Okay, let's be honest. We're all collectively holding our breath for that Assassin's Creed Black Flag remaster, right? The sun-drenched Caribbean, shanties, naval combat… chef's kiss. But while we wait (and wait, and maybe wait some more), what's a pirate (or pirate-at-heart) to do? Well, here's a slightly left-field suggestion: dive headfirst into a really good medieval RPG.
"Medieval RPG?" I hear you ask, with a healthy dose of skepticism. "What does that have to do with swashbuckling adventure?" More than you might think. Actually, a lot more. Let me try to explain. You see, it's about the feeling – the open world, the freedom, the sense of crafting your own legend. The best medieval RPGs capture that in a way that scratches a similar itch.
Think about it: what is it that you really loved about Black Flag? Was it the meticulously crafted history? I mean it was so good they even mentioned in passing that Blackbeard was a real guy. Or was it the climbing? Or the sneaky assassinations? Or was it the sheer sense of possibility?
Because, really, the climbing and assassinations exist in many RPGs. But that atmosphere… well, that's the hard part to replace. But not impossible!
Why a Medieval RPG Can Fill the Void
Here's the thing: the medieval setting, when done right, offers a similar sandbox of opportunity. Instead of sailing the high seas, you're traversing sprawling kingdoms, exploring ancient ruins, and forging alliances (or making enemies) with powerful factions. The core appeal – that feeling of being a free agent in a dynamic world – is absolutely there.
And sometimes, that freedom is a bit overwhelming. You know? Like when you get dumped into a massive open world with absolutely no direction. I remember playing one RPG a while back (I won't name names) and I spent the first three hours just picking flowers because I had no clue what else to do. But that's part of the fun, right?
But, if we're speaking honestly, one thing that can be missing is the tactile feel of combat. Sometimes medieval RPGs have combat that feels… floaty. Luckily, I've got a few suggestions for games with crunchier combat.
The Hunt for Engaging Combat in a Medieval RPG
Okay, so you want sword fights that feel weighty and impactful? I get it. Nobody wants to flail around with a weapon that feels like a pool noodle. So here’s the key: look for RPGs that emphasize deliberate, tactical combat. Think Dark Souls-esque mechanics, where every swing matters and positioning is crucial. Or games that incorporate realistic physics and animation to make each blow feel visceral.
For example, I was recently browsing some medieval themed games, and there are some great looking ones that have been inspired by some of the titles I've mentioned in the article.
Wait, there's something even more interesting here – mods! The modding community can completely transform a game's combat system, adding depth and realism that wasn't there before. So, if you find an RPG you otherwise love but the combat falls flat, don't despair! There's a good chance someone out there has created a mod to fix it. This goes the same for graphics, gameplay, and even story elements.
And speaking of story elements... the narrative depth in some of these games is astounding. Truly memorable characters, branching storylines where your decisions have consequences, and intricate world-building that pulls you in and never lets go. All these elements are what makes a medieval RPG a worthy contender to fill your gaming time.
This is why games like these are so great. They give you control over your own destiny.
By the way, did you know survival horror is making a comeback? Just an interesting side note.
Finding the Right Fit: What to Look For
So, how do you sift through the mountain of medieval RPGs to find one that truly scratches that Black Flag itch? Well, here's my personal checklist:
- A compelling open world: It needs to be vast, explorable, and filled with interesting things to discover.
- Meaningful choices: Your decisions should have a real impact on the story and the world around you.
- Engaging combat: As we discussed, the combat needs to feel satisfying and strategic.
- A strong sense of atmosphere: The game should transport you to another time and place, immersing you in its world.
And remember, don't be afraid to experiment! Try different genres, explore different settings, and see what resonates with you. You might be surprised at what you discover. Who knows? You might even find your new favorite game, or at the very least have some fun while waiting for the Battlefield release.
FAQ: Medieval RPG Edition
How do I know if a medieval RPG has good combat?
This is a tricky one, as “good combat” is subjective. But generally, look for games where attacks have weight and impact, where timing and positioning matter, and where you have a variety of options in combat. Watch gameplay videos and read reviews to get a sense of how the combat feels. Also, pay attention to whether the game relies on “hit point sponge” enemies or more realistic damage models.
Why are some medieval RPGs so complicated?
Many older-school RPGs pride themselves on their complexity, offering a wealth of character customization options, intricate skill trees, and deep lore. This can be overwhelming for newcomers, but it’s also what makes these games so rewarding for dedicated players. If you're new to the genre, consider starting with a more streamlined RPG and working your way up to the more complex ones.
What's the deal with all the elves and magic? Is that really medieval?
While elves and magic are common in many fantasy RPGs set in a medieval-inspired world, they're not necessarily historically accurate. Many games blend historical elements with fantastical elements to create a unique and engaging setting. If you prefer a more grounded and realistic experience, look for RPGs that focus on historical accuracy.
Can I play a medieval RPG on my phone?
Absolutely! There are tons of great medieval RPGs available for mobile devices, ranging from ports of classic PC games to entirely new titles designed for mobile. Just be aware that the controls and graphics may be simplified compared to their PC counterparts.
