Sometimes you find a game that you feel is really special, it gives you that rush from playing. It has amazing character development, world building, player choices and a beautifully written storyline. After enjoying a game like that it can be hard to find something to play afterwards.

For me, that game was Dragon Age: Origins, and if you are looking for other games that give similar vibes or have their own amazing qualities like this RPG then I am going to give you some ideas. This is not going to include the rest of the Dragon Age Universe, because of course if you enjoyed the first game you should definitely go try out the others that take place in the same world.

There are other games out there that are just as enjoyable but for different reasons. Each of the games I will talk about have been chosen for either story or gameplay but they all have one similarity and that is that they are great games in their own ways. 

15. Mass Effect 2 (Originally on: Windows, Xbox 360, Playstation 3. Can still be played on newer consoles.)

Mass Effect 2 E3 Trailer

A quick look at the trailer of ME2.

Let's start with the first game that deserves a mention if you love the Dragon Age universe, Mass Effect 2, this is an amazing game made by the same company.

There is the first game in the series that you can consider as well, Mass Effect 1, and the story in the first is still great but the mechanics are more outdated and can be frustrating. Trust me, if you’ve ever had to deal with the Mako you would not be singing its praises, it was, in my opinion, the worst aspect of that game. In Mass Effect 2 you play as Commander Shepard, and your goal is to repel the reaper invasion.

You end up teaming up with Cerberus, an organization that has some good and bad qualities when it comes to human/alien life. How you go about this game is completely up to you, there are different decisions that can be made throughout that will affect many aspects, as well as relationship building and even romance.

Mass Effect 2 has a lot of the same great qualities that Dragon Age has, amazing storyline, world building, character development and combat. I can not recommend this game enough if you enjoy well made RPGs. Yes it is still a bit old, but if you didn’t mind Dragon Age: Origins then you will not mind ME2.

Commander Shepard and three of his team mates, Miranda and Thane.

14. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360, Playstation 3. Can still be played on new consoles.)

Elder Scrolls V Skyrim: Official Gameplay Trailer

Elder Scrolls gameplay is a lot of fun.

Another great game to consider is The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. This is a game that has gotten much acclaim and is made by the studio Bethesda. This game has been around for a while but is still very popular with a lot of people. It probably has a lot to do with the great storyline and the dynamic world. This is an RPG game where you end up playing the Dragonborn, you can choose between a male or female, as well as between 10 different races. Each race has a skill bonus as well as a power that is unique to that certain race. Skyrim is set 200 years after the previous game ‘Oblivion’ and follows the story of your character, the Dragonborn, as you go about trying to defeat Alduin the World-Eater, which is a dragon that is believed to destroy the world.

The beautiful world of Skyrim.

13. The Witcher 3 (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Playstation 4. Can still be played on new consoles.)

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Complete Edition | Next-Gen Update Trailer

Witch 3 has an amazing story.

The Witcher 3 is made by the company CD Projekt Red and is a sequel to Witcher 2. You may have seen that they made a show about this game as well, which goes to show that the storyline really is top notch. This is a third person RPG that follows the story of Geralt of Rivia. This is a great game and I suggest going back and playing Witcher 1 and 2 as well. Like any good RPG you will still have choices to make and paths you will follow will lead to different outcomes. The one downside to all the Witcher games, in my opinion, is that they can be a little hard to get used to the controls. There is a lot to learn in that aspect but once you have it down things get a lot easier.The Witcher 3 follows Geralt as he searches for his love, Yennefer and his adoptive daughter Ciri. If you loved the past games you will love this one, the story is great, and you really like the characters.

Geralt is doing what he does best, hunting monsters.
 

12. Dragon's Dogma (Originally on: Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. Can still be played on new consoles.)

Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen - PC Gameplay 1080p 60FPS - Max Settings

Dragon's Dogma's story is great and the gameplay is challenging.

