10 Best Games That Utilize the d20 System

Video games are as diverse as the individuals who play them. While many games focus on skill to determine what will happen during gameplay, some also incorporate luck as a means to influence the outcome of the game.

There are few better ways to incorporate luck as a game mechanic than through the act of rolling dice. As an integral part of the tabletop gaming community, dice provide the perfect means to introduce an element of chance into any game. Popularized by games like Dungeons & Dragons, the 20-sided die, or d20, has become an indispensable component in games everywhere. However, among the games that utilize d20s, which ones offer the most exceptional player experience?

10 Temple Of Elemental Evil

If you are a fan of older D&D adventures and CRPGs, you might find "The Temple of Elemental Evil" intriguing.

The game is based on the D&D 3.5 ruleset, which is known for its extensive set of rules but surprisingly works well within this CRPG environment. While it may be slightly more demanding than your average role-playing game in terms of familiarizing yourself with it, you will be rewarded with a fantastic and unique adventure if you take the time to read the manual, which spans a proud 175 pages.

9 Low Magic Age

For those seeking a more strategic blend of skill and luck, "Low Magic Age" is a game that should appear on your radar.

It boasts simplified graphics that strongly evoke early CRPGs. Where the game shines is in its straightforward approach to exploration and turn-based combat. Once one immerses themselves in the game and its world, it can be a true delight. However, for new players, it may take some time to determine if it aligns with their taste.

8 Knights Of The Chalice 2

There are numerous enjoyable ways to experience CRPGs, and while the suspense of a dice roll can be daunting, it is even more daunting to miss out on games like "Knights of the Chalice 2."

Assemble your own group of adventurers and embark on a quest that reveals to you a world full of wonders and excitement, along with a few monsters along the way. It is based on the 3.5 D&D rules and does so quite effectively. It may not be as smooth as many other similar games, but it is also not rough enough to be avoided.

7 Pool Of Radiance

If you wish to take an affectionate look at the beginnings of CRPGs and their use of d20s in this genre, few games will provide as much enjoyment as "Pool of Radiance."

It is a classic text-based game, but with the cutting-edge graphics of the 90s, showcasing the world from your adventurer's perspective on a small screen. As you immerse yourself in this fantasy realm, luck and skill merge in a way that either leads you to emerge as a champion of the realms or forces you to start anew.

6 Pathfinder: Kingmaker

Another prominent name in the world of tabletop fantasy role-playing games is Pathfinder. Therefore, it is understandable that the series found success with Pathfinder: Kingmaker by bridging the gap between tabletop and video games.

If you're in the mood for a fantasy CRPG with a d20 foundation that feels classic yet surprisingly modern, this game might be just right for you. Form a group and embark on an unforgettable fantasy adventure in the Pathfinder universe. Just hope that luck is on your side as you face off against both large and small monsters.

5 Planescape Torment

"Planescape: Torment" is a classic fantasy role-playing game, and even when looking back on it today, it is easy to see why.

Set in the world of the Planescape setting of D&D, the adventure in this game is dark and often perilous, which is further intensified by the addition of dice roll luck. It plays like a blend of a solid, grim D&D campaign and a classic CRPG from the 90s. If you have the desire to delve into something older, you should give it a try.

4 Neverwinter Nights

A game based on many of the early D&D tabletop adventures, Neverwinter Nights is a cult classic that has captivated numerous people over the years.

In true D&D fashion, all elements, from attack rolls to saving throws, require a dice roll. One might think this could be cumbersome and may not provide the desired player experience for some, but for the most part, it feels natural. It seamlessly integrates with the overall feel of the tabletop game and the rich fantasy world of the game, but one would also expect nothing less from a game that brought D&D to the screen.

3 Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic

Every RPG fan has heard of or likely has fond memories of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. One doesn't have to be a Star Wars fan to want to immerse themselves in this classic space adventure.

It is among the most well-received and highly rated Star Wars games, and for good reason. The d20 rolls may not be visible at the start of the game, but they definitely influence your experience in the game, whether it's negotiating your way out of a predicament or showcasing your Jedi abilities.

2 Disco Elysium

A game that feels so different from all the others. Disco Elysium is a seemingly simple story about a detective suffering from a rather peculiar form of amnesia.

The addition of a d20 system driven by various skill checks means that no two playthroughs are the same. It unfolds a story full of twists, surprises, and disappointments as your own decisions and luck blend into an unforgettable adventure. It's one of those games where you can't imagine it being made any other way.

1 Baldur's Gate 3

Baldur's Gate is a big name in the world of merging D&D and video games, so it's no wonder that these games make such good use of the d20 system.

Baldur's Gate 3 is the result of many different tabletop role-playing and video game mechanics seamlessly coming together. The thrill of watching the dice and waiting for the outcome is an exciting experience that enhances the game rather than detracting or distracting from it. If you're looking for a game with the d20 system, this is the right choice.