Early Access Games That Redefine the RPG Experience

23 February 2025

Who doesn’t love a good RPG? The thrill of exploring vast worlds, molding a character to your liking, and diving deep into epic narratives is second to none. But let’s face it—RPGs can feel a bit formulaic at times. You know the drill: pick a class, fetch some quests, and slay progressively tougher enemies. Fun, but predictable, right?

Well, that’s where early access games come in. These experimental gems are shaking things up and giving the RPG genre a much-needed facelift. They’re like the rebellious cousins of traditional RPGs—full of fresh ideas and boundless creativity. In this post, we’re diving into some early access RPGs that are redefining the genre and giving players a whole new way to experience their adventures.

What Are Early Access Games Anyway?

If you’re not familiar with the term, early access games are titles that developers release in a semi-finished state. Players can buy and play them while the game is still being developed. Think of it like being invited to taste-test a meal before the chef officially puts it on the menu. You get to enjoy the early flavors, and your feedback helps shape the final dish. Neat, right?

Now, let’s talk about the RPG-focused diamonds in the rough that have emerged from this process. Spoiler alert: some of these games might just be better than their fully-released counterparts.

1. Baldur’s Gate 3 - A Modern-Day Classic in the Making

Let’s kick things off with a big name: Baldur’s Gate 3. If you’re even remotely into RPGs, this one has probably been on your radar. Developed by Larian Studios (the masterminds behind Divinity: Original Sin 2), this game takes everything great about classic role-playing and catapults it into the modern era.

In this Dungeons & Dragons-inspired adventure, you’re thrust into a world of choice and consequence, where every decision impacts your story. The dialogue options alone feel like a psychological exam—Do you help the stranger or betray them? Charm your way out of a fight or blow everything up? There’s no wrong answer, but there’s always an interesting one.

Even in its early access state, Baldur’s Gate 3 offers a staggering level of polish. The characters feel real, and the world practically begs you to explore every nook and cranny. Whether you’re a D&D veteran or new to the genre, this game is redefining what a role-playing experience can be.

2. Hades - A Record-Breaking Roguelike with RPG Depth

OK, hear me out—Hades might be a roguelike first, but its RPG elements deserve all the love. While it’s technically no longer in early access, it set the standard for what early access RPGs could achieve.

Why does Hades stand out? For starters, it marries fast-paced combat with a story that’s dripping with personality. You play as Zagreus, son of Hades, trying to escape the underworld. Each run pushes you closer to freedom, and every attempt unveils more about your character’s relationships and backstory.

The game’s early access phase was a case study in perfect execution. Developer Supergiant Games used player feedback to refine the game’s mechanics and narrative beats. What we got in the end feels like a love letter to both RPG and roguelike fans alike.

3. Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord - The Sandbox RPG of Our Dreams

If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could command my own army and conquer kingdoms,” then Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord is your jam. It’s a sandbox RPG where you’re free to live out your medieval fantasies. Want to be a ruthless warlord? Go for it. Prefer the life of a merchant or mercenary? Totally viable.

The beauty of Bannerlord lies in its freedom. It doesn’t hold your hand or force you down a linear path. Instead, it hands you a medieval world and says, “Do your thing.” And let me tell you, “your thing” can get pretty crazy.

Yes, it’s rough around the edges (as early access titles often are), but the sheer ambition of Bannerlord is unmatched. Watching the game evolve over time feels like being part of a massive community project. It’s the kind of game where you’ll lose hours without even noticing—just one more battle, right?

4. Core Keeper - Stardew Valley Meets Dungeon Crawling

Ever wondered what it would be like if Stardew Valley and Terraria had a baby, and that baby loved RPGs? Enter Core Keeper. This game is a delightful blend of dungeon crawling, crafting, and exploration, all wrapped up in charming pixel art.

In Core Keeper, you wake up in a mysterious underground world and have to gather resources, build your base, and uncover ancient secrets. It’s got all the addictive qualities of a survival game but with enough RPG flair to keep things fresh. You can level up skills, fight giant monsters, and even customize your playstyle depending on your chosen loadout.

The best part? It’s multiplayer! You and your friends can team up to take on this underground wonderland together. That sense of community adds a whole new layer to the RPG experience.

5. Wartales - Gritty, Open-World Tactics

Wartales is a unique take on the RPG formula, combining open-world exploration with tactical, turn-based combat. Imagine The Witcher meeting XCOM, and you’re halfway there.

In this game, you control a band of mercenaries in a harsh, medieval world. There’s no grand prophecy or chosen one—you’re just a group of people trying to survive. That grounded narrative feels refreshing in a genre often filled with world-saving heroes and flashy magic.

Wartales keeps things interesting with deep strategic combat and resource management. Every decision matters, whether you’re deciding what gear to craft or which contracts to accept. The game’s early access phase is already impressing players, and it’s clear the developers are onto something special.

6. Dark and Darker - Hardcore Fantasy, Reinvented

If you’re more into the dark, gritty side of RPGs, Dark and Darker might be just what you’re looking for. This game combines dungeon crawling, survival mechanics, and even a bit of battle royale flair. Sound weird? It is—in the best way possible.

Here’s the gist: You’re thrown into a medieval dungeon filled with traps, monsters, and rival players. Your goal? Loot everything you can and get out alive. It’s high-stakes, heart-pounding fun, and the RPG progression system lets you develop your character over time.

The game is still early in its development, but it already feels like a cult hit in the making. If you love games that keep you on your toes, this one’s worth a look.

Why Early Access RPGs Rule the Roost

So, why are early access RPGs such a big deal? For one, they let players get involved with the creative process. Developers aren’t just guessing what fans want—they’re getting real-time feedback from the people who are playing. It’s like having a backstage pass to game development.

Plus, early access fosters innovation. Smaller studios and indie developers aren’t afraid to take risks, and that often leads to bold, experimental ideas. Sure, not every game is a masterpiece right out of the gate, but the potential for greatness is always there.

Final Thoughts

Early access RPGs have become a proving ground for some of the coolest, most innovative ideas in gaming. They push the envelope, break the mold, and remind us why we fell in love with role-playing games in the first place. Whether you’re exploring the underworld in Hades or leading an army in Bannerlord, there’s something magical about seeing a game evolve before your eyes.

So, the next time you’re scrolling through your favorite storefront, don’t sleep on those early access titles. They might just redefine how you experience RPGs.