The best RPGs in 2025

What are the best RPGs to play on the go? Roleplaying games aim to sweep you away to another world, offering you a wide range of engaging experiences and awesome adventures to explore, and having the option to play them on your favorite portable gaming consoles is the perfect form of escapism, whether you're curled up on the couch or stuck on the daily commute.

In this list, we rank all the top RPGs you can play on the best handheld consoles, from Android and iOS devices to the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck. Whether you're looking for iconic open-world games like Genshin Impact or you're on the hunt for a turn-based journey with the best JRPGs around, we've got you covered.

Here are the best RPGs in no particular order:

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch

There's a reason our Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom review is a 10/10. This massive RPG takes everything from the first game and polishes it while adding plenty of new touches to keep things fresh. Link is a bit of a builder now, creating vehicles with the ultrahand ability and weapons with the fuse ability on his mission to save the princess

Tears of the Kingdom's Hyrule makes that from Breath of the Wild look like child's play, with enormous dungeons, more shrines than before, and a lot more enemy variety. Sure, an evil spirit breaks the Master Sword apart within the first few minutes of gameplay, but it's never been so much fun picking up the pieces.

For some tips and tricks to keep you happy in Hyrule, check out our guides to Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom gleeoks, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom shrines, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom depths, and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom old maps.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Arguably one of the finest RPGs to ever grace our planet, Skyrim initially released on November 11, 2011, and changed the landscape of the genre forever. Now available on Switch, Steam Deck, and all the best Windows handhelds, it's got an enormous open world to explore, and you can build any character imaginable. If building your own character from scratch and then heading off on your own personal adventure is your primary goal when playing an RPG, you can't do better than Skyrim.

Set 200 years after the events of Oblivion, it sees you take control of the Dragonborn, a prophesied hero on a quest to defeat Alduin the World-Eater. Of course, this quest falls to the back burner for most of the game, as you explore the giant Skyrim map, making friends and enemies, taking down countless fearsome foes, upgrading your skills and armor, and much more. It's an adventure for the ages, and if you've somehow managed to make it this far without playing it, we can't recommend it enough.

We have some wonderful guides to help you on your journey, too, whether you're wondering how to become a Skyrim werewolf, are planning your very own Skyrim marriage, or are simply wondering how to get your own Skyrim houses in each of the cities. Or, head on over to our games like Skyrim guide for more titles like this.

Genshin Impact

Handheld platforms: Android, iOS, and Windows handhelds

Genshin Impact is a global phenomenon, and it's easy to see why. This gorgeous, open-world gacha game sees you take the role of the Traveler, lost in an unusual land and searching for their lost sibling. Along the way, you meet a massive, ever-growing roster of characters as you explore the seven nations of Teyvat, helping each land with their unique struggles.

With fresh Genshin Impact updates dropping every six weeks, full of exciting Genshin Impact events, quests, lore, and map expansions, there's so much to discover. And, if you want to get the top characters from the Genshin Impact tier list, we even have a list of all the new Genshin Impact codes and a regularly updated Genshin Impact banner guide to help you keep on top of the current and upcoming characters.

Octopath Traveler

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

3D meets 2D in Octopath Traveler, which is simultaneously inspired by the classics and rather progressive in its gameplay. You recruit a team of very different characters, each of whom has their own personality and fighting style, and explore an intriguing world full of adventure.

We also recommend the second game in the series and think you should read our Octopath Traveler 2 review to learn why it deserves a 9/10 rating.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch

If you like the sound of a game that combines an angsty, drama-ridden JRPG story and an open world that stands up next to Breath of the Wild, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is the game for you. It's a terrific adventure with a combat system that feels ripped right out of an MMORPG.

We also recommend the third game in the series, so make sure you head over to our Xenoblade Chronicles 3 review to read exactly why this title is deserving of its 10/10 review.

Dragon Quest XI

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo 3DS, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

The iconic 2017 entry in the long-running JRPG series may have come to Switch and Steam late, but it arrived in a definitive edition that allows you to enjoy all the content from the original release, while also adding extra character-specific scenarios, and even allowing you to play the entire game in classic, SNES-era visuals. It's a love letter to RPGs of old, but it's full of so much charm, energy, and fantastic presentation that it still feels fresh.

