The Game Awards is one of the most prestigious annual events in the gaming industry, celebrating the most innovative, exciting, and influential projects. Among many categories, the "Best RPG" nomination holds a special place, as this genre is considered one of the most popular in the gaming industry.

The competition in 2024 was especially fierce, as five contenders were vying for the award, each deserving attention for various reasons. Yet only one emerged victorious.

Nominees for "Best RPG" at The Game Awards 2024

Metaphor: ReFantazio

From the creators of the Persona series, Metaphor: ReFantazio marks a bold step in the fantasy genre, combining Atlus' trademark narrative depth of social and psychological aspects with a grand medieval setting.

Metaphor: ReFantazio offers stunning art design, an emotionally rich storyline, and a groundbreaking turn-based combat system that evolves with player choices. Its unique environment, social connections, and ambitious narrative stand out as a fresh breath in the genre.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

A decade after the original release, Dragon’s Dogma 2 brought fans back to the beloved universe, the excellent Pawn System, and intense action that made the first game iconic.

The sequel offers enhanced graphics, an expanded open world, and a deeper storyline exploring themes of choice and consequence. With improved combat mechanics and intelligent companions, Capcom has taken RPG immersion to a new level.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

An expansion to the iconic Elden Ring game, Shadow of the Erdtree, builds upon the revolutionary open-world formula of the original with new regions, bosses, and deep lore. FromSoftware once again showcases its signature blend of challenging gameplay, atmospheric narrative, and captivating world beauty.

This DLC not only expands the game; it redefines what content of such scale and quality should be. The game exceeds the size of the original, nearly rendering it a full game presented as a DLC.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

The second chapter of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy, Rebirth, has captured fans’ hearts with its perfect balance between nostalgia and a more modern gaming style. Square Enix expertly expands the world of Midgar, offering deeper character development, a more dynamic combat system, and stunning graphics. It's an RPG capable of moving longtime series fans while inviting newcomers to dive into a legendary story.

Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth

The new installment of the Yakuza franchise, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, brings a comedic yet emotionally rich narrative to the RPG genre. With numerous mini-games, turn-based battles, and a vibrant depiction of Hawaii, the game offers a unique mix of humorous charm and deep, meaningful moments. It's an atypical RPG that impresses with its ability to combine absurd humor with serious themes.

Metaphor: ReFantazio — Best RPG Game of 2024

Metaphor: ReFantazio established itself as the best RPG of 2024 and garnered a couple of other awards at The Game Awards 2024, receiving high critical acclaim and numerous positive player reviews. 

Created by Atlus Studio Zero, the game masterfully blends elements from the Persona and Shin Megami Tensei series, introducing innovative mechanics that elevate the RPG genre with a turn-based combat system to a new level. Its captivating storyline, unfolding in the politically tense Kingdom of Eukhronia, explores themes of discrimination and social division, offering players a meaningful experience.

The game's exceptional art style, featuring a fairy-tale aesthetic, and captivating music further immerse players into the intriguing game world. Combining traditional RPG mechanics with modern aesthetics, along with innovative social and narrative systems, Metaphor: ReFantazio stands not just as a game but as an unforgettable journey.

Conclusion: Why does it matter?

The recognition of Metaphor: ReFantazio as the best RPG of 2024 highlights the transformative power of storytelling and innovation in the gaming world. It underscores the importance of pushing creative boundaries to captivate audiences and shape the future of interactive entertainment.

Celebrating such achievements not only honors the dedication of developers but also inspires the industry to continue crafting groundbreaking projects that establish a profound emotional and intellectual connection with players. This moment is a testament to how RPGs are evolving as an art form, redefining what it means to embark on a journey of imagination and discovery.