Not every iOS game involves flinging birds and matching gems. In fact, quite a few let you escape into a rich and detailed world for hours, interacting with a cast of memorable characters, exploring the land, and battling monsters. Yes, both iPhone and iPad have a fine collection of RPGs, some of which are more than 20 years old, but found a new home on mobile. If you dream of slaughtering creatures and grabbing loot, be sure to play these top 10 role-playing games.
We have to admit, Square Enix did an excellent job on the original Chaos Rings , an iOS exclusive RPG. Now the sequel’s here, and it’s without question a must play. Enjoy a tweaked battle system while determining the outcome of the game with each decision. Unlock hidden bosses, view multiple endings, and take in the gorgeous 3D graphics. Tell work you’ll be gone for a while. On second thought, why not play at work?
9. Zenonia 4
The action/RPG is alive and well in Gamevil’s retro-flavored hack-and-slash adventure, complete with Super Nintendo-style graphics. Devastate the game’s many enemies with combo hits or wield different weapons. You can even challenge friends to some asynchronous online PvP, engaging in two-versus-two arena battles or settling the score one-on-one.
8. Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP
No iPhone or iPad video game collection is complete without this marvelous title that fuses old school adventuring with a wonderful soundtrack. Kill enemies with your warrior’s sword, solve musical mysteries, and take in the ‘80s graphics. It’s “Swo” sweet.
7. Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions
You can’t go wrong with this million-selling tactical RPG that takes you to the war-torn land of Ivalice, where you recruit a plethora of different characters across a variety of classes and then engage bad guys on a grid. Navigate the play area with intuitive touch panel controls, and rotate the camera to get a better view of the battle.
Originally released in 1987, Final Fantasy went on to spawn not only the hugely successful Square Enix franchise, but also influence an untold number of game developers, who set off to create their own epic RPGs. Now you can experience this classic gem on iOS, as the Warriors of Light attempt to restore their precious crystals. Includes bonus dungeons Soul of Chaos and
5. Final Fantasy II
Four orphans get caught in the middle of a war between rebels and the Empire of Palamecia in this award-winning sequel, beautifully recreated on the iPhone. Raid dungeons collecting items and slaying beasts, then visit towns speaking to non-player characters, remembering key words to gain even more info later in the game. All RPG fans should own this.
4. Chrono Trigger
When a mysterious girl disappears after stepping inside the Telepod, hero Crono goes on a timeless journey to rescue her, fighting monsters via dynamic battles that take place in the past and future. As a bonus, you’ll receive content previously exclusive to the DS version, The Dimensional Vortex and The Lost Sanctum.
3. Final Fantasy III
The DS remake of Final Fantasy III, released in 2006, made an excellent debut on iPhone and iPad, delivering high-resolution, 3D graphics blended with the original game’s tried-and-true play features, such as the ability to summon monsters and change character job classes. A bit pricey at $16.99, but worth the dough.
2. Aralon: Sword and Shadow HD
We’ve yet to hear word of The Elder Scrolls coming to iOS, but there’s always Aralon, AKA the next best thing. Embark on an epic 30-hour quest through a content-rich world, marveling at the dynamic 3D environments and day/night cycle. Take part in numerous quests, ride mounts, acquire pets, and customize your warrior’s hairstyle, armor, and face. Prepare to get sucked in for months.
This brilliant RPG reminds us of those choose your own adventure books, but without the abrupt ending. Here, you become leader of a clan and make critical decisions to keep your people alive. Each choice affects the eventual outcome, and there’s no right or wrong way to play. Over time, you may fall out of favor with the gods or watch those around you suffer. Bottom line, you must think long and hard before proceeding, which is fine, since the game moves at a methodical pace.
