Turn-based RPGs have come a long way over the years. While older games helped establish many of the genre's defining mechanics, not every experiment has aged particularly well. Some classics are still enjoyable because of their memorable worlds, satisfying combat, and rewarding progression, but others can be surprisingly difficult to revisit.

Whether it's an overwhelming encounter rate, confusing progression systems, or interfaces that make even simple tasks unnecessarily complicated, certain RPGs demand far more patience than most modern players are willing to give. The games on this list represent some of the rougher experiences in turn-based RPG history. I'm not suggesting that every game here is completely without merit.

Several have interesting ideas and ambitious mechanics that were worth experimenting with at the time. However, their frustrating design decisions often overshadow their better qualities. From obscure Japanese RPGs to unforgiving Western dungeon crawlers, these are eight of the most difficult turn-based RPGs to recommend playing today.

These Nintendo Entertainment System games are fantastic within their historical context, but they aren't particularly playable today.

Paladin's Quest is an interesting example of an RPG that tries something different with its magic system. Rather than relying on a conventional supply of magic points, its spellcasting mechanics come with costs that make players think carefully about how frequently they use their abilities. It's an unusual idea, and it gives the game a distinctive identity compared to other SNES-era RPGs.

Unfortunately, the surrounding mechanics can make the experience considerably less enjoyable. Frequent random encounters interrupt exploration, while the game's demanding resource management can make progression feel like an uphill battle.

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