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- The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
- Bethesda Game Studios
The Best Fantasy Games Of All Time
Unraveling the tale of the Dragonborn and their destiny to save the land of Tamriel from the looming threat of dragons, Skyrim offers a dynamic and expansive world teeming with diverse environments, ferocious beasts, and intriguing storylines. With its groundbreaking Radiant AI system and the inclusion of skill-based leveling, Skyrim creates a fluid player-driven experience where actions and decisions directly impact character progression. Iconic companions such as Lydia and Aela the Huntress provide support during your adventures, while the power to forge alliances and complete multiple questlines allows for endless gameplay opportunities. The ability to mod the game has expanded its longevity and impact, solidifying Skyrim's place as a classic within the genre.
A breathtaking open-world experience, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt centers around Geralt of Rivia's quest to find his surrogate daughter, Ciri, all the while navigating a web of political intrigue and battling fantastical creatures. A key element that sets this game apart is its beautifully written narrative, with memorable characters like Triss Merigold and Yennefer of Vengerberg, and morally grey choices that carry weight and consequence in shaping the world around you. Boasting an extensive list of side quests, monster contracts, and customizable gear, players will spend countless hours immersed in the richly detailed and vibrant world of The Witcher 3.
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Embarking on a perilous journey to save the land of Ferelden from the Blight, Dragon Age: Origins provides diverse playable characters with unique origin stories, lending profound depth to each individual playthrough. Complex interpersonal relationships and deeply engaging character development set this game apart, as choices and interactions with memorable companions like Morrigan and Alistair can shape the course of your adventure. Its tactical combat system and party management features allow players to strategize and customize their party’s abilities for challenging engagements. Dragon Age: Origins represents a true classic of the genre, as its compelling storytelling and intricate world-building leave a lasting impact on those who delve into its immersive narrative.
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- 4Mar 20 2006
Exploring the lush and enchanting realm of Cyrodiil, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion delivers a captivating story as players seek to prevent the invasion of demonic forces from the realm of Oblivion. The game was revolutionary for its time, with its advanced AI systems and dynamic weather effects that brought life to the diverse landscapes and dungeons across the region. Iconic factions like the Dark Brotherhood and the Thieves Guild provide intriguing side quests and unique opportunities for character progression. With a diverse range of gameplay mechanics, such as alchemy and spell-crafting, Oblivion is a masterclass in open-world fantasy gaming.
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- 52011
Renowned for its brutal difficulty and bleak atmosphere, Dark Souls plunges players into the decaying world of Lordran, governed by cryptic lore and relentless foes. It stands apart with its intricate level design and interconnected world, rewarding exploration and mastery of the environment. Memorable encounters with iconic bosses such as Ornstein and Smough challenge players to adapt and overcome adversity. From its punishing combat mechanics to its distinctive multiplayer features, Dark Souls has carved an indelible niche for itself in the annals of gaming history.
Breath of the Wild reimagines Hyrule as an expansive and awe-inspiring open world with vast landscapes, detailed shrines, and a non-linear storyline that allows players to define their own adventure. With its innovative physics engine, the game encourages ingenuity, allowing players to approach situations and puzzles in countless creative ways. Iconic characters like Princess Zelda and the Champions of Hyrule are given new depth, adding a level of emotional investment to the overarching quest of defeating Calamity Ganon. Seamlessly blending exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, Breath of the Wild has earned its place among the pantheon of all-time great fantasy games.
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- 7Nov 21 1998
Regarded as a watershed moment in gaming, Ocarina of Time takes players on an unforgettable journey through Hyrule as they guide young Link on his quest to save Princess Zelda and defeat the menacing Ganondorf. The game introduced revolutionary mechanics like Z-targeting and a day/night cycle, while its innovative dungeon designs and engaging puzzles provide challenges that still resonate with gamers today. Iconic characters such as Sheik and Epona enrich the experience, offering both assistance and intrigue throughout the adventure. With its timeless appeal, Ocarina of Time remains a touchstone for the fantasy genre and a testament to the potential of video games as an art form.
