GameBanshee Forums

well I've pretty much exhausted my current backlog of RPG games so I'm looking for something new. by new I don't necessarily mean a recent release, just something that's new to me
anyway, the main things I'm looking for are

character customisation. much as I enjoyed the Witcher, I tend to prefer games where I can design my own character. bonus points if different race/gender/clan etc makes more than just a visual difference and offers additional replayability

single player. I have WoW for when I want to play with other people, sometimes though I just want to kill some time on my own

preferably third person, but not essential

good story

for reference I've already played Morrowind, Vampire: Bloodlines, Mass Effect, Dragon Age, Knights of the Old Republic, Baldurs Gate, Neverwinter Nights, Fallout and their respective sequels (except for DA2 of course, my time machine's broken)

Right off the top of my head, I'll recommend Arcanum of Steamworks and Magick Obscura.

It's a great RPG, with more customization that any of the games you listed (except that you don't get to choose your paper-doll appearance). It has a good story and (in my opinion) a pretty solid system (though there are some things that could have been done better). It can be played in real-time mode, or in turn-based mode, using an action-point system like Fallout does.

There's also a lot to discover, from schematics, to new locations (some that don't even appear on your map) and to many other things.

But yeah, if character customization is what you're looking for - look no further, Arcanum is your game.

I'd support Crenshinibon's suggestion and add Wizardry 8. The main problem with W8 may be finding a copy though, as unlike Arcanum it isn't available on Good Old Games.

It does offer good character customisation, and development. Although it uses a gain skill points by using the skill system, the system isn't as obviously broken as it is in Morrowind and Oblivion.

The storyline isn't mind blowing, there are very few games that are, but it gets the job done. Whilst it does help understanding the story line if you've played Wizardry 6 and 7, it isn't necessary at all.

In my honest opinion one of the best CRPGs of all time. Although like every game, it has its flaws, those flaws don't impact the enjoyability of the game.

Have you played Planescape Torment and Icewind Dale?

If I were you, I would also check the Might and Magic series. The games are not third person, but it's one of my favourite series. (Party based, different races and classes, tons of quests)

You can also look at the games done by Spiderweb. You can download huge demos from their site, so you can try them before you buy them. (Old-school indy RPGs, I don't consider them masterpieces, but I find them fun.)

By the way, I gave these recommendations because you might want several choices, not because I don't agree with the Arcanum and Wizardry 8 recommendations.

Edit: I forgot Drakensang, I have not played it, but from what I know, it might suit your taste.

thanks for the tips, I'll look into these recomendations

Other titles you might be interested in are:

System Shock 2
Deus Ex
Vampire: The Masquerade - Redemption
Arx Fatalis
The Temple of Elemental Evil
The Fall: Last Days of Gaia
Jade Empire: Special Edition
Drakensang: The Dark Eye
Mass Effect

Dungeon Lords Collector's Edition is excellent if you're looking for character customisation.

I'd like to add to the recommendations of Might and Magic, Wizardry and Arcanum.

If you are looking for an Action RPG, you might consider Divinity 2, with its re-release tomorrow. I found it a lot of fun, if you don't take it too seriously.

I actually meant more customising the appearance, although stats are good too
it's kind of silly I know since it (usually) has no real effect on the game, but it makes for better immersion