A comprehensive survey has unveiled gamers' selections for the most emotionally devastating role-playing games in history, with Square Enix's Final Fantasy series predictably leading the pack when it comes to tear-inducing narratives. While tragic stories exist across all gaming genres, RPGs' emphasis on deep storytelling creates perfect conditions for developers to craft profoundly moving experiences that linger with players long after the credits roll.

The poll, conducted by Japanese gaming site Dengeki Faminico Gamer, collected over 4,700 responses and featured more than 40 different titles. What emerges is a fascinating look at how players value emotional depth in their gaming experiences, with certain stories continuing to resonate decades after their initial release.

The 10 Most Emotionally Powerful RPGs According to Players

1. Final Fantasy 10 (498 votes)
2. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7 (289 votes)
3. Persona 3 (245 votes)
4. Okami (211 votes)
5. Mother 3 (208 votes)
6. Tales of the Abyss (207 votes)
7. Dragon Quest 11 (164 votes)
8. Final Fantasy 9 (161 votes)
9. Suikoden 2 (158 votes)
10. Final Fantasy 15 (154 votes)

Final Fantasy 10 claimed the top position with an impressive 10% of total votes. The game's poignant narrative follows Tidus as he navigates a tender romance with summoner Yuna while confronting his complex relationship with his father, who happens to be the incarnation of the world's greatest threat. This emotional journey continues to affect players more than two decades after its 2001 debut.

The Final Fantasy franchise's dominance is undeniable, with four titles in the top 10 and five more appearing in the extended rankings. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7 secured second place with its tragic tale of Zack Fair, while Final Fantasy 9 and 15 rounded out the franchise's presence in the upper echelon.

Non-Final Fantasy titles also made strong showings, with Persona 3 claiming third place. The game's emotional weight comes from its mature themes and unforgettable ending that continues to affect players, especially with the recent release of Persona 3 Reload. Other notable entries include the underrated Mother 3, the philosophical Tales of the Abyss, and the epic Dragon Quest 11.

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