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Top 5 Upcoming RPGs Of April 2023 (Honkai Star Rail, Everspace 2 and More!)

Welcome to the Top 5 Upcoming RPGs of April 2023! In this series, we highlight the Top 5 RPGs for the upcoming month. In this edition, we’re going to take a look at each of the titles, talk a little about each, and then explain why we think they deserve to be on the list. So join me now and find a mixture of some hidden gems and old favorites given a shiny new coat of paint.

Top 5 Upcoming RPGs Of April 2023

Last month we had some unforgiving souls-likes and a mix of JRPG influences. Our March top spot went to Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty which pitted players against Chinese fantasy-inspired foes, with a number of characters based on the Three Kingdoms. This month we’ll be heading to space, taking on some metroidvania exploration, fighting some turn-based battles and honing our skills in action combat.  Without further ado, let’s get into the month of April 2023!

Honourable Mention: Everspace 2

Release Date: April 6th
Platform: PC
Developer: Rockfish Games
Publisher: Rockfish Games

The single-player spaceship shooter Everspace 2 has been in early access for two years, but the space adventure will finally be leaving early access this month. The game follows an emotional journey of an immortal clone space pilot aptly named “Adam”, whose death has final consequences. Adam will team up with other characters as they explore the precarious planets across the DMZ.

Puzzles and navigating your way through different faction encounters are all part of the game. The title mixes RPG elements with a fast-paced single-player spaceship shooter. It offers exploration through the depths of space, in search of loot and mystery. Customise your ship, craft and take part in thrilling dogfights. Its RPG styled leveling system, campaign and side missions mean there’s a lot to do.

The game’s early access reviews on Steam seem to be on the rather positive side, gaining 89% in positive scores from over 5000 reviewers. But the game has more content upon full launch. The devs have shared that another star system, companion, trading map, new boss fights, further customisation options, polished cinematics and more enemies are underway. They even encourage you to start a new playthrough so you don’t miss anything. The Early Access version of the game currently holds 35 hours of content, with all the core mechanics of the game targeted for the final version.

Everspace 2 is currently available on early access on PC via Microsoft Store, GOG and Steam. The game will leave early access on April 6th.

5. The Mageseeker: The League of Legends Story

Release Date: April 18th
Platform: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, Xbox One & Switch
Developer: Digital Suns
Publisher: Riot Forge

Set in the League of Legends universe, The Mageseeker focuses on the turmoil of the Great City of Demacia. Those put in place to help control the use of magic in the kingdom known as Mageseekers have begun to abuse their status. An ex-Mageseeker known as Sylas has rebelled against the order but can balance be brought back to Demacia? First, he must escape the clutches of the oppressive Mageseekers and go on the quest for justice.

The game is in a 2D pixel art style with top-down action combat, reminiscent of the developer Digital Suns’ indie RPG Moonlighter. The main character Sylas uses speed, and ferocity as well as the use of both light and heavy melee attacks to fight. Using magic both elemental and arcane on the battlefield. Armed with the very shackles he was placed in, he can even steal enemies’ magic with his chains and throw it right back at them.

But bringing down the system isn’t easily done alone. Sylas will try to recruit others to join the cause and strengthen his base of operations. This will in turn unlock new powerful abilities. If you’re wondering whether you will see other characters from the League of Legends universe, Morgana, Lux, Shavana and Garen are teased to appear.

The Mageseeker will be released on April 18th for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Xbox One, and Switch.

4. Afterimage

Release Date: April 25th
Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series & Switch.
Developer: Aurogon Shanghai
Publisher: Modus Games

Now for a blend of RPG, with metroidvania 2D action. Afterimage is a 2D platformer which follows the struggles of the fantasy land Engardin. Its vast biomes include volcanoes, lush forests and expansive seas. But its tranquil setting is upset by an unexplainable, cataclysmic event that shook the world known as “The Razing”. This wiped out the human race, leaving terrible creatures, rabid beasts and corrupted beings. Following Renee, a brave soul willing to fight through the darkness our journey begins.

Its non-linear exploration promises the discovery of 15 different areas all in a hand-drawn artstyle. These biomes have tons to explore with their own secrets to unlock. While the land is perilous, Renee will meet some friendly faces along the way including a merry group of chefs, willing to lend Renee a hand in exchange for helping to unearth legendary recipes.

The main character can use two main weapons and one sub-weapon at a time. Each weapon grants different attack abilities, while sub-weapons can grant combat buffs or other minor perks. There is also a range of upgradeable spells to customise Renee’s combat. Instead of a more traditional leveling system players will need to defeat enemies to gain skill points, or by completing the bestiary. Afterimage offers not only sliding and leaping but also ways to climb your way through complex environments.

