PS4 RPGs offer players a chance to explore new worlds and become different characters. The PlayStation 4 has some of the best role-playing games ever made, with stories and gameplay that can keep you busy for hundreds of hours.
These games let you make choices that matter and build characters that fit how you want to play. From fantasy worlds with dragons to sci-fi adventures in space, PS4 RPGs cover many different settings and styles. Whether you like action, strategy, or story-focused games, there’s something for everyone.
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most celebrated RPGs on the PS4. Many gamers consider it the best RPG ever made, and for good reason.
The game follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter (or witcher) who searches for his adopted daughter while dealing with the Wild Hunt that pursues her. Its story pulls you in from the start and keeps you hooked throughout its lengthy campaign.
Combat in The Witcher 3 offers a satisfying mix of swordplay, magic signs, and alchemy. You’ll fight both humans and monsters using different tactics for each. The excellent combat system gives players plenty of ways to approach each encounter.
What makes this game special is its world. The Northern Kingdoms feel alive with people going about their daily routines, monsters lurking in forests, and consequences that follow your choices. Small villages and crowded cities each have their own problems to solve.
Side quests in The Witcher 3 often match or exceed the quality of the main story. Rather than simple fetch quests, these missions feature complex characters and moral choices that stay with you long after completion.
Monster hunting forms a core part of being a witcher. These contracts send you tracking unique creatures, researching their weaknesses, and preparing the right potions and oils before facing them.
The game’s two expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, add even more quality content. Blood and Wine introduces an entirely new region that many players enjoy even more than the base game.
Visually, The Witcher 3 remains impressive years after its release. From sunsets over fields to storm-tossed seas, the world looks beautiful in all its harsh reality. Many players still consider it the best looking RPG they’ve played.
The characters bring the world to life with excellent writing and voice acting. Relationships feel genuine, with friends, enemies, and romantic interests all reacting to your choices throughout the game.
Players who enjoy captivating stories and fun combat will find themselves lost in this game for well over 100 hours. Even those new to the series can jump in and understand what’s happening.
2. Persona 5 Royal
Persona 5 Royal stands as one of the most highly regarded RPGs on the PlayStation 4. This enhanced version of the original Persona 5 adds significant content and improvements that make it a must-play for JRPG fans.
The game follows a group of high school students who discover they can enter a supernatural realm to change the hearts of corrupt adults. Its stylish presentation immediately catches the eye, with bold colors and a jazzy soundtrack that perfectly matches its rebellious themes.
Combat in Persona 5 Royal blends turn-based battles with strategic demon collecting. Players can capture and fuse various Personas (manifestations of inner strength) to create powerful allies. The battle system feels fresh and engaging throughout the 100+ hour adventure.
What sets this game apart is how it balances dungeon crawling with social simulation. Between fighting shadows, you’ll attend school, make friends, and build relationships that strengthen your abilities in battle. This life-sim aspect adds depth and makes the world feel alive.
The Royal edition adds a new dungeon, new characters, and revamps gameplay compared to the original release. These additions aren’t merely tacked on but thoughtfully integrated into the main story.
Critics and fans alike consider it a standout title, with many naming it one of the top JRPGs of the PS4 generation. RPGFan even ranked it as the third best PS4 RPG overall, beating out many other beloved titles.
The story tackles mature themes like abuse of power, personal freedom, and finding your place in society. Characters feel three-dimensional with their own struggles and growth throughout the journey.
IGN praised the game in their review, noting it offers “well over 100 hours of gameplay for completionists” and features “the series’ strongest story to date.” The expanded content makes an already excellent game even better.
The visual style remains unmatched, with vibrant menus, fluid animations, and striking character designs. Even simple actions like navigating menus feel exciting due to the game’s commitment to style.
For players who enjoy complex stories, memorable characters, and engaging gameplay systems, Persona 5 Royal delivers an exceptional experience that’s hard to match on PS4 or any platform.
3. Final Fantasy VII Remake
Final Fantasy VII Remake breathes new life into one of gaming’s most beloved classics. Released for the PS4, this reimagining takes the first portion of the original 1997 game and expands it into a full-length adventure with modern graphics and gameplay.
The combat system blends real-time action with strategic elements. Players can switch between characters during battles, each with unique abilities and playstyles. This hybrid approach satisfies both action fans and those who appreciate the tactical depth of traditional RPGs.
The story follows Cloud Strife, a former soldier who joins the eco-terrorist group Avalanche to fight against the Shinra Electric Power Company. While it follows the original narrative, the remake adds new story elements and expands on character development.
