The best turn-based RPGs with evil paths

Key points

• Several turn-based RPGs incorporate evil paths, adding complexity and unique narrative perspectives.
• Games like Shin Megami Tensei 3 and Fallout allow players to make dark choices with lasting consequences.
• Titles like Pathfinder: Wrath of The Righteous explore evil mythical paths, altering the story and the protagonist.

Turn-based RPGs are often praised for their strategic gameplay and engaging narrative, offering the opportunity to shape the narratives that unfold on screen. Freedom of choice is an essential element in the genre, allowing decisions to directly influence the course of events. This flexibility often includes dark paths that transform the hero into an agent of evil.

Therefore, the best turn-based RPGs with evil paths are the ones where these decisions add more complexity to the story and offer interesting options for players who want to escape traditional heroic narratives. Additionally, while many titles do not feature an explicit evil path, various choices can also be seen as evil by the characters in the narrative.

1 Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne

A JRPG that masterfully explores different philosophies

Originally released for PlayStation 2, Shin Megami Tensei 3: Nocturne is known for its dark atmosphere and complex narrative set in a post-apocalyptic world. Its protagonist has the power to shape reality, facing choices that influence not only individual destiny, but the fate of the entire cosmos.

While the game lacks a strictly defined evil path, its various philosophies can be considered controversial, particularly in terms of how each is achieved. Each path reflects unique ideals – such as survival of the fittest or absolute harmony – often seen as dark due to their consequences and methods of implementation.

2 Fire emblem Three Houses

A game without really good routes

The story of Fire emblem Three Houses differs from the franchise standard, with a turn-based RPG experience centered around a school simulation during the first half. Yet the choices made significantly influence the plot in the second half, leading to multiple different endings.

In essence, no path leads to a truly good outcome where everyone finds happiness. Most decisions made by both players and NPCs reflect a moral gray area that considers self-interest, ensuring that the narrative can always move in darker directions.

3 Age of decadence

Players enjoy numerous possibilities in this narrative

In Age of decadencea turn-based RPG that follows an evil path, the setting is full of political intrigue, moral ambiguity, and personal ambition. Each decision profoundly affects the narrative and the surrounding world, allowing for questionable actions that shape the fates of characters and factions.

From strategic assassinations with the Stygian Boatmen to intricate manipulations between rival guilds, every choice carries significant consequences. It is also possible to interact with supernatural entities or sacrifice allies, challenging the moral compass and mirroring the depth of stories that can be found throughout the game's setting.

4 Wasteland 3

Some choices are complex and impossible to consider valid

While Wasteland 3 It doesn't offer a truly evil path, it's full of moments where small decisions gradually lead the Colorado region towards greater chaos. In this frozen, war-torn landscape, seizing opportunities for personal gain often means nurturing instability and brutality. As alliances crumble and enemies multiply, each choice creates a future stained with betrayal, leaving behind a legacy defined by both cruelty and desperation.

For example, the story focuses on dealing with the Patriarch's rebellious children, but it is possible to form an alliance with Liberty Buchanan and convince her to accept the protagonists into her cause. This leads to an end where Colorado falls to an authoritarian power. Other paths can be equally grim, resulting in widespread casualties across the region.

5 Fall

Taking the Master's side is just one of many evil choices

The first two Fall the titles are renowned for their storytelling and the freedom players have to create unique paths. The original chapter allows for multiple decisions that result in an evil path, all while providing an excellent turn-based RPG experience. You can join forces with the Master through Unity and reveal the location of Vault 13.

For everything FallMorally dubious decisions loom constantly, from betraying allies to obliterating entire settlements for personal gain. One of the most striking examples is the destruction of Shady Sands, both enabling raiders and an army of mutants, demonstrating how the player's legacy can be imprinted on the fragile environment of the wasteland. These actions showcase the game's ability to adapt to evil paths that truly alter the post-apocalyptic narrative and reshape the very foundations of this ravaged world.

6 Baldur's Gate 3

Multiple opportunities for evil deeds

A striking example of modern isometric RPGs offering an evil path is Baldur's Gate 3celebrated for allowing players wide freedom, including morally questionable actions. From the beginning it is possible to experience selfish responses or even betray the trust of NPCs.

While leaning towards evil might cut off some branches of heroic content Baldur's Gate 3the developers have introduced updates that reward those who opt for evil paths with unique endings. Additionally, playing as Dark Urge, a unique origin featuring special interactions, enhances the experience of getting lost in the darkness. By taking numerous sinister decisions and validating them with unique story arcs, this title solidifies itself as a flexible and engaging journey that encourages you to probe the boundaries of morality.

7 Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous

Some mythic paths are truly evil

In Pathfinder: Wrath of the RighteousOwlcat introduced a mythic path system that can affect the story in numerous ways, including paths that lean toward evil. Therefore, players have the option to follow a darker path while still gaining significant mechanical advantages for the protagonist.

While turn-based combat in this RPG is optional and can be disabled for quicker battles, choosing an evil path leaves lasting narrative marks. Choosing mythic paths such as Liches or Demons transforms the hero into a force of darkness, altering large portions of the plot to accommodate these malevolent decisions.

8 Undertale

The game features multiple unique courses

Undertale is a role-playing game that defies expectations, offering the freedom to shape the player's journey. Relying on certain characters or distrusting them can lead to unexpected results, including a sad evil path, known as the genocide path. Such a choice pushes events towards destruction, radically changing the narrative and interactions with the underground inhabitants.

Its turn-based combat and hellish elements create a unique challenge Undertalewhere each battle can end peacefully or violently, channeling a wide range of emotions. The result is an experience that celebrates player action, inspiring heartfelt connections, providing emotionally charged moments, or prompting deep reflection on morality. By rewarding or condemning actions through narrative outcomes, the game establishes itself as a masterpiece of consequence-based storytelling.