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Keyword: What is the biggest RPG franchise?
Category: RPG Games
Welcome to the world of Role-Playing Games (RPGs) where you can embark on thrilling adventures, create your own unique characters, and explore vast virtual worlds. But which RPG franchise reigns supreme among them all? Join us as we dive into the exciting world of RPGs and uncover the biggest RPG franchise that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Get ready to discover the enchanting realm of this beloved franchise and its impact on the gaming industry. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of RPGs, this comprehensive overview is sure to leave you mesmerized. So, let’s embark on this epic journey and find out which RPG franchise rules the gaming world!
The Evolution of RPG Games
The Early Years: Text-Based RPGs
The Birth of RPGs: Dungeons & Dragons
Dungeons & Dragons, also known as D&D, is considered the birthplace of RPGs. It was first published in 1974 by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, and since then, it has spawned numerous iterations and adaptations. D&D is a tabletop role-playing game that requires players to use their imagination to create characters and explore a fantasy world filled with magic, monsters, and adventure. The game is played with a group of friends and a dungeon master who guides the story and creates challenges for the players to overcome.
The Rise of Pen and Paper RPGs
In the early years of RPGs, pen and paper games were the most popular form of RPG. These games required players to use their imagination to create characters and explore a fantasy world filled with magic, monsters, and adventure. The most popular pen and paper RPGs were based on fantasy settings, such as Dungeons & Dragons, and science fiction settings, such as Traveller.
The Transition to Video Games
As video games became more popular in the 1980s, RPGs began to make the transition from pen and paper to video games. The first RPG video game was called “The Bard’s Tale” and was released in 1985. It was a text-based RPG that allowed players to create characters and explore a fantasy world filled with magic, monsters, and adventure. Since then, RPGs have continued to evolve and improve with each new release, with games like Final Fantasy and The Elder Scrolls series becoming household names.
The Golden Age of JRPGs
The Golden Age of JRPGs was a period of great innovation and creativity in the world of Japanese role-playing games. During this time, several iconic games were released that would go on to define the genre and inspire countless imitators. This period roughly spans from the late 1980s to the mid-1990s, and is characterized by the emergence of several seminal series that continue to be beloved by fans to this day.
The NES Era: Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest
The NES era saw the emergence of two of the most iconic JRPG franchises of all time: Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest. Final Fantasy, created by SquareSoft (now Square Enix), debuted in 1987 and introduced a unique hybrid of fantasy and science fiction elements that would become a hallmark of the series. The game’s success spawned numerous sequels, each with its own unique storyline and characters, while also popularizing the concept of the “active time battle” system, which combined turn-based combat with a real-time element.
Dragon Quest, meanwhile, debuted in 1986 and was created by famed game designer Yuji Horii and artist Akira Toriyama. The series is known for its classic medieval fantasy setting, charming characters, and challenging turn-based combat. Dragon Quest would go on to spawn numerous sequels and spin-offs, including several that have been localized for Western audiences.
The SNES Era: Chrono Trigger and Xenogears
The SNES era saw the emergence of several other classic JRPG franchises, including Chrono Trigger and Xenogears. Chrono Trigger, created by SquareSoft, debuted in 1995 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time. The game features a unique time-traveling plot that allows players to explore different eras and alternate realities, while also incorporating elements of action, adventure, and strategy gameplay.
Xenogears, meanwhile, debuted in 1998 and was created by SquareSoft in collaboration with Animation Magic. The game features a complex, multi-layered storyline that combines elements of science fiction, mecha anime, and religious symbolism, while also introducing a unique real-time combat system that incorporates elemental magic and robotic enhancements.
The PS1 Era: Legend of Zelda and Suikoden
The PS1 era saw the emergence of several other classic JRPG franchises, including the Legend of Zelda and Suikoden. The Legend of Zelda, created by Nintendo, debuted in 1986 and is known for its iconic protagonist, Link, and its expansive, open-world environments. The series has since spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, each with its own unique storyline and gameplay mechanics.
Suikoden, meanwhile, debuted in 1990 and was created by AM7, a development team within Hudson Soft. The game is known for its tactical, turn-based combat and its deep, complex storyline that explores themes of war, politics, and honor. The series has since spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, including several that have been localized for Western audiences.
The Modern Era of RPGs
The Western RPG Revival: The Elder Scrolls and Fallout
The modern era of RPGs marked a significant turning point in the history of the genre. With the advent of new technology and a growing appetite for immersive storytelling, Western RPGs began to flourish. Two franchises, in particular, stand out as key contributors to this revival: The Elder Scrolls and Fallout.