Afterimage will be released on April 25th for PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series and Nintendo Switch.

3. Stray Blade

Release Date: April 20th
Platform: PC
Developer: Point Blank Games
Publisher: 505 Games

A forgotten world filled with memories of a once magical civilization the Lost Valley of Acrea is once again discovered by a rogue adventurer. It’s been several decades since this wanderer is brought back to life under mysterious circumstances, only to realise they are not free to leave. The goal is to uncover the secrets of this strange place.

The game’s unique changing world will have adventurers challenged at every corner, and also leaving their own mark on the world. Going up against the God-Kings will pit players in more dangerous battles. The bigger the victory the greater the reward. Stray Blade uses what the devs describe as a hyper-responsive combat system. Armed with a range of weapons that can be crafted if needed, players will explore the fantasy landscape and return it to its former glory.

No adventure is complete without a trusty sidekick and yours in Stray Blade will be Boji. This little companion will assist you with its own individual talent trees. As you progress Boji will unlock more crafting options and will discover pieces of ancient lore. Craft powerful weapons and armor to go head-to-head against roaming hostile ravagers. Character progression relies on enhancing your weapons and unlocking skills.

Stray Blade will be released on April 20th for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series.

2. Trinity Trigger

Release Date: April 25th
Platform: PC, PS4 & PS5
Developer: Three Rings
Publisher: XSEED Games

Trinity Trigger is a fast-paced title inspired by 90s RPGs but with modern combat in mind. It follows a trio of characters who are attempting to save the continent of Trinitia. A place that has fallen prey to the conflict between the Gods of Order, and the Gods of Chaos. This has come close to destroying the mortal realm. Powerful weapons known as Arma now lay scattered. The Gods ended up choosing a warrior to fight in their place.

But they are not alone in their endeavours as they are aided by mysterious creatures called Triggers. These can be manipulated into eight varieties of weapons which players will need to learn to wield, in order for them to succeed. The title combines the iconic feel of classic RPGs with fast-paced battles and fully customisable combat. Take on the world alone or try local co-op to explore the unique biomes, dungeons and puzzle solving. Weapons which can be switched on the fly, making for some dynamic action.

The dev team behind the game have worked on titles such as Secret of Mana, Octopath Traveler and the Xenoblade series. If you like a title that is a throwback to OG RPGs but with a modern twist, then this one’s for you.

Trinity Trigger will be released on April 25th for PC, Playstation 4 and Playstation 5.

1. Honkai Star Rail

Release Date: April 23rd
Platform: PC, iOS & Android (consoles TBA)
Developer: HoYoverse
Publisher: HoYoverse

Get ready to travel into space aboard the flying express train in Honkai: Star Rail. The follow-up title to Hoyoverse’s successful online Action-RPG Genshin Impact, Star Rail is the next title to be released. The game has already gathered quite some interest, gaining over 2 million in sign-ups before the title has even launched. Honkai Star Rail is a new addition to the Honkai universe, taking place in an alternate universe from Honkai Impact 3rd. The game follows the journey of a Trailblazer aboard the Astral Express in a sci-fi open world. While players will encounter some familiar faces from the previous title, they are alternate versions of characters.

Honkai: Star Rail uses turn-based combat rather than action-orientated battles. Players will explore an open world and collect different characters to boost their roster. Each character features their own abilities, with Basic Attack, Skill Attack and an Ultimate as well as Talents which will be automatically triggered in combat. The Basic Attack will build up Skill Points, which can be spent on Skills. Attacks and skills will build up energy which will go towards the character’s Ultimate which can usually be unleashed in the same turn.

Gaining new characters isn’t necessary to complete the main story, but it may prove useful in more challenging content. As each character has their own special Technique, some may be more compelling than others to summon. Honkai Star Rail holds some similarities with Genshin, between the game’s monetisation method, hybrid PC/mobile platforms and a character collector. It could attract those looking for a mix of open-world exploration and turn-based combat rather than fast-paced battles.

Honkai Star Rail will be released for PC, iOS and Android on April 23rd. While console versions for PS4 and PS5 are set to release at a later date.

That’s a wrap for the Top RPGs of April. Did I miss your favourite April release? What games are you most looking forward to this year? Please let us know in the comments below.


You can also take a look at our most anticipated titles in Top 10 Anticipated RPGs Of 2023.

So, do you want more? If so, you can find more Top RPGs here.

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