and exploration. You play as a youthful hero tasked with defending the land from an evil entity in the game. The enemy assaults are telegraphed and must be avoided or deflected in this fast-paced, timing-sensitive fight.

As you progress through the game, you'll acquire new abilities and weapons that will let you take down increasingly difficult foes.

10. Dark Raider

A 2D side-scrolling action game called Dark Raider is strikingly similar to the Soulsborne series. You are thrust into a sinister and ominous environment with undead warriors and demonic monsters in the game. Dodging, parrying, and having quick reactions are all crucial for surviving in fast-paced combat. The game's difficulty is high, but not punishingly so, and mastering its combat systems can be extremely satisfying.

The level design in Dark Raider is one of its best qualities. Each region has a complex layout with secret passages, obstacles, and other features to find. Exploration leads to the discovery of strong tools and priceless objects, which gives the game a strong sense of progression. The game's setting is also rich in lore, and the plot is gradually revealed as you advance.

>>> Read more: Top 5 Beginner Friendly Gacha Games To Play In 2023

Honkai Star Rail's pre-installation period has begun, allowing players to install the game before its official release on April 26, 2023. Players can download the game right now, on April 23, 2023, and log in to the next title as soon as the servers become live in three days.

People are therefore curious to find out what the minimum and suggested system requirements are for these platforms. If you want to run this JRPG smoothly, you'll need to meet the following hardware specifications.

For now, the game is only set for release on PC, Android, and iOS. The developer has yet to comment on whether it will be out on the PlayStation at the same time as the other systems. Interestingly, there's been no information about an Xbox release yet, and much like HoYoverse’s other title, Genshin Impact, it will likely never be making its way to Microsoft’s console.

Honkai Star Rail system requirements for PC

Minimum

• Processor: Intel® Core™ i5
• Memory: 8 GM RAM
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 or better
• Storage: 15 GB available space

Recommended

• Processor: Intel® Core™ i7 Processor
• Memory: 8 GM RAM
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 or better
• Storage: 15 GB available space

Honkai Star Rail system requirements for mobile

Minimum

• Android: Snapdragon 835, Dimensity 720, Kirin 810, or better.
• iPhone: iPhone 8P, iPhone X, or better.
• iPad: Apple A12 processor or better (October 2018 model or better – the operating system must be at least iOS 12)

Recommended

• Android: Snapdragon 855, Kirin 990, Dimensity 1000, or better
• iPhone: iPhone XS, iPhone XR, or better
• iPad: Apple A12 processor or better (October 2018 model or better – the operating system must be at least iOS 12)

List of Apple/iOS device that will run Honkai Star Rail

To play the Honkai Star Rail RPG effectively on Apple devices, iOS 12 and above will be required, as well as a minimum of 8 GB of storage space. The following are the Apple devices that are compatible with HoYoverse's upcoming game:

iPhones

• iPhone 8 Plus
• iPhone X
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd Generation)
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max

iPad

• iPad Air（3rd Generation)
• iPad mini (5th Generation)
• iPad Pro (2nd Generation) 12.9-inch
• iPad Pro (2nd Generation) 10.5-inch
• iPad Pro (3rd Generation) 11-inch
• iPad Pro (3rd Generation) 12.9-inch
• iPad Pro (4th Generation) 11-inch
• iPad Pro (4th Generation) 12.9-inch
• iPad Air (4th Generation)
• iPad (8th Generation)
• iPad mini (6th Generation)
• iPad (9th Generation)

How to pre-install Honkai Star Rail on Mobile and PC

PC preload

In order to preload Honkai Star Rail, players can either download the game client directly from the game's home page or use the Epic Games Store - unlike Honkai Impact 3rd, Star Rail is not available on Steam.

Between the two methods, directly downloading is the better choice, as the Epic Games Store is still highly unresponsive. Players can just turn on the game and play immediately without having to go through yet another layer of DRM. In order to access Star Rail on EGS, players need an Epic account and a Hoyoverse account, whereas they only need the latter for the game client. The Epic client also has a bonus code as well.

However, Epic might release an exclusive code for Star Rail similar to their Genshin code later, so it is best to keep an eye out.

After opening up the game for the first time, predownload would be available. Click Install after completing the email pre-registration process for the game. On your computer, the game will start to load automatically, but you won't be able to play it until the servers become live on April 26, 2023.

Mobile preload

The method of installing the game beforehand on your smartphone is not too difficult. Simply visit the app store for the platform (Android or iOS) of your smartphone and conduct a library search for the game there.

After finding it, you can download it and then wait for the servers to open up.

Honkai: Star Rail "All-Stars Invite" Warp Event

Event Link

• Warp Active Duration: 2023/03/24 20:00 – 2023/05/24 23:59(UTC+8)
• Inventory Redemption Duration: 2023/04/26 10:00 – 2023/06/06 23:59(UTC+8)

Participate in the event and win a 4-star Light Cone "Make the World Clamor" by completing daily warps or missions!

Every 10 Warps guarantees a random 4-star Relic.

Accumulating 20 Warps guarantees the 4-star Light Cone "Make the World Clamor."

Choose any two received items from the event and place them in the Inventory before the redemption deadline, which will be distributed via in-game mail.

>>> Read more: Honkai: Star Rail Early Progression Tips & Tricks

Honkai: Star Rail is a game where creating a strong team is crucial and it's not enough to just include characters with high ratings. The game's elemental system means that even if your team has great synergy on paper, it may still struggle against bosses if you can't break their toughness bar.