Dragon’s Dogma is a fun game, and has a strong following. The game was developed by the company Capcom and created quite a lot of noise when it was first released. The graphics were unique and the story was well done. It did take some getting used to the controls, but once you did the combat was a lot of fun. In this game you play as a human and get the title of the Arisen. Your goal is to slay Grigori, which is a giant dragon that is believed to destroy the world but along the way you find out a lot of different plot twists.

True to its name, Dragon’s Dogma has some epic dragon scenes.
 

11. Dark Souls 3 (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Playstation 4. Can still be played on new consoles.)

Dark Souls 3 gameplay - 25 minutes of unedited footage

Dark Souls 3 is a great game for anyone who loves a challenge.

Speaking of games that have a strong following, there is an incredibly strong fan base of those who love the Dark Souls series. When this game first came out it got a lot of hype and for good reason. The first two games were a huge fan favorite, and this game was the last of the Dark Souls series. The game is incredibly fun to play but gives the player a challenge as well. It is published by Bandai Namco, and is set in a third person perspective. You can’t help but enjoy the journey with this game, even if at times it can be frustrating.The game follows your character as you try to find and return the five Lords of Cinder to their thrones in order to link the flame again. Be prepared to fight your way through hordes of undead.

Be prepared for some challenging but rewarding fights.

10. Fallout 76 (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Playstation 4. Can still be played on new consoles.)

Fallout 76 - Official E3 2019 Wastelanders Gameplay Trailer

Fallout 76's environment is so fun to play in.

Fallout 76 was released in 2018 but arguably it is better to play it now since it has gained so much content since its first release. The company that developed this game is none other than Bethesda, and this was their first attempt at an online multiplayer game. The nice thing about Fallout 76 is that you can play with a group of up to three other people or you can play on your own. This game had some controversy when it was first released mostly due to the premium subscription service. However, it still did really well and over the years has gained a ton of content.The plot of this game is pretty straightforward, you are in a post-apocalyptic world and you are a resident of Vault 76. You go outside and explore Appalachia, find a strange plague, search for the Overseer and discover how Appalachia has handled the fallout.

Set in a unique world, Fallout 76 has a lot to explore.

9. Diablo IV (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One & X/S, Playstation 4 & 5.)

Diablo IV | Gameplay Launch Trailer

The much anticipated Diablo trailer.

Diablo IV is a game that is published by Blizzard, the same company who does games such as Overwatch 2 and World of Warcraft. Diablo IV came out on June 5, 2023 and like all of its predecessors has a pretty big fan base. It has a lot of the same features that the original games had such as character building and dungeon crawling, as well as focusing heavily on the loot that you pick up along the way. It does a few things differently as well such as PvP.The story of this game focuses on good vs evil, demons vs angels, and once you finish up the storyline your character will be around level 50, and then you can start on your grindfest. However, if you like Diablo 3’s storyline then you will more than likely enjoy this one as well.

Plenty of dungeons and loot to be found in this game.

8. Starfield (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One & X/S.)

Starfield Official Gameplay Trailer

Starfield is a beautiful game for anyone who loves exploring space.

Starfield is a game that had much anticipation, and the company that developed it was none other than Bethesda. I feel like a lot of games I mentioned are made by Bethesda, but they really are masters at what they do and their games are usually really well done. Starfield was released on September 6, 2023 after being delayed several times. The story for this game is that you are a space explorer and join a group that is sent out to the far reaches of the galaxy to acquire artifacts. The game is open world and has pieces of fiction and nonfiction in their planetary systems. The graphics of this game are beautiful and if you enjoy space games, this is one I think is definitely worth taking a look at.

Beautifully developed worlds to explore.
 

7. Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town (Nintendo Switch.)

STORY OF SEASONS: Friends of Mineral Town - Coming to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One!

This is such a relaxing game.

