In the realm of role-playing games (RPGs), combat is often a central mechanic that dictates the flow and challenge of the game. However, some RPGs choose to focus on narrative, exploration, and player choice, relegating combat to a secondary role or removing it entirely. Here, we explore six RPGs where combat doesn’t take center stage, highlighting how these games succeed despite—or because of—their non-combat focus.

Story

Undertale is a unique RPG that tells the story of a young human who falls into the Underground, a world inhabited by monsters. The player must navigate this strange land and decide the fate of its inhabitants, with choices that significantly impact the story’s outcome. The narrative is rich with humor, emotional depth, and themes of friendship, redemption, and forgiveness.

Gameplay

Unlike traditional RPGs, Undertale allows players to resolve conflicts through non-violent means. Players can choose to fight, but they can also talk their way out of battles or show mercy to enemies. This choice-driven mechanic encourages players to think creatively about how they interact with characters, making combat optional rather than mandatory.

Graphics and Sound

Undertale features charmingly simple pixel art that evokes nostalgia for classic RPGs. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Toby Fox, is a standout feature, with tracks that range from whimsical to haunting, perfectly complementing the game’s varied emotional tones.

Legacy and Reception

Since its release, Undertale has been praised for its innovative gameplay and storytelling. It has garnered a passionate fanbase and inspired a range of fan works, earning a place as a modern classic in the indie game scene.

Story

To the Moon follows two doctors who traverse the memories of a dying man, Johnny, to fulfill his last wish of going to the moon. The narrative is deeply emotional, exploring themes of love, memory, and regret. It unfolds like an interactive story, drawing players into a poignant and moving experience.

Gameplay

The gameplay in To the Moon is minimalistic, focusing on exploration and puzzle-solving. Players piece together fragments of Johnny’s memories to understand his life and desires. The lack of combat allows players to immerse themselves fully in the unfolding story.

Graphics and Sound

The game employs a 16-bit art style reminiscent of classic RPGs, which enhances its nostalgic feel. The soundtrack, composed by Kan Gao, is integral to the game’s emotional impact, with evocative piano melodies that underscore key moments in the story.

Legacy and Reception

To the Moon received critical acclaim for its narrative depth and emotional richness. It is often cited as a benchmark for storytelling in games, demonstrating the medium’s potential to convey complex emotions and stories without traditional combat mechanics.

Story

Night in the Woods centers on Mae Borowski, a college dropout who returns to her hometown of Possum Springs. The story delves into themes of mental health, economic hardship, and the passage of time, providing a slice-of-life narrative with a mysterious undertone.

Gameplay

The game emphasizes exploration and dialogue, allowing players to interact with a cast of quirky characters. Players make choices that affect relationships and story outcomes. The focus is on narrative and character development, with mini-games and activities providing variety.

Graphics and Sound

Night in the Woods features a distinctive, hand-drawn art style that gives life to its anthropomorphic characters and small-town setting. The atmospheric soundtrack, composed by Alec Holowka, complements the game’s emotional and narrative beats.

Legacy and Reception

The game was lauded for its storytelling and character depth, earning several awards and nominations. Night in the Woods is noted for its portrayal of contemporary issues and its ability to resonate with a diverse audience.

Story

Oxenfree is a supernatural thriller that follows a group of friends who accidentally open a ghostly rift while exploring a mysterious island. The narrative unfolds through natural dialogue and player choices, weaving a tale of friendship, loss, and the supernatural.

Gameplay

The game is driven by a dialogue system that allows players to shape the story based on their interactions with other characters. Puzzles and exploration are central to the experience, with no combat mechanics involved. The emphasis is on narrative and atmosphere.

Graphics and Sound

Oxenfree features a stylish, minimalist art design that enhances its eerie and mysterious atmosphere. The sound design, including the haunting ambient score by SCNTFC, plays a crucial role in building tension and mood throughout the game.

Legacy and Reception

Oxenfree was praised for its innovative dialogue system and engaging narrative. It has become a beloved title among fans of narrative-driven games, with its unique approach to storytelling setting it apart from traditional RPGs.

Story

A Short Hike tells the simple yet heartwarming story of Claire, a bird who visits a small island to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The narrative is light and open-ended, encouraging players to explore and interact at their own pace.

Gameplay

The game focuses on exploration and discovery, allowing players to wander through the island, meet its inhabitants, and engage in optional quests. There is no combat, and the emphasis is on relaxation and enjoyment of the journey rather than any specific goal.

Graphics and Sound

A Short Hike features a vibrant, low-poly art style that exudes charm and whimsy. The soundtrack, composed by Mark Sparling, is soothing and perfectly complements the game’s laid-back atmosphere, enhancing the sense of exploration and wonder.

Legacy and Reception

Upon release, A Short Hike received acclaim for its relaxing gameplay and beautiful design. It has been praised as a refreshing departure from more intense gaming experiences, offering a peaceful and engaging respite for players.

Story

Firewatch is set in the Wyoming wilderness, where players assume the role of Henry, a fire lookout. The narrative unfolds through dialogue with Delilah, another lookout, as they uncover a mysterious occurrence in the forest. The story explores themes of isolation, trust, and the impact of personal choices.

Gameplay

The gameplay centers on exploration and narrative, with players navigating the wilderness and interacting with their environment. The dialogue choices shape the story, and there is no combat, allowing players to focus on the narrative and character development.

Graphics and Sound

Firewatch features stunning, stylized visuals that capture the beauty of the natural landscape. The sound design, including a minimalist score by Chris Remo, enhances the game’s immersive atmosphere and emotional depth.

Legacy and Reception

Firewatch was widely praised for its storytelling, visual design, and voice acting. It has been recognized as a standout example of narrative-driven gaming, influencing subsequent titles in the genre and earning a dedicated fanbase.

These six RPGs demonstrate that combat is not a necessity for creating compelling and memorable gaming experiences. By focusing on narrative, exploration, and player choice, these games offer unique and engaging journeys that resonate with players long after the screen goes dark.