Additionally, the absence of a timer or turn limit (with one exception) means that it's important to prioritize your team's survival and recovery. Ultimately, having the highest damage output won't matter if your DPS character gets taken out by the enemy in one hit.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase a complete guide for Honkai: Star Rail team building, covering the initial launch version of patch 1.0.

1. Team building basics

In brief, when constructing a team, there are 4 factors to consider:

Sustain

To maintain your team's health, it is necessary to have a Healer or a Shielder (or both) in your team. Without the means to heal (via a Healer) or protect (via a Shielder) your team, the enemy will gradually deplete your team's HP.

Synergy

Certain characters may not be effective or may not synergize well when added to a team. Clara is an instance of such a character, as most of her damage is generated through Counters, which require her to be hit. To improve her performance, it's recommended to pair her with March 7th and have March 7th use a shield on Clara regularly to increase her chances of being targeted by enemies.

Skill points

Using a Skill in the game requires Skill Points which are generated by using the Basic Attack. Therefore, it is crucial to build a team that is well-balanced and has characters who do not frequently use their Skill or only use it when necessary. This ensures that your primary damage dealers can use their Skills every turn, resulting in steady DPS output, which is more effective than using a combo every other turn. Although Skill Points balance may not be a significant concern in the early stages of the game, it becomes crucial in later stages, particularly in Forgotten Hall.

Elements

In Honkai: Star Rail, the elemental system holds significance. Though in the storyline, you can overlook it and stick to using one team, as you progress towards more challenging content like Simulated Universe or Forgotten Hall, you'll have to construct your team around the boss's vulnerability. Otherwise, you'll find it difficult to defeat the boss. Additionally, creating a Break build early on is very powerful, as you can quickly stack the effect to over 200%. This allows you to inflict significant damage to the boss when you break its toughness bar.

2. Early game (story) team guide

First half

To start with, team building isn't a major concern during the prologue since you will be restricted to the provided characters. Once you have access to Warping and complete your first 20 pulls, you will have more options to choose from.

Additionally, it's essential to note that you must do up to 50 pulls on the Beginner Warp banner to acquire one of the seven 5★ characters available. While some players may be fortunate enough to get one of them within the first 20 pulls, most players will need to complete all 50 pulls to acquire their first 5★ character (excluding Trailblazer).

The following team is a general team composition that only includes characters that are freely available to everyone, and we will adjust it as we advance through the game.

• Main DPS (single): Dan Heng (Wind)
• Sub DPS (AoE): Trailblazer (Physical) / Serval (Lightning)
• Offensive support: Asta (Fire)
• Shielder: March 7th (Ice)

In the first half of the planet Jarilo-VI, most enemies are vulnerable to Physical and/or Wind attacks, making Trailblazer and Dan Heng very effective. As a result, there's no need to switch to other characters to break the toughness bars. However, when more enemies weak to Lightning start to appear and you need more area-of-effect damage, it's a good idea to replace the Physical MC with Serval. Serval is a powerful AoE damage dealer and a great alternative to the Physical MC. You could even use the Dan Heng + Serval duo instead of the Physical MC if you prefer. It's still important to level up the Physical MC, as you'll need them when you unlock their Fire variant later on.

At a certain point in the Jarilo-VI storyline, you'll gain access to Natasha, who functions as a healer. It's highly recommended that you add her to your team immediately because the game's difficulty will increase significantly shortly after you obtain her. Without her assistance, you will likely have a difficult time defeating the next major boss.

Completion

After completing the final main story mission in Jarilo-VI, you will gain access to the Fire version of the Main Character, who possesses qualities of a Shielder, Taunter, and Breaker.

• Main DPS (single): Dan Heng (Wind)
• Sub DPS (AoE): Trailblazer (Fire)
• Healer: Natasha (Physical)
• Shielder: March 7th (Ice)

Your primary damage dealer will change depending on the elemental weaknesses of the enemies you face. For instance, if they are susceptible to lightning but not wind, you can switch to Serval. Nonetheless, with Dan Heng and Fire MC on your team, you should have sufficient elemental coverage and not encounter many issues.

We called the team above, which features three defensive support characters, the Turtle Team during the Final Beta. Since there is no time limit to worry about while progressing through the game, it is better to play it safe rather than attempt to create a hypercarry team (which will be discussed later). Additionally, if you try using anything other than the Turtle Team in Simulated Universe, you will likely struggle.

Still, if the gameplay is a bit too slow for you in the Story, you can use this team instead:

• Main DPS (single): Dan Heng (Wind)
• Sub DPS (AoE): Serval (Lightning)
• Healer: Natasha (Physical)
• Shielder/Breaker: Trailblazer (Fire)

3. Useful 4-Star characters

If you happen to be lucky enough to pull Sushang or Tingyun, your progress in the early game will be much smoother. Sushang can substitute for Dan Heng when you require a Physical Attacker and is considered the best 4★ damage dealer who can become an unbeatable force with Break Effect build. Tingyun, on the other hand, can replace one of your Shielders (most likely March 7th) to provide a significant boost to your carry, as her buffs are simply overwhelming.

However, keep in mind that buffers like Bronya and Tingyun aren't very effective at the beginning as they need the main carry to have some stats that they can further boost. But around level 40 or 50, you can safely start using her. The best part is that you can even run them together!

Below is the lineup with Sushang or Tingyun:

• Main DPS (single): Sushang (Physical)
• Offensive support: Tingyun (Lightning)
• Healer: Natasha (Physical)
• Shielder/Breaker: Trailblazer (Fire)

4. Teambuild with Newbie banner SSR

Bailu

Amongst the 7 possible SSR to get, Bailu is the easiest for team build. She is a healer and you can just replace Natasha with her.