You'll get a lot of bang for your buck with this nearly 60-hour game (as well as the amazing post-game), but if you want a more traditional experience to sit and unwind with, this is one of the very best RPG games you can get.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

A breathtaking entry into a long-standing series, The Witcher 3 sees you take control of Geralt of Rivia, a mercenary monster slayer. Embark on a wild quest across a war-torn, monster-infested continent as you track Ciri, the Child of Prophecy and a living weapon that can alter the shape of the world.

If you want to prepare before heading out on the hunt, be sure to check out our guides to the Witcher 3 characters, including Witcher 3 Geralt, Witcher 3 Triss, and more. Alternatively, you can check out our top picks for the best games like The Witcher 3 for similar titles to explore.

Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

We don't think there will come a day when Ni No Kuni doesn't blow us away with its visuals. That's a testament to the ability of Studio Ghibli, the beloved animation studio that helped create this wonderful adventure.

In this gorgeous action RPG, you play as a young boy called Oliver, setting out on a journey in search of a way to resurrect his recently deceased mother. Along the way, you're free to roam a breathtaking open world, exploring towns, villages, dungeons, and various other intriguing places as you take on quests, take down enemies, and befriend familiars and quirky characters from all walks of life.

Unfortunately, while Wrath of the White Witch certainly holds up to this day, its sequel is a little lacking in some areas. Check out our Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom Switch review for our slightly less-than-glowing thoughts on the sequel.

Tales of Vesperia

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

The longstanding Tales series has many entries, and Fans will debate long into the night which Tales game is best, but Tales of Vesperia regularly appears at the top of lists, and for good reason.

In this game, you take on the role of  Yuri Lowell, a former Imperial soldier, who forms a guild that explores the world. On your journey, you take part in action-oriented combat and unravel an intriguing story, while occasionally triggering skits amongst the characters.

Bravely Default 2

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Don't let the number scare you, this is a standalone entry in the franchise and a spectacular HD debut to boot. While it doesn't do many new things, this is a really solid JRPG that builds on typical elements like different jobs and classes, while giving them all some really smart quality-of-life improvements and delivering a heartfelt, funny, and surprisingly dark story. Be sure to check out our Bravely Default 2 review to learn more.

NEO: The World Ends With You

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Making a sequel to the cult DS game The World Ends With You was always going to be tough. So the fact we got Neo: The World Ends With You so many years later, and one without the trademark touch controls, left a few fans uneasy.

Luckily, Square Enix delivered a stylish RPG experience that keeps the character of the originals but stuffs it with fresh ideas and gorgeous visuals. You can check out our full thoughts in our Neo: The World Ends With You review, but anyone who enjoyed the original or is up for an action-packed romp through Tokyo definitely needs to check this one out.

Shin Megami Tensei V

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

A traditional turn-based RPG from Atlus that takes no prisoners, Shin Megami Tensei V sees you put on the shoes of the blue-haired Nahobino, uncovering the mysteries of a fight between the forces of the underworld and god's army of angels.

It pulls it all off with a dark comic twist, alongside incredibly rich and satisfying gameplay that rewards thought over pure brute force. Maybe not for everyone, but more difficulty options have been added since launch to make things a touch easier. Check out our full Shin Megami Tensei V review to see why we think it's easily one of the best RPG games around.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch

Link's initial Switch outing trades the gloomy dungeons for a beautiful, wide-open world full of enemies to battle, puzzles to solve, and surprises to uncover. If you can only afford one game on this list, make sure it's Breath of the Wild.

We're sure Tears of the Kingdom will also soon make this list if our Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom review is anything to go by, but until then, take a look at our Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom fusion, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom enemies, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom trailer breakdown, and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Zonai guides.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch

I think even the most fairweather Pokémon fan has commented on the formula getting a tad stale, so what a refreshing breath of fresh air Pokémon Legends: Arceus is. Set in the land of Hisui centuries before it became known as Sinnoh, explore open areas and catch Pokémon as they roam, in some of the best gameplay a Pokémon game has ever had to offer.

Just being able to see Pokémon minding their business and throwing a Pokéball is so refreshing. The game also brings some other great features and streamlines some classic ones to boot. Yeah, it could look a little better, but it reinvigorated our love for the franchise.

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch

It's weird to think now, but back when the original Xenoblade Chronicles came out on Wii, fans had to petition Nintendo to get it released in the West, in something called Operation Rainfall. Well, we're incredibly grateful that they did, because Nintendo eventually buckled, and more gamers were graced with one of the best JRPG games ever made, featuring an epic story with interesting battle mechanics, gorgeous locales, and so much more.