- 82016
Delivering a harrowing and atmospheric journey through the Kingdom of Lothric, Dark Souls III challenges players to overcome fearsome foes and navigate perilous environments in their quest to rekindle the First Flame. This third entry in the iconic Souls series refines its punishing combat mechanics, introduces powerful weapon arts, and expands upon the cryptic lore that fans have come to cherish. Notorious locations such as the Abyss Watchers' fortress and Archdragon Peak test the mettle of even the most seasoned adventurers. Dark Souls III concludes the renowned trilogy in magnificent fashion, solidifying its place among the giants of the fantasy genre.
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- 9Jun 04 2002
Morrowind invites players to uncover the mysteries of Vvardenfell, a unique and alien environment filled with exotic creatures, diverse factions, and intricate political intrigue. The game's unguided narrative allows players to forge their own path through a sprawling open world, with meaningful consequences arising from choices made along the way. Innovative mechanics such as spell creation and enchantment empower players to tailor their experience to their own playstyle. With its richly detailed world and engrossing story, Morrowind set the bar for open-world RPGs and remains a cherished classic in the genre.
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Dragon Age: Inquisition brings players into a vast world on the brink of chaos, as they assume the mantle of the Inquisitor and unite warring factions against the demonic forces of the Fade. Its memorable cast of companions, including the enigmatic Solas and the iron-willed Cassandra, and their complex relationships with each other and the player provide a nuanced narrative experience. With its diverse skill trees, crafting mechanics, and strategic combat, Inquisition offers depth in both character progression and gameplay. The sheer scope of the world and the weight of the choices made throughout the journey make this game an engrossing and unforgettable experience.
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- 11May 17 2011
Plunging players into a political maelstrom, The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings immerses Geralt of Rivia in a web of intrigue as he hunts down the elusive assassin who has targeted the kings of the Northern Kingdoms. The game’s branching storylines and consequential decision-making lend themselves to multiple playthroughs and unique experiences. Engaging combat mechanics, coupled with an extensive alchemy and crafting system, enhance the gameplay experience while further exploring the rich lore of The Witcher universe. Through its immersive storytelling and memorable characters like Iorveth and Vernon Roche, The Witcher 2 establishes itself as a formidable entry in the series and the fantasy genre as a whole.
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Drawing from J.R.R. Tolkien's rich universe, The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II presents an engaging real-time strategy experience that brings the beloved characters and locations to life. Players can command the forces of Good or Evil as they build expansive bases, assemble vast armies, and relive iconic battles from the books and films. The game offers immersive gameplay mechanics such as hero units, customizable factions, and resource management, as well as an engrossing story mode that expands on the lore of Middle-earth. With its faithful adaptation and thrilling strategic gameplay, The Battle for Middle-earth II remains a cherished entry in the realm of fantasy gaming.
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Reigning as the undisputed titan of MMORPGs, World of Warcraft transports players to the colossal world of Azeroth, where they can create and customize their characters, engage in epic quests, and forge lasting friendships with fellow adventurers. The iconic rivalry between the Alliance and the Horde has spawned countless stories of camaraderie, betrayal, and epic battles. Its deep lore, diverse classes, and massive content updates provide an immense and continually evolving gaming experience. With its rich history and dedicated community, World of Warcraft holds a cherished place in the hearts of fantasy gamers worldwide.
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- 14Jun 29 2000
A seminal classic in the action RPG genre, Diablo II casts players into the dark world of Sanctuary as they battle hordes of demonic forces and ultimately confront the Prime Evils, including the titular Diablo. With its iconic character classes such as the Paladin and the Necromancer, and randomized levels and loot, Diablo II offers endless replayability and highly addictive gameplay. Its fast-paced, hack-and-slash combat and intricate skill trees encourage experimentation with diverse builds and strategies. The game’s haunting atmosphere and legacy as a trailblazer in the action RPG genre make Diablo II an unforgettable experience for all fantasy enthusiasts.
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- 151998
Taking inspiration from the Dungeons & Dragons universe, Baldur's Gate thrusts players into the treacherous world of the Forgotten Realms as they uncover a sinister conspiracy that threatens the Sword Coast. With its complex character creation system, engaging tactical combat, and sprawling open world, Baldur's Gate laid the foundation for modern Western RPGs. Memorable companions such as Minsc and Imoen enrich the experience, as players build and develop their party throughout the epic journey. A true masterpiece of storytelling and gameplay, Baldur's Gate stands as a testament to the art of fantasy gaming.
