When it comes to role-playing games, few studios carry the legendary weight of Bethesda. Their open worlds have become playgrounds for countless adventurers, wanderers, and would-be galactic explorers. But in the vast vault of Bethesda’s RPGs, three titles have risen to iconic status: "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim", "Fallout: New Vegas", and "Starfield". Each offers a vastly different experience, but they all share one thing—complete freedom to craft your own story. Let’s dive into why these games stand as the very best that Bethesda’s RPG universe has to offer.
"The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – The Legend That Won’t Die"
Release Year: 2011 | Setting: Fantasy, Tamriel
Even over a decade later, "Skyrim" is still making headlines—and memes. As the Dragonborn, you’re thrust into a snow-covered world full of ancient ruins, shouting dragons, and political turmoil. But what truly makes "Skyrim" unforgettable is how it lets you "become" whoever you want.
Want to be a stealthy vampire assassin who communes with Daedric Princes? Go for it. Prefer shouting people off cliffs with the power of your voice while collecting cheese wheels? You’re not alone.
What makes "Skyrim" legendary isn’t just the story—it’s the world that reacts to your choices, the endless modding support, and the sheer sense of wonder every time you discover a new cave, dungeon, or shouting wall. It’s the kind of game you can play for 300 hours and still find something new.
"Fallout: New Vegas – The Cult Classic with Teeth"
Release Year: 2010 | Setting: Post-apocalyptic Mojave Wasteland
Developed by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Bethesda, "Fallout: New Vegas" is the scrappy underdog that outshined its big-budget siblings. Set in the radioactive ruins of a divided Nevada, you play a courier left for dead who quickly gets tangled in a power struggle between Caesar’s Legion, the New California Republic, and the enigmatic Mr. House.
What sets "New Vegas" apart is player choice. It’s not just about choosing between good or evil—it's about navigating shades of gray, manipulating factions, and shaping the future of the Mojave. Want to ally with the NCR? Betray everyone and claim Vegas for yourself? Or blow the whole thing up? All valid options.
With sharp writing, memorable characters (hello, Yes Man), and some of the most complex RPG mechanics Bethesda has ever published, "New Vegas" has become a fan favorite—and arguably the smartest Fallout game ever made.
"Starfield – The New Frontier"
Release Year: 2023 | Setting: Outer Space, 24th Century
Bethesda’s first new universe in 25 years, "Starfield" promised the stars—and delivered a galaxy. Literally. With over 1,000 planets to explore, "Starfield" is the ultimate space RPG. You start as a humble miner and rise to become a legendary explorer as part of the Constellation, humanity’s last group of true spacefarers.
While early reactions were mixed, those who dove deep found a game packed with interstellar intrigue, shipbuilding freedom, base construction, faction wars, and a main questline that quietly delivers some of the most mind-bending sci-fi storytelling in recent memory.
The freedom in "Starfield" isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how you live in this universe. Smuggle contraband between planets? Become a pirate hunter? Build your own fleet? Live as a peaceful explorer cataloging alien wildlife? Yes, yes, yes, and yes.
So, Which One Is the Best?
That depends on what kind of story you want to tell.
- If you crave dragons, magic, and Nordic legends, "Skyrim" still reigns supreme.
- If you want deep choice, sharp writing, and radioactive cowboy vibes, "New Vegas" is your wasteland playground.
- And if your dreams lie among the stars, "Starfield" is your spaceship to the unknown.
Each of these RPGs represents a different era of Bethesda’s evolution—and each is a masterclass in giving players the tools to forge unforgettable adventures.
One studio. Three worlds. Endless stories.
Which Bethesda world will you return to tonight?