The Switch version takes everything good about the original and sharpens its edges, making this truly the definitive way to experience one of the best JRPG titles ever made. It's an absolute stunner on the Switch, finally finding hardware that can bring its lands to life with justice. There's even an additional chapter called Future Connected, so even players who've experienced it before have something new to check out here.

Triangle Strategy

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Following hot on the heels of Octopath Traveller, Square Enix's Team Asano has returned with another gorgeous HD-2D RPG, this time attacking the world of tactics-based titles with Triangle Strategy. If you've enjoyed Fire Emblem, you'll be right at home here. Three warring countries battle it out over resources in this tense political thriller, where every decision you make influences both your party and the world around you.

We're not kidding either – every decision matters, and how you conduct yourself in battle will even sway your party when you vote on tactical decisions later. If you're a ruthless commander, your team may not vote so altruistically later, and these decisions carry weight right to the end of the game. We absolutely loved it in our full Triangle Strategy review, and with its amazing battle mechanics and branching story paths, this is a game you can play repeatedly and enjoy every playthrough.

Live a Live

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Previously a Japan-only release for the Super Nintendo, Team Asano chose to give this forgotten gem the full HD-2D treatment, and we are so glad they did. Eight different stories set over vastly different time periods and places, each one having its own interesting story, all come together to deliver one of the most interesting RPGs you can ever play. In case you need convincing, read just how much we adored this title in our Live A Live review.

Final Fantasy X

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

This is the second Final Fantasy on our list, but we may actually prefer it to 12. In this game, you take on the role of Tidus, a young man who has been swept away into a mysterious new world named Spira. He travels the land with a ragtag group of guardians and a summoner named Yuna in hopes of saving the world from a giant monster called Sin.

It's got some fantastic turn-based combat, a tear-jerking story, and a stunning soundtrack, it's one of the best entry points into the series for new fans. Plus, this version also features the sequel, X-2, adding even more to the experience.

Star Ocean: The Second Story R

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is a remake of the second installment of the Star Ocean series with a gorgeous 2.5D style. In this game, you take on the role of either Rena or Claude as they traverse the world in an attempt to work out why a mysterious dark force is causing havoc around the land.

We gave the game an 8/10 in our Star Ocean: The Second Story R review, so make sure you check that out if you need a little more convincing to pick up this game.

Persona 5 Royal

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Persona 5 Royal is a massive RPG that will keep you enthralled for more than 100 hours. You take on the role of a teenage boy who attends high school in Tokyo by day and enters Palaces (manifestations of corrupt or negative thoughts) as a Phantom Thief by night.

There's so much more to it than that, but it's very satisfying to foster friendships, raise your social skills, and partake in intense turn-based combat all while unraveling the wider story. Take a look at our Persona 5 Switch review for more of our thoughts.

Final Fantasy VII

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and Windows handhelds

Not only is Final Fantasy VII the best Nintendo Switch RPG, but it's also the best game of all time. I'm not willing to argue with you about this, you just need to accept the author of this guide is a sucker for Square Enix.

If you've been living under a rock for the last 27 or so years, Final Fantasy VII follows Cloud and a ragtag group of misfits as they travel the world while attempting to save it from an evil corporation and a solemn, grey-haired man with striking good looks. You can expect to take part in turn-based combat, unravel an enthralling story, and maybe even train a Chocobo or two.

Alternatively, if you'd prefer to explore this game with modern graphics, you can also play Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on Steam Deck. This bold reimagining of the iconic original mixes traditional command-based combat and real-time action, accompanied by breathtaking visuals and an additional adventure featuring Yuffie.

Super Mario RPG

Handheld platforms: Nintendo Switch

Join Mario and his rag-tag pals for a fresh new RPG adventure as they attempt to restore the Star Road and make wishes a reality again. In this game, you can expect to journey through gorgeous, vibrant areas and fight enemies such as the iconic Bowser in intense turn-based battles.

If you're not quite sold yet, our glowing 9/10 Super Mario RPG review should sway you. If not, maybe one of the other best Mario games or Mario Party games is more up your alley.

That's it for our list of the best handheld RPGs, but you can take a look at our list of the best mobile RPGs for even more exciting adventures to play on the go. We've also got guides to the best Steam Deck games, best Switch games, and best mobile games overall for an even wider range of options.