Bronya

Bronya is not an easy character to use as her role is to boost the stats and damage output of the main DPS. This means that if the main carry is weak, Bronya's contribution will be minimal. As a result, Bronya is more effective when the main carry reaches level 40 or 50 and has a sufficient amount of stats. The modified Turtle Team below has only one DPS, but with Bronya's buff, the main carry's damage output is significantly increased, allowing the team to take down enemies faster. However, the lack of an additional Shielder may become a problem.

Clara

Clara is a character with a distinct gameplay style where she needs to be frequently hit in order to activate Svarog's attack multiple times per turn. While it's beneficial to use March 7th to constantly shield Clara and accumulate Counters, it isn't necessary.

She can serve as the main DPS of the team, replace Dan Heng. For the best damage, players would need Tingyun support from the gacha.

Gepard

Gepard is a character who specializes in Shielding and is different from March 7th in that he can provide a shield to the entire team at once with his Ultimate. However, he is not as versatile as March 7th, who can use her shield ability every turn. Gepard can be used solely for generating Skill Points, but it is important to remember that he has a limited energy gain and is reliant on his Ultimate. In the beginning stages of the game, March 7th is generally more effective than Gepard.

Himeko

Himeko is a character who deals damage with Area of Effect (AoE) attacks, and can be considered as a more powerful version of Serval. However, her weakness is in dealing damage to a single target, which means you'll need to pair her with another damage dealer or build her up as a "hypercarry" - but this can only be achieved after reaching level 50.

Welt

Welt is a character who can both debuff enemies and deal damage, and is also strong against Imaginary-weak enemies. He can serve as the sub-DPS of the team. Welt is unique in the game as the only Imaginary character, and can be helpful in battles against such enemies.

Yanqing

Yanqing is a character that focuses on dealing damage to a single target. One of his disadvantages is that he doesn't have any skills that can hit multiple targets, but he compensates for this by having high damage output. Like Himeko, you can use Yanqing either with another damage dealer to cover his weaknesses, or in a team with a hybrid carry.

Seele

If you managed to get Seele, who is considered the most powerful damage dealer in Star Rail 1.0, then make her your team's primary DPS. However, remember that when playing in the Simulated Universe, it may be better to run an extra shielder (March 7th) alongside the Fire Trailblazer in the Turtle Team for safety reasons.

>>> Read more: Honkai Star Rail System Requirements For PC And Mobile

Honkai Star Rail has introduced 26 characters that are playable, with 15 of them being 5-star characters and the rest being 4-star characters. Upon starting the game, players receive a free 5-star main character called Trailblazer, as well as several other free characters including Dan Heng, March 7, Herta, and Asta. Additionally, in the 2nd closed beta, players can obtain Natasha, who serves as a healer, and Serval, who is an AoE attacker, for free.

This guide evaluates all 26 playable characters in Honkai Star Rail and explains their positions in the Honkai Star Rail ranking system.

Most notable characters to pull for

Seele

This character is the best of the best when it comes to DPS. What's even better than having one buff? Having two buffs! If you use Seele's skill, her speed will be boosted by 25%, and if she defeats one enemy, she'll get an additional turn and damage buff. Moreover, her ultimate attack has one of the highest damage outputs among all the characters in Honkai: Star Rail, making her a force to be reckoned with regardless of the stage of the game. If you team her up with Bronya, who can also provide damage buffs, you might see damage numbers in the 5, 6, or even 7 digits. This is why Seele is considered an S-tier character and is difficult to match in terms of her nuke damage.

Luocha

With Luocha on your team, you can witness the automatic healing provided to your allies. If your team's HP falls below 50%, Luocha will step in to heal them. Additionally, if Luocha's stack is full, your ally will be healed each time they are attacked by an enemy. In the event that the enemies are buffed, Luocha's ultimate can be used to deal AoE Imaginary attack and remove a single enemy buff. The best part is that this will increase Luocha's stack, leading to even more healing for your team. Luocha's ability to prevent deaths due to his impressive healing rate is the reason why he deserves a spot in the S+ tier rank.

Bronya

Bronya is a powerful buffer in Honkai: Star Rail, who can give turn priority to an ally, increase their damage output, and use her ultimate to boost ATK and CRIT DMG for two turns. She can be the perfect solution in situations where your main DPS needs to skip a turn or your team needs healing. With her skills, Bronya has earned a spot in the S+ tier, as she is the only character that can consistently advance an ally's turn and buff the entire team's CRIT DMG.

Gepard

Gepard is a dependable defender who can also function as a sub-dps tank. His abilities involve protecting the whole team with his shield and having a good chance of freezing one enemy with his skill. The shield is only available through his ultimate, which means you'll need to recharge his energy to ensure Gepard can provide your team with protection. The effectiveness of his shield is dependent on his DEF, so you need to manage your timing and energy use wisely if you want to use Gepard in your team. As you progress towards the mid and later stages of the game, his shield becomes increasingly trustworthy.

>>> Read more: Starter Guide For Honkai Star Rail Exploration And Combat System

Do you enjoy watching anime and eagerly await the next episode of your preferred series? While waiting, you have the option to discover your beloved anime characters in mobile games available on Android and iOS.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the top 10 best anime games to play on mobile in 2023.

1. ONE PIECE Bounty Rush

Topping our list of recommended anime mobile games is ONE PIECE Bounty Rush featuring the infamous pirates from One Piece. You'll get to play with Luffy's entire crew as well as his notorious adversaries, where battles are the name of the game in this action-packed title!

