Dragons, mythical beings of lore and legend, have always captured the imaginations of many. From ancient tales to modern video games, these winged creatures evoke a sense of wonder and fascination. If you've ever dreamed of soaring through the skies or battling these majestic beasts, this list is for you. We’ve gathered the best dragon-centric games that should be on your radar in 2024: Dragon Age: Inquisition, Dark Souls, Rift, Archeage, Skyrim, Neverwinter, and Genshin Impact.
1. Dragon Age: Inquisition
BioWare's Dragon Age: Inquisition stands tall as a benchmark in the world of dragon-themed RPGs. As the Inquisitor, players are thrust into a fractured world, torn apart by a civil war and a breach in the sky. The choices players make shape the narrative and the world around them. Dragons, in this title, aren't just adversaries but symbols of the raw, chaotic forces threatening the realm. The thrill of tracking, studying, and eventually battling these colossal creatures is unparalleled. With its sprawling open world, rich lore, intricate character relationships, and deeply strategic combat, Dragon Age: Inquisition offers an epic adventure for dragon enthusiasts.
2. Dark Souls
FromSoftware's Dark Souls is notorious for its challenging combat and obscure storytelling. But delve deep into its world, and you'll find dragons that encapsulate the game's melancholic beauty. These ancient beings, from the Hellkite Dragon on the bridge of Undead Burg to the mysterious Everlasting Dragon, are woven into the very fabric of the game's lore. Battling or simply encountering these creatures feels both like a privilege and a test of skill. The game's atmospheric world, combined with its methodical combat, ensures that every dragon encounter remains etched in the player's memory.
3. Rift
Trion Worlds' Rift is an MMORPG that pits players against the forces of elemental planes. The most magnificent of these adversaries are the dragons, representing each elemental force. As Ascended heroes, players must come together to confront these powerful entities and seal the rifts tearing the world apart. With its dynamic event system, where rifts open unexpectedly throughout the game world, players are constantly on their toes. The thrill of battling dragons in large-scale, cooperative encounters is a highlight, making Rift a top choice for MMO aficionados.
4. Archeage
Archeage, developed by XL Games, is another MMORPG that lets players live out their dragon-centric fantasies. Here, dragons aren't just foes but can also be mounts, allowing players to soar through the skies majestically. Beyond dragon combat and flight, Archeage offers a sandbox world where players can trade, craft, and even build their own homes. The inclusion of naval warfare, piracy, and a player-driven economy adds layers of depth, ensuring a rich, dragon-filled experience.
5. Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim from Bethesda needs little introduction. "Dovahkiin" or Dragonborn, the protagonist, is intrinsically linked to the dragons terrorizing the Nordic lands of Skyrim. With the ability to absorb the souls of slain dragons and harness their powers via shouts, players have a deeply personal relationship with these creatures. The game's open-world exploration, combined with its rich storytelling, makes every dragon encounter feel both epic and intimate. For those seeking a blend of action, adventure, and dragon lore, Skyrim is the definitive choice.
6. Neverwinter
Set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe, Neverwinter by Cryptic Studios is an MMORPG that transports players to the iconic city of Neverwinter. Amidst its vast content, dragons hold a special place. Events like the Tyranny of Dragons campaign allow players to confront these creatures in epic, large-scale battles. With its rich lore, engaging combat mechanics, and the ever-present thrill of dragon encounters, Neverwinter offers a unique blend of classical RPG elements and MMO gameplay.
7. Genshin Impact
miHoYo's Genshin Impact, while not strictly a dragon-centric game, features one of the most iconic dragons in recent gaming history – Stormterror. As Travelers, players navigate the vast world of Teyvat, unraveling its secrets and battling various foes. The narrative surrounding Stormterror is deeply emotional, adding layers of depth to the dragon encounters. Beyond this, the game's gacha-based system, elemental combat mechanics, and breathtaking open world make it a must-play for fans of action RPGs and dragons alike.
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