Visually, the game is stunning. Midgar has been transformed from blocky polygons into a detailed, dystopian metropolis. Character models are expressive, and the summons are spectacular to behold in action.
The soundtrack deserves special mention. It masterfully updates the iconic music with orchestral arrangements that hit all the right emotional notes for longtime fans while still feeling fresh.
Critics widely consider it one of the finest games on the PS4. With an 87 score on Metacritic, it stands among the platform’s top RPGs despite only covering a fraction of the original game’s story.
For those seeking similar experiences, many players look for other RPGs with good stories and challenging gameplay after finishing this one. The game’s depth and quality have set a high bar.
The remake isn’t just a graphical update. It reimagines and expands the original adventure with new scenarios, deeper character development, and modernized gameplay systems.
Square Enix has promised more installments to complete the entire story, with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth continuing the journey. This episodic approach allows each section of the original game to receive the full attention it deserves.
Whether you’re a newcomer or returning fan, Final Fantasy VII Remake offers an engaging RPG experience that honors its roots while boldly moving forward with new ideas.
4. Bloodborne
Bloodborne stands out as one of the best RPGs on PS4, combining fast-paced combat with a haunting atmosphere. Released by FromSoftware in 2015, this game takes players to the Gothic city of Yharnam filled with horrific creatures and mysteries.
The game’s combat system rewards aggression rather than defensive play, making it different from other FromSoftware titles. Players use trick weapons that transform between two forms, adding depth to the fighting mechanics.
Many fans consider Bloodborne to be the best game on PS4 because of its perfect blend of gameplay and atmosphere. The Lovecraftian horror theme creates a unique gaming experience that’s both terrifying and captivating.
The story unfolds through environmental clues and sparse dialogue rather than traditional cutscenes. This approach encourages exploration and rewards attentive players who piece together the lore of this nightmare world.
Bloodborne’s difficulty might challenge newcomers, but overcoming its bosses provides genuine satisfaction. Each victory feels earned through skill development rather than grinding for experience points.
The game includes the Old Hunters DLC, which adds new weapons, areas, and some of the most challenging boss fights in any FromSoftware game. These additions extend the gameplay and deepen the already rich lore.
What makes Bloodborne special is its lovecraftian elements that shift from Gothic horror to cosmic horror as you progress. The game’s second half reveals disturbing truths about Yharnam and its inhabitants.
Character builds focus on weapons rather than classes, letting players develop their hunter based on preferred fighting styles. The Chalice Dungeons offer procedurally generated areas for additional challenges and rare loot.
Despite releasing in 2015, many gamers still consider Bloodborne the best RPG of its generation. Its tight combat, memorable boss fights, and haunting world design continue to attract new players.
For those who enjoy challenging action RPGs with deep lore, Bloodborne delivers a complete package. The game rewards patience and skill while telling a disturbing story that stays with players long after they finish.
5. Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Zero Dawn stands out as one of the best RPGs available on PS4. This game combines action and role-playing elements in a unique post-apocalyptic world where mechanical creatures roam freely.
Players control Aloy, a skilled hunter seeking answers about her past. The combat system lets you use various weapons to target specific parts of robot dinosaurs, creating strategic depth that keeps battles exciting.
The game’s storytelling deserves special praise. Many players consider it one of the top RPGs they’ve ever played, with only titles like The Witcher 3 ranking higher in their personal lists.
The open world feels alive and beautifully crafted. You can explore diverse landscapes from snowy mountains to dense forests while uncovering the mystery of what happened to civilization.
Character progression works through skill trees and equipment upgrades. Finding better gear and modifying weapons creates a satisfying loop that rewards exploration and combat mastery.
While some argue Horizon leans more toward action than traditional RPG elements, its character development, dialog choices, and quest structure firmly place it in the action-RPG category. The game successfully transitions the developers at Guerrilla Games into the open-world RPG space.
The main storyline tackles complex themes about technology, humanity, and nature. Side quests avoid the typical fetch-quest formula by offering meaningful stories that build on the world’s lore.
Photo mode lets players capture stunning vistas and dramatic moments. The attention to detail in lighting and environmental design makes this a popular feature among fans.
For those wondering if it holds up against other major titles, many consider Horizon Sony’s best role-playing game. The debate about whether it surpasses games like Breath of the Wild continues among gaming communities.
With the Complete Edition including the excellent Frozen Wilds expansion, players get even more content with challenging new machines and compelling storylines to explore.
6. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey stands out as one of the most ambitious RPGs available on PS4. Set in ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War, players choose between siblings Kassandra or Alexios for their adventure.
The game builds on the RPG formula started in Origins, but expands it with more meaningful choices. Your decisions actually shape the story and world around you.