Engage in 4-on-4 real-time battles on the vast world of One Piece. The game features 3D graphics that stay true to the anime. Assemble your team by collecting your favourite characters, such as Roronoa Zoro, Monkey D. Luffy, Niko Robin, Shanks the Red, and Portgas D. Ace, to name a few, who fall under one of five classes: warriors, shooters, supports, swordsmen, and fighters.

The objective is straightforward: conquer all of your enemies and, just like any good pirate, obtain the greatest hoard of Berrys. You also have the option to play cooperatively with your nakamas.

2. One Punch Man: Road to Hero 2.0

If you're not up for following Saitama's intense training, you can still experience his world by playing One Punch Man: Road to Hero 2.0 on your smartphone. In this game, you'll confront unprecedented threats and have to gather the best heroes from the One Punch Man universe to combat them.

To succeed, you can level up your characters and devise effective strategies to defeat your foes in turn-based battles. The game boasts various modes including Scenario, where you'll face formidable enemies in the city, Extreme Challenge that tests your limits in an unlimited tower, and PvP Tournament where you'll prove your strength to the world.

In summary, this action-packed game based on the anime will keep you engaged with more than 50 characters and an abundance of devastating combos. The voice actors from the anime also dub the different heroes, making it even more enjoyable.

3. My Hero Academia: The Strongest Hero

The next game on our list of top anime mobile games is My Hero Academia: The Strongest Hero, which takes the third spot. This action-packed role-playing game immerses you in the world of the anime and lets you play as your favourite heroes such as Izuku Midoriya, Ochaco Uraraka, and All Might, among many others. Additionally, you can even play as the villains!

To access these characters, you must summon them successfully, and while there are some gacha mechanics in the game, it's an excellent opportunity to acquire numerous characters as the My Hero Academia manga has no shortage of them.

The Strongest Hero is a faithful adaptation of the anime that takes place in an open world. Here, you can complete various quests, fight against other players, join an alliance, and engage in ultra combat battles.

Each fighter has unique basic and special moves, and the gameplay varies according to the heroes, such as multiple quick hits or long-range attacks. The story mode benefits from cinematic scenes and images from the anime, and the 3D graphics are visually appealing.

4. Dragon Ball Legends

The fourth game on our list of top anime mobile games is Dragon Ball Legends, which allows you to relive the iconic anime and awaken your inner Super Saiyan. The game starts with Shallot, a Saiyan from the past created by Akira Toriyama.

The game features an original story divided into multiple missions, and all the beloved fighters from Dragon Ball are included in the game. You can play with Son Goku, Vegeta, Broly, Trunks, and more. Moreover, some characters from Dragon Ball Super are also available, such as Goku Black, Vegeta Super Saiyan, and Zamasu, making a total of fifty characters that you can potentially unlock.

The game boasts superb 3D graphics that perfectly capture the essence of the anime series. Dragon Ball Legends offers the perfect opportunity to engage in fast-paced, smartphone-friendly combat. You can challenge players from all over the world with a full PVP mode and enjoy regular events.

5. Naruto X Boruto Ninja Voltage

Naruto X Boruto Ninja Voltage immerses you in the world of ninjas based on the Naruto Shippuden and Boruto mangas. The mobile game features many fighters from these anime, and you can attempt to summon them. Besides the gacha mechanics, the game emphasizes combat. You can join a shinobi guild to team up and defeat powerful bosses or take over other players' fortresses.

The game lets you form a clan to collect your favourite shinobis such as Naruto, Boruto, and Sakura. You can enhance them, design your fortress, and protect it. Additionally, you can place traps and defenses strategically in your village to prevent other players from invading.

6. Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links

Let's move on to a d-duel with Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links. The mobile game is based on Kazuki Takahashi's manga series and offers a free-to-play model centered on card games. Even if you're not familiar with the anime, you can still enjoy the strategy games as the rules are simplified and more accessible. For instance, life points are limited to 4000 instead of 8000 to make the games faster.

The game offers many cards that retain their effects, providing ample material to build a variety of decks. It also guides new players through the mechanics, offering objectives to complete and unlocking new characters to face. All the crucial aspects of the series are present. Additionally, the game is generous, providing regular resources to obtain new cards and progress without requiring payment. However, new players to the series may find it difficult to comprehend at first.

7. Bleach Brave Souls

Bleach Brave Souls is a mobile game based on the popular anime and manga series, Bleach. The game is a free-to-play action-packed RPG that lets you take on the role of your favorite Bleach characters and battle against other players in intense 3D battles.

The gameplay involves building a team of three characters and using their unique abilities and special moves to defeat enemies. The game features a large cast of characters from the Bleach universe, allowing players to choose from a wide variety of heroes and villains.

In addition to the story mode, which follows the events of the anime and manga, Bleach Brave Souls also features a co-op mode where you can team up with other players to take on challenging quests and boss battles. The game also regularly updates with new content, including new characters and events.

Overall, Bleach Brave Souls is a must-play for fans of the series and a great introduction for newcomers to the world of Bleach. With its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and faithful adaptation of the source material, it's easy to see why this game has such a dedicated fanbase.

8. The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross

Ranking at number eight in our list of top iOS and Android manga games is The Seven Deadly Sins: Grand Cross, an RPG developed by Netmarble that flawlessly captures the essence of the anime. In this game, you get to experience the journey of Meliodas and Elisabeth as they search for the Seven Deadly Sins, with gorgeous cinematics featuring Japanese voice acting from the anime.

The game boasts stunning graphics and a high-quality free-to-play experience, despite featuring gacha mechanics. The gameplay involves turn-based combat with a 3 vs 3 format, where a substitute is available if one of your characters dies.