- The Elder Scrolls series, developed by Bethesda Game Studios, debuted in 1994 with The Elder Scrolls: Arena. Since then, it has expanded to include five main titles: Daggerfall (1996), Morrowind (2002), Oblivion (2006), Skyrim (2011), and Elder Scrolls Online (2013). These games have captivated players with their open-world exploration, rich lore, and complex character progression systems. The series’ most recent installment, The Elder Scrolls VI, is currently in development.
- Fallout, created by Black Isle Studios and later by Bethesda Game Studios, emerged in 1997 with the release of Fallout. The series has since grown to include three main titles: Fallout 2 (1998), Fallout 3 (2008), Fallout: New Vegas (2010), Fallout 4 (2015), and Fallout 76 (2018). Known for their post-apocalyptic settings, branching storylines, and extensive customization options, these games have amassed a devoted fan base. The next iteration, Fallout 5, is also in development.
The Global Phenomenon: Pokémon and Mass Effect
Alongside these Western RPG powerhouses, two other franchises have had a profound impact on the genre and the gaming industry as a whole: Pokémon and Mass Effect.
- Pokémon, a multimedia franchise originating from Japan, began in 1996 with the release of the first Pokémon game for the Game Boy. Since then, it has grown to include numerous sequels, spin-offs, anime series, movies, and trading card games. The franchise’s unique blend of monster collecting, turn-based battles, and endearing characters has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The latest entry, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, was released in November 2022.
- Mass Effect, developed by Bioware, first emerged in 2007 with the release of the first game in the series. It has since spawned three main titles: Mass Effect 2 (2010), Mass Effect 3 (2012), and Mass Effect: Andromeda (2017). Known for their intricate narratives, complex character relationships, and player choice-driven storytelling, these games have garnered widespread critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Although the main series is complete, spin-offs and potential remasters or remakes may still be on the horizon.
The Biggest RPG Franchises of All Time
The Top 5 RPG Franchises by Sales
#1. Minecraft
Minecraft is a sandbox video game developed by Mojang Studios. It was first released in 2011 and has since become one of the best-selling video games of all time, with over 200 million copies sold across all platforms. The game’s popularity is due in part to its unique gameplay, which allows players to build and explore virtual worlds, as well as its extensive modding community, which has created thousands of user-generated mods and skins. Minecraft has also been widely used in education, with many schools using it as a tool to teach subjects such as math, science, and history.
#2. Grand Theft Auto
Grand Theft Auto is an open-world action-adventure video game series developed by Rockstar Games. The first game in the series was released in 1997, and since then, it has become one of the most successful video game franchises of all time, with over 135 million copies sold worldwide. The series is known for its realistic and expansive open-world environments, as well as its groundbreaking use of non-linear gameplay and narrative. Grand Theft Auto V, the most recent installment in the series, was released in 2013 and has sold over 135 million copies, making it one of the best-selling video games of all time.
#3. The Elder Scrolls
The Elder Scrolls is a series of open-world action role-playing games developed by Bethesda Game Studios. The first game in the series, The Elder Scrolls: Arena, was released in 1994, and since then, the series has gone on to become one of the most popular and critically acclaimed RPG franchises of all time. The series is known for its massive open-world environments, rich storytelling, and deep character customization options. The most recent installment in the series, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, was released in 2011 and has sold over 30 million copies worldwide.
#4. Call of Duty
Call of Duty is a first-person shooter video game series developed by Infinity Ward, Treyarch, and Sledgehammer Games. The first game in the series, Call of Duty, was released in 2003, and since then, it has become one of the most successful video game franchises of all time, with over 250 million copies sold worldwide. The series is known for its intense multiplayer gameplay, as well as its cinematic single-player campaigns. The most recent installment in the series, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, was released in 2019 and has been praised for its realistic and gritty gameplay.
#5. Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy is a series of role-playing video games developed and published by Square Enix. The first game in the series, Final Fantasy, was released in 1987, and since then, it has become one of the most beloved and influential RPG franchises of all time. The series is known for its expansive and intricate storylines, as well as its iconic characters and worlds. The most recent installment in the series, Final Fantasy VII Remake, was released in 2020 and has been praised for its updated gameplay mechanics and faithful adaptation of the original game.
The Most Influential RPG Franchises
#1. Dungeons & Dragons
Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is widely regarded as the original tabletop role-playing game and has been around since 1974. It was created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson and has since spawned numerous spin-offs, expansions, and adaptations across various mediums. D&D is notable for its emphasis on storytelling, character development, and open-ended gameplay, which has influenced numerous other RPG franchises.
