Hey everyone, it's your friendly neighborhood gamer here! Let's be real, when we talk about the best Action RPGs, the conversation is usually dominated by the big, flashy console exclusives. But us PC gamers know the truth: our platform is an absolute treasure trove for this genre. We've got everything from sprawling open worlds to tight, narrative-driven experiences, and the library just keeps getting better. So, I've put together a list of the must-play PC Action RPGs that you should absolutely dive into this year. This isn't just a rehash of old lists; I'm talking about the games that have stood the test of time, gotten amazing updates, or have finally made their glorious way to our platform. Get ready to update your wishlist!
8. Black Myth: Wukong 🐒
If you're craving a game with deep mythological roots and absolutely stunning visuals, look no further. This title is a spiritual successor to the legendary Chinese novel Journey to the West, and it brings that world to life in a way that's both respectful and incredibly fresh. The combat is fluid and challenging, and the world is packed with detail. Seriously, every corner hides a new, breathtaking vista or a terrifying boss waiting to test your skills. It's more than just a game; it's an experience that sticks with you.
7. Yakuza Kiwami 🥊
Trying to figure out where to start with the legendary Yakuza series? Start here. Kiwami is a full-blown remake of the very first game, and it's the perfect refined entry point. You get the iconic, over-the-top brawler combat, an incredibly dense and lively rendition of Kamurocho to explore, and a story that's equal parts gripping drama and utterly absurd side-quests. The RPG progression lets you customize Kiryu's fighting styles, making each playthrough feel unique. Don't sleep on this one just because it's a remake; it's the definitive way to begin one of gaming's most beloved sagas.
6. Lies of P 🤥
Soulslikes are everywhere now, but Lies of P stands out by doing something brilliantly weird: it's a dark, steampunk retelling of Pinocchio. You play as P, a puppet navigating a ruined city where every other automaton has gone violently mad. The twist? You can lie, and those choices actually matter for the story. The combat is tight, deliberate, and punishing in the best way possible, with a fantastic weapon assembly system that lets you create your own perfect deadly tool. It proves that even the most familiar tales can feel brand new with the right twist.
5. Eternights 💘⚔️
Ever played Persona and thought, "This is amazing, but I wish the combat was real-time action"? Well, Eternights heard you! It masterfully blends the social sim/calendar system of Persona with fast-paced, combo-driven action combat that feels closer to Bayonetta. You'll be splitting your time between building relationships with your companions in a post-apocalyptic bunker and venturing out into dangerous zones to fight monsters. It's shorter and more focused than its inspiration, but it packs a serious punch with its heartfelt story and satisfying progression. A perfect pick for when you want action and emotional stakes.
4. Hades 🔥
This game is a masterpiece, plain and simple. As Zagreus, the son of Hades, you battle your way out of the Underworld in a stunning fusion of rogue-lite and Action RPG. Every run is different thanks to the incredible variety of boons offered by the Greek gods, which fundamentally change how your weapons work. The story unfolds gradually with each escape attempt, and the characters are so well-written you'll want to die just to go back and talk to them again. On PC, it runs like a dream, making each dash and strike feel incredibly responsive. It's infinitely replayable and endlessly rewarding.
3. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim 🐉
Yes, it's 2026, and yes, Skyrim is still on this list. Why? Because on PC, Skyrim isn't just a game—it's a platform. The vanilla experience of exploring Tamriel is still magical, but the real magic happens with mods. Want to completely overhaul the combat? Add hundreds of new quests, lands, and companions? Turn dragons into Thomas the Tank Engine? You can. The PC modding community has kept this game alive, vibrant, and constantly evolving for over a decade. It's the ultimate customizable Action RPG sandbox, and no other version even comes close.
2. Final Fantasy XVI ⚡
It finally escaped PS5 exclusivity, and PC players are the real winners! FFXVI takes a bold step into darker, grittier fantasy territory, focusing on the story of Clive Rosfield. The Action RPG combat is a highlight, ditching traditional menus for a spectacular real-time system where Clive can channel the powers of different Eikons (summons) for a huge array of flashy, screen-shaking abilities. The story is an epic, political drama with production values through the roof. On a powerful PC, those Eikon vs. Eikon battles are nothing short of cinematic wonders. It's a must-play for any fan of grand, narrative-driven action.
1. Elden Ring 🌳
Was there ever any doubt? FromSoftware's magnum opus is, in my opinion, the pinnacle of the Action RPG genre on PC. The Lands Between is a vast, mysterious, and breathtakingly beautiful open world that begs to be explored. The sense of discovery is unmatched—every hidden catacomb, eerie swamp, or towering legacy dungeon feels like a personal achievement. While it's famously the first open-world "Soulsborne," it's also the most accessible entry point for newcomers to this style of challenging, methodical combat. Don't get me wrong, it's still tough as nails, but the freedom to go somewhere else, level up, and come back stronger makes the progression feel incredibly fair and satisfying. Hundreds of hours in, and I'm still finding new things. It's a true landmark title.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! From the mythic journey of Black Myth: Wukong to the boundless freedom of Elden Ring, the PC Action RPG scene is absolutely thriving in 2026. Each of these games offers a unique blend of combat, progression, and world-building that can keep you hooked for days, weeks, or even months. The best part? This is just the tip of the iceberg. What are your favorite PC Action RPGs? Did I miss any hidden gems? Let me know in the comments below! Until next time, happy gaming, folks! 🎮✨