Playing as a human is the default in most RPGs, but some titles stand out by letting players embody beings entirely outside human norms. Here are seven RPGs where you play as a non-human protagonist, each offering distinct gameplay and narrative depth.
1. Biomutant
In Biomutant, players control a customizable anthropomorphic creature in a post-apocalyptic world populated by mutated animals. The character’s stats, abilities, and appearance are shaped through mutation-based upgrades and moral choices, emphasizing both combat and exploration from a clearly non-human perspective.
2. Mass Effect Series (Custom Alien Origins via Multiplayer and DLC)
While the main campaign centers around Commander Shepard, Mass Effect offers opportunities to play as various alien races in its multiplayer modes and additional content. Stepping into the role of Turians, Krogans, or Asari changes both combat dynamics and character interactions, offering a gameplay shift away from human-centric storytelling.
3. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight features a silent, insectoid protagonist exploring the ruined kingdom of Hallownest. Despite its minimalist approach, the game’s RPG elements—upgradable skills, exploration, and branching paths—are tightly woven into its non-human character design, reinforcing its atmospheric worldbuilding.
4. NieR: Automata
NieR: Automata’s android protagonists—2B, 9S, and A2—are artificial beings fighting in a war between machines and remnants of humanity. Their story delves into themes of consciousness and existential purpose, using RPG systems like skill upgrades and branching quests to deepen the experience of playing as non-human entities.
5. World of Warcraft
World of Warcraft is a classic example where non-human races dominate player choice. Orcs, Night Elves, Tauren, Draenei, and others bring unique abilities, storylines, and cultural backgrounds. This racial variety is core to the game’s enduring appeal and diversity in gameplay styles.
6. Planescape: Torment
In Planescape: Torment, players assume the role of The Nameless One—an immortal being with a shifting identity and form. His non-human nature is central to the game’s narrative and mechanics, exploring philosophical questions about life, memory, and the soul through its RPG systems.
7. Shadowrun: Dragonfall
Set in a cyberpunk-fantasy world, Shadowrun: Dragonfall allows players to create metahuman characters such as Elves, Dwarves, Trolls, or Orks. Each race impacts gameplay stats, skills, and story dialogue, creating varied RPG experiences that go beyond traditional human-centric narratives.
These games highlight how embodying non-human characters can enhance both gameplay and storytelling in RPGs, offering perspectives and challenges that human protagonists simply wouldn’t provide.