Best RPGs For Cinematic Storytelling, Ranked

RPGs have come a long way to get to where they are now. Today’s big-budget RPGs have little in common with the text-based games of the past. With cinematic storytelling, slick movie-like visuals, detailed cutscenes, plus immersive dialogue with well-acted characters, the best modern RPGs often feel like interactive films — as interesting to watch as to play first-hand.

BioWare’s RPGs were a game-changer in “modernizing” the genre back in the late 2000s, with games like Mass Effect playing a vital role in pushing things toward that cinematic vibe. It brought fully voiced dialogue with its signature wheel system, dynamic camera angles that felt straight out of a movie during cutscenes and conversations, and killer visuals for its time. Before Mass Effect, people compared RPGs to books, but after it dropped, the genre started feeling more like thrilling, interactive movies where players take center stage in the story.

3:56

Related

37 RPGs With The Most Romance Options

One of the standout features of an RPG is the option to do anything you want, even fall in love. These titles feature a wide array of romance options.

Today, players pretty much expect every new RPG to deliver that same cinematic flair, and the best modern ones raise the bar ridiculously high. Below, we’ll take a look at the best RPGs for anyone who’s all about cinematic storytelling. Immersive dialogue, tons of cutscenes, gripping quests, and epic action sprinkled throughout are what lands a game high on this list.

7

Dragon Age Inquisition

Striking The Balance Between Legacy And Modern Appeal

Released

November 18, 2014

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood, Intense Violence, Nudity, Sexual Content, Strong Language

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Among BioWare’s lineup, Dragon Age has always had a tough time carving out its own spot. It’s never been quite as cinematic or action-packed as Mass Effect, but it still clings to some roots of classic CRPGs (at least to some degree). Dragon Age Inquisition eventually nailed a sweet spot between the two. It plays like a fresh take on Origins, with a huge scope, stunning visuals, and a pile of stories to dive into across Thedas’ varied regions.

Alternatively, Dragon Age: The Veilguard leans even harder into cinematic flair, rocking near-perfect graphics and detailed locations with jaw-dropping vistas. Some RPG elements feel a bit thin, quests don’t always hit the mark, and there’s an overload of action and combat. But still, Inquisition holds up as a well-rounded fantasy RPG option with that same cinematic touch.

6

Yakuza: Like A Dragon

A Great Entry Point Into The Sprawling Cinematic RPG Series

Released

November 10, 2020

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Use of Alcohol

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Yakuza ranks among the richest RPG series around, with Ryu Ga Gotoku Studios always cooking up fresh twists to keep fans on their toes. Over the years, it’s grown into a sprawling cinematic RPG powerhouse with top-tier production. Yakuza: Like a Dragon is the standout entry for newcomers and RPG diehards alike in recent times. While earlier gems like Yakuza 0 and Yakuza 6 tilt more toward action-adventure vibes, Like a Dragon swings closer to a full-on RPG. It delivers a movie-style interactive crime drama packed with turn-based combat, party management, impactful quest choices, and robust character progression.

Related

8 Best Action RPGs If You Don’t Have Much Time To Play, Ranked

Even if your free time is limited, it’s still possible to enjoy a great action RPG.

The game overflows with cinematic storytelling, hours of wild high-quality cutscenes, and a narrative focusing on character bonds that’s equal parts hilarious and touching. It also kicks off fresh with new lead Ichiban, making it easy to jump in without any previous Yakuza knowledge.

5

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

A Gold Standard For Cinematic Emotional Storytelling

Released

May 19, 2015

ESRB

M for Mature: Use of Alcohol, Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Since its release, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has set the bar for cinematic RPGs. Built on the rich lore of Andrzej Sapkowski’s books, it boasts stunning visuals, lively characters, emotionally charged dialogue, and a sprawling narrative that could rival any fantasy blockbuster. The story hooks players deep and holds them tight in its harsh world for hours.

True to CD Projekt Red’s style, The Witcher 3 puts a spotlight on player choices that hit hard, tossing out a slew of carefully crafted, morally tricky quests with no simple answers. With stellar writing, voice acting, and motion capture, the game’s cinematic brilliance stands tall, leaving most RPGs struggling to get close.

4

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

If Only More RPG Classics Got This High-Class Reimagining

Systems

Released

February 29, 2024

ESRB

T For Teen Due To Blood, Language, Mild Suggestive Themes, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

A fresh take on a legendary RPG classic, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth’s production quality leaves no one unmoved, whether they’re fans of the original or total newcomers. Some even argue it feels like a BioWare RPG from its prime, leaning hard into cinematic flair with a focus on character-driven tales and heartfelt moments. At times, the game almost feels like a big-budget animated movie that players can control.

Related

6 Most Complex BioWare Games, Ranked

These action RPGs stand among the most complex and innovative titles that BioWare has ever produced.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth’s execution alone makes this epic journey worth it, boasting jaw-dropping visuals and smooth shifts from dazzling cutscenes to gameplay, but this RPG goes beyond just being a flashy blockbuster. Packed with deep emotional resonance, dynamic combat, a nostalgic glow, and a soundtrack that lifts every moment, it’s an experience that sticks around long after the credits roll.

3

Mass Effect Legendary Edition

A One-Of-A-Kind Space Opera With An Overarching Narrative

Released

May 14, 2021

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood, Drug Reference, Partial Nudity, Sexual Content, Strong Language, Use of Alcohol, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

The original Mass Effect trilogy still holds up impressively today, and with the Legendary Edition remasters, these action-RPGs are a killer pick for anyone craving a cinematic RPG in 2025. Right from the opening, players dive into a gripping, believable world where the plot, story, and character moments hit so hard they grab them and don’t let go.

With one of gaming’s best original sci-fi universes, unforgettable companions, fast-paced combat tied to unique player classes, an overarching story where choices carry over between games, and an endlessly cinematic flair, Mass Effect’s mark on the genre is undeniable. Every fan’s got their favorite in the trilogy, but the Legendary Edition is a rare gem worth playing from start to finish, a tight, cohesive package with no weak links.

2

Baldur’s Gate 3

Easily The Most Cinematic CRPG Yet

Released

August 3, 2023

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Partial Nudity, Sexual Content, Strong Language, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Few thought there would still be a huge demand for a classic RPG experience in the 2020s, with dice rolls driving the action, turn-based combat, lots of reading, and deep role-playing and tactical layers. But Baldur’s Gate 3 pulls off a killer combo, blending that old-school tabletop charm with a cinematic story packed with cutscenes, lifelike characters, epic action, and stunning visuals.

Related

8 Most Experimental Western RPGs, Ranked

Western RPGs cover a wide range of video games, but these games really push the limits of the genre.

It’s a massive win for Larian, snagging the title of 2023’s best game. The RPG has already proven that it’s got staying power, holding strong as one of the most played single-player games for nearly two years. Even for players who aren’t into turn-based fights or dice rolls, Baldur’s Gate 3 is worth a shot. Its movie-quality presentation and super-vivid characters could easily carry the whole experience on their own.

1

Cyberpunk 2077

A Rare Cinematic First-Person RPG With Unmatched Immersion

Released

December 10, 2020

ESRB

M for Mature: Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Use of Drugs and Alcohol

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Among rare immersive first-person RPGs, Cyberpunk 2077 is king. No game before has pulled off a futuristic setting so distinct and detailed, with nearly every conversation and character interaction feeling incredibly real. Night City and its inhabitants define this action-RPG, and anyone ready to plunge into this gritty, relentless world will come out transformed by the emotional ride.

Dialogue stands out as the game’s biggest strength, making full use of the first-person view. From subtle head tilts during talks to little interactive bits like smoking, sipping a drink, or even pulling a gun mid-dialogue, Cyberpunk 2077 has no equal when it comes to cinematic moments and immersive delivery. Beware, the Phantom Liberty expansion is a must.

Related

10 Best Western Action RPGs From The 2010s, Ranked

The 2010s were a time of groundbreaking sequels for many established Western action RPGs, and here are the best.