Character progression is one of the most enduring aspects of RPG design, shaping how players grow stronger and express their playstyles. Early RPGs relied on simple situs toto leveling systems inspired by tabletop rules, where characters gained experience to increase stats and unlock new abilities.
As games evolved, developers experimented with more diverse progression models. Final Fantasy VI introduced the Esper system, allowing players to customize magic growth. Chrono Cross used star-level progression, shifting away from traditional XP-based growth.
Western RPGs embraced skill-based progression early on. The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall allowed players to create custom classes and improve skills through use—an organic system refined further in Morrowind and Skyrim. Meanwhile, Fallout introduced perks and SPECIAL attributes, shaping characters through meaningful choices at each level.
The rise of action RPGs popularized branching skill trees. Diablo II set standards with class-specific trees offering specialization paths. Later games, such as Path of Exile, expanded this concept into sprawling passive skill webs, offering near-limitless customization.
MMORPGs added progression designed around long-term play, including talent trees, professions, and prestige systems. Seasonal models in live-service games reintroduced resets, encouraging experimentation with new builds.
Today, many RPGs embrace hybrid models, blending freedom with structure. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Horizon Zero Dawn use perk systems that enhance both combat and exploration. The evolution of progression systems highlights the genre’s ongoing pursuit of player agency and personalization.
