Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting Role-Playing Games Expected for 2024 on PC and Consoles
I think we can all agree that 2023 was one of the biggest years for gaming. At the start of that year, the turn-based RPG genre was being put into question if it could even survive in the future or if it would be a thing of the past. Massive franchises such as Final Fantasy opt for a more action combat design, adding more fuel to the idea. However, Larian Studios proved doubters wrong with their turn-based CRPG, Baldur’s Gate III, winning 2023’s game of the year. Overshadowing massive action games such as Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Both games are even two of the most anticipated games of 2023.
Moving on to 2024, the turn-based community is being served with a long line of awesome turn-based RPGs from both big and small studios. We’re getting new installments from beloved franchises, promising indie projects, long overdue remasters of RPG classics and a massively anticipated remake.
In Q1 of 2024, we already have some big releases like Yakuza Infinite Wealth, Persona 3: Reload, and Unicorn Overlord, and small indie gems like The Thaumaturge, Zoria: Age of Shattering, Broken Roads (released a few days ago), and much more.
But today, I want to take a look at some of the most anticipated RPGs expected to be released during the rest of the year.
Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes
| Release Date | April 24, 2024 |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo |
| Developer | Rabbit and Bear Studios |
| Publisher | 505 Games |
| Available On | Steam, Epic, GOG, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch |
Despite remasters of Suikoden I and II being just around the corner, fans of the classic are still hopeful and excited for this spiritual successor. After a massive Kickstarter campaign, the most funded Kickstarter game of 2020, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is finally set to release this April 2024. The game is far from the previous game, Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising, which was a side-scrolling action RPG.
This time, Hundred Heroes is setting out to be a fully-fledged classic JRPG sporting a variant of the HD-2D aesthetic. The biggest highlight of the game is the one hundred recruitable heroes for your party. If you’re a fan of the Suikoden series or JRPGs in general, then this game may be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Crown Wars: The Black Prince
| Release Date | May 23, 2024 |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo |
| Developer | Artefacts Studio |
| Publisher | Nacon |
| Available On | Steam, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, Switch |
From the studio that brought you The Dungeon of Naheulbeuk comes a gritty world of swords and ruin. While Naheulbeuk presents players with a quirky cast and comedic themes, Crown Wars: The Black Prince offers a darker take on turn-based tactical strategy. In Crown Wars, players are given their own fiefdom, which they’ll nurture and develop into a striving metropolis or die trying.
Recruit a number of unique heroes and heroines to thwart any threat to your fief and ultimately unveil the evil that lurks within the shadows of the lands.
Skald: Against The Black Priory
| Release Date | May 30, 2024 |
| Platforms | PC |
| Developer | High North Studios AS |
| Publisher | Raw Fury |
| Available On | Steam, GOG |
It’s been over 40 years since the 80s, and some gamers around the world are still looking for that lick of retro classic. Skald: Against The Black Priory seems to just cater to that demographic. The game sports a retro aesthetic that may fool you into thinking that the game was actually from the MS-DOS era. But being for the current era of gaming, the game blends in modern game design philosophies with the charm of authentic 8-bit graphics. This party-based RPG may just be the game that’ll scratch your retro itch for this year.
Demonschool
While the Persona Series remains fully alive and well in 2024, this doesn’t stop other fans from taking inspiration from the series and giving their own spin to it. And Demonschool is one such project. The game features a very unique style of turn-based tactics wherein moves or actions are set beforehand before automatically being played out on the field. In Demonschool, movement and positioning is the name of the game.
Outside of combat, you’ll be exploring a rich university setting. Here, you’ll meet a diverse cast of characters that you can befriend as you follow the story unfold. You’ll be doing all of these while also balancing your class schedule.
Despite being inspired by another game, Demonschool still retains a lot of its uniqueness to help it stand out from the crowd of RPGs.
Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars
| Release Date | Q2 2024 (Planned) |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo |
| Developer | KONAMI |
| Publisher | KONAMI |
| Available On | Steam, Xbox One, PS4, Switch |
I don’t think people realize that the first Suikoden game was released over two decades ago, all the way back in 1995. With the massive success of Suikoden II, which is still considered an absolute masterpiece by fans around the world, the series spawned a few more games during the 2000s PS2 era. However, the 2010s was a rather bleak decade for KONAMI’s video game division as the company decided to focus on other prospects.
While the last Suikoden game was released all the way back in 2012, the series was still able to retain such a loyal fanbase. Because of this, the demand for more Suikoden never really died off. About 10 years later, KONAMI finally decided that they were done messing around with Pachinko machines and finally made a comeback to the video gaming scene.
In an era of remakes and remasters, Suikoden I&II HD Remaster is simply a stepping stone for KONAMI to recover its video game glory. And what better way to revive a franchise than bringing the game that started it all, as well as the series’ masterpiece, to the modern era?
The remaster features HD upgrades to all background illustrations updated visual effects that breathe new life into the game’s pixel art animations, all new environmental and battle sound effects, an auto-save system, battle fast forwarding, and a conversation log. While getting original copies of either game is still notoriously expensive even to this day, this upcoming remaster allows fans of the series, as well as curious gamers, to experience these classics in all its glory.
Urban Strife
| Release Date | TBA |
| Platforms | PC |
| Developer | White Pond Games |
| Publisher | MicroProse |
| Available On | Steam |
Gamers around the world may occasionally have that itch for zombie games. Turn-based gamers are no exception. So it’s such a delight when a game that mixes your favorite genre with that seasonal itch for zombie-smashing action gets announced. Urban Strife is a zombie survival game that lets you experience a zombified world in a tactical turn-based manner. Sure, a few games out there have already attempted a tactical turn-based take on zombie survival, but they are not as well thought out as this one seems to be.
In Urban Strife, players will encounter a unique blend of turn-based strategy, post-apocalyptic survival mechanics as well as a thrilling RPG storyline. Taking inspiration from titles such as Jagged Alliance 2 and XCOM the game offers a ton of unique mechanics that perfectly fits the zombie survival experience. To give some examples, the game features some base building and management mechanics, which are a must-have for zombie survival games nowadays.
The fire that spreads, simulated bullet ballistics, advanced sound propagation, and last but not least, living, breathing NPCs that live their own independent lives, each having their own morals and motivations. If all of that doesn’t intrigue a turn-based tactical gamer that’s itching for a zombie game, then I don’t know what will.
New Arc Line
| Release Date | 2024 (Planned) |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, PlayStation |
| Developer | Dreamate |
| Publisher | Fulqrum Publishing |
| Available On | Steam, GOG, Epic, Xbox Series X|S, PS5 |
Leaving behind Baldur’s Gate III in 2023, it’s time to look forward to this year’s new lineup of CRPGs. However, the question remains for CRPG fans: Will newer CRPGs even hold a candle to Larian’s recent masterpiece? We don’t really know the answer to that yet, but what we do know is that some of these CRPGs look absolutely amazing. New Arc Line by Dreamate is one of these gorgeous upcoming CRPGs that we just can’t wait to get our hands on.
The game takes players for a ride in a spectacular fantasy adventure in a steampunk world filled with magic and mythical creatures. Although the game’s world is aesthetically brimming with wonders, darker truths lurk in every shadow. In New Arc Line, you’ll be playing as your ill-stricken family’s last beacon of hope in curing their fatal disease called New Arc.
You arrive in a prosperous foreign land only to discover that the place’s regal appearance is only a facade for corruption, segregation, and inequality. Create a unique character from a selection of different backgrounds and races, recruit a diverse cast of characters, master the art of sorcery or technology, and most importantly, witness the consequences of your actions in a living, breathing world.
