Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about role-playing games of the 2000s, part 2.
What time period and games does 'RPGs of the 2000s, Part 2' cover?
This section focuses on role-playing games released roughly between 2005 and 2009, picking up where Part 1 (which handles 2000–2004) leaves off. It spans Western CRPGs like Fallout 3 and Dragon Age: Origins alongside Japanese titles such as Persona 4 and Final Fantasy XII.
Which studios are most central to this era of RPGs?
BioWare, Bethesda Game Studios, and CD Projekt Red stand out on the Western side, while Square Enix, Atlus, and Level-5 dominated the Japanese market. Each of these studios shipped at least one title that became a defining entry in the genre during these years.
Where should a newcomer begin if they want to explore these games?
A good entry point is Fallout 3 for open-world Western RPGs or Persona 4 for a more structured, story-driven Japanese experience. Both are widely available on modern platforms and require no prior knowledge of the series to enjoy.
What made Dragon Age: Origins (2009) a landmark title?
It blended party-based tactical combat with a deeply branching narrative where player choices reshaped the world and character relationships. Its critical and commercial success helped cement BioWare's reputation as a leader in the modern Western RPG space.
How did The Witcher (2007) differ from typical RPGs of its time?
Set in a Slavic-fantasy world, it leaned heavily on moral ambiguity and a reactive dialogue system rather than straightforward good-versus-evil choices. It also served as the first entry in a trilogy that would later expand into a major franchise.
What role did the PS2-to-PSP transition play in this period?
The PSP brought portable RPGs like Disgaea 2 and Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions to a handheld audience that previously had fewer options. This expanded the genre's reach beyond living-room consoles and PC.
Why is the 2005–2009 window often called a 'golden age' for RPGs?
The period saw an unprecedented concentration of critically acclaimed titles across multiple platforms and subgenres within just five years. Studios were experimenting boldly with mechanics—open worlds, tactical battles, social-sim elements—while still delivering tight, story-first experiences.
What are some of the most frequently discussed characters from this era?
The Warden from Dragon Age: Origins and the customizable Vault Dweller of Fallout 3 are common Western references, while Yusuke Kitagawa (Persona 4) and Vaan (Final Fantasy XII) are fan favorites on the Japanese side. These characters are often cited in community discussions about writing, design, and emotional impact.
How does Part 2 relate to Part 1 of this encyclopedia?
Part 1 covers the 2000–2004 window and titles like Baldur's Gate, Neverwinter Nights, and Final Fantasy X, while Part 2 handles 2005–2009. Together they form a complete survey of the decade, with Part 2 showing how the genre evolved toward more open, choice-driven designs.
Are all the games in Part 2 still available to play today?
Most major titles have been re-released on modern consoles, PC, or digital storefronts, though a handful of niche or region-locked releases remain difficult to find. Emulation and community preservation efforts have also kept many older or discontinued versions accessible.