You may have noticed that there’s currently a debate raging over game pricing after one analyst suggested that Grand Theft Auto VI should charge $100 in a bid to help “save” the industry.
The problem is that gamers don’t feel, and rightfully so, that spiralling development costs should become their problem in the form of higher game prices - especially when the going price of a AAA game is already £70.
With these heavy costs, many of us are becoming much more selective about the titles that we do pick up.
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One method that can help you make informed decisions is the utilisation of demos.
There are plenty of demos out there, all vying for your attention - and I don’t know about you, but I feel much more relaxed about parting with my cash when I’ve already got a couple of free, enjoyable hours under my belt.
It’s with that in mind that today, I wanted to highlight seven RPGs that you can currently sample for free on Steam.
Let’s start with the big AAAs. Koei Tecmo’s Dynasty Warriors: Origins is already one of the year’s highest-rated games.
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Granted, yes, it is January but this well received title stands a chance of appearing in 2025’s year-end lists.
In the demo, you’ll experience the ‘Battle of Sishui Gate’, hacking and slashing your way through hundreds of enemies.
Take a look at the game in action below.
Neople’s The First Berserker: Khazan is the other heavy hitter I want to direct your attention towards.
The full release isn’t due out until March, but you can currently get a taste of this upcoming action RPG.
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The story centres around Khazan who is, you guessed it, the first berserker. You’ll pick up the story as Khazan seeks revenge on those who falsely banished him.
The demo features the game’s first two missions with all progress carrying over.
I’m going to assume that you may have heard of those two aforementioned games so let me showcase five titles you might not be familiar with.
Shadow Breakers is an upcoming RPG from indie developer Plus Ultra Builds where you’ll enter a cityscape overtaken by shadow demons.
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It’s up to you to solve puzzles, complete quests and take on challenging boss battles as you attempt to restore peace.
Lasting for 30 to 45 minutes, this one’s a bite-sized dose of fun you can certainly squeeze into your day.
Tavern Tale Studio’s A Tale of Silent Depths is one for those of you who prefer turn-based tactical RPGs.
There’s an element of Dave The Diver here, albeit in a post-apocalyptic setting as you’ll explore a procedurally-generated ocean, fighting beasts whilst looking for unique treasures.
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Meat Lab’s Dread Protocol is the title you’ll want to download if you prefer third-person RPGs, namely where you’re geared up with a gun.
In this one, you’ll explore procedurally-generated space stations, fighting off foes as you do so.
The game that I’ll definitely be checking out is Journey on the Other Side, a classic adventure RPG, boasting beautiful pixel-art graphics.
Developed by Otherworldly Games, this one sees you star as “an ordinary guy” who “is transported to a strange world of monsters, puzzles, and unlikely allies”.
“Unravel prophecies, face the demon of chaos, and shape the fate of this mysterious realm through your choices. Will you save it or doom it?” the synopsis teases.
Last but not least, there’s Noga which I’d describe as Fallout meets Mass Effect.
If you haven’t guessed, you’ll be facing off against aliens and their spaceships in a post-apocalyptic wasteland.
Developed by Ilan Manor, this one’s a single-player, first-person game where you’ll assume the role of a sole survivor following an attack on a military outpost.
Your goal is simple: save yourself.
All of the aforementioned demos are available to try for free right now.