15 Best Turn Based RPG Games in 2026 (Top Picks Ranked)

Turn based RPG games continue to thrive in 2026. While action-heavy titles dominate headlines, strategy lovers still crave tactical combat, party management, character builds, and deep storytelling. Whether you enjoy classic JRPG mechanics, modern tactical RPG systems, or story-driven Western RPGs, this year offers something exceptional.

In this guide, we’ve ranked the 15 best turn based RPG games in 2026 based on gameplay depth, combat system, replay value, storytelling, build variety, and overall player experience.

Let’s dive in.

Comparison Chart

Top 15 Best Turn Based RPGs in 2026

1. Baldur’s Gate 3

Still dominating in 2026, Baldur’s Gate 3 remains the gold standard for modern turn based RPGs. Built on Dungeons & Dragons 5e rules, it delivers:

• Deep tactical combat

• Meaningful dialogue choices

• Branching story paths

• Cooperative multiplayer

Its initiative-based turn system and environmental interactions make every battle feel dynamic. If you love party-based RPG mechanics and roleplaying freedom, this is unbeatable.

2. Persona 3 Reload

A stylish remake of a beloved classic, Persona 3 Reload combines social simulation with strategic turn based combat.

Key highlights:

• Weakness exploitation system

• Persona fusion mechanics

• Emotional storytelling

• Time management gameplay

Perfect for players who want character-driven storytelling mixed with JRPG combat depth.

3. Divinity: Original Sin 2

Even years after release, Divinity: Original Sin 2 is one of the most complex tactical RPG experiences available.

• Environmental combat (fire, poison, water combos)

• Multiple build paths

• Cooperative campaign

• High replay value

Its action point system encourages creative strategy in every encounter.

4. Octopath Traveler II

This beautifully crafted JRPG features eight protagonists and the signature “Break and Boost” combat system.

• Stunning HD-2D art style

• Strategic weakness breaking

• Individual character story arcs

• Smooth turn order manipulation

A must-play for traditional turn based RPG fans.

5. Fire Emblem Engage

For fans of grid-based strategy RPGs, Fire Emblem Engage offers:

• Tactical positioning

• Permadeath mechanics

• Character bonding system

• Deep customization

Its strategic depth and anime-style presentation make it highly engaging.

6. XCOM 2

Technically a tactical strategy RPG hybrid, XCOM 2’s squad-based turn system remains one of the most intense.

• High-risk, high-reward gameplay

• Cover-based mechanics

• Randomized mission design

• Permanent consequences

Ideal for hardcore tactical RPG players.

7. Final Fantasy X

A timeless classic featuring the Conditional Turn-Based Battle (CTB) system.

• Emotional storyline

• Strategic character swapping

• Sphere Grid progression

• Memorable soundtrack

Still one of the most polished classic turn based RPG experiences.

8. Dragon Quest XI

For traditionalists, Dragon Quest XI offers pure, classic turn based gameplay.

• Charming art design

• Simple yet strategic combat

• Engaging story

• Accessible difficulty

Perfect entry point for newcomers.

9. Wasteland 3

Set in a frozen post-apocalyptic world, Wasteland 3 delivers tactical combat with deep decision-making.

• Dialogue consequences

• Squad-based combat

• Weapon customization

• Moral choices

A great pick for players who enjoy mature storytelling.

10. Triangle Strategy

Political intrigue meets grid-based tactical combat.

• Morality voting system

• Elevation-based combat

• Strategic unit placement

• Branching narrative

Excellent for players who value story depth and battlefield tactics.

11. Honkai: Star Rail

A modern anime-style turn based RPG with flashy animations and accessible mechanics.

• Weakness break system

• Gacha character collection

• Smooth UI

• Regular updates

Great for casual and mobile RPG players.

12. Sea of Stars

Inspired by classic 90s RPGs, Sea of Stars blends nostalgia with modern polish.

• Timed-hit combat

• Pixel art visuals

• Light puzzle elements

• Emotional story

A strong pick for retro RPG fans.

13. Shin Megami Tensei V

Known for brutal difficulty and demon fusion mechanics.

• Press Turn battle system

• Deep customization

• Challenging boss fights

• Dark narrative tone

For hardcore strategy lovers only.

14. Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous

A massive CRPG with intricate systems.

• Mythic progression paths

• Complex class builds

• Tactical combat mode

• Deep narrative branching

One of the deepest turn based RPG systems ever made.

15. Wartales

An open-world mercenary RPG focused on survival and tactical grid combat.

• Sandbox exploration

• Squad management

• Economy system

• Strategic positioning

Perfect for players who enjoy freedom and challenge.

Why Turn Based RPGs Are Still Popular in 2026

Despite the rise of real-time combat games, turn based RPGs remain popular because they offer:

• Strategic thinking over reflexes

• Accessible gameplay for all ages

• Deep character progression systems

• Tactical battlefield control

• Story-focused experiences

The genre continues evolving with hybrid systems, cinematic presentation, and cooperative modes.

How We Ranked These Games

Our ranking criteria included:

• Combat system depth

• Replay value

• Narrative quality

• Character customization

• Player reviews

• Community engagement

• Long-term support

We focused on games that remain relevant and actively played in 2026.

FAQs

What is a turn based RPG?

A turn based RPG is a role-playing game where players and enemies take actions in turns rather than in real-time combat.

Are turn based RPGs better than real-time RPGs?

It depends on player preference. Turn based systems favor strategy and planning, while real-time RPGs focus on reflex and fast reactions.

Which turn based RPG has the best story?

Many players consider Baldur’s Gate 3 and Persona 3 Reload among the best for storytelling.

Are turn based RPGs beginner-friendly?

Yes. Games like Dragon Quest XI and Honkai: Star Rail are great starting points.

What platforms support turn based RPG games?

PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices all support the genre.

Final Thoughts

The best turn based RPG games in 2026 prove that strategy-driven gameplay is far from outdated. Whether you enjoy tactical grid combat, classic JRPG mechanics, or deep Western RPG storytelling, there’s a title on this list for you.

From the unmatched freedom of Baldur’s Gate 3 to the nostalgic charm of Sea of Stars, turn based RPGs continue delivering unforgettable adventures.