Combat feels responsive and exciting, with a mix of melee, ranged, and special abilities. The skill tree lets you focus on hunter, warrior, or assassin playstyles—or mix them however you want.
Ancient Greece looks stunning. From Athens to Sparta, from sunny beaches to snowy mountains, the map is huge and varied. You can sail across the Aegean Sea on your ship, exploring islands and taking on naval battles.
Many fans consider Odyssey the best game of the RPG trilogy, praising its depth and character development. Some even call it the “greatest RPG” they’ve played.
The game offers over 100 hours of content with side quests that feel like mini-stories rather than boring fetch quests. The Mercenary system adds a fun dynamic where skilled bounty hunters chase you if you cause too much trouble.
Mythological elements blend nicely with historical settings. You’ll encounter famous figures like Socrates and Hippocrates while also facing legendary creatures from Greek myths.
The DLC content extends the story with trips to Atlantis and confrontations with the first hidden blade wielders. These expansions add even more depth to an already massive game.
Character progression feels rewarding with gear that can be upgraded and customized with special engravings. Finding legendary armor sets becomes addictive.
Odyssey draws comparisons to The Witcher 3 for its depth and brilliance. While some critics find it bloated, many players appreciate the sheer amount of quality content.
Despite moving away from traditional Assassin’s Creed stealth gameplay, Odyssey offers enough flexibility for players who prefer sneaking around. The assassination mechanics still work well when you build your character for it.
If you want a massive Greek adventure with meaningful choices, exciting combat, and beautiful scenery, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey delivers one of the most complete RPG experiences on PS4.
7. Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima stands out as one of the most impressive RPGs available on PS4. The game follows Jin Sakai, a samurai fighting to protect his home island during the first Mongol invasion of Japan.
The combat system blends smooth swordplay with stealth elements, giving players freedom to approach encounters their own way. You can face enemies head-on as an honorable samurai or strike from the shadows as the feared “Ghost.”
The island of Tsushima itself is breathtaking. Rolling hills, dense forests, and vibrant fields of flowers create a world that begs to be explored. The game uses clever visual cues like golden birds and foxes to guide players to points of interest without cluttering the screen with markers.
Many players consider it a masterclass in storytelling, with well-paced narrative moments and surprising plot twists. The character relationships feel genuine, especially between Jin and his mentor Lord Shimura.
The game’s side quests avoid the typical fetch-quest formula. Instead, they tell meaningful stories about the island’s inhabitants while expanding on Japanese culture and traditions of the era.
Ghost of Tsushima later received a Director’s Cut edition, which added the Iki Island expansion and technical improvements for PS5 players. This version is widely considered the definitive way to experience the game.
The photo mode deserves special mention. It’s one of the most robust systems in any game, allowing players to capture stunning images of the gorgeous landscape and intense battles.
While some critics note that the game borrows elements from other open-world titles, it executes these features with exceptional polish. Ghost of Tsushima is often ranked as one of PS4’s best open worlds due to its focused design and lack of unnecessary bloat.
For RPG fans who enjoy historical settings, satisfying combat, and beautiful environments, Ghost of Tsushima delivers on all fronts. Its respect for Japanese culture and cinematic presentation make it a standout title in the PlayStation library.
8. Elden Ring
Elden Ring stands out as one of the most impressive RPGs available on PS4. Released in 2022, it quickly earned recognition as a masterpiece in the gaming world.
This open-world adventure comes from FromSoftware, the creators of Dark Souls. It combines challenging combat with an expansive world that players can explore freely.
What makes Elden Ring special is its unique collaboration between game director Hidetaka Miyazaki and fantasy author George R.R. Martin. Together they created a rich world filled with interesting characters and mysterious lore.
The game offers incredible freedom. Players can tackle challenges in almost any order they choose. This non-linear approach lets everyone experience the game differently.
Combat in Elden Ring is tough but fair. The game teaches through experience, rewarding patience and skill. Many consider it the best RPG of 2022.
The PS4 version runs surprisingly well despite the game’s massive scale. While it doesn’t have the visual polish of the PS5 version, it delivers the complete experience without compromise.
Character customization offers countless options. Players can build warriors, mages, or hybrid classes that match their preferred play style.
The Lands Between, the game’s setting, features diverse environments from lush forests to crumbling castles. Each area hides secrets and challenges to discover.
Boss fights are a highlight, testing both skill and strategy. These epic encounters become memorable moments that players talk about long after beating them.
Some fans even consider Elden Ring the best game ever made. While that’s subjective, it regularly appears on lists of top PS4 RPGs.
The game’s difficulty might intimidate new players, but overcoming its challenges creates a sense of achievement few games match. The community has also created helpful resources for beginners.
Elden Ring offers exceptional value with its massive world and multiple endings. Players often spend over 100 hours exploring everything it has to offer.
9. Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age
Dragon Quest XI S brings classic JRPG charm to the PS4 with its vibrant world and lovable characters. The game follows a hero who discovers he’s the reincarnation of a legendary warrior destined to save the world from darkness.
The turn-based combat system is simple to learn but offers plenty of depth. Players can switch between standard battles and a more strategic “Tactical” mode that adds extra challenge for those who want it.
What makes this game special is its story. The journey takes unexpected turns that will keep you hooked for the 60+ hours of gameplay. Each character in your party has their own backstory and personality that develops throughout the adventure.
The Definitive Edition adds several improvements over the original release. Players can choose between modern 3D graphics or a classic 16-bit mode that looks like older Dragon Quest games. This version also includes a fully orchestrated soundtrack that brings the world to life.
Side quests are plentiful and rewarding. Most offer interesting stories rather than just fetch-and-carry tasks. The crafting system lets you make and improve gear at campfires, adding another layer of customization.
The game’s art style is bright and colorful, designed by Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama. His distinct character designs give the game a timeless look that stands out among more realistic RPGs.
Dragon Quest XI S is an excellent JRPG for the whole family. It avoids overly complex themes while still telling a meaningful story about friendship and courage.
Some fans consider it one of the best JRPGs ever made. The game balances traditional elements with quality-of-life improvements that make it accessible to newcomers.
The PS4 version runs smoothly and looks great. Load times are quick, and the interface is easy to navigate. Combat animations are flashy without being too long.
For players who want to try a classic JRPG with modern conveniences, Dragon Quest XI S is a perfect choice. It respects your time with convenient save points and fast travel options while still offering a substantial adventure.
10. Divinity: Original Sin II
Divinity: Original Sin II stands as one of the most acclaimed RPGs available on PlayStation 4. Players can choose from six unique origin characters or create their own as a human, lizard, elf, dwarf, or even undead.
The game excels in nearly every aspect. Many fans consider it the greatest RPG they’ve ever played. The graphics look stunning, the gameplay feels unmatched, and both music and voice acting deliver exceptional quality.
Freedom of choice makes this game special. Players can approach quests in multiple ways, and the combat system rewards creativity. Want to make it rain fire or electrify a puddle of water? Go for it!
The story adapts to your decisions, making each playthrough feel unique. Your choices matter and can dramatically change how events unfold in the world.
Combat uses a turn-based system that gives players time to think strategically. The elemental interactions add depth, letting you combine fire, water, electricity, and poison for powerful effects.
Co-op multiplayer adds another dimension to the experience. You can team up with friends, but interestingly, you don’t have to follow the same objectives – your characters might even work against each other!
For those who value gameplay variety, Divinity: Original Sin II truly shines. Players will struggle to find another RPG with so much build and quest variety. The game gives you countless ways to develop your character and solve problems.
The Definitive Edition on PS4 includes all updates and improvements made since the original release. It offers enhanced gameplay, expanded content, and numerous quality-of-life improvements.
IGN described it as an amazing fantasy journey full of important choices and memorable characters. The depth of storytelling and character development keeps players invested for the 60+ hours of gameplay.
The game’s learning curve might feel steep at first, but mastering its systems delivers immense satisfaction. Once players understand the basics, the possibilities seem endless.
Understanding the Appeal of PS4 RPGs
Role-playing games on the PS4 offer players unique experiences that combine storytelling with character growth. These games pull you into new worlds where your choices matter.
Immersive Storytelling
PS4 RPGs are known for their deep stories that keep players hooked for dozens of hours. Games like The Witcher 3 set new standards with complex plots and meaningful choices. Players don’t just follow a story—they help create it.
Many RPGs offer branching storylines where your decisions change how the game ends. This makes each playthrough feel personal and unique.
The stories often tackle complex themes like identity, loss, and redemption. This gives players more to think about than just the next quest or battle.
Fantasy worlds like those in Persona 5 let players escape everyday life while still connecting to real emotions and challenges.
Character Development
Character growth is at the heart of what makes RPGs special. Players watch their characters evolve from weaklings to heroes over many hours of gameplay.
This growth happens in two key ways:
- Stat-based progression: Earning experience points, finding better equipment, and unlocking new skills
- Narrative development: Characters facing challenges, overcoming personal demons, and forming relationships
Games like Tales of Arise feature party members with their own storylines and growth arcs. Getting to know these characters feels like making new friends.
The best RPGs let players customize characters to match their playstyle. This might mean choosing different weapons, spells, or even personality traits during dialogue.
This combination of mechanical and emotional growth creates a powerful connection between players and their virtual heroes.
The Evolution of RPGs on PS4
PlayStation 4 brought significant changes to role-playing games with better graphics, more complex stories, and innovative gameplay. These improvements transformed how players experience RPG adventures.
Graphics and Gameplay Enhancements
The PS4 pushed RPGs to new visual heights compared to earlier consoles. Games like The Witcher 3 showcased detailed open worlds with realistic lighting and weather effects.
Combat systems became more refined and responsive. Many titles moved away from turn-based battles toward action-oriented gameplay. This shift made fighting more dynamic and engaging for players.
Loading times decreased dramatically thanks to the PS4’s improved hardware. This meant fewer interruptions when exploring large worlds or entering new areas.
Open world design became standard in many RPGs, allowing players to:
- Explore at their own pace
- Complete quests in different orders
- Discover hidden content through exploration
Games like Fallout 4 showed how crafting systems could add depth to gameplay, letting players customize weapons, armor, and even build settlements.
Narrative Complexity
PS4 RPGs featured more nuanced storytelling with branching paths and meaningful choices. Games began tackling mature themes and moral dilemmas rather than simple good-versus-evil plots.
Character development improved dramatically. NPCs gained distinct personalities and complex backstories, making game worlds feel alive and populated with real people.
Voice acting became standard, with professional actors bringing characters to life. This added emotional impact to key story moments and improved immersion.
JRPGs like Final Fantasy continued to evolve on PS4, blending traditional elements with modern gameplay innovations. These games maintained their unique storytelling styles while updating mechanics for contemporary audiences.
Dialogue systems expanded to include multiple response options affecting relationships with other characters. This gave players more agency in shaping their personal story within the larger narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
PS4 has a rich collection of RPGs ranging from epic open-world adventures to story-driven JRPGs. Players often have specific questions about which games best fit their preferences.
Which RPGs for PS4 are the most recommended by gamers?
According to many gaming communities, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt consistently tops recommendation lists. Its deep storytelling and complex character development make it a fan favorite.
Persona 5 Royal also receives high praise for its unique blend of high school life simulation and turn-based combat.
Final Fantasy VII Remake has won over both new players and longtime fans with its updated combat system and expanded storyline.
What are the top open-world RPGs to play on PS4?
The Witcher 3 and Ghost of Tsushima are frequently mentioned as the best open-world RPGs. The Witcher offers depth while Ghost of Tsushima provides a more streamlined experience.
Horizon Zero Dawn presents a unique post-apocalyptic world with robot dinosaurs and tribal societies. Its combat and exploration systems keep players engaged for dozens of hours.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition, though older, remains popular for its freedom and modding capabilities on PS4.
Could you suggest some must-play JRPGs available on PS4?
Persona 5 Royal stands as the crown jewel of JRPGs on PS4, offering over 100 hours of gameplay and a stylish presentation.
Final Fantasy games, especially the Pixel Remasters and remastered classics, provide both nostalgia and quality gameplay experiences.
Dragon Quest XI offers a traditional JRPG experience with modern graphics and quality-of-life improvements.
Nier: Automata blends action combat with a philosophical story that requires multiple playthroughs to fully appreciate.
What are some PS4 RPG titles that can be played entirely offline?
The Witcher 3, Bloodborne, and Horizon Zero Dawn all offer complete experiences without requiring an internet connection.
Persona 5 Royal can be played entirely offline, with its 100+ hour campaign available without any online features.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance offers a realistic medieval RPG experience that doesn’t need online connectivity.
Dragon Quest XI and most Final Fantasy titles on PS4 are designed primarily as single-player offline experiences.
Which PS4 RPGs are worth playing for their storyline and gameplay?
Bloodborne combines challenging gameplay with a rich, mysterious lore that encourages exploration and discovery.
Persona 5 Royal features lots of dialogue but balances it with engaging turn-based combat and life simulation elements.
Final Fantasy VII Remake tells a familiar story in a new way, with action combat that satisfies both veterans and newcomers.
The Witcher 3 offers branching storylines where choices have meaningful consequences, alongside satisfying combat.
Are there any highly acclaimed RPG games on PS4 that are also free to play?
Genshin Impact stands out as a free-to-play action RPG with impressive production values and regular content updates.
Path of Exile offers a complex action RPG experience similar to Diablo, completely free with optional cosmetic purchases.
Warframe combines third-person action with RPG progression systems in a free-to-play package that has improved greatly over time.
Dauntless provides a Monster Hunter-like experience where players can hunt creatures and craft gear without spending money.
