Looking for an RPG that lets you create a unique character, dive deep into creative melee builds, and doesn’t make you rely on an internet connection? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re tired of Souls-likes or just want something fresh to sink your time into, these games focus on strong melee combat, build diversity, and offer worlds worth exploring.

What Makes Great Combat in an RPG?

Before diving into the list, let’s clarify the criteria:

Melee-focused combat: You want swords, axes, fists—real close-quarters power.

Offline-friendly: No MMO grind or forced co-op.

Build variety: Want to be a tank, a stealthy duelist, or a brutal berserker? Options matter.

Immersive world: Preferably open world or at least highly explorable.

Character creation: It’s a plus if you can shape your own hero.

Let’s get into the top RPGs that check most of these boxes.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance

This is the gold standard for melee realism in RPGs. The 1v1 duels feel like actual sword fights, with stamina management, directional attacks, and timing being key. When you’re surrounded, fights get chaotic and tense—but never unfair.

Why it’s great: Deep, challenging combat that rewards patience and learning.

Build options: Play a heavy knight, sneaky hunter, expert swordsman, or even a merchant with surprising sword skills.

What to expect: No character creator, but loads of role-playing freedom and a richly detailed historical setting.

Nioh 2

This one leans more toward the action side but delivers some of the best melee combat ever seen in an RPG. With deep mechanics, varied weapon types, and extensive character creation, Nioh 2 is a melee fan’s dream.

Why it’s great: Incredibly responsive, stylish melee with lots of layers (stances, ki pulses, yokai abilities).

Build diversity: Through the roof. Magic, ninja, samurai, brute—you name it.

Consider this: It’s level-based, not open world. But there’s so much content and replayability it won’t matter.

Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen (and Dragon’s Dogma 2)

Dragon’s Dogma shines in real-time melee combat with big enemies and unique vocation systems. The pawn system adds extra flavor without requiring online play.

Why it’s great: Climbing giants, launching enemies into the air, and experimenting with dozens of builds.

Build options: Switch vocations like Fighter, Warrior, Assassin, Mystic Knight—each with their own unique playstyles.

The vibe: Classic western fantasy with a fast-paced combat twist.

Cyberpunk 2077 (Melee Build)

While it’s known for guns and cyberware, the melee builds in Cyberpunk 2077 are surprisingly fun and fleshed out—especially with recent updates.

Why it’s great: You can go full katana ninja, cyber-enhanced brawler, or blade-slinging assassin.

Build options: Mix street brawling with tech perks and cyberware for creative setups.

Heads up: Not a traditional fantasy RPG, and not quite open world in the exploration sense—but very immersive.

Monster Hunter: World / Rise

If you’re into boss-style fights and don’t mind mission-based structure, Monster Hunter games deliver weighty melee combat with a huge variety of weapons.

Why it’s great: Every weapon plays completely differently, and mastering one is a satisfying journey.

Solo-friendly: Despite its online features, you can easily play solo.

What you get: Less story, more combat-focused grind with tons of gear and monsters.

Honorable Mentions for Best RPG Combat System

God of War (2018 / Ragnarok)

Though more linear, the melee combat is excellent. If it ever drops on PC (for Ragnarok), it’s worth it.

Ghost of Tsushima (if it hits PC)

Excellent swordplay, duels, and stealth. Combat is stylish and satisfying.

Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla / Odyssey

A bit bloated, but the combat and build systems can scratch that RPG itch if you’re craving something melee-heavy and open world.

The Witcher 3

Not everyone’s cup of tea combat-wise, but it does offer a big world, strong story, and solid melee once you adapt.

RPG Combat Systems Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a PC RPG with strong melee combat, offline play, deep build options, and a world you can really live in—start with Kingdom Come: Deliverance or Nioh 2. If you’ve already played Elden Ring to death and Skyrim feels stale, these titles offer something fresh but familiar.

Whether you want realism, fast-paced action, or big monster battles, there’s an RPG out there that’ll hit just right. Happy adventuring!