By the RPGFan Editorial Team For many of our readers, summer has finally arrived. This season is synonymous with travel—whether it’s a quick weekend excursion to a local beach or a daring trek to a far-flung, exotic locale. But as veteran RPG enthusiasts, we often find ourselves looking at our screens, wondering why our vacation planning should be tethered to the physical world. The genre has gifted us countless picturesque landscapes, from tranquil coastal villages and serene hot springs to gravity-defying floating islands. In the spirit of the season, 18 of our team members—culminating in one of the highest author-count features in our history—have curated a definitive list of 27 RPG locations where we would love to drop our gear, hang up our swords, and truly unwind. Whether these selections evoke a sense of warm nostalgia or inspire you to pick up a title you have yet to play, we invite you to join us on this virtual tour. The Classics: Seaside Charms and Rural Retreats Altamira (Tales of Symphonia) By Neal Chandran Altamira is a quintessential seaside resort town that mirrors the bustling, slightly gaudy charm of the New Jersey Shore. Featuring an elemental rail system and a iconic Ferris wheel, it captures that specific, tourist-heavy energy of a summer boardwalk. While I prefer a quieter pace nowadays, the "shore house" dream remains strong; owning a property here to enjoy with family before eventually selling it as a high-value commodity is the ultimate RPG real estate investment. Arlia (Star Ocean: The Second Story R) By Stephanie Sybydlo City living is often a cycle of noise, pollution, and isolation. Arlia, however, serves as the perfect antidote. As the player character Claude C. Kenny discovers upon his arrival, the air is crisp, the neighbors are generous, and the sky is filled with birds rather than satellites. It is the ultimate nature retreat, perfect for shedding the anxieties of modern urban life. Besaid (Final Fantasy X) By Benjamin McVey For those who usually despise the heat and sand of real-world beaches, Besaid is a revelation. Its water is purer than any perfume commercial, and its iconic piano-driven theme creates an atmosphere of beautiful, lingering melancholy. It is a place where digital bonds are formed, and if I had to spend an eternity anywhere, this tranquil coastline would be my first choice. Doolin (Folklore) By Hagen McMenemy Doolin is less about "what you can do" and more about "how you feel." This coastal village, with its perpetually overcast sky and ambient, unsettling hush, acts as a seam between the living and the dead. Walking its streets creates a sense of déjà vu, turning the location into a permanent mood that lingers long after you’ve put the controller down. Bustling Hubs: Culture and Commerce Budehuc Castle (Suikoden III) By Audra Bowling The Suikoden series is defined by the coming together of disparate cultures, and nowhere is this better realized than Budehuc Castle. Conceived as a free trade zone by Lord Thomas, it serves as a neutral ground where former adversaries unite. It is a vibrant, bustling headquarters that offers everything from commerce to the surreal opportunity to explore as a dog. Chordia (People of Note) By Matt Wardell In the painterly world of Note, Chordia stands out as a pop-metropolis defined by its musical energy. It is a city of perpetual festivals and stadium concerts. With its neon architecture and districts dedicated to 80s synthpop or K-pop, it feels like a dream afterlife for any audiophile. Edith (The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak) By Audra Bowling Edith represents the perfect blend of fantasy and modern convenience. It is a melting pot of Zemurian culture, offering everything from quaint bookstores and theaters to a daring black market. It feels like a "home away from home," where you can discuss orbal technology over a latte while keeping tabs on the local cat hierarchy. Inaba (Persona 4) By Lucy Gray Inaba proves that a location doesn’t need a massive map to be significant. Its limitations—the single main street, the reliance on buses—feel authentic rather than restrictive. The town acts as a character in its own right, mirroring the protagonist’s journey from a stagnant, fog-choked village to a community that eventually learns to embrace the future. Lindblum (Final Fantasy IX) By Rob White Lindblum is a triumph of design, built into a massive hill with towers jutting out toward the sky. It balances urban density with a cozy, traditional aesthetic. While the annual "Festival of the Hunt"—which involves releasing wild monsters into the streets—is a major safety concern, the city’s charm and air-cab transport system make it a premier destination. New LA (Xenoblade Chronicles X) By Stephanie Sybydlo Some criticize the music, but for a high-tech colony stranded on an alien planet, the frantic, high-energy soundtrack is exactly what’s needed. New LA is a shared burden, a sci-fi habitat that manages to feel like home despite the looming threat of alien indigens. It is the perfect blend of Starship Troopers military grit and Star Trek optimism. Idyllic Escapes and Whimsical Worlds Elysia (Tales of Zestiria) By Rob White Elysia is the home of the seraphim, a place defined by its minimal aesthetic, rolling green fields, and bright white houses set high in the sky. It is a place for those who seek solace in nature and want to escape the chaos of the outside world entirely. Excess Express (Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door) By Mario Garcia Who wouldn’t want to travel on a luxury train? Despite the occasional threat of a bomb mystery, the Excess Express offers glamorous cabins, fine dining, and a shifting view of