Summary

  • Licensed RPGs vary in quality, but balanced references to original material with strong game systems can create engaging experiences for fans.
  • Titles like Magic Knight Rayearth and Marvel's Midnight Suns stand out by blending authentic content with captivating narratives and mechanics.
  • Games like Parasite Eve and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic succeed by staying true to their source material while offering rewarding gameplay experiences.

Licensed games, especially in the RPG genre, often face skepticism. Being tied to existing franchises, they typically receive less investment and creative freedom compared to original titles. Nevertheless, many manage to deliver enjoyable experiences, even if they don't always reach the same level of depth as traditional games in the genre.

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Fortunately, there are exceptions that defy this trend. Among the best licensed RPGs, there are titles that not only capture the essence of the franchises they represent but also offer engaging mechanics and captivating narratives. The key lies in balancing authentic references to the original material with strong game systems, creating an experience that appeals to both series fans and RPG enthusiasts.

While Dungeons & Dragons has many licensed games, its prominence as a major video game franchise - alongside other tabletop RPGs - means it was excluded from this list to focus on other RPGs.

10 Magic Knight Rayearth

One Of The Best RPGs Made For The Sega Saturn

  • Platform: Sega Saturn
  • Developers: Working Designs, Sega, Overworks
  • Publishers: Sega
  • Genre: Action, Adventure, RPG

Combining fantasy and magic, the adaptation of the famous CLAMP manga arrived on the Sega Saturn, bringing an adventure filled with JRPG and Isekai elements. In Magic Knight Rayearth, Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu embark on a mission to save the kingdom of Cephiro, dealing with monstrous creatures, intriguing puzzles, and enjoyable turn-based battles.

Even with simple visuals, the vibrant atmosphere and focus on the protagonists’ friendship create a unique charm. Each knight takes on a distinct role within the group, ensuring variety in combat and exploration. The progression of abilities and the faithful adaptation of the original material make this version a cult favorite for JRPG enthusiasts and fans of the CLAMP universe.

9 Marvel’s Midnight Suns

An Unusual Combination Of Tactical RPG And The Marvel Universe

Great Marvel heroes rarely come together in a tactical game, but this premise comes to life by uniting Doctor Strange, Blade, and other well-known names on a dark mission. In Marvel’s Midnight Suns, players assume the role of a new protagonist, combining strategic planning with a supernatural narrative amidst twists that put the world’s fate at stake.

Also, interactions between iconic characters lead to special missions that strengthen bonds, which in turn can enhance abilities during battles. This social component sets the title apart from many other licensed games, adding depth without losing the action-packed essence of Marvel. With intricate mechanics and a mystical storyline, this tactical RPG stands out as a bold and successful venture.

8 The Lord Of The Rings: The Third Age

A Turn-Based RPG In Middle-Earth

Your Rating

RPG
Systems
Released
November 2, 2004
Developer(s)
EA Redwood Shores
Publisher(s)
EA

Turn-based combat and an epic setting rarely fail to excite, especially when inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s famous saga. In The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age, players dive into the War of the Ring, controlling original characters who cross paths with iconic figures, enhancing the Middle-earth experience.

Although it does not replicate every detail of the central plot, the title succeeds in capturing the grand atmosphere of the franchise, emphasizing exploration and character development. Each battle requires careful planning, resulting in intense confrontations with trolls, orcs, and mythical creatures. This blend of strategy and fidelity to the universe makes the experience rewarding for dedicated fans.

7 Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot

Incorporating RPG Elements Into Goku’s Journey Worked Out Perfectly

Dragon Ball is renowned for its frenetic fighting games, but Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot deviates slightly from this formula, offering an RPG experience in a semi-open world. Here, players relive iconic moments from the anime, from battles against legendary foes to exploring well-known areas, creating an immersion in Akira Toriyama’s universe.

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The combat system is more agile than traditional RPGs, yet it delivers attribute progression and skill enhancements. This combination allows for an authentic retelling of the story, incorporating mechanics that value both strategy and action. As a result, Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot stands out as a pleasant surprise among licensed RPGs.

6 South Park: The Stick Of Truth

The Best Licensed RPG In This Franchise