The Best Cyberpunk RPGs

Are you a fan of dystopian futures, neon lights, and high-tech gadgets? Do you love the idea of hacking into corporate systems, fighting against oppressive regimes, and exploring the dark underbelly of society? If so, then you're probably a fan of cyberpunk, one of the most popular subgenres of science fiction. And if you're also a fan of role-playing games, then you're in luck, because there are plenty of amazing cyberpunk RPGs out there that will let you immerse yourself in this fascinating world.

In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best cyberpunk RPGs across different platforms, from classic titles to modern masterpieces. Whether you're a veteran gamer or a newcomer to the genre, there's something here for everyone.

Deus Ex

Let's start with one of the most iconic cyberpunk RPGs of all time: Deus Ex. Originally released in 2000, this game has since become a classic, thanks to its immersive storyline, deep character customization, and open-ended gameplay. Set in a near-future world where cybernetic enhancements are the norm, Deus Ex puts you in the shoes of JC Denton, a special agent tasked with uncovering a global conspiracy that threatens to destroy the world as we know it.

What makes Deus Ex so great is its combination of RPG elements and first-person shooter mechanics. You can customize your character's skills and abilities to suit your playstyle, whether you prefer stealth, hacking, or brute force. And the game's nonlinear structure means that you can approach each mission in your own way, using a variety of weapons and gadgets to overcome obstacles.

If you haven't played Deus Ex yet, you owe it to yourself to give it a try. And if you have played it, why not revisit this classic and see how it holds up today?

Shadowrun Returns

If you're looking for a more recent cyberpunk RPG, then Shadowrun Returns is a great choice. Released in 2013, this game is a revival of the classic tabletop RPG of the same name, and it captures the spirit of the original while adding modern graphics and gameplay mechanics.

Set in a world where magic and technology coexist, Shadowrun Returns puts you in the shoes of a shadowrunner, a freelance operative who takes on dangerous missions for money. The game's turn-based combat system is reminiscent of classic RPGs like Baldur's Gate, but with a cyberpunk twist. You can choose from a variety of classes, each with its own unique abilities and playstyle, and customize your character's appearance and equipment.

But what really sets Shadowrun Returns apart is its storytelling. The game's main campaign is a gripping noir-style mystery, full of twists and turns, and your choices and actions have real consequences on the outcome. And if you're a fan of user-generated content, you'll love the game's robust editor, which lets you create your own campaigns and share them with the community.

Cyberpunk 2077

Of course, no list of cyberpunk RPGs would be complete without mentioning Cyberpunk 2077. This highly anticipated game from CD Projekt Red, the makers of The Witcher series, promises to be one of the most ambitious and immersive RPGs ever made.

Set in a sprawling open world city called Night City, Cyberpunk 2077 puts you in the shoes of V, a mercenary who takes on dangerous jobs for money and fame. The game's character creation system is incredibly detailed, allowing you to customize everything from your appearance to your backstory to your cybernetic implants. And the game's branching storyline means that your choices and actions will have a real impact on the world around you.

But what really sets Cyberpunk 2077 apart is its attention to detail. The game's world is incredibly rich and immersive, with a staggering amount of detail and interactivity. You can explore the city's many districts, interact with its inhabitants, and even hack into its systems to gain an advantage. And the game's stunning graphics and sound design make it a feast for the senses.

While Cyberpunk 2077 has had a rocky launch, with many players experiencing bugs and performance issues, the developers have been working hard to address these problems and improve the game. And even with its flaws, it's still one of the most impressive cyberpunk RPGs ever made.

System Shock 2

If you're a fan of classic RPGs and horror games, then System Shock 2 is a must-play. Released in 1999, this game is a precursor to Deus Ex, and it shares many of the same mechanics and themes.

Set aboard a starship in the distant future, System Shock 2 puts you in the shoes of a lone survivor who must fight against a rogue AI and hordes of mutated monsters. The game's RPG elements are deep and rewarding, allowing you to customize your character's skills and abilities to suit your playstyle. And the game's horror elements are genuinely terrifying, with jump scares and atmospheric tension that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

What makes System Shock 2 so great is its sense of immersion. The game's audio logs and environmental storytelling create a rich and detailed world, full of secrets and hidden dangers. And the game's nonlinear structure means that you can explore the ship at your own pace, uncovering new areas and items as you go.

The Outer Worlds

If you're looking for a cyberpunk RPG with a sense of humor, then The Outer Worlds is the game for you. Released in 2019, this game from Obsidian Entertainment (the makers of Fallout: New Vegas) is a satirical take on corporate greed and consumerism.

Set in a distant future where corporations have taken over the galaxy, The Outer Worlds puts you in the shoes of a colonist who wakes up from cryosleep to find that their ship has been lost. The game's RPG elements are similar to those of Fallout, allowing you to customize your character's skills and abilities and make choices that affect the outcome of the story. But the game's humor and writing are what really set it apart, with witty dialogue and absurd situations that will keep you laughing throughout.

What's great about The Outer Worlds is its sense of freedom. You can explore the game's many planets and interact with its inhabitants in a variety of ways, from diplomacy to violence. And the game's colorful graphics and quirky characters make it a joy to play.

Conclusion

So there you have it, some of the best cyberpunk RPGs across different platforms. Whether you're a fan of classic titles like Deus Ex and System Shock 2, or more recent games like Shadowrun Returns and Cyberpunk 2077, there's something here for everyone. So grab your cybernetic implants, load up your hacking tools, and get ready to immerse yourself in some of the most fascinating and immersive worlds in gaming.

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