Summary
Despite not having the same frequency of major releases as in the past,CRPGsremain one of the most beloved genres among gamers, especially those who prefer PCs as their primary platform. This genre, inspired by Tabletop RPGs, offers gameplay that grants a lot of freedom to the player based on their decisions and actions, but can vary wildly in terms of setting.
Whether they’re set in modern or medieval environments,many of these CRPGs also adopt elements ofDark Fantasy, presenting players with a darker and more violent story than usual. Despite the heavier tones, these games still offer incredible narratives, complex characters, and engaging challenges that captivate from beginning to end.
As strange as it may seem,The Age of Decadenceis setafter the collapse of human civilization, where an ancient magical war has devastated humanity. Inspired by the esthetics of the Roman Empire, this title places players in an incredible setting where choices and actions shape a dark and decadent world, marked by the struggle for survival.
Dark fantasy is present in a striking way, with a narrative rich in political intrigue and betrayals, set in an oppressive scenario. The game stands out for its brutal realism and the absence of classic heroes, offering an experience where power corrupts, and decisions have relentless consequences. The somber setting and ambiguous morality define the essence of this unique CRPG.
Although it does not use the isometric perspective that many other CRPGs do,Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlinesis still part of the genre and delivers a good experience for players who love Dark Fantasy stories. Here,players assume the role of a vampire in the underworld of Los Angeles.
With a dark atmosphere and interwoven elements of horror, this game explores themes of morality, power, and corruption. Players encounter supernatural creatures, engage in political intrigue, and face ethical dilemmas that challenge their humanity. Additionally, the decadent urban setting of Los Angeles enhances the game’s gothic tones, making the experience immersive and intense.
King Arthur is one of the most classic characters in European mythology, and inKing Arthur: Knight’s Tale,the game presents a reimagining of his legend. Playing as Sir Mordred, Arthur’s former enemy, players are brought back to life by the Lady of the Lake to face the resurrected king. Avalon, now a land of nightmares, is filled with magical creatures and hidden dangers.
Elements of dark fantasy permeate every aspect of this tactical CRPG, from complex moral choices to intense strategic battles. The setting is a dark and twisted version of Avalon, where corruption and decay are visible around every corner. The mission to destroy the immortal King Arthur and rebuild Camelot challenges players to navigate an unforgiving world full of betrayal, reinforcing the atmosphere of despair and continuous struggle.
Although not as popular asCyberpunk 2077,Shadowrunis a franchise that tells very good urban fantasy sci-fi stories. InShadowrun: Dragonfall,the game mixes elements of Medieval fantasy, such as elves, orcs, and the like, with futurism. The cyberpunk setting adds a layer of complexity and darkness to the narrative, creating a dark and intriguing world.
Set in a dystopian future where magic and technology coexist,Shadowrun: Dragonfallpresents a fragmented Berlin governed by stable anarchy. The story involves the rise of a new threat linked to the return of an ancient dragon, Feuerschwinge. This dark fantasy scenario explores themes of corruption, betrayal, and survival, requiring players to face dark conspiracies and difficult moral decisions in a world of decay and constant danger.
Avoiding the clichés of CRPGs where players are expected to be heroes,Tyranny,one of the best games made by Obisidian, places them in the role of an officer of an evil empire that has already conquered the world. The game offers a narrative where the villain has already prevailed, and the task is to manage and consolidate their dominance, dealing with the complexities of maintaining an authoritarian regime.
Dark fantasy is present in every difficult moral decision and the grim consequences that follow. Thus, the setting is unforgiving and dark, filled with betrayal, oppression, and manipulation. Black magic and sinister rituals are common, reinforcing the tense and dark atmosphere of the universe, and making each choice deepen the immersion in a world where hope is scarce and power corrupts.
Set in Golarion, a setting created for thePathfindertabletop RPG,Wrath of the Righteouspresents players with a greater dark fantasy setting, especially when compared to its predecessor,Pathfinder: Kingmaker. In this CRPG by Owlcat Games, players find themselves in a hopeless world where an ancient war against demons seems lost.
In this game, even the heroes are not examples of strong moral individuals, and in the role of the protagonist, players can make various decisions that impact the world around them for better or worse. Additionally, other NPCs are equally complex, making the narrative experience ofPathfinder: Wrath of the Righteousexcellent for CRPG fans.
If CRPGs are experiencing a comeback moment in the market today, much of that isdue to the quality ofPillars of Eternity, which rejuvinated the genre for a new audience to experience. The story, despite having several moments of high fantasy, is still filled with desolation, frequently flirting with dark fantasy.
In the first few minutes of the game, for example, when players arrive at one of the first available locations and learn a bit more about the world’s lore, they are immediately faced with a tree full of hanged bodies at the entrance. Other elements of the narrative and world-building, as well as various characters and their problems, are further indications of these dark fantasy elements.
Although theDragon Agetrilogy has good narratives throughout, the story ofDragon Age Origins, the first game in the franchise, is one of the darkest. From the very beginning, when players are playing through the introduction of the main character, it is plain to see that dark fantasy will be an element used throughout the narrative.
Betrayals, murders, and various other profane practices, such as blood magic, permeate the universe ofDragon Agein its entirety. Thus, amid the dilemmas faced by everyone, even morally sound characters will make questionable choices, highlighting the dark tone of the narrative. Alliances are fragile, and the threats of the corrupted world of Thedas are powerful.
Baldur’s Gate 3is part of a colorful universe filled with elements of high fantasy, but upon closer inspection, the story the game tells players is full of dark fantasy elements.The first two chapters, for example, are a great demonstration of this. The main characters must deal with the desolation of being attacked by goblins and their leaders, Mindflayers, a cult, and more. All that, just to move on and have to deal with the Shadow-cursed Lands.
Moreover, for players who choose to play as the Dark Urge instead of following Tav’s path, they will be met with a story full of violence, where it is necessary to either resist the protagonist’s urges to avoid causing further death, or succumb to them and join Bhaal’s cause. However, even players who attempt to follow a path of goodness with the Dark Urge will still have to deal with the dark aspects of the character.
One of the best narratives ever presented in a CRPGis also filled with dark fantasy elements.Planescape: Tormentplaces players in control of the Nameless One, an immortal figure covered in scars and tattoos, with no memory of their past lives. Set in the planar city of Sigil, the game explores a world where portals lead to mysterious places, and every decision shapes the protagonist’s journey.
This dark fantasy universe is highlighted by complex moral choices and interactions with unique characters, such as a chaste succubus and a floating skull. The oppressive atmosphere and philosophical themes, such as the nature of humanity and the search for redemption, permeate the entire narrative. The dark setting and deep exploration of existential questions makePlanescape: Tormenta captivating and unforgettable experience.
