Reactivity is number one for me in any rpg. I want the world to feel alive and responsive. I want my choices to matter.
Characters are a close 2nd. In a party based rpg… I want to dig my party!
I can get great stories in books and walking sims (like Edith Finch). I can get strategy and resource management in games like XCOM. I can get exciting gameplay and pretty graphics in sandboxes like Mad Max or GTA.
A great rpg has all of these, sure, but I am forgiving of each component IF they are balanced to create a fully immersive world and IF the characters are good.
I want to interact with a world that responds to me and my choices. Party based rpgs are the best because of the extra layer you get with impacts on companions (and them on you). I usually leave a good rpg feeling like I have made new friends. I still occasionally hear Wynne from DAO in my head telling me to think something thru before acting. Or Mordin from ME2 singing in his lab. Or Jolee Bindo reminding me to be a grey jedi if i want. I have cried like a simpering fool at companion deaths in games...especially when they were my fault (sorry Wrex…sniff)…or not (Legion…damnit Legion).
Memorable and believable characters are a must. Stellar voice acting, good music, beautiful graphics, strong writing…they all add to this.
Great combat with spell combos and deep strategy and party tactics round it all out for me. That is my number 3, I reckon.
Last edited by timebean; 31/05/21 12:43 AM.
