The 2000s were a pivotal era for role-playing games (RPGs), showcasing a diverse range of titles across various platforms, including PC, handheld devices, and consoles—even the short-lived Dreamcast. With the recent launch of Oblivion Remastered, fans are left wondering which classic games from this decade could benefit from a modern remaster.
While the gaming industry often gravitates towards quick-profit remakes—akin to the plethora of superhero films—there remains a treasure trove of RPG classics from 2000 to 2009 that deserve the same treatment as Oblivion. Given their remarkable worlds, narratives, and character designs, these ten overlooked RPGs warrant a revitalized version for contemporary players.
10 Morrowind
Oblivion’s Big Brother
Starting with an obvious choice—Bethesda’s Morrowind. This landmark RPG, featuring unique environments like mushroom forests and insect-like kwama-egg farming, introduced one of gaming’s most memorable villains. However, its gameplay mechanics are somewhat dated, and the graphical quality, particularly of NPCs, leaves much to be desired.
Despite its ongoing modding community and fan projects, such as Skywind, an official remaster would breathe new life into Morrowind’s intricate storytelling and immersive world, making it more accessible to modern gamers.
9 Neverwinter Nights
Variety in the Forgotten Realms
Set in the beloved Forgotten Realms, Neverwinter Nights is a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired RPG known for its pauseable real-time combat that aligns with classics like Baldur’s Gate. With Baldur’s Gate 3 adopting turn-based mechanics, a remaster of Neverwinter Nights could resonate with players seeking both nostalgia and innovation.
While it did receive an “Enhanced Edition”in 2018, it fell short of a complete overhaul akin to Oblivion Remastered, leaving plenty of room for modernization and expanded features.
8 Dragon Age: Origins
Incomparable Progenitor
The Dragon Age franchise continues to thrive, with the upcoming release of 2024’s The Veilguard. Nevertheless, enthusiasts frequently compare new entries to the classic Dragon Age: Origins, released in 2009.
With some updates to enhance graphics and gameplay, a remake could reaffirm why the storyline of the Grey Wardens remains pivotal in RPG narrative history, reigniting the quintessential experience that fans cherish.
7 Jade Empire
Avatar Meets RPG
Departing from traditional CRPGs, Jade Empire offers an action RPG experience imbued with Chinese mythology, focusing on martial arts and elemental magic. This game appeals not just to RPG aficionados, but also to fans of series such as Avatar: The Last Airbender.
One of the standout titles from the original Xbox, Jade Empire boasts dynamic combat and a distinctive approach that feels ripe for a remastered revival, much like Oblivion’s recent reimagining.
6 Golden Sun
Relight a Series
Golden Sun and its companion game, The Lost Age, stand as exemplary models in JRPG design. The intricate use of magic within its narrative and puzzles brings the world of Weylard to life.
With numerous titles like Chrono Trigger and various Final Fantasy games receiving remasters, a combined remaster of Golden Sun and its sequel would be a thrilling prospect. As we see titles like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth being revamped for modern audiences, one can hope that Golden Sun follows suit.
5 Secrets
Steampunk and Story
The 2001 title, Arcanum, captivates players with its deep narrative and immersive quest design. Embracing a gritty steampunk world, the open-ended storyline facilitates unparalleled freedom of choice for players, enabling a spectrum of gameplay, from peaceful negotiation to chaotic combat.
Games like Planescape: Torment also deserve remastering, showcasing a similar depth of storytelling that captivates audiences.
4 Knights of the Old Republic
The Remake of the Jedi
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) remains one of BioWare’s hallmark achievements and undoubtedly ranks among the finest Star Wars video games ever created.
KOTOR immerses players in the rich history of the Star Wars universe, set during the Old Republic and a conflict against the Sith. With familiar and obscure planets like Tatooine and Dantooine, the game encompasses extraordinary plot twists that resonate with fans.
Notably, a remake was announced in 2021 and is currently caught in development limbo as it changes corporate hands. The gaming community eagerly anticipates a polished version that captures the essence of the original.
3 Skies of Arcadia
Aerial Adventure
Skies of Arcadia, initially released on Sega’s Dreamcast, later found a broader audience through its port on the GameCube. Despite its charm, the game slipped under the radar for many gamers.
This title creatively expands the conventional JRPG formula by combining it with exploration on the open seas. By charting the world, it embodies many elements seen later in games like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker.
Given its nostalgic, yet expensive old-school copies, a remaster for Skies of Arcadia is long overdue, promising to deliver a new experience for a new generation.
2 Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines
Nearly a Masterpiece
Taking inspiration from the tabletop RPGs, Bloodlines merges impressive writing with gameplay that, while groundbreaking at its inception, has aged poorly. The core systems are solid, yet the implementation leaves much to be desired. This makes it an excellent candidate for a modernization, requiring only graphical updates and a robust engine to overcome the original’s shortcomings.
The deep narrative influenced by your chosen vampire clan and interactions with NPCs deserve to be experienced anew, unchanged but polished.
1 Deus Ex
Iconic Cyberpunk Dystopia
The original Deus Ex might not have been the first of its kind, but it is undoubtedly the most significant cyberpunk video game, blending intricate storylines, player choice, and a fusion of RPG and FPS elements.
As players assume the role of JC Denton, a cyborg operative with a complex backstory, they navigate a web of conspiracy and intrigue, confronting themes around technology and freedom that remain relevant today.
Despite its rich writing, the game’s visuals and mechanics could benefit from an overhaul. A remaster that preserves the original’s compelling narrative while updating the gameplay and aesthetics would undoubtedly resonate with both veterans and newcomers alike.
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