beautiful landscapes. It’s the ultimate way to travel, provided you don’t mind the occasional friendly ghost in the next cabin. Guldove (Chrono Cross) By Aubrey Bryn Guldove is a village rich in tradition and history. While its Home World counterpart has suffered under the influence of the Porre invasion, the version found in "Another World" retains an immaculate vibe. It is a place of deep cultural significance, provided one visits with respect rather than mere touristy curiosity. Harlech Village (Xanadu Next) By Ben Love Located on an island shrouded in fog, Harlech Village might look ominous at first. However, the true draw is its cast of characters—from the jovial ferryman Ned to the sage shopkeeper Spence. It is a poignant reminder that the people, not the geography, are what make a location special. Hotto (Dragon Quest XI) By Aleks Franiczek Hotto offers a fantasy feudal Japan experience with Toriyama’s iconic visual flair. Beyond the mountain vistas and traditional onsen baths, the real appeal is the local custom: everyone speaks in haiku. It is a creative, charming constraint that makes communication a daily poetic exercise. Ivalice (Final Fantasy Tactics Advance) By Ben Love Ivalice is the embodiment of childhood wonder. A world where different races coexist and conflict is treated like a sporting match mediated by judges. It represents a safe, colorful playground where you can test your mettle without the fear of true mortality. Kamura Village (Monster Hunter Rise) By Michael Sollosi Life in Kamura is idyllic, despite the constant threat of monster rampages. The village offers a community dedicated to the simple joys of husbandry—cats, dogs, and owls—and the consumption of mochi under cherry blossom trees. It is an inspirational way to live, provided you keep your gunlance skills sharp. Kingdom of Zeal (Chrono Trigger) By Patrick Gann The Kingdom of Zeal is a breathtaking chain of floating islands connected by bridges. It is the pinnacle of enlightenment and beauty. However, as the saying goes, "what comes up must come down." It is a spectacular place for a weekend trip, but perhaps not a place to settle down permanently. Lon Lon Ranch (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time) By Pete Leavitt Lon Lon Ranch is a small, slightly mismanaged operation, but its charm is undeniable. Between the talking cows, the iconic horse Epona, and the bright blue sky, it is the perfect place for a weary traveler to take a break and forge lifelong friendships. Magic City Geo (Legend of Mana) By Hilary Andreff Geo is the ultimate destination for the "lifelong student." With its magic academy, scenic beaches, and a variety of shops, it offers plenty of stimulation. Plus, it’s hard to beat an inn run by a sentient teapot. Pascal’s Village (NieR: Automata) By Aleks Franiczek Pascal’s Village is a peaceful forest haven inhabited by machine lifeforms that emulate human philosophy and emotion. It is a surreal and wholesome experience to witness these "chunky" robots living in harmony. Just remember to bring your own speakers if you want to keep the soundtrack playing. Saturn Valley (EarthBound) By Aubrey Bryn Sometimes you just need whimsy. The Mr. Saturn are non-judgmental, friendly, and live in a village with all the necessary amenities—plus ducks. It is the perfect place to relax, as long as you can ignore the industrial factory nearby. Skyloft (The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword) By Matt Wardell The "Skyre" is an interconnected community where residents travel by giant Loftwing birds. It boasts a warm, creamy color palette and a pastoral vibe that feels truly lived-in. Just remember to check for your bird before you dive off the edge. Springvale (Genshin Impact) By Pete Leavitt Springvale is a simple hunting village that thrives on the power of its atmosphere. With its wistful, stirring guitar theme and quiet, contemplative pace, it stands out in a genre often obsessed with flashiness. It is a place that reminds us of the importance of slowing down. Tatsumi Port Island (Persona 3 Reload) By Paul Skevington Tatsumi Port Island offers a mix of used bookstores, karaoke bars, and private clubs. Despite the odd nocturnal occurrences, the island’s isolation makes it a compelling "world away from the world." It is a place where you can enjoy a Wild Duck Burger and simply watch the wind turbines spin. Tuliyollal (Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail) By Mario Garcia Tuliyollal is a vibrant, multi-ethnic capital that celebrates its history. With its beautiful architecture, bustling markets, and peaceful beachside cabins, it represents a hopeful vision of the future. It is a space that wears its culture on its sleeve, making it an incredibly welcoming hub. Whirling-in-Rags (Disco Elysium) By Mark Roddison For the traveler who appreciates "weathered melancholia," the Whirling-in-Rags is a must. Its grimy floors and faded function rooms are the site of profound character growth and karaoke nights. It is a place you would visit reluctantly, only to find yourself unable to leave. Community Engagement This list was made possible by the diverse perspectives of our 18 contributors. We hope these selections spark a sense of adventure in you, whether you’re returning to a favorite save file or starting a new journey. We want to hear from you! Which RPG locations are on your bucket list? Reach out to us via our Facebook, Bluesky, Instagram, Threads, or our Discord server to let us know. For those in the middle of winter, use your imagination—the virtual sun is always shining in these worlds. Post navigation The Ultimate Ranking: Retro Encounter Concludes its Definitive Legend of Zelda Tier List Series