Metaphor: Refantazio
| Release Date | Q4 2024 |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, PlayStation |
| Developer | Studio Zero |
| Publisher | ATLUS, SEGA |
| Available On | Steam, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5 |
The Persona franchise has been a long-standing series for over two decades now, and while loyal fans will probably enjoy each and every entry after 5, coming up with a game that ups a masterpiece is a very, very challenging endeavor. Because of this, it is understandable and is prime time for ATLUS to explore newer avenues and experiment as preparation for the inevitability of Persona 6. With that comes a brand new IP from the creators of Persona 3, 4, and 5 themselves, Metaphor: ReFantazio.
The game is set in an all-new fantasy world of swords and magic, a departure from the modern Japan setting of the Persona series. This time, the story unfolds in the United Kingdom of Euchronia, where the assassination of its king throws the kingdom into a state of unrest and chaos. Metaphor: ReFantazio follows the story of the protagonist as they set out to find a cure for the prince who’s long thought to be dead. In your journey, you’ll encounter friends and enemies of all shapes and sizes as you venture forth into the lands.
Metaphor: ReFantazio features intricate party customization that offers a high degree of freedom and strategy. Aside from that, the game also features an evolved version of the day-to-day activities of the Persona series. Lastly, Metaphor: ReFantazio features an interesting blend of high-octane action combat sprinkled with turn-based mechanics. It’s still unclear how this combat system will play out and how turn-based the game will exactly be. But setting all that aside, I’m just excited for yet another high-quality JRPG that I can’t wait to get my hands on.
BloomTown: A Different Story
| Release Date | Q2 2024 |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, PlayStation Nintendo |
| Developer | Lazy Bear Games, Different Sense Games |
| Publisher | Twin Sails Interactive |
| Available On | Steam, Epic, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5, Switch |
Bloomtown is a cozy JRPG set in a 1960s Americana world. But aside from the peaceful suburbs and quaint townscapes, a hidden darkness lurks beneath the shadows. It doesn’t take long for our protagonist, Emily, and her younger brother, Chester, to learn something is wrong. Children are disappearing, and nightmares are making their way into the real world. It is up to Emily and her friends to solve the mysteries and save the town from its gloomy fate.
The game features a vibrant, eye-catching art style, an engaging story, classic turn-based battles, creature-collecting mechanics, and a dynamic world that keeps the time ticking. Explore the world, get stronger with training, earn money by working, meet new friends, do some gardening, or save the world in your free time. What you do on your adventure is entirely up to you.
Dark Deity II
After the initial success of Dark Deity, the people from Sword & Axe LLC are back at it again. Building upon an already successful game may sound like a no brainer but sequels are always a double edged sword. You either create something that enhances the original and expands the franchise. Or fail to build upon the original which can end up killing the franchise entirely. But with what we’ve seen so far, Dark Deity II seems to be in good hands.
Expanding upon the original, Dark Deity II picks up where the first game left off. A quarter of a century has passed and the Eternal Order is being put to the test. The Holy Asverellian Empire, seeks to expand their land in a not so friendly manner. Take command of the Eternal Delegation led by Irving’s descendants as they navigate the treacherous politics of Verroa.
Featuring 20 heroes with 45 branching classes, each with their own powerful abilities and passives. The game also lets you expand your playstyle with equipment that can drastically change how a hero performs in battle. Engage in classic turn-based tactical battles that let you outsmart overwhelming odds with sheer tactical wits. And a giant pool of customizations that allows for unique playthroughs. Aside from that is a roguelike-inspired game mode called “Twisted Destiny.” A shortened version of the campaign featuring a randomized team on every playthrough.
Decapolice
| Release Date | 2024 |
| Platforms | PlayStation, Nintendo |
| Developer | Level-5 |
| Publisher | Level-5 |
| Available On | PS4, PS5, Switch |
Over the years, Level-5 has become one of the most well-known Japanese game companies, helming massive franchises such as Yo-Kai Watch and Inazuma Eleven. Their IPs usually cater to younger audiences. However, the quality of their games is held in such high regard by both young and older fans alike. That said, combining their JRPG expertise with their sleuthy affinity for mysteries comes a brand new game that mixes the best of both worlds.
