Top RPG Games on Steam: A Comprehensive Guide

A stunning fantasy landscape featuring lush forests and towering mountains, representing the world of RPGs.

Intro

The realm of role-playing games, commonly known as RPGs, has been a magnificent pilgrimage for gamers throughout the years. Steam, a dominant platform in the gaming industry, hosts a vast collection of these titles, ranging from independent gems to blockbuster hits, each weaving its unique tale within this immersive genre. Delving into the intricate layers of gameplay mechanics, art styles, and narratives gives players a richer understanding and appreciation of RPGs.

In this article, we will explore the essence of RPGs on Steam—the hidden gems, the well-loved classics, and the underappreciated entries. We will identify key components that define the RPG experience, highlighting distinctive characteristics and how they resonate with both avid fans and newcomers to the genre. As we traverse through this diverse landscape, expect insights into unique gameplay dynamics, artistic design, and captivating stories that have captivated minds and hearts.

As we embark on this journey, our aim is not only to present notable titles countless gamers cherish but also those that may have flown under the radar. The significance of role-playing games in shaping gaming culture is immense, making this exploration not just for entertainment but a deeper dive into a medium that continually evolves with creative flair.

With that in mind, let’s start by shining a spotlight on the standout features of these captivating games.

Preamble to RPGs on Steam

RPGs, or role-playing games, have carved out a significant niche in the gaming industry, particularly on digital platforms like Steam. This section seeks to lord over that importance by shedding light on RPGs and their multifaceted charm. From engrossing narratives to immersive worlds, the allure of RPGs on Steam goes well beyond mere entertainment; they stimulate creativity and foster deep emotional experiences.

The importance of esteeming this vibrant genre is underscored by the sheer variety it presents, catering to both casual players and die-hard enthusiasts alike. Understanding RPGs' relevance within this platform brings clarity to their richness and offers guidance for gamers aiming to explore. Are you a seeker of epic adventures, or perhaps someone who relishes the depth of character development? Whatever your motive, there's an RPG game on Steam that fits the bill.

Additionally, exploring the attributes and themes prevalent in RPGs can lead to greater appreciation. This section provides a foundation for the subsequent categories and highlights, ensuring readers have a solid grasp of what makes RPGs tick and why they remain a linchpin in the gaming community.

Understanding the RPG Genre

The RPG genre is defined by its unique ability to place players in the shoes of a character, often navigating through intricately designed storylines where choices matter. Understanding RPGs involves diving into their core components, such as character development, world-building, and narrative choices. The beauty lies in the fact that players are not merely observers—they have agency. In these digital landscapes, players craft their own tales, making each playthrough a personalized experience.

Moreover, the RPG genre can be further dissected into various subtypes including, but not limited to, action RPGs, turn-based RPGs, and open-world RPGs. Each subgenre incorporates distinct mechanics and narrative styles, contributing to the rich tapestry of the overall RPG experience on Steam. For instance, open-world RPGs invite exploration, while turn-based RPGs challenge players to strategize each move meticulously.

The Evolution of RPGs in Digital Gaming

Since the initial days of pixelated graphics and simple narratives, RPGs have seen a significant metamorphosis. The evolution of RPGs in digital gaming is akin to watching a caterpillar transform into a butterfly, each iteration more breathtaking than the last. Early titles laid the groundwork by establishing fundamental mechanics, but advancements in technology heralded a new era.

As we shifted to more sophisticated consoles and PCs, RPGs began to adopt nonlinear storylines, enhanced graphics, and richer character arcs. The rise of multiplayer formats also splashed a new coat of paint on traditional RPGs. From the complex world of Final Fantasy to the fiercely challenging landscapes of the Dark Souls series, RPGs have diversified, accommodating an ever-growing base of global audiences.

"The beauty of RPGs lies not just in the stories they tell, but in the stories each player creates."

Top RPG Categories on Steam

Exploring the top RPG categories on Steam is crucial for understanding the diverse landscape of gaming available today. This section sheds light on various sub-genres, showcasing their unique traits and how they cater to different types of players. Recognizing these categories enhances one’s appreciation for the role-playing genre, offering insights into what makes each segment appealing. Each category provides players with distinct gameplay experiences, whether one enjoys expansive worlds or tactical combat. Let's delve deeper into these categories to uncover what sets them apart.

Open World RPGs

Characteristics and Appeal

Open world RPGs captivate gamers by offering vast environments that encourage exploration. The hallmark of this category is the freedom it gives players. They can choose how to approach quests — whether charging into battle or taking the stealthy route. Another compelling aspect is the immersive storylines interwoven with gameplay, creating a sense of belonging in these expansive universes.

One unique feature of open world RPGs is the dynamic interactions with NPCs, making the world feel alive. Players can forge relationships or confront enemies at their own pace. However, this can lead to an overwhelming experience for some, as the sheer magnitude of choices can sometimes feel daunting. Nevertheless, the joy of discovering hidden treasures or completing side quests adds tremendous value.

Notable Titles and Their Features

Several open world RPGs stand out due to their engaging mechanics and storylines. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is often seen as a definitive title, offering breathtaking landscapes and a wealth of lore. Players can customize their character’s development completely, which deeply affects gameplay. Another significant title is Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, known for its innovative mechanics that encourage creativity in solving puzzles and combat scenarios.

The charm of these titles lies in their commitment to player agency: choices significantly affect game outcomes. While the freedom of choice is advantageous, it's essential to mention that some players might find the numerous paths a bit confusing. Yet, the overall satisfaction of crafting an individual journey often outweighs any downside.

Turn-Based RPGs

Strategic Elements

Turn-based RPGs introduce a different flavor to the genre, emphasizing strategy over action. Players plan their moves carefully, which creates a significant layer of depth in gameplay. Every action matters; choosing between attack, defense, or special abilities requires thoughtfulness and foresight.

The tactical combat allows players to experiment with different strategies. This element is especially appealing to those who enjoy thinking several steps ahead. However, some may argue that turn-based mechanics can slow down the flow of gameplay, yet many find this pacing enhances concentration and encourages more profound engagement with the game.

Key Titles to Explore

An intricately designed character from an indie RPG, showcasing unique art style and personality.

Key titles in this category include Fire Emblem: Three Houses and Divinity: Original Sin 2. Fire Emblem brings not only tactical gameplay but also deeper narrative choices, encouraging emotional investment in characters. Conversely, Divinity: Original Sin 2 offers a rich world brimming with lore, and its combat mechanics allow for an incredible amount of customization in both character builds and strategies.

Both games exemplify the charm of turn-based mechanics, where each decision contributes to the overall success or failure. They offer challenging yet rewarding experiences for players who enjoy a slower, more contemplative pace in their adventures.

Action RPGs

Blending Combat and Storytelling

