Story

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter, on his quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri, who is running from the Wild Hunt. The game is set in a vast, open world filled with political intrigue, mythical creatures, and morally complex choices.

Gameplay

The gameplay in The Witcher 3 is a blend of exploration, combat, and narrative-driven quests. Players navigate through a richly detailed world, engage in deep dialogue trees, and make decisions that affect the game’s outcome.

Why it’s on this list

One of the standout characters who never joins your party is Emhyr var Emreis, the Emperor of Nilfgaard. His presence is felt throughout the game, as he is both a political figure and Ciri’s biological father, adding layers of complexity to the story.

Graphics and Sound

The Witcher 3 is renowned for its stunning graphics and immersive sound design. The environments are beautifully crafted, and the voice acting, particularly of key NPCs, adds depth to the story.

Legacy and Reception

The Witcher 3 has been critically acclaimed for its storytelling, world-building, and character development. It is often cited as one of the greatest RPGs of all time.

Story

Final Fantasy VII follows Cloud Strife and his companions as they battle against the megacorporation Shinra and the enigmatic Sephiroth. The game explores themes of identity, eco-terrorism, and redemption.

Gameplay

Final Fantasy VII is a turn-based RPG that features an innovative materia system allowing for customizable abilities. Players progress through a combination of combat and story-driven exploration.

Why it’s on this list

Sephiroth, the game’s primary antagonist, is a character who leaves a lasting impression despite never joining the player’s party. His complex backstory and relationship with Cloud are central to the narrative.

Graphics and Sound

The game was groundbreaking at its release, with its pioneering use of CGI cutscenes and a memorable soundtrack composed by Nobuo Uematsu.

Legacy and Reception

Final Fantasy VII is often credited with popularizing the JRPG genre in the West. Its characters and story have remained iconic, leading to various spin-offs and a recent remake.

Story

Persona 5 follows a group of high school students who become the Phantom Thieves, a group that enters the Metaverse to change the hearts of corrupt individuals. The game deals with themes of freedom and societal reform.

Gameplay

The game combines traditional turn-based combat with life simulation elements. Players must balance their time between dungeon-crawling and managing their daily lives as students.

Why it’s on this list

Sae Niijima, the prosecutor and sister to one of the main characters, is a pivotal figure who never joins the player’s party. Her role in the investigation adds tension and depth to the storyline.

Graphics and Sound

Persona 5 is known for its stylish, anime-inspired graphics and a jazz-infused soundtrack that perfectly complements its vibrant aesthetic.

Legacy and Reception

Persona 5 was widely acclaimed for its narrative, character development, and visual style, solidifying its place as a standout title in the RPG genre.

Story

Chrono Trigger is a time-traveling adventure that brings together a diverse group of heroes to prevent a future apocalypse. The story spans different eras, each with its unique challenges.

Gameplay

The game features an innovative Active Time Battle system and a non-linear narrative with multiple endings. Players must strategize and adapt to defeat enemies and solve puzzles across time.

Why it’s on this list

Magus, initially an antagonist, becomes a significant character who, depending on player choices, never joins the party but remains a compelling figure in the story with a tragic past.

Graphics and Sound

Chrono Trigger boasts colorful 16-bit graphics and a timeless soundtrack composed by Yasunori Mitsuda and Nobuo Uematsu, enhancing its nostalgic appeal.

Legacy and Reception

As one of the most beloved RPGs of the 16-bit era, Chrono Trigger is frequently praised for its storytelling, characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Story

Mass Effect 2 continues the story of Commander Shepard as they rally a team to stop the Collectors, an alien race abducting human colonies. The game emphasizes character development and player choice.

Gameplay

The game is a blend of third-person shooting and role-playing elements, with a focus on squad tactics and decision-making that impacts the narrative and character relationships.

Why it’s on this list

The Illusive Man, leader of Cerberus, plays a crucial role as a manipulative and enigmatic figure. His influence is felt throughout the game, though he never fights alongside the player.

Graphics and Sound

Mass Effect 2 features improved graphics over its predecessor, with cinematic cutscenes and a dynamic score that heightens the tension and emotion of the narrative.

Legacy and Reception

Mass Effect 2 is often hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, praised for its complex characters, branching storyline, and engaging gameplay.

Story

Xenoblade Chronicles follows Shulk and his companions as they wield the Monado blade to protect their world from mechanical invaders known as the Mechon. The story explores themes of destiny and conflict.

Gameplay

The game features real-time combat on a massive open-world scale, with a focus on strategic party management and exploration of diverse landscapes.

Why it’s on this list

Alvis, a mysterious character with deep knowledge of the Monado, provides guidance and wisdom but never joins the party. His enigmatic nature and revelations add depth to the story.

Graphics and Sound

Xenoblade Chronicles is known for its expansive environments and atmospheric soundtrack, contributing to its epic scale and emotional resonance.

Legacy and Reception

The game received critical acclaim for its storytelling, world design, and innovative combat system, leading to a dedicated fanbase and subsequent sequels.

Story

Dragon Age: Origins follows the Grey Warden, tasked with uniting the kingdoms of Ferelden to combat the darkspawn invasion. The story is rich with political intrigue and moral choices.

Gameplay

The game combines tactical combat with deep role-playing elements, allowing players to shape their character’s abilities and relationships through dialogue and decisions.

Why it’s on this list

Flemeth, the legendary witch of the wilds, is a powerful sorceress who aids the player but never joins the party. Her mysterious past and pivotal role in the lore make her a memorable character.

Graphics and Sound

Dragon Age: Origins features detailed character models and environments, accompanied by a sweeping orchestral score that enhances its epic narrative.

Legacy and Reception

The game is celebrated for its complex story, character interactions, and replayability, establishing Dragon Age as one of the premier western RPG franchises.

Story

Dark Souls is set in the decaying kingdom of Lordran, where players assume the role of an undead warrior on a quest to link the fire and avert an age of darkness. The story is conveyed through environmental storytelling and cryptic NPC dialogue.

Gameplay

The game is renowned for its challenging combat, intricate level design, and interconnected world. Players must carefully manage resources and learn enemy patterns to progress.

Why it’s on this list

Solaire of Astora, a knight in search of his own sun, is a beloved NPC who aids the player but never officially joins the party. His optimistic demeanor and tragic fate have made him an iconic figure in the Dark Souls community.

Graphics and Sound

Dark Souls features a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic with atmospheric sound design that enhances the game’s oppressive and mysterious atmosphere.

Legacy and Reception

Dark Souls is credited with popularizing the “Souls-like” genre and is praised for its difficulty, lore, and innovative multiplayer elements, influencing countless games that followed.