The Critical Points of RPG Choice
RPGs (Role-Playing Games) are probably the most complex when it comes to finding a game that suits you. We have come a long way since the basic "Go save the princess" idea. Before I start, however, I must state I will not be offering possible game choices, as I will leave that up to you to decide for yourself. Also, this will focus heavily on console RPG points, as I am not as familiar with computer RPGs.
One of the key points to many modern day RPGs is the story. There is not only a main story, but a side story, a side story within a side story, etc. Do you want a game that focuses heavily on the story and less on the battle aspects? Or would you prefer a game that is battle after battle with no real focus on the story? Keep in mind that in a game with a large story-based focus, many times you will be contained to a certain area until you have moved the story along.
That is another point that you need to consider: Freedom. Do you want a rigid linear game, where the game pretty much directs you where to go and only allows you to go there? Are you willing to waste hours upon hours searching around a completely free world where you can go anywhere you feel like before furthering the story? In games where you are free, you could very well end up spending a majority of the game wandering the world map and stumbling through dungeons that you can't even finish yet, but in a linear RPG it is usually shorter than the freebased RPG style and much shorter.
Another critical point: Game length. An RPG that you can blaze through in a weekend will most likely not be as in depth as one that takes upwards of thirty hours. It comes down to if you want to just have a game to blaze through because you're bored, or if you want a game that will take anywhere from a week straight to months on end. While a short game isn't necessarily bad, in the RPG genre short games are usually not as well done as the longer ones.
But what plays into that time factor? Sidequests. Sidequests can make or break many RPGs. Some games go overboard when it comes to sidequests and this hurts the main storyline, while others have little to no sidequests which can end in a well developed main story, but little else in the game. Also, more sidequests usually can lead to a longer gaming experience, and make it more worth the money you put into getting the game. Is it more important to have a fantastic main storyline with little else? Or would you rather have a lackluster performance by the main story, but sidequests that more than make up for it?
Regardless of whether it is freebased or linear, long or short, good or bad, one of the main things you can expect in an RPG is battles. This also plays an important role in your decision. There are many different battle systems out there, and it's important to find one that works for you. Battle systems are, basically, how battles take place: turn based, real time, full scale wars, one-on-one battles, controlling one character, or controlling the entire team. All of these are important when you decide on your game of choice. Are you willing to sit and wait, choosing all your moves before the battle starts, or would you rather be able to move your characters around and risk an enemy striking you while you try and give commands? Do you want the AI to take care of all the characters but yours, or would you rather give commands to each of your party members? There are an infinite number of combinations to form a battle system, and it is important to find one that you enjoy.
None of the topics above are set in stone. Just because a game has few sidequests doesn't mean it's short. Just because a game is linear doesn't mean you will feel controlled the entire time. Just because a game is long doesn't mean it is good. These points can be combined in a variety of ways, forming a truly unique experience with each RPG you play. Go out and explore multiple titles, and find which style you enjoy the most.