Summary
Among Fantasy RPGs, The Witcher 4 is probably one of themost anticipated by players, especially when considering all the changes the game could bring to the franchise, such as a new protagonist and the expansion of the entire universe built by the books and the classic trilogy. However, this is still a distant dream, as the title is still in development, but fortunately, there are many good games to fill the time until then.
Thus, thebest Fantasy RPGs to play while waiting for the release of The Witcher 4are those games that offer something similar to the title developed by CD Projekt Red, either through the Dark Fantasy setting or even the fast-paced combat that The Witcher 3 features. In addition, it is a genre filled with excellent games, making sure there are plenty of options to choose from.
Even though it completely deviates fromThe Witcher’s approach, featuring a world not based on Dark Fantasy but rather on fairy tales,Fable 2is one of the best RPGs for those looking for alternatives to play while waiting forThe Witcher 4. This is because, beyond its setting, the game offers some interesting mechanics for players to explore, such as the Morality System, which impacts various elements of the story.
In addition, another aspect that makesFablea fun RPG is the way players caninteract with the world during the adventure, forming bonds with townsfolk and enjoying considerable freedom to explore. In fact, the very premise of the second chapter inFable 2is precisely that: to follow the entire life of the character throughout the story, witnessing their transformation into a great hero or villain.
Even though the combat in the firstDragon Age,one of the best RPGs of 2000s, differs completely from the fast-paced battles inThe Witcher 3, the franchise’s narrative, and especially the setting ofDragon Age: Origins, makes it an outstanding choice for those awaiting The Witcher 4. The kingdom of Ferelden is meticulously crafted, also inspired by Dark Fantasy, offering a storyline that blends political turmoil with the fight against an ancestral threat.
Beyond the setting, the characters inDragon Age: Origins, especially those who join the Grey Warden’s party during the journey, are well developed, an element also found in theWitchergames. Watching Morrigan, Alistair, or Leliana evolve as their stories unfold makes the narrative even more engaging overall, particularly when considering how the protagonist’s choices influence the plot.
Although it does not have mainstream status like other titles in the genre,GreedFallis a strong option for those interested inexploring unique RPGswhile waiting for The Witcher 4. Its 17th-century-inspired setting blends medieval fantasy themes with colonization, delivering a distinctive narrative that breaks the mold yet remains consistently satisfying for players to follow.
That singularity also extends to other aspects beyond narrative, especially the monsters scattered across the map, allowing different combat approaches and strategic use of abilities. Moreover, the game’s open world is competent, providing plenty of content after the initial hours, when the map truly opens up, for characters to tackle, discover optional quests, and advance at their own pace.
One of the most compelling aspects ofDragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisenhas always been its combat, which lets players engage enemies in a highly fluid way, largely thanks to the animations crafted for the various attacks. Not to mention the physics system, which makes monsters and other targets react convincingly when struck, turning the overall experience into something truly entertaining.
Furthermore, the combat inDragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen, while not identical to the mechanics implemented by CD Projekt Red in its games, is still comparable in pace. Players can dispatch foes quickly, but it also demands sharp reflexes between strikes. For anyone waiting for The Witcher 4 and eager to explore different settings, this remains one of the best fantasy RPGs available.
Although recent installments ofFinal Fantasystray from the franchise’s traditional turn-based formula by weaving in more action mechanics, the standard reached inThe Witcher 4stands among the game’s highest points. Clive commands a dynamic, versatile skill set that lets each battle unfold with fluid motion, fierce impact, and sights that capture attention from the first sword flash to the final blow.
However, while the combat inFinal Fantasy 16is an enticing choice for players awaitingThe Witcher 4, the environment shaped by Square Enix deserves equal attention. Valisthea marks the series’ return toclassic medieval-fantasy settings,and even though the game forgoes a fully open world like those built by CD Projekt Red, every region receives meticulous detailing that enriches the narrative and sustains interest through sweeping landscapes, layered history, and political intrigue.
Assassin’s Creed Odysseyis often seen as one ofUbisoft’s best fantasy RPGs, offering a massive world set in Ancient Greece, full of iconic locations to discover. It also leans into narrative freedom, where choices made during key moments can reshape the story and shift the fate of important characters, giving players real agency over how events unfold.
What also sets Odyssey apart is its flexible combat system, which allows for a highly personalized playstyle. Whether favoring stealth, brute strength, or distance-based tactics, players can mix abilities to suit how they want to fight. This keeps the experience engaging from start to finish, perfect for RPG fans awaiting The Witcher’s return.
Drawing upon Golarion, the setting Paizo employs for its tabletop RPGs,Pathfinder: Wrath of The Righteoussupplies one of the richest fantasy backgrounds for anyone seeking agame that can last countless hoursand houses an abundance of content to explore. UnlikeBaldur’s Gate 3, for instance, characters here can reach level 20 over the course of the story, gaining access to powerful spells and other formidable abilities.
Moreover, the classes offer broad variety and granular customization, enabling players to assemble heroes who will lead the crusade against Demons in the Worldwound. The campaign introduces the Mythic Path system, a mechanic that can reshape the entire narrative depending on the choices made, resulting in new endings or even altering the manner in which certain companions join the party, which heightens replay value and narrative dynamism.
Bethesda-developed RPGs generally serve as strong alternatives for anyone awaitingThe Witcher 4and looking to visit other fantasy realms, yet within the publisher’s catalog,The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remasteredstands as one of the finest choices available. In this version the game showcases modern graphics and attractive visuals without discarding the slight oddities that give the experience its distinctive charm.
Beyond the engaging main quest, which wields an epic tone sure to please aficionados of medieval fantasy, the true highlight lies in the open world’s supplemental content. The side missions vary widely, and each Guild operating across Cyrodiil presents compelling objectives that reward effort with loot and prestige, ensuring every risk feels worthwhile and keeping exploration fresh long after the story resolves.
For many players, the definitive medieval-fantasy experience,Baldur’s Gate 3ranks among the best RPGs to play while waiting for the release ofThe Witcher 3thanks to its wealth of content and thoughtful structure. Although its gameplay diverges entirely from the approach used by CD Projekt Red, the map design functions similarly, delivering semi-open areas overflowing with activities and secrets to discover.
Alongside the substantial options thatBaldur’s Gate 3already provides, ranging from numerous classes and races to major decisions woven through the narrative, players also gain theability to install mods. Community-created additions further elevate the RPG’s overall quality and ensure that subsequent playthroughs remain engaging, encouraging experimentation and continued discovery across multiple campaigns, especially when new subclasses, quests, or visual tweaks refresh the adventure.
For players less familiar with the traditional difficulty curve and other hallmark mechanics of FromSoftware’s Soulslikes, adapting to the challenges posed byElden Ringalready supplies an excellent experience to enjoy while waiting for the fourth chapter of The Witcher. Beyond that, the universe crafted by Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R. R. Martin offers an equally compelling mythology that rewards close attention.
The world-building inElden Ringparallels that of The Witcher in certain respects, as both RPGs draw upon dark-fantasy influences and invite reflection on cursed lands, fallen kingdoms, and the fragile hope that lingers amid ruin. In FromSoftware’s entry, information surfaces subtly rather than through the cinematic exposition typical of CD Projekt Red, yet its open world and engaging combat systems still make it a prime choice for anyone seeking new adventures while The Witcher 4 remains on the horizon.
