Isometric RPGs,despite differing in some mechanics, share a common point that unites most of them, which is their strong appeal in storytelling.Games of this genre are known for their incredible narratives, taking players on epic journeys in settings that range from high medieval fantasy to distant futures.
Another element that many isometric RPGs use toengage players with the story is the addition of romance. This allows many characters to gain new depth in the story, exploring their personalities and backstories more intimately. These games often vary in the complexity of their romances, but it is always a welcome addition.
Romance was never a mechanic that Obsidian Entertainment was very fond of. It’s rare for games from the company to feature the option for main characters to engage in relationships with others. Therefore, this feature’s presence inPillars of Eternity: Deadfireis a real surprise, although the relationships are fairly superficial.
The game offers interesting characters for players to meet throughout the journey, many of whom join the group to accompany the Watcher during the adventure. However, not everyone can fall in love with the protagonist. Those who can offer some varied story options, which are lightly explored during each one’s personal quests. Players can also observe NPCs developing feelings for each other during the game.
Expeditions: Romeoffers players the chance toengage in romantic relationships with various characters, enhancing the immersive experience. The game provides multiple romance options for both male and female protagonists, allowing players to explore these relationships throughout the journey. This feature adds a layer of emotional depth and personalization to the narrative.
Unlike its predecessors, the game requires players to select enough romance dialogue during the first and second acts to trigger romance events. Successfully romancing a character can influence future interactions, adding complexity to the gameplay. All romances must be completed by the end of the second act, enhancing the narrative experience through meaningful character interactions and choices.
Larian’s recent masterpieceBaldur’s Gate 3created a grand arc and narrative for characters to fall in love with the protagonist. However, inDivinity: Original Sin 2,another turn-based strategy game from Larian Studios, the relationships are less prominent. As character affinity increases, their treatment of the protagonist changes.
However, despite the relationships not having the same intensity and narrative as players experienced inBaldur’s Gate 3, Larian still left some surprises for players. At a certain point in the story, the romance between two characters can take a surprisingly intense turn, and even influence aspects of their ending.
The thirdPersonagame has received some variations throughout its history, such as the FES and Reload versions. ButPersona 3 Portable, due to the PSP’s limitations at the time of release, has the charm of isometric graphics in its exploration. Thus, while exploring the mysteries of the Dark Hour in the game by Atlus, players still have several characters to get to know.
It is worth noting thatPersonais a franchise well known for its romance mechanics, so while spending the days in the game’s story, it is possible to develop relationships with many of the available characters. Each one has their own story, written aroundPersona 3’s themes of death and overcoming.
Rogue Traderis an RPG inspired by theWarhammer 40Ktabletop game, where aRogue Trader explores the galaxy with various companions. Each companion has their own story, and five of them can be involved in romances, adding an extra layer to the adventure.
These romances vary in complexity and depth, providing different experiences for players. The diversity of romantic characters and the available options make the game more engaging, allowing the exploration of relationships in a dark and challenging universe. The romance mechanic inRogue Traderstands out for how it integrates the personal narratives of the companions, enriching the epic journey through the galaxy.
Another game by Owlcat inspired by the tabletop RPG of the same name,Pathfinder: Kingmakeris an isometric RPG based on anAdventure Path that offers a classic experience for players. The characters explore the Stolen Lands, face dangers, and must build a kingdom through an engaging and epic narrative.
Throughout the journey, several companions can become romantically involved with the player, each offering a unique story that enriches the narrative experience. The romance options vary in complexity, from simple interactions to more elaborate plots that unfold throughout the adventure, making players feel even more immersed in the narrative of this isometric RPG.
Also based on thePathfindertabletop RPG,Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteousdoes a good job regarding the quality and quantity of romance options that players can have throughout the game. The game offers the possibility for the protagonist to relate to some companions who accompany the group along the journey, and also an NPC from outside.
Each character has a unique love story, where the developers take the opportunity to better explore each one’s background. Some romances can even lead to narratives that are not just happy endings, depending on the choices made and the attention the companion received throughout the journey in Golarion.
AlthoughDragon Age: Originsis not a completely isometric game, it is possible to emulate the genre’s camera in the PC version. It is one of the best games ever released by BioWare. The company took all its experience to create a rich and interesting setting, full of captivating characters, with a special emphasis on the companions who accompany players on the adventure.
During the journey, the player engages in complex dialogues and deep interactions with the companions in their camp. These moments not only enrich the narrative, but also allow players to get even closer to the characters. BioWare, known for its ability to build romances and complex characters, makesDragon Age: Originsa unique and engaging experience for fans of the genre.
InBaldur’s Gate 2, BioWare created one of the most iconic RPG games, widely praised for its deep narrative and engaging characters.The game offers players several romance options, allowing them to connect more intimately with their companions throughout the epic journey through the Forgotten Realms.
Each romantic character has a unique and well-developed story, providing interactions that range from tender moments to intense conflicts. The choices made by the player throughout the game can significantly influence the development of these relationships, resulting in varied and surprising endings that further enrich the game’s narrative experience.
Baldur’s Gate 3is one of the most impressive strategic games ever released in the history of video games, and has beenwidely praised for the quality of its characters. This depth allows players to feel immersed when relating to each NPC, making it difficult to choose the best romance option in the game.
Larian Studios worked meticulously during production, creating complex characters resulting in diverse and well-written romances. The developers' care in making each route unique, addressing the insecurities, evolution, and storyline of each secondary character, highlights this as one of the best aspects ofBaldur’s Gate 3.