DECAPOLICE is a brand new upcoming crime-solving JRPG. Beneath the glamorous facade of the city of Broadstone lies an underworld metropolis where crime runs rampant. With the safety of the people at stake comes a new wave of detectives assisted by a revolutionary piece of technology called the DECASIM. A full recreation of the city that can be used to unravel clues from dormant crimes. As the rookie Harvard Marks, you’ll be unraveling the criminal mysteries of the city in a mystery-filled detective adventure.
Grifford Academy
| Release Date | 2024 |
| Platforms | PC |
| Developer | Landshark Games |
| Publisher | Landshark Games |
| Available On | Steam |
Landshark Games isn’t exactly a developer that’s known for RPGs. That’s because they’ve been primarily making casual mobile games like their Zen Koi series. Now, they’re finally setting their sights on a new avenue of gaming, specifically, the turn-based RPG scene.
Grifford Academy is a coming of age interactive RPG. The game tells the story of three high schoolers who dive into the world of a mysterious book. Their quest? To find their missing friends. Little did they know that their journey won’t only uncover the mysteries of this world, but also of themselves. Featuring a compelling coming-of-age story, an RPG created with accessibility in mind, and dynamic soundtracks.
Sky Oceans: Wings For Hire
| Release Date | 2024 |
| Platforms | PC, Xbox, PlayStation Nintendo |
| Developer | Octeto Studios |
| Publisher | PQube |
| Available On | Steam, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, Switch |
Working on projects from world-class companies, Octeto Studios earns highly valuable game development experience. When they’re not working on said projects or commissioned ones, they further hone their skills in-house.
This latest project of theirs has a very unique take on JRPG combat. Sky Oceans: Wings for Hire lets you take to the skies in an homage to JRPG classics. You play the role of Glenn Windwalker. Assemble your team of sky pirates to fight against an enemy only known as “The Alliance.”
Fight your battles in strategic turn-based dogfights, a format that hasn’t really been touched upon by other turn-based RPGs. Freely explore a world with Studio Ghibli-inspired visuals as you venture forth an unforgettable and touching journey.
Menace
After the success of their first game, Battle Brothers, comes the next chapter for developer Overhype Studios. While their first game did surprisingly well, they opted to make an entirely new one from scratch. This time, they depart from Battle Brothers’ board game aesthetics and dive headfirst into a more realistic set of visuals.
MENACE is a tactical turn-based RPG similar in vain to games like XCOM. But on a much, much larger scale. The game takes players to an isolated system in space. Communications have been cut off, and you are at the top of the chain of command. As the sole commander, you’ll be answering distress calls from different sectors. However, you’ll constantly be making tough choices as your limited supplies and manpower won’t be able to cover all grounds. Because of this, you’ll be building relationships with some factions while ending up antagonizing others.
Employ a wide array of strategies to defeat the hostiles while doing your best to keep each unit alive. Utilize flanking maneuvers, suppress fire, defend against enemy fire with cover, or even use mechs and other vehicles to outright blast hostiles out of their firing positions. The game also features a character-driven experience. Each squad leader has their own traits, backgrounds, and personalities that you’ll need to know about—knowledge needed in order to use them the best way you can, lest they cause unnecessary events.
MENACE attempts to be the go-to playground of destruction for tactical turn-based lovers in a sandbox of endless replayability.
The White Raven
| Release Date | Coming Soon |
| Platforms | PC, Nintendo |
| Developer | GatherRound Studios |
| Publisher | GatherRound Studios |
| Available On | Steam, GOG, Switch |
The White Raven is an open-world tactical RPG set in a war-torn land and spiritual hellscapes. You play as Jin, a young wayward spirit whisperer. You’ll explore the lands of the Aurorean Steppes while uncovering its mysteries. Take in an unlikely team of bandits while engaging in cerebral tactical combat. The game even lets you take advantage of your surroundings.
Your adventure will be dictated by the choices you make, and even choose your own background. Become a stalwart protector of the weak or an evil, manipulative mastermind. Despite having an innately good or evil background, how the story will unfold, the actions you will take, and the ending to your story have yet to be told.