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- 16Sep 14 2004
Set in the whimsical world of Albion, Fable invites players to embark on a heroic quest while shaping their destiny and forging their legacy with every choice and action. This charming and innovative RPG offers a unique morality system where choices impact character appearance, determining whether they evolve into a paragon of virtue or a harbinger of malevolence. Iconic gameplay elements such as expressive communication, meaningful relationships, and property ownership make Fable a standout in the genre. With its enchanting art style and engaging storytelling, Fable remains a beloved classic and a testament to the creative potential of video games.
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- 17Jul 01 2003
Expanding on its predecessors' real-time strategy foundation, Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne delivers an intricate narrative that follows the stories of Arthas Menethil, Illidan Stormrage, and other legendary characters. This expansion pack introduces new units, heroes, and campaigns, all set in the vibrant and diverse world of Azeroth. Its dynamic gameplay includes base-building, resource management, and tactical combat, bolstered by memorable missions and powerful hero units. With custom map creation tools and the birth of the Defense of the Ancients mod, Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne has left an indelible mark on gaming history.
- 18Jul 03 2002
The first expansion to the behemoth MMORPG, World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade transports players to the shattered realm of Outland as they battle the demonic forces of the Burning Legion. Introducing new races such as the Draenei and Blood Elves, alongside iconic dungeons and raids like Karazhan and Black Temple, this expansion elevated the game's already massive scope. The addition of flying mounts, Jewelcrafting, and the Arena PvP system further enriched the player experience. The Burning Crusade remains a revered chapter in World of Warcraft’s history, as it expanded the boundaries of Azeroth and set the stage for future expansions.
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- 19Oct 26 2007
Where it all began for Geralt of Rivia, The Witcher introduces players to the morally ambiguous and monster-infested world based on the novels by Andrzej Sapkowski. With a dynamic combat system that blends swordplay and magical Signs, players unravel a gripping narrative filled with conspiracies, political intrigue, and brutal creatures. Iconic characters such as Dandelion and Shani enrich the story while Geralt's decisions carry weight in his journey. As the first installment in the now revered series, The Witcher sets the stage for a sprawling and engaging fantasy saga that would captivate gamers for years to come.
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Set in the rich world of Gransys, Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen challenges players to reclaim their stolen heart from the fearsome dragon Grigori. This expanded edition of the original game introduces innovative combat mechanics, a diverse array of vocations, and a customizable party of AI-controlled Pawns. The epic battles against towering mythical creatures like ogres, chimeras, and hydras are unforgettable and exhilarating. With its unique blend of action and open-world exploration, Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen offers a refreshing and engrossing experience in the realm of fantasy gaming.
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Regarded as one of the finest entries in the storied franchise, Final Fantasy VI transports players to a world torn apart by the devastating conflict between magic and technology. With its captivating ensemble cast, including unforgettable characters like Terra Branford and Kefka Palazzo, the game crafts a remarkable narrative that explores themes of identity, friendship, and sacrifice. Its innovative turn-based combat system, diverse set of playable characters, and mesmerizing soundtrack make it an enchanting experience for gamers of all ages. Final Fantasy VI continues to inspire and engage players with its timeless tale and iconic gameplay elements.
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- 22
The game that started a legendary franchise, The Legend of Zelda immerses players in the charming world of Hyrule as they guide young Link on a quest to rescue Princess Zelda and recover the mystical Triforce. Its groundbreaking gameplay mechanics, such as non-linear exploration, challenging dungeon puzzles, and a vast array of weapons and items, laid the foundation for future entries in the series. Memorable characters like Impa and the enigmatic Old Man have become staples in the Zelda universe. The Legend of Zelda remains a beloved classic that set the stage for an enduring and enchanting fantasy adventure.