The combat system is quite unique, as you can combine cards to unleash special moves that allow you to defeat your enemies in style, giving you the freedom to develop your own strategic approach. You can also team up with your friends in confrontations, challenge players from all over the world in PVP arenas, customise your characters and more.

9. Fate/Grand Order

Fate/Grand Order is a mobile RPG based on the popular Fate anime. The game involves collecting characters from the series and battling against enemies in story mode or online PvP. Although it follows the standard gacha mechanics, it's quite friendly to free-to-play players, and most characters are fully voiced, which adds to the experience.

However, like other gacha games, there is a significant amount of grinding involved, and some of the dialogue can be cheesy. But this is typical of the Fate series, and the game's landscape mode is a plus, providing more space for gameplay.

10. Konosuba: Fantastic Days

Konosuba: Fantastic Days is a mobile RPG based on the popular Konosuba anime series. In the game, players can collect and control characters from the anime and use them to battle against enemies.

The graphics in Konosuba Fantastic Days are typical for mobile games of its kind, but the game is improved by its anime-style cutscenes that make the experience more exciting and connected to the anime series.

The gameplay is similar to other gacha games, but with its own twist. The combat is in real-time, with each character having three skills and a Super. Skills can be used anytime as long as they are not on cooldown, while the Super takes some time to charge. The combat also incorporates the quirks of each character, such as Darkness's tendency to miss, which is a delight for fans, but new players may find it confusing.

The story is solid and starts with a surprise as the gang reminisces about old times before jumping into their usual hijinks. The tutorial on combat mechanics follows as the gang tries to save Aqua from a giant frog.

>>> Read more: 15 Games Like Elden Ring To Try Out After Conquered The Lands Between

Once just a distant aspiration, the idea of an unbounded and extensive open world has now become a common goal for game designers. They aim to create the most voluminous and content-rich open world that has ever been imagined, especially when it comes to developing narrative-rich role-playing games.

Permitting players to explore a world on their own is an excellent approach to engaging them in its mythology. While a few games take this idea to an extreme level, the biggest maps in RPGs can literally take many hours to traverse.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the 10 biggest Open World RPGs ever created.

10. Assassin's Creed Odyssey - 98 sq miles

The second game in the Assassin's Creed franchise to venture into role-playing territory, following its predecessor Origins, was Assassin's Creed Odyssey. It gave players the ability to explore a vast portion of Ancient Greece, measuring almost one hundred square miles. The visuals in Odyssey were stunning and encompassed everything from beautiful forests to glistening blue waters.

Moreover, the narrative of Odyssey, which followed the journey of Kassandra or Alexios, was not merely visually appealing. It intensified the suspense by throwing players into the Peloponnesian War, as descendants of Leonidas I of Sparta, while also presenting a challenging path to return from exile. Additionally, there was an array of mythological creatures to battle against.

9. Xenoblade Chronicles X - 154 sq miles

Despite being a JRPG, Xenoblade Chronicles X boasts a substantial world spanning 154 square miles. What's remarkable about it is that it was designed to run on the relatively low-powered Nintendo Wii U gaming console.

Although creating vast and surreal landscapes is feasible on more advanced hardware, the developers' ability to fit such a large game world within the Wii U's limited technical constraints is an impressive accomplishment that still holds up today.

8. Black Desert Online - 154 sq miles

Black Desert Online, a massive multiplayer online role-playing game developed in Korea, generated a lot of excitement when it was first revealed due to its stunning character models and comprehensive character creation tools. Although it did not quite captivate Western players, it still gained a devoted fanbase.

One of the game's notable features is its intricate, action-based combat system that necessitates more than just pressing buttons randomly. Furthermore, its vast open world provides an enjoyable experience for players to immerse themselves in and explore without any particular objective in mind.

7. Star Wars Galaxies - 200 sq miles

Star Wars Galaxies, an MMORPG released in 2003, was an ambitious title that offered players the opportunity to define their own roles and chart their own course in the Star Wars universe.

At the time of its release, it was a unique experience to be able to freely explore the world created by George Lucas without any restrictions, and it was truly awe-inspiring. The game's vast world spanned over 200 square miles and encompassed several planets. It is unfortunate that the game's support was discontinued as far back as 2011.

6. EverQuest - 294 sq miles

EverQuest, a massive multiplayer online role-playing game launched in 1999, was a grandiose project that was ahead of its time when it first hit the market. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality, as it still has a devoted community of players.

Despite its conventional fantasy theme, mundane actions, and antiquated graphics, EverQuest was once a groundbreaking game. Players who choose to explore this dated classic will have access to a colossal 294 square miles of playable area, which can be almost overwhelming in scale.

5. Asheron’s Call - 500 sq miles

Asheron’s Call, another MMORPG released in 1999, gained notoriety in 2017 when a video was posted on YouTube of an individual's grandfather playing the game with characters he had created when the game was first launched.

Set featured image

If a player is committed enough to maintain a character's existence for such an extended period, it is a testament to the high quality of Asheron's Call's online experience. Although the servers were finally shut down in early 2017 after nearly 17 years of service, devoted fans will always cherish the time they spent exploring the game's massive 500 square mile map.

4. Final Fantasy 15 - 700 sq miles

Final Fantasy 15 garnered attention for its colossal size and for redeeming the Final Fantasy franchise's reputation among gamers who had been disappointed by lackluster previous releases. However, the game received mixed reviews.

At its core, Final Fantasy 15 is a JRPG with some Western influences. Players will enjoy spending over 100 hours playing through the game's story. The game features bosses that are almost as big as entire maps in other games, making it an unforgettable experience with incredible longevity.

