GameSpot Highlights Turn-Based RPG Renaissance with Top Picks

What's Happening?

GameSpot has published an article showcasing the resurgence of turn-based RPGs, a genre that was highly popular in the 1990s but saw a decline during the Xbox 360 era. The article highlights the renewed interest in these games in the 2020s, with titles like Baldur's Gate 3 gaining significant popularity. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is noted as the best-reviewed new game of 2025, achieving a high score on Metacritic. The article lists several outstanding modern and classic turn-based RPGs that are currently available, emphasizing their appeal to gamers seeking a more strategic and cerebral style of gameplay.

Why It's Important?

The revival of turn-based RPGs signifies a shift in gaming preferences, with players increasingly seeking games that offer strategic depth and thoughtful gameplay. This trend could influence game developers to invest more in creating turn-based RPGs, potentially leading to a broader variety of games in the market. The success of titles like Baldur's Gate 3 and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 suggests a growing demand for games that challenge players intellectually, which could impact the types of games produced and marketed in the future. This resurgence may also affect the gaming industry economically, as developers and publishers adapt to changing consumer interests.

What's Next?

As the interest in turn-based RPGs continues to grow, developers may focus on innovating within the genre, potentially introducing new mechanics and storytelling techniques to attract a wider audience. Game publishers might also explore partnerships and collaborations to expand their offerings in this genre. The success of recent titles could lead to increased investment in turn-based RPGs, with more resources allocated to their development. Additionally, gaming platforms may enhance their support for these games, ensuring they reach a broader audience through improved accessibility and marketing strategies.

Beyond the Headlines

The resurgence of turn-based RPGs could have cultural implications, as these games often emphasize narrative and character development, potentially influencing storytelling in other media. The genre's focus on strategy and planning may also encourage players to develop skills that are applicable beyond gaming, such as critical thinking and problem-solving. Furthermore, the renewed interest in turn-based RPGs might lead to a reevaluation of gaming trends, prompting discussions about the balance between action-oriented and strategy-focused games in the industry.