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- 23Oct 21 2008
Expanding on the charm and whimsy of its predecessor, Fable II transports players to the vivid land of Albion, 500 years after the events of the first game. With an array of new features, such as a dynamic real estate system and an enhanced morality scale, Fable II allows players to shape the world around them in more profound ways. Iconic characters like Reaver and Hammer join the player on their journey as they face new threats and uncover hidden treasures. Boasting a captivating story and immersive sandbox-style gameplay, Fable II is a worthy successor that further cements the series as a fantasy gaming staple.
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- 24Oct 09 2012
Blending stealth, action, and supernatural abilities, Dishonored takes players on a gripping journey through the plague-ridden city of Dunwall as they seek vengeance and unravel a sinister conspiracy. Assuming the role of the wrongfully accused assassin Corvo Attano, players can approach each mission with surgical precision or brutal force, shaping the outcome of their story with every choice. The game’s stylized art and unique atmosphere set it apart from other titles in the genre, while its rich cast of characters and engrossing narrative further solidify its position as a modern classic. Dishonored is an enthralling experience that pushes the boundaries of fantasy gaming and leaves a lasting impression.
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- 252001
Marking the franchise's debut on the PlayStation 2, Final Fantasy X immerses players in the vibrant world of Spira as they follow Tidus and Yuna on a journey to save their people from the relentless threat of Sin. The game introduced the Conditional Turn-Based Battle system, offering tactical depth and strategic possibilities that set it apart from previous entries. Memorable characters like Auron and Lulu, along with lavish CGI cutscenes, contribute to the game's rich and emotional storytelling. With its striking visuals, engaging narrative, and innovative gameplay, Final Fantasy X remains a cherished classic in the fantasy genre.
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Celebrating a decade of epic adventures in the world of Tamriel, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition packs all existing content and enhancements into one definitive package. This comprehensive version includes the base game, the Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn expansions, as well as a generous collection of community-created mods and additional features, such as fishing and new dungeons. Experiencing the wonders of Skyrim has never been more complete or immersive, as this edition offers countless hours of gameplay, exploration, and character progression. For newcomers and veterans alike, the Skyrim Anniversary Edition serves as the ultimate tribute to a timeless fantasy masterpiece.
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- 272012
Continuing the legacy of its revered predecessors, Diablo III transports players back to the world of Sanctuary as they confront the nefarious forces of the Burning Hells. With new character classes like the Crusader and the Witch Doctor, alongside an updated loot system and engaging endgame content, Diablo III expands upon the classic hack-and-slash formula. Its immersive co-op mode and seasonal events ensure that the battle against evil never truly ends. Boasting polished gameplay, memorable boss encounters, and a vast array of loot, Diablo III perpetuates the series' rich tradition and offers a thrilling experience for action RPG fans.
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- 282022
From the creators of the Dark Souls series and featuring contributions from George R.R. Martin, Elden Ring is an eagerly anticipated action RPG that promises to immerse players in a dark and epic open-world adventure. Details about the game's lore and story remain shrouded in mystery, but it is widely expected to deliver the challenging and atmospheric gameplay that fans have come to adore. With its evocative blend of fantasy storytelling and intricate combat mechanics, Elden Ring is poised to offer an experience that captivates both veterans and newcomers to the genre.
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A masterpiece of minimalist storytelling and atmospheric design, Shadow of the Colossus transports players to a mysterious land as they embark on a heart-wrenching quest to revive a lost love. By defeating sixteen colossal bosses known as colossi, players experience a unique approach to gameplay that combines puzzle-solving, exploration, and thrilling combat. The game’s haunting visuals, breathtaking score, and emotional narrative make it a standout in the realm of fantasy gaming. Shadow of the Colossus remains an unparalleled artistic achievement, leaving a profound and enduring impact on its audiences.
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- 30Jan 16 2007
The first expansion to the behemoth MMORPG, World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade transports players to the shattered realm of Outland as they battle the demonic forces of the Burning Legion. Introducing new races such as the Draenei and Blood Elves, alongside iconic dungeons and raids like Karazhan and Black Temple, this expansion elevated the game's already massive scope. The addition of flying mounts, Jewelcrafting, and the Arena PvP system further enriched the player experience. The Burning Crusade remains a revered chapter in World of Warcraft’s history, as it expanded the boundaries of Azeroth and set the stage for future expansions.
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