3. Guild Wars Nightfall - 15,000 sq miles

Guild Wars Nightfall, which came out seven years before Guild Wars 2, is a lesser-known MMORPG installment in the popular series. Despite being only a minor upgrade compared to the first game released a year earlier, Nightfall's significant improvements came in the form of playable area and map design.

Although it's still set in a medieval fantasy world, Nightfall allowed players to explore an immensely detailed and extensive terrain. With approximately 15,000 square miles of digital terrain to traverse, Nightfall remains one of the biggest playable worlds ever created.

2. Lord Of The Rings Online - 30,000 sq miles

Lord of the Rings Online, often regarded as the largest MMORPG ever, boasts a map scale so massive that it would have impressed even Tolkien himself. It's a fantasy franchise that truly deserves a detailed and immersive MMO experience.

Despite being launched in 2007, the game still holds up well and is definitely worth playing. With a staggering playable area of approximately 30,000 square miles, LotR fans could potentially spend years exploring this vast digital world.

1. The Elder Scrolls 2: Daggerfall - 62,000 sq miles

The Elder Scrolls 2: Daggerfall, despite being released in 1996, is a game that dwarfs the worlds of Morrowind, Oblivion or Skyrim in terms of size. Although the game is quite dated by today's standards and may appear unattractive in certain instances, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer scale of Daggerfall.

It is surprising to think that the largest playable space ever created in a game was launched during a time when Quake was considered a significant game and required high-end computer setups to operate. Fans of Bethesda's recent Elder Scrolls titles should take a trip down memory lane and experience this game for themselves.

>>> Read more: Top 10 Tips And Tricks To Save Ammo In Resident Evil 4 Remake

A game trilogy is a collection of three video games that are linked by a common storyline, gameplay mechanics, and characters. Typically, each game in a trilogy builds upon the previous entry, advancing the storyline and introducing new gameplay elements.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the top 5 best video game trilogies ever made.

1. Mass Effect trilogy

The Mass Effect trilogy is an epic sci-fi story that follows Commander Shepard, a human soldier tasked with saving the galaxy from various threats. Across three games, players encounter a vast array of alien races, each with their own unique histories and cultures, and make choices that affect the outcome of the story.

The first game introduces players to the world of Mass Effect, and sees Shepard assembling a team to investigate a rogue Spectre agent and the threat of an ancient, sentient race known as the Reapers. In the second game, Shepard works to build a team to take on the Collectors, a group of aliens abducting human colonists. Finally, in the third game, Shepard leads the fight against the Reapers, who have returned to destroy all organic life in the galaxy.

The trilogy is renowned for its engaging characters, immersive world-building, and impactful player choices that shape the narrative. The storyline is well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns that keep players engaged from beginning to end. The gameplay is a mix of third-person shooting and RPG mechanics, with the player able to customize their character's abilities and equipment to suit their playstyle.

Overall, the Mass Effect trilogy is a must-play for fans of sci-fi and RPGs, and its legacy continues to influence modern gaming today.

2. Dark Souls trilogy

The Dark Souls trilogy is a series of action RPG games developed by FromSoftware. Set in a dark fantasy world, players take on the role of a cursed undead warrior who must explore the land of Lordran/Drangleic/Lothric and overcome a series of challenging enemies and bosses to ultimately link the fire and restore order to the world.

The games are renowned for their difficulty, with punishing combat and a steep learning curve. However, the challenge is part of what makes the series so satisfying to play, as players slowly develop their skills and knowledge to overcome each obstacle.

The world-building is also a standout feature of the trilogy, with a rich lore and intricate level design that rewards exploration. The games are also famous for their interconnectedness, with shortcuts and hidden paths that make the world feel cohesive and immersive.

The gameplay revolves around a mix of melee combat, magic, and exploration, with players able to customize their character's abilities and equipment to suit their playstyle. The games also offer online multiplayer features, including co-op and PvP.

Overall, the Dark Souls trilogy is a masterpiece of game design, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for those who are willing to put in the effort. Its influence can be seen in countless other games that have followed in its footsteps.

3. BioShock trilogy

The BioShock trilogy is a series of first-person shooter games set in unique, dystopian worlds. Developed by Irrational Games and later by 2K Games, the trilogy consists of BioShock, BioShock 2, and BioShock Infinite.

Each game is set in a different location with its own unique story and themes. The first game takes place in the underwater city of Rapture, built as a utopia for society's elite but now in a state of decay and anarchy. The second game takes place ten years later, with players taking on the role of a Big Daddy, the hulking protectors of Rapture's Little Sisters. The third game, BioShock Infinite, is set in the floating city of Columbia, a seemingly idyllic world built on American exceptionalism that soon reveals a dark underbelly.

The trilogy is renowned for its storytelling, with rich and complex narratives that explore themes such as objectivism, free will, and the dangers of unchecked power. The games also offer unique gameplay mechanics, such as plasmids and vigors that give players supernatural abilities, and a wide variety of weapons to choose from.

The BioShock trilogy has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, influencing numerous games that have followed in its wake. It remains a must-play for fans of first-person shooters and immersive storytelling.

4. Grand Theft Auto 3D Trilogy

The Grand Theft Auto 3D Trilogy includes the classic games Grand Theft Auto III, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Originally released in the early 2000s, the trilogy has been remastered with updated graphics and new features for modern consoles.

