The Best GameCube RPGs of All Time, Ranked by Fans

A swashbuckling world full of sky pirates and floating islands awaits in Skies of Arcadia, a thrilling RPG where players take on the role of Vyse, a young pirate with limitless dreams and ambitions. Featuring a captivating story, driven by colorful characters and fascinating lore, it quickly became a beloved classic among fans of the genre. What truly sets this game apart is its unique turn-based combat system that incorporates strategic ship battles, pitting your crew against rival pirates and undiscovered foes. With hours of gameplay filled with exploration, customization, and heart-pounding adventure, Skies of Arcadia remains an unforgettable journey through the clouds.

Tactical gameplay and emotionally-charged storytelling come together in Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, a standout title within the deeply respected series. In this immersive adventure, players assume the role of Ike, a member of a mercenary group who becomes swept up in a war between nations and ancient deities. One of the key features of the game is its deep tactical combat, which requires careful consideration and planning to overcome challenging enemies. Additionally, the "permadeath" mechanic adds a layer of intensity, as fallen comrades are permanently lost, making decisions and strategy all the more crucial.

Delivering a memorable tale centered around two parallel worlds, Tales of Symphonia earns its praise as one of the best RPGs on the GameCube. You'll step into the shoes of Lloyd Irving, who along with his friends is tasked with saving their dying world from destruction. What makes this title stand out is its incredible real-time 3D battle system, which combines elements of both action and strategy, creating fast-paced and exhilarating combat encounters. Its engaging storyline, stellar voice acting, and unforgettable cast of characters make Tales of Symphonia an essential addition to any RPG fan's collection.

Venture into a lush world of floating continents in Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean, an inventive RPG with a one-of-a-kind card-based battle system. Players guide Kalas, a young man with a mysterious past and a guardian spirit, as they explore a beautifully rendered world filled with wonder and danger. What truly sets this game apart is its Magnus card system, which allows for an unprecedented level of customization and depth in strategic combat. As you progress through the game, collecting and combining cards can reveal new abilities, skills, and spells, leading to a deeply satisfying and rewarding experience.

With its charming visuals, whimsical story, and engaging battles, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door stands out as a unique and delightful RPG experience. Players control the iconic Mario as he sets out to rescue Princess Peach and uncover the mystery behind the legendary Thousand-Year Door. Featuring a robust lineup of partners, each with their own unique abilities, and a turn-based combat system that incorporates timed button presses for an added layer of engagement, this title offers a fresh and addictive take on the RPG formula. From its captivating plot to its vibrant art style, The Thousand-Year Door is an unforgettable journey through a paper-crafted world.

A prequel to the beloved first entry, Baten Kaitos Origins pulls players back into its enchanting world while delivering an even deeper dive into its rich narrative and card-based gameplay. Join Sagi, a skilled Spiriter, and his colorful allies as they embark on a journey that explores the origins of the first game's events. The improved combat system takes the innovative Magnus card mechanics of its predecessor and streamlines them, making for more intuitive and dynamic battles. With its enchanting story, vivid world, and complex characters, Baten Kaitos Origins is a must-play for fans of the series and RPG enthusiasts alike.