The 1990s were an iconic era for role-playing games, especially those played on computers with a mouse and keyboard, known as 'CRPGs' (Computer Role-Playing Games). Despite a decline in popularity during the late 2000s, these games have experienced a resurgence in recent years. Many avid fans still believe that the pinnacle of 90s CRPGs remains unrivaled even today.
Whether you're a gamer emerging from a decades-long slumber or simply curious about the gaming landscape of yesteryears, the 90s titles are a treasure trove worth exploring.
8 Baldur's Gate (1998)
An Exemplary Tabletop-To-Computer Adaptation
- This Dungeons & Dragons adaptation established the benchmark for a compelling computer D&D campaign: expansive, open, and driven by the player.
- While its sequels are often lauded as superior, the original game still offers a rich experience.
Baldur's Gate set the standard for non-pen-and-paper role-playing games, boasting a vast open world, an epic and personal story, and a robust combat system.
7 Dark Sun: Shattered Lands (1993)
An Ahead-Of-Its-Time Post-Apocalyptic Fantasy Classic
- Pioneered storytelling and mechanics that predated other games in the genre.
- Set in a gritty, post-apocalyptic fantasy world, emphasizing teamwork and cooperation for survival.
Dark Sun: Shattered Lands seamlessly blends post-apocalyptic elements with sword and sorcery, emphasizing teamwork and cooperation against formidable odds.
6 Ultima 7: The Black Gate (1992)
The Culmination of a Revolutionary Series
- Introduced groundbreaking features such as a day-night cycle, weather system, and reactive NPCs.
- Embodied deep player choice, imaginative world-building, and seamless map transitions.
Ultima 7: The Black Gate introduced innovative features that pushed the boundaries of open-world gaming, setting new standards for player agency, world interactivity, and immersive storytelling.
5 The Elder Scrolls 2: Daggerfall (1996)
An Ambitious Fantasy Life Simulator
- Boasted an expansive game map and intricate social and skill systems.
- Recently revitalized through the Daggerfall Unity project.
The Elder Scrolls 2: Daggerfall presented an extraordinary fantasy life simulator, featuring a colossal game world and intricate social dynamics, now rejuvenated by the Daggerfall Unity project.
4 System Shock 2 (1999)
A Masterpiece of Atmosphere and Player Agency
- Remarkably open in accommodating player choice.
- Boasted a deeply atmospheric and terrifying experience, with exceptional level and environmental design.
System Shock 2 emerged as a technical marvel, offering an immersive, first-person sci-fi adventure that celebrated exploration, diverse playstyles, and spine-chilling horror.
3 Deus Ex (1999)
Immersive, Thrilling, and Revolutionary
- Adopted a unique approach to role-playing, streamlining skills and stats for a vast, immersive experience.
- Offered an impressive scope with an abundance of options for players.
Deus Ex revolutionized the CRPG landscape, emphasizing cybernetic upgrades, streamlined skill progression, and extensive player agency, crafting a prescient and immersive gaming experience.
2 Fallout: A Post-Nuclear Role-Playing Game (1997)
An Iconic and Influential Classic
- Infused with dark humor, non-linear storytelling, and an iconic presence in gaming history.
- Although slightly outdated in some mechanics, it remains an immensely enjoyable experience.
Fallout: A Post-Nuclear Role-Playing Game, renowned for its dark humor and non-linear narrative, continues to captivate players with its timeless appeal and richly crafted atmosphere.
1 Planescape: Torment (1999)
An Exemplar of World-Building and Characterization
- Prioritized dialogue and storytelling, offering a richly complex world and enthralling character development.
- Showcased a masterful blend of existential themes and captivating mysteries.
Planescape: Torment stands as a pinnacle of narrative-driven gaming, weaving a richly complex world with profound character exploration and enthralling storytelling, setting an enduring standard for the genre.