The 50 Best RPGs Of All Time

35- Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Developer: Level-5

Initial Release Date: November 15, 2005

Why it’s one of the best RPGs: There’s a reason Nintendo is suddenly gung-ho about bringing a bunch of Dragon Quest titles to the 3DS, and Dragon Quest VIII is perhaps the strongest contender of them all. It was the first of the series to feature fully 3D environments and models while retaining the same turn-based combat and lengthy, in-depth storyline that the games were already known for. You play a silent protagonist who with his friends must save the land’s King and princess from a curse that has changed them into a troll and a horse.

Dragon Quest VIII, like other Dragon Quest titles, stands out for its small cast who you become intimately familiar with as you journey. The battle system is simple to understand for an RPG, with each character having a specific set of skills gained as they level up without unnecessary complexities or customization. Dragon Quest VIII, in particular, shines for its unified story, cel-shaded graphics, and voice acting–a first for the series as well. Hopefully, the upcoming 3DS port of this classic title does it justice.

Next: 34 - Final Fantasy VIII