We already published the list of best original Xbox games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best original Xbox action RPGs of all time.
With amazing titles available, the original Xbox definitely has a great library of action RPGs.
So, if you’re a fan of both the original Xbox and action RPGs, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#10. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
- Release Data: Stormfront Studios/Electronic Arts, 2002
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
In the end, The Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers is a traditional action RPG with a terrific gameplay system that encourages you to battle it out like there’s no tomorrow.
Fans of the films will definitely want to pick this one up, but those who enjoy action RPGs will also find a lot to like about it.
#9. X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse
- Release Data: Raven Software/Activision, 2005
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Overall, X-Men Legends II is a definite step up from its predecessor.
It doesn’t do anything new or groundbreaking in terms of gameplay mechanics, but the cast of characters and the story are more than enough to make it worth playing.
Even if you’ve already played the first game to death, you’ll have a lot of fun with X-Men Legends II.
#8. Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II
- Release Data: Sonic Team/Sega, 2003
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
If you’ve already played through the GameCube version, there really is no reason to play through the Xbox version.
However, if you’re completely new to the Phantasy Star Online experience, then you’ll find an incredibly addictive game that will keep you glued to the TV for hours on end.
#7. Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance
- Release Data: Snowblind Studios/Interplay, 2002
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance for the Xbox is essentially a perfect port of one of the 2001 surprise hits.
And if you overlooked Dark Alliance, then you shouldn’t miss this opportunity to get what’s easily one of the finest action RPGs ever made.
#6. Marvel: Ultimate Alliance
- Release Data: Raven Software/Activision, 2006
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Beyond being a well-made and accessible action RPG, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance captures the essence of the Marvel Universe, an incredible feat considering the breadth of the source material.
This is simply a must-have for Marvel fans, though the action itself remains satisfying enough for those in search of a good dungeon crawler to enjoy.
#5. X-Men Legends
- Release Data: Raven Software/Activision, 2004
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Overall, X-Men Legends does a good job with the comic license, so fans will probably enjoy the game’s attention to detail.
It also does a good job with the standard action RPG formula that was popularized by games like Dark Alliance.
But most importantly, it’s an entertaining game with a story that you’ll want to see through to its conclusion.
#4. Fable: The Lost Chapters
- Release Data: Lionhead Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 2005
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Fable: The Lost Chapters is an imaginative game that’s got enough remarkable, unique moments in it to make it shine.
Regardless of how much time you ultimately spend playing Fable, you’re not likely to forget the experience for a long while.
#3. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
- Release Data: EA Redwood Shores/EA Games, 2003
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King features fast-paced, cinematic action with plenty of pick-up-and-play appeal.
On its own merits, it’s not a particularly lengthy or complex game, however, it’s a great experience while it lasts, and the Lord of the Rings fans will want to hold on to this one for posterity.
#2. Fable
- Release Data: Big Blue Box/Microsoft Game Studios, 2004
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
Fable is an imaginative game that’s got enough remarkable, unique moments in it to make it shine.
That many of these moments happen to be good for a laugh is all the better.
Regardless of how much time you ultimately spend playing Fable, you’re not likely to forget the experience for a long while.
#1. Jade Empire
- Release Data: BioWare/Microsoft Game Studios, 2005
- Genre: Role-Playing » Action RPG
You’ll probably enjoy Jade Empire a great deal if you approach it with reasonable expectations.
In short, if the setting of Jade Empire appeals to you, along with the promise of a good storyline and some open-ended role playing, then you’ll be more than satisfied with this game.
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See also: Best Gaming Chairs & Best Xbox 360 Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which original Xbox action RPG is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!