Grand Theft Auto III set the standard for open-world games with its innovative gameplay, allowing players to explore the sprawling city of Liberty City and engage in various criminal activities. Vice City added a new level of depth with its 1980s Miami-inspired setting, while San Andreas expanded the scope even further with its massive state-sized map and RPG-like mechanics.

Overall, the Grand Theft Auto 3D Trilogy is a must-have for fans of the series and newcomers alike. The updated graphics and improved gameplay mechanics make these classic games feel fresh and new, while still retaining the same anarchic spirit that made them so popular in the first place. Whether you're a long-time fan or just getting into the series, the Grand Theft Auto 3D Trilogy is definitely worth checking out.

5. Halo Trilogy

The Halo Trilogy consists of Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo 2, and Halo 3, three first-person shooter games developed by Bungie Studios. The games follow the adventures of Master Chief, a cybernetically enhanced supersoldier, as he battles against the alien Covenant and the parasitic Flood.

Halo: Combat Evolved revolutionized the first-person shooter genre with its engaging story, immersive gameplay, and innovative mechanics. The game's sequels, Halo 2 and Halo 3, built upon the foundation laid by their predecessor, introducing new weapons, vehicles, and multiplayer modes.

The trilogy's epic storyline, which spans across three games, is a major highlight of the series, with complex characters and intricate world-building. The games also feature stunning visuals, with detailed environments and realistic character models.

The multiplayer component of the Halo Trilogy is also a standout feature, with its robust customization options and addictive gameplay. The trilogy's multiplayer modes have become a staple of the gaming community, with LAN parties and online matchmaking still popular to this day.

Overall, the Halo Trilogy is a landmark achievement in the first-person shooter genre, with engaging gameplay, an epic storyline, and memorable characters. Whether you're a fan of the series or new to the franchise, the Halo Trilogy is a must-play for any gamer.

>>> Read more: Top 5 Best Co-op Games To Play On PC (2023)

Overall, the Switch's RPG library offers something for every type of gamer, from classic turn-based RPGs to modern action-RPGs. With a growing list of titles and the portability of the Switch, it's a great platform for RPG fans.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the 5 Best RPGs to play on the Nintendo Switch in 2023.

1. Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a remastered version of the 2010 Japanese role-playing game, Xenoblade Chronicles. Developed by Monolith Soft and published by Nintendo, the game follows the story of protagonist Shulk as he journeys through the world of Bionis to stop the machinations of the robotic Mechon army.

The game's graphics have been upgraded significantly, with sharper textures and improved character models. The game also features an enhanced soundtrack, with fully orchestrated music that adds an extra layer of immersion to the game world. The game's world design is breathtaking, with expansive landscapes that offer a sense of scale and wonder.

The combat system in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is engaging and strategic, with a range of abilities and skills that can be used to take down enemies. The game also features a deep crafting system that allows players to create their own weapons and armor, adding a level of customization to the gameplay experience.

One of the standout features of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is its captivating storyline, which is told through well-developed characters and intricate plot twists. The game's world is also rich with lore and history, adding depth to the overall experience.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a masterpiece of gameplay design. The game is an open-world action-adventure game, and it features a wide range of gameplay mechanics that are both intuitive and challenging.

One of the standout features of the gameplay in Breath of the Wild is the use of the Sheikah Slate, a device that serves as the player's map, camera, and toolset. The Sheikah Slate allows players to interact with the game's world in a variety of different ways, from creating ice blocks to solving puzzles and unlocking hidden secrets.

Combat in Breath of the Wild is also highly engaging, with a focus on using different weapons, tactics, and environmental factors to take down enemies. The game encourages players to experiment with different approaches to combat, rewarding creativity and ingenuity.

3. Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a role-playing game developed by Monolith Soft and published by Nintendo. The game follows the story of protagonist Rex as he journeys through the world of Alrest in search of the legendary paradise Elysium, aided by a cast of memorable characters and their powerful weapons known as Blades.

The game features stunning visuals, with vibrant landscapes and intricate character designs that bring the world of Alrest to life. The game's soundtrack is also well-composed, with a range of music that captures the essence of the game's themes and setting.

One of the most distinctive features of the game's gameplay system is the use of Blades, which are sentient weapons that can be wielded by the game's characters. These Blades can be acquired through a process known as Blade bonding, in which the player resonates with a core crystal to unlock a new Blade. Each Blade has its own unique set of abilities and powers, which can be unlocked and upgraded as the player progresses through the game.

Combat in Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is real-time and features a system known as the Arts Palette. The Arts Palette allows players to use a range of different abilities and attacks, which can be customized and arranged to suit their playstyle. The game also features a strategic element, where players must carefully manage their party's position and use of abilities to defeat powerful enemies.

4. Bayonetta 2

Bayonetta 2 is an action-packed hack-and-slash game that offers some of the best gameplay mechanics of any game in the genre. The game is fast-paced and offers a range of different abilities and moves that players can use to take down enemies and bosses.

One of the standout features of Bayonetta 2's gameplay is its use of the Witch Time mechanic. This mechanic allows players to slow down time when they dodge an enemy's attack, giving them a brief window of opportunity to unleash a devastating counter-attack. This adds an element of strategy to the game's combat, as players must carefully time their dodges to maximize their effectiveness.

The game also features a range of different weapons and abilities that can be unlocked and upgraded as players progress through the game. This adds a sense of progression and depth to the gameplay, as players must constantly adapt and improve their skills to overcome new challenges.

5. Shin Megami Tensei V

Shin Megami Tensei V is an RPG that delivers a deep and challenging gameplay experience. The game features a complex and rewarding combat system that allows players to recruit and fuse demons, which can then be used in battle to take down enemies and bosses.

One of the standout features of Shin Megami Tensei V's gameplay is its use of demon negotiation. This mechanic allows players to talk to demons and try to convince them to join their party, offering a range of different rewards and benefits. This adds a strategic element to the game's combat, as players must carefully balance their demon party to overcome different challenges.

The game also features a range of different skills and abilities that can be unlocked and upgraded as players progress through the game. This allows for a high degree of customization and flexibility, as players can adapt their party to suit their playstyle.

>>> Read more: Top 10 Best PC Games Ported To Android (2023)

Mobile devices have been getting more and more powerful. In the past, android phones can only play a handful of simple games, but nowadays full-fledged titles previously on PC are ported to the platform.

In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the top 10 best PC games ported to Android in 2023.

1. Rome: Total War

Rome: Total War is the most highly acclaimed game in the Total War series. Upon its launch, it was apparent that the Total War series had something different to offer to fans of Turn-Based Grand Strategy games. In time, it would become known as one of, if not, the best Total War games ever made. Players can conquer and rule the ancient world by fighting spectacular real-time battles in an enormous turn-based campaign.

The android version of Rome is a true port of the original PC game and runs smoothly. However, the controls on the touch screen are abysmal, especially in battle it is a huge pain to do anything more than tell one unit to attack another unit. Don't expect to pull off flanking or complex formations of any kind.

2. Company of Heroes

Company of Heroes is probably one of the best RTS games ever. At the time when stuff like Age of Empires, StarCraft and Warcraft were the dominant strategy games, CoH broke that mold by doing away with economic gathering and management by simply replacing it with a sector-capturing system that generated resources for the player. The realism and tactical aspect of doing things like maneuvering tanks so that their frontal armor is facing incoming fire to minimize damage is amazing.

The android version suffers the same weakness as Rome - the controls are not that responsive, which might cause players unnecessary loss.

3. XCOM 2

XCOM 2 is a pretty great turn-based strategy game about killing aliens. You command a platoon of customizable soldiers that begin as rookies and over time become seasoned veterans with skills dictated by your decisions in skill trees. You command troops through the grid-based map and take actions based on the number of action points they possess each turn; these actions include movement, using a weapon (fire gun, melee), reloading, using items, and going on overwatch (aka set up an ambush if an enemy enters the line of sight).

The android version is a really great port in general. The touch controls are very intuitive and well thought out. After a few hundred hours on PC, I felt right at home with the mobile version.

4. Alien: Isolation

Alien Isolation is a nerve-racking 1st person stealth horror game in which you explore a huge space station, complete tasks while remaining hidden from the Xenomorph, and craft tools to distract and try to survive. The AI is the best part of the game, with the xenomorph latches on to your strategies and ensuring the player doesn't brute force a level the same way over and over, for an incredibly immersive survival experience.

The android port is near perfect, with surprisingly easy-to-use controls for the little bit of combat you do.

5. Planescape: Torment

Originally released in 1999 by Interplay Entertainment and Black Isle Studios, Planescape: Torment is a legendary cult classic among RPG enthusiasts. The game tends to be less hack-and-slash than it looks, playing according to a system roughly based on second-edition Dungeons & Dragons. But in a big departure from both, you can solve a huge amount of your problems with minimal combat and the real meat of the game comes in your decision-making, mystery-solving, and dealing with people around you.

The android version runs well, with sharper, cleaner graphics and a better audio soundtrack.

6. Titan Quest: Legendary Edition

Titan Quest is the lovechild of conventions set by Diablo 2, and the burning passion of talented developers, and the courage to experiment with the formula of an Action RPG. The most addictive part is trying out different builds and equipment farming, just like most diablo-like games.

This is a solid port of a classic and it's great to have all the content that has come out, including recent content, for $20. The touchscreen controls can be a bit finicky but it's still very playable. You just need to use builds that don't require quite as much precision. It would be great if they added controller support in the future though.

7. Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a game that I would describe as a mix of Castlevania, Dark Souls and most of the rogue-lites out there. You take control of a ninja-like character and your goal is to get through a bunch of randomly generated levels.

This is a really good roguelike, it starts off as being kind of easy, but still semi-difficult, but as you beat the game, each difficulty requires exponentially more skill. The mobile version has a few small drawbacks - it is slightly behind the PC version in content. However, it runs really well on pretty much any device.

8. Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger is one of the greatest games of all time, a sentiment that has been echoed by many. It's an RPG with a brisk pace, charming characters, and just enough combat and mechanics to feel worthwhile without feeling overwhelming.

The android port overall performs well and has all the extra content that the Nintendo DS version has. The touchscreen controls are... usable, but sometimes you can tap on a target and it will not attack that target.

9. Star Wars: KOTOR

Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic throws you head first into a fantastic recreation of the Star Wars universe filled with lightsabers, Sith Lords, and political intrigue, in an immersive, gripping tale of Good vs. Evil. It is one of the best RPGs of all time, holding up to this day with the choices and storyline. The gameplay is, of course, a little dated but if you can handle that, then this game will suck you in completely for hours.

The android port runs fine, controls aren't really great but not unplayable. It's difficult to play some of the minigames since this game doesn't support multi-touch.

10. Slay the Spire

In my opinion, Slay the Spire is the best roguelite deck builder ever made and also in contention for the best roguelite ever. The design of the game is close to perfect -- every card, relic, and enemy is in for a reason and serves a purpose, and there are almost no additions to the game that serve to just up the item count without offering interesting playstyle consequences. It's very easy to understand, and yet that betrays its considerable depth and endless replayability. It's very good!

The android port has some minor problems but runs smoothly for the most part.

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