Story of Seasons is such a fun game, and I think it definitely deserves a spot on this list. Not your traditional rpg but an rpg nonetheless, it focuses on relationships and farming. This game was developed by Marvelous Inc, and it is a remake of an older game called ‘Harvest Moon: Friends of Mineral Town’ that was originally released in 2003/2004 for Gameboy Advance. The game got a 3D remake for the Nintendo Switch and was released in October 2019. This is such a cozy game that is easy to immerse yourself into, and if you like farming sims or relationship building then this game is going to be right up your alley. The story of the game is pretty much your character trying to restore an old family farm back to its glory days. Along the way you make friends, romances, participate in events, farm crops and take care of animals.

One of the best cozy farming sims out there.

6. Elden Ring (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One & X/S, Playstation 4 & 5.)

ELDEN RING - Official Gameplay Reveal    

Anyone who loved Dark Souls will devour Elden Ring.

Elden Ring is a much beloved game for a lot of people, this game was released in 2022 and was developed and published by FromSoftware and Bandai Namco. The worldbuilding aspect of this game was actually provided by George R. R. Martin, the author of the Game of Thrones series. The character you play is customizable and the game is in third-person perspective. You have the ability to roam where you want since the environment is open world and exploring different dungeons will allow you to find a lot of useful loot. There is also a multiplayer aspect to this game where you can group up with people for co-op boss fights as well as PvP.The story of Elden Ring revolves around your character, the Tarnished, who is part of a group of exiles. The Elden Ring was shattered by Queen Marika, and during the game you travel around trying to repair the Elden Ring and also become the Elden Lord.

A beautifully developed world and challenging battles.

5. Pillars of Eternity (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, OS X, and Linux. Can be played on all consoles including the Switch.)

Pillars of Eternity - Launch Trailer [HD 1080P]

If rpg's are your favorite genre with good stories and decisions, Pillars is a must!

Pillars of Eternity is an rpg game developed by Obsidian Entertainment, the game started a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter and gathered $4 million, which was the most a game had garnered at the time. This game came out in March 2015 for Microsoft Windows, OS X and Linux, however it can now be played on most consoles including the Nintendo Switch. This game is a lot of fun, if you love rpg’s and D&D elements this game has all you could ask for. The story is well thought out, the characters are fun, the customization and dialogue are there, it really does have all the best elements of a well thought out rpg game.In this game you arrive in Dyrwood and after some mysterious events you become a Watcher, someone who can read people's souls. Dyrwood has a hollowborn problem and your character goes about looking into that. You also find out a lot about Eothas, the God Hammer, and other things along the way. I don’t want to ruin the story for you but needless to say it’s very interesting and your choices do matter. You meet a lot of people along the way who can travel in your party and you also end up managing a Castle/Keep, again, what you do and what choices you make will affect the game. But in my opinion that’s what makes a great rpg, and it also adds some replayability to it as well.

Camping is something to keep in mind when battles may arise in the future.

4. Stardew Valley (Originally on: Microsoft Windows. Can be played on all consoles including the Switch.)

Stardew Valley Trailer

Such a fun and relaxing game, great for anyone looking to relax.

This game was developed by ConcernedApe and came out for windows in 2016, but since then you can now play it on all consoles including the Nintendo Switch and even on your phones. Stardew Valley is one of, if not the, best farming sim that has come out in my eyes. It is a lot like Story of Seasons in the sense that you farm, take care of crops, animals and build relationships. There is romance in this game, you can get married and have children. However, this game has more depth to it in some ways. You have some combat when you’re in the mines, as well as your choices for the town that will affect the game. You can also play with up to four other players and make a world together. The roleplay aspect in these types of games is kind of what you make it.The story of this game is very easy going, you inherit an old rundown farm from your deceased grandfather and try to see if you can live off the land while returning the farm to its golden era. You tend crops, take care of animals, fish, forge and meet townspeople. There are other twists and plots you learn as you go, but it’s overall a very relaxing game to play.

Be sure to keep an eye out for fun events!

3. Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Nintendo Switch.)

Fire Emblem: Three Houses Gameplay - Nintendo Treehouse: Live | E3 2019

A challenging game with an amazing story!

Fire Emblem: Three houses is a tactical rpg game that was developed by Intelligent System and Koei Tecmo, it was released for Nintendo Switch in 2019. This game is a lot of fun and challenging at the same time. It has all the good ingredients for an rpg, the story, characters, and world building are all top notch. The combat in this game is turn-based and the enemies definitely will give you a challenge, however it’s fun to learn to use the terrain and navigate your way through a battle. If you have ever played and enjoyed any of the old Fire Emblems then you would love this game.In this game you play a character named Byleth, you don’t get to really customize your character much but you can pick if you want to play as a male or female. Either way your name will be Byleth. Byleth becomes a new professor at Garreg Mach Monastery which is a prestigious monastery/school on the continent of Fodlan. Fodlan is divided up between three rival houses/nations, you will get to choose which house you will be teaching and depending on your choices different instances will occur. The story has conspiracies and plot twists that happen throughout the game that will keep you on your toes.

Keep your wits about you as you make your tactical attacks.

2. Divinity: Original Sin 2 (Originally on: Microsoft Windows. Can be played on all consoles, including the Switch.)

Divinity: Original Sin 2 – Gameplay Overview Trailer | PS4

This is a top pick for any rpg fan!

Divinity 2 was developed by the company Larian Studios and was released in September 2017. This deserves to be in the number 2 spot for a reason, while I was playing this game I had thoughts of how much this game was reminiscent of Dragon Age: Origins. This is one of my favorite games of all time, the story, characters, world, graphics, even the voice acting, it’s all done beautifully. This game was originally released for Microsoft Windows, but it can be played on all consoles now, including the Nintendo Switch. There is a lot of customization in this game but no matter what your character will be a Sourcerer. You get captured by the Divine Order and taken to Fort Joy, once there you will meet companions who you can take with you along your journey. You go through this game fighting Voidwoken and you soon realize that your character is Godwoken, chosen by your deity to become divine. The story has a lot of depth and some twists and turns along the way. I can’t recommend this game enough.

Divinity 2 has a ton of character customization.

1. Baldur's Gate 3 (Originally on: Microsoft Windows, MacOS, Xbox X/S & Playstation 5.)

Baldur's Gate 3 - Gameplay Demo

The highly acclaimed BG3 deserved all of its accolades!

Now we come to our number one pick, Baldur’s Gate 3 is a partially open world rpg that was developed by Larian Studios and was released in 2023. This is the best rpg that has recently come out in awhile, it has so much going for it. You have a lot of customization in your character, the storyline is good, the voice acting is great, your choices matter and affect the game, there’s romance, classes and subclasses. It has that D&D feel that so many of the Baldur’s Gates are known for, and it even has a dice system for your actions. This game came out partially for MacOS/Windows in 2020 but in 2023 the game was officially released for the PS5, Xbox X/S and MacOS. This game won several game of the year awards, making it a must play for any rpg fan. In this game you wake up in a mindflayer ship and find that you have something a tadpole implanted in your brain. Once this parasite is implanted it is supposed to turn you into a thrall, but strangely enough that hasn’t happened. This tadpole grants you powers of a sort and you travel through the game and meet companions that have had the same thing done to them. Just like you, they want to remove it, so they will join you in your quest to find out what this tadpole is and how to get rid of it. I definitely recommend this game for anyone who loves the rpg genre, you have a lot of freedom and the choices/dialogue are so fun.

The fights are epic in BG3.

I hope this list gives you some ideas to look for when searching for your next rpg that is similar to Dragon Age: Origins. No two games will be the same, but each game has things about it that make it unique and special in its own way. All of the games I have mentioned have rpg elements of some sort, and depending on what you are looking for you can really find a game that could be in your top favorites.