#2. The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda franchise was created by Shigeru Miyamoto and first released in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System. The series follows the adventures of Link, a young boy who must save the world of Hyrule from evil forces. The Legend of Zelda is known for its innovative gameplay mechanics, such as its use of a variety of items and weapons, as well as its immersive world-building and memorable characters.
#3. Dragon Quest
Dragon Quest, also known as Dragon Warrior in North America, is a series of RPG games created by Yuji Horii and published by Enix (now Square Enix). The first game was released in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System and has since spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across multiple platforms. Dragon Quest is notable for its simple yet addictive gameplay, memorable characters, and epic storytelling.
#4. Fallout
Fallout is a series of post-apocalyptic RPG games created by Black Isle Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. The first game was released in 1997 and has since spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs. Fallout is known for its deep character customization, unique setting, and challenging gameplay, which has made it a fan favorite among RPG gamers.
#5. Mass Effect
Mass Effect is a series of science fiction RPG games created by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts. The first game was released in 2007 for the Xbox 360 and has since spawned two sequels and numerous spin-off games. Mass Effect is notable for its complex storytelling, engaging characters, and morally complex choices, which have made it a favorite among RPG fans.
The RPG Franchises That Defined Generations
#1. Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy is one of the most iconic and influential RPG franchises of all time. Created by Square Enix, the series has been around since 1987 and has since released over a dozen mainline games, as well as numerous spin-offs, movies, and adaptations.
The Final Fantasy series is known for its unique setting, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Each game in the series offers a different storyline, setting, and cast of characters, but all share a common theme of adventure, friendship, and overcoming adversity.
The series has been praised for its storytelling, character development, and stunning visuals, which have consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in video games. The franchise has also been credited with popularizing the JRPG genre and inspiring countless other RPGs and games in general.
The Legend of Zelda is another highly influential RPG franchise that has been around since the late 1980s. Created by Nintendo, the series has spawned numerous games, spin-offs, and adaptations across multiple platforms.
The Legend of Zelda series is known for its vast, open worlds, rich history, and engaging storylines. The series follows the adventures of Link, a young warrior, and Zelda, a princess, as they explore the world of Hyrule and battle evil forces to save the kingdom.
The series has been praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics, immersive world-building, and engaging storytelling. The franchise has also been credited with popularizing the action-adventure genre and inspiring countless other games in the action-adventure and RPG genres.
Dragon Quest is a classic RPG franchise that originated in Japan in the late 1980s. Created by Square Enix, the series has since become one of the most successful and beloved RPG franchises in Japan and worldwide.
The Dragon Quest series is known for its charming characters, engaging storylines, and challenging gameplay mechanics. The series follows the adventures of a hero and his allies as they battle monsters, solve puzzles, and explore fantastical worlds.
The series has been praised for its addictive gameplay, memorable characters, and classic JRPG style. The franchise has also been credited with popularizing the RPG genre in Japan and inspiring countless other RPGs and games in general.
#4. Pokémon
Pokémon is a hugely popular RPG franchise that originated in Japan in the mid-1990s. Created by Game Freak and Nintendo, the series has since become a global phenomenon, with numerous games, spin-offs, and adaptations across multiple platforms.
The Pokémon series is known for its cute, charming characters, engaging gameplay mechanics, and innovative concept of catching and battling creatures. The series follows the adventures of a young trainer and his/her Pocket Monsters as they explore the world, battle other trainers, and try to become the ultimate Pokémon Master.
The series has been praised for its accessible gameplay, memorable characters, and innovative concept. The franchise has also been credited with popularizing the RPG genre among a younger audience and inspiring countless other games in the RPG and action-adventure genres.
Mass Effect is a science fiction RPG franchise that originated in the early 2000s. Created by BioWare, the series has since become one of the most beloved and influential RPG franchises of the modern era.
The Mass Effect series is known for its immersive world-building, engaging storylines, and complex character relationships. The series follows the adventures of Commander Shepard and his/her allies as they explore the galaxy, battle alien races, and uncover the secrets of the
The Future of RPG Games
The Rise of Indie RPGs
In recent years, indie RPGs have been gaining popularity among gamers, offering unique experiences and fresh perspectives that have breathed new life into the genre. These smaller, independent developers have been able to take risks and push boundaries, creating innovative games that have captured the hearts of many. Here are three of the most notable indie RPGs that have made a significant impact on the gaming world:
#1. Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation RPG developed by ConcernedApe and published in 2016. Players are tasked with managing a farm, building relationships with villagers, and exploring the game’s world. The game’s charming pixel art, addictive gameplay, and deep crafting and farming systems have made it a hit among players.
#2. Undertale
Undertale is a role-playing game developed by Toby Fox in 2015. The game is known for its unique battle system, where players must navigate through conversations with enemies to spare them or defeat them. The game’s quirky characters, memorable soundtrack, and emotional storytelling have garnered a devoted fanbase.
#3. Hyper Light Drifter
Hyper Light Drifter is a top-down action RPG developed by Heart Machine in 2016. The game follows a mysterious drifter as they explore a decaying world, battling enemies and uncovering the game’s lore. The game’s striking visuals, atmospheric soundtrack, and challenging gameplay have made it a standout in the indie RPG scene.
The Future of Big-Budget RPGs
#1. The Next Generation of Console RPGs
With the advent of cutting-edge technology, the future of console RPGs looks promising. With the development of advanced hardware, game developers can now create more immersive worlds and intricate gameplay mechanics, pushing the boundaries of what was previously thought possible. One such example is the highly anticipated Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which showcases the potential of open-world gaming with its vast, seamless environments and intricate gameplay.
Another example is the Final Fantasy series, which has been a staple of console RPGs for decades. The latest installment, Final Fantasy XV, boasts impressive graphics and a seamless battle system that incorporates real-time action and tactical decision-making. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that console RPGs will become even more immersive and engaging, with more detailed worlds, deeper storylines, and more complex gameplay mechanics.
#2. The Growth of Mobile RPGs
Mobile RPGs have been steadily gaining popularity in recent years, and this trend is likely to continue in the future. With the rise of smartphones and tablets, gamers now have access to high-quality games on the go, making mobile RPGs an attractive option for those who want to play on the go. Additionally, mobile RPGs often feature microtransactions and other monetization models, which can provide a steady stream of revenue for developers.
One of the most successful mobile RPGs is Niantic’s Pokémon Go, which has become a cultural phenomenon since its release in 2016. The game uses augmented reality technology to bring the Pokémon world to life, allowing players to catch and battle Pokémon in real-world locations. Other mobile RPGs, such as Super Mario Run and Fire Emblem Heroes, have also proven to be popular among gamers.
#3. The Continuing Evolution of JRPGs
JRPGs, or Japanese RPGs, have been a staple of the RPG genre for decades, with classics such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest paving the way for the genre. In recent years, JRPGs have continued to evolve, incorporating new mechanics and gameplay styles while still retaining the classic elements that made them popular in the first place.
One example of this evolution is the Persona series, which combines traditional JRPG gameplay with dungeon-crawling and social simulation elements. The latest installment, Persona 5 Royal, has been praised for its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and deep gameplay mechanics. Other JRPGs, such as Nier: Automata and Yakuza: Like a Dragon, have also incorporated new mechanics and gameplay styles, showing that the genre is still alive and kicking.
Overall, the future of big-budget RPGs looks bright, with console RPGs continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible, mobile RPGs growing in popularity, and JRPGs evolving to incorporate new mechanics and styles. With so many exciting developments on the horizon, RPG fans have much to look forward to in the years to come.
The Next Big RPG Franchises
#1. Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 is a highly anticipated RPG game set in a dystopian future. Developed by CD Projekt Red, the creators of The Witcher 3, the game promises to bring a unique blend of science fiction and role-playing elements to the gaming world.
The game’s setting is a cyberpunk world, where technology has advanced beyond our wildest dreams, but at what cost? Players will take on the role of a mercenary known as V, who can be customized to fit their playstyle. The game features an open-world environment, where players can explore the city of Night City and interact with its diverse inhabitants.
One of the most exciting aspects of Cyberpunk 2077 is its combat system. The game will feature a variety of weapons and abilities, allowing players to engage in intense gunfights and hand-to-hand combat. Additionally, players can enhance their abilities and appearance through cybernetic implants, further immersing them in the game’s futuristic world.
#2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2 is the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed game, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The game was announced during the E3 2019 Nintendo Direct and has since generated a lot of excitement among fans.
The game will feature a massive open-world environment, similar to its predecessor, where players can explore the land of Hyrule and battle monsters using a variety of weapons and abilities. The game will also introduce new features, such as a climbing system, which will allow players to scale walls and reach new areas.
Breath of the Wild 2 will also feature a multiplayer component, where players can team up and explore the world together. The game’s story will pick up where the first game left off, with Link and Zelda battling against the Calamity, a mysterious force that threatens to destroy Hyrule.
#3. Mass Effect 4
Mass Effect 4 is the next installment in the popular sci-fi RPG series, Mass Effect. The game was announced during the EA Play 2020 event and has since generated a lot of excitement among fans.
The game will take place in a new galaxy, with new characters and storylines. However, it will still feature the same deep RPG gameplay that fans have come to love. Players will be able to create their own character and embark on a journey to save the galaxy from a new threat.
One of the most exciting aspects of Mass Effect 4 is its new game engine, which promises to deliver stunning visuals and immersive gameplay. The game will also feature a more dynamic combat system, with improved aiming and cover mechanics.
In addition to its single-player campaign, Mass Effect 4 will also feature a cooperative multiplayer mode, where players can team up and explore the galaxy together. The game’s story is still under wraps, but fans can expect a complex and engaging narrative that will keep them hooked for hours on end.
The Future of RPG Gaming
The Increasing Importance of Player Choice
As the RPG genre continues to evolve, one trend that is becoming increasingly evident is the importance of player choice. In the past, RPGs were often linear experiences where players had little control over the story or characters. However, as the genre has matured, so too have the expectations of players. Many modern RPGs now offer a much greater degree of player choice, allowing players to shape the story and characters in meaningful ways.
For example, the Mass Effect series is renowned for its complex morality system, where players must make difficult choices that can have far-reaching consequences. Similarly, the Witcher series allows players to make choices that affect the outcome of the story and the characters within it. This trend towards greater player choice is likely to continue in the future, as developers strive to create more immersive and engaging experiences for players.
The Continued Merging of Genres
Another trend that is shaping the future of RPG gaming is the continued merging of genres. In the past, RPGs were often standalone experiences that existed in their own distinct category. However, as the popularity of RPGs has grown, so too has the desire to incorporate elements from other genres into the RPG experience.
One example of this is the rise of the action RPG, which combines the deep storytelling and character development of traditional RPGs with the fast-paced action of games like Super Mario Bros. Similarly, the adventure RPG subgenre has gained popularity by blending the exploration and puzzle-solving of adventure games with the character development and storytelling of RPGs.
As the RPG genre continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more blending of genres, as developers seek to create new and exciting experiences for players.
The Growing Importance of Accessibility in RPGs
Finally, another trend that is shaping the future of RPG gaming is the growing importance of accessibility. In the past, many RPGs were criticized for being too difficult or too complex, which could make them inaccessible to certain players. However, as the gaming industry has become more diverse, so too have the expectations of players.
Many modern RPGs now feature accessibility options such as adjustable difficulty settings, customizable controls, and text-to-speech options for players with visual impairments. As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more focus on accessibility, as developers strive to create games that are inclusive and welcoming to all players.
FAQs
1. What is an RPG franchise?
An RPG, or role-playing game, franchise is a series of video games that share a common setting, characters, and gameplay mechanics. These games often feature complex storylines, character development, and customizable player characters. RPG franchises can span multiple platforms and genres, but typically involve player choice and decision-making as key elements of gameplay.
2. What is the biggest RPG franchise?
The biggest RPG franchise is a matter of debate, as different people may have different opinions on what constitutes the largest or most popular RPG franchise. However, some of the most well-known and successful RPG franchises include Final Fantasy, The Elder Scrolls, and The Legend of Zelda.
3. What is Final Fantasy?
Final Fantasy is a long-running RPG franchise developed and published by Square Enix. The series began in 1987 and has since released over a dozen mainline games, as well as numerous spin-offs, movies, and other media. Final Fantasy is known for its expansive worlds, memorable characters, and unique gameplay mechanics, including its signature turn-based battle system.
4. What is The Elder Scrolls?
The Elder Scrolls is an RPG franchise developed and published by Bethesda Softworks. The series began in 1994 with the release of The Elder Scrolls: Arena, and has since released several other mainline games, including Morrowind, Oblivion, Skyrim, and most recently, The Elder Scrolls VI. The series is known for its open-world exploration, complex lore, and player choice-driven gameplay.
5. What is The Legend of Zelda?
The Legend of Zelda is an RPG franchise developed and published by Nintendo. The series began in 1986 with the release of The Legend of Zelda, and has since released over a dozen mainline games, as well as numerous spin-offs and other media. The series is known for its memorable characters, immersive worlds, and innovative gameplay mechanics, including its signature puzzle-solving and combat systems.