Top 10 medieval fantasy RPGs of 2024

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Ignacio Weil

Gaming - December 20th 2024, 13:00 GMT+1

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For this list, we focused on the best role-playing games set in medieval fantasy worlds that launched in 2024, hoping that at least one studio took a few notes from Larian’s smashing success in 2023 – all the love for Baldur's Gate 3!

We decided to stick primarily to RPGs rather than action-adventure hybrids, so you won’t find awesome games like *Black Myth: Wukong* here. If you think we missed a must-have title in this genre, why not drop it in the comments?

10. Bellwright

In *Bellwright*, you’re not just a rebel – you’re a construction foreman with a vengeance. The game tasks you with building settlements, recruiting villagers, and leading armies to topple a corrupt regime. It’s a mix of strategy, survival, and action that has a lot of heart. Watching your settlement grow from a humble outpost to a thriving community is immensely satisfying, and the battles, while straightforward, can be intense and rewarding when everything comes together.

But oh, does that Early Access label weigh heavily here. Combat can feel clunky, and the AI sometimes makes your villagers look more confused than rebellious. There’s also a sense that some features are still “coming soon,” which leaves the experience feeling incomplete at times. That said, *Bellwright* has the foundation of something great it just needs a bit more polish before it can fully live up to its ambitions. | © Donkey Crew

Dragon Age The Veilguard — 9. Dragon Age: The Veilguard

*Dragon Age: The Veilguard* struts into the room wearing the armor of its beloved predecessors, but it doesn’t quite fill their boots. The setting, Thedas, remains as rich and intriguing as ever, and the game’s visuals and atmosphere are undeniably impressive. You’ll meet a colorful cast of companions and face morally complex decisions – on paper, everything you’d want in a *Dragon Age* game.

But then the dialogue starts, and things fall apart faster than a mage who forgot to cast Barrier. The witty, heartfelt banter that defined previous entries is replaced with dialogue that feels awkwardly modern, stilted, and, dare I say, uninspired. There’s still charm in your interactions, but the writing rarely reaches the emotional highs or clever exchanges of the past. The combat, while flashy and enjoyable, also feels simplified, favoring spectacle over depth. | © BioWare

Eiyuden Chronicle Hundred Heroes — 8. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

A spiritual successor to *Suikoden*, *Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes* wears its influences proudly, delivering a classic JRPG experience with modern flourishes. The game’s sprawling cast of over 100 characters is a standout feature, and recruiting them feels like building a mini-community, each with their own quirks and stories. Battles are engaging, with a turn-based system that rewards strategic thinking and team synergy.

However, the sheer number of characters can also feel like a double-edged sword. While the main cast shines, many side characters barely get enough screen time to make an impact, which can make the roster feel bloated. And while the nostalgic design is charming, it sometimes veers into frustrating territory, with outdated mechanics like limited saves and a clunky UI that could have used more modernization. Still, for fans of the golden age of JRPGs, this game is a heartfelt tribute that delivers where it counts. | © Rabbit & Bear Studios

7. Visions of Mana

*Visions of Mana* embraces the whimsy and charm that have long defined the *Mana* series, offering players a vibrant world full of magic, elemental spirits, and lovable characters. The game’s art style is enchanting, with lush environments and colorful designs that feel like stepping into a storybook. Its approachable combat system makes it a breeze for newcomers, while longtime fans will appreciate the nods to the series’ past.

But while the game is undeniably charming, it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its predecessors. The story is simple and sweet, but it lacks the emotional depth or memorable twists that could have made it truly stand out. The streamlined mechanics, while accessible, also mean there’s less depth for players seeking a meatier RPG experience. *Visions of Mana* is like a comforting bowl of soup – warm and familiar, but not particularly adventurous. | © Square Enix

DRAGON QUEST III HD 2 D Remake — 6. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake

The *Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake* is a masterclass in how to revitalize a classic. The game takes the beloved 1988 RPG and transforms it with stunning HD-2D visuals that blend retro aesthetics with modern flair. Exploring its vibrant towns and dangerous dungeons feels like stepping into a living diorama, and the quality-of-life updates, such as faster battles and better inventory management, make the game much more accessible to modern players.

It’s clear that this remake was made with love, though it does stick closely to the original’s formula, for better or worse. The grind-heavy gameplay and straightforward story may feel dated to some, especially those unfamiliar with older RPGs. But for fans of the series and genre purists, it’s a lovingly crafted homage that proves great games never go out of style. | © Square Enix

5. Enshrouded

*Enshrouded* takes players into a corrupted world where survival, crafting, and exploration go hand in hand. As the Flameborn, you’ll awaken to a world overtaken by a deadly fog, tasked with reclaiming its beauty while battling ferocious monsters and building a safe haven. The game shines in its ability to combine the freedom of base-building with intense, fast-paced action RPG combat. Whether you’re fortifying your settlement or diving into dungeons filled with lurking horrors, there’s always something to keep you engaged. The co-op mode, which supports up to 16 players, is a highlight, offering an excellent way to tackle its sprawling world with friends.

While its ambition occasionally pushes the game to its limits, *Enshrouded* manages to strike a satisfying balance between challenge and reward. The survival aspects feel meaningful without becoming tedious, and the world itself is a joy to explore. It’s a game that feels alive, with a sense of discovery that keeps pulling you back in. | © Keen Games

Dragons Dogma 2 — 4. Dragon’s Dogma 2

Capcom’s highly-anticipated *Dragon’s Dogma 2* doesn’t disappoint, delivering a richly detailed world filled with monstrous foes, thrilling combat, and a sense of grand adventure. The sequel improves on nearly every aspect of the original, from its breathtaking landscapes to the nuanced pawn system that allows you to customize AI companions to match your playstyle. Combat is the star of the show, with dynamic battles that reward creativity – there’s nothing quite like climbing onto the back of a roaring griffin to deliver the final blow.

The world is vast and packed with secrets, and while some side quests don’t carry the same weight as the main storyline, they rarely feel like chores. The game’s commitment to its roots will delight longtime fans while still offering plenty of new ideas to make it feel fresh. With *Dragon’s Dogma 2*, Capcom has proven once again that they know how to craft an unforgettable RPG experience. | © Capcom

Granblue Fantasy Relink — 3. Granblue Fantasy: Relink

*Granblue Fantasy: Relink* is an exhilarating blend of action-packed combat and rich storytelling, set in the stunning skies of the Granblue universe. The real-time battles are smooth and fluid, encouraging players to experiment with character abilities and team compositions to devastating effect. With its gorgeous visuals and vibrant world, the game feels like a living, breathing anime come to life. Whether you’re embarking on solo quests or teaming up with friends in its co-op mode, *Relink* keeps the excitement high.

The story, while not revolutionary, is engaging enough to keep you invested, and the sprawling cast of characters adds depth to every encounter. It’s a game that wears its heart on its sleeve, delivering a polished and thoroughly enjoyable experience that’s hard to put down. For fans of action RPGs, this one’s a must-play. | © Cygames

Unicorn overlord msn — 2. Unicorn Overlord

Few games manage to combine strategy and spectacle quite like *Unicorn Overlord*. This tactical RPG is a visual and mechanical delight, drawing you into a richly-detailed world where you lead a ragtag army to reclaim your kingdom. The overworld exploration is a breath of fresh air, allowing players to wander freely, gather resources, and recruit allies from a diverse roster of humans, elves, and other fantastical beings. Battles are thrilling, rewarding careful planning while leaving room for bold, creative tactics.

What makes *Unicorn Overlord* stand out is its charm. From its stunning art style to its heartfelt storytelling, the game feels like a labor of love. While its depth might intimidate newcomers, it’s precisely this complexity that gives it such staying power. For those who crave a game that challenges both their strategic mind and their sense of wonder, *Unicorn Overlord* is a triumph. | © Atlus

ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree — 1. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

*Shadow of the Erdtree* is everything you’d hope for in an expansion to *Elden Ring*. FromSoftware takes players back to the Lands Between, expanding the already colossal world with breathtaking new areas to explore and lore that delves even deeper into the mysteries of the Erdtree. The bosses are as awe-inspiring and unforgiving as ever, demanding precision and skill in battles that will leave your heart racing.

What truly sets this expansion apart is its ability to build on the foundation of *Elden Ring* while introducing fresh challenges and surprises. The new weapons, abilities, and enemies feel perfectly integrated into the game’s universe, offering something for both seasoned players and newcomers (if they’re brave enough). It’s a masterclass in how to create meaningful DLC, leaving fans both satisfied and hungry for more. | © FromSoftware

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Medieval fantasy RPGs hold a special place in the hearts of gamers, offering epic tales, sprawling worlds, and thrilling battles that transport us to realms of knights, dragons, and magic. In 2024, the genre continues to thrive, with developers pushing boundaries and revisiting beloved classics. From heart-pounding action to intricate storytelling, this year’s lineup offers something for every type of adventurer.

Whether you’re diving into a gritty tale of rebellion, exploring breathtaking open worlds, or battling towering beasts, these games are here to remind us why medieval fantasy remains a cornerstone of RPG gaming. So grab your sword, ready your spells, and join us as we count down the top 10 medieval fantasy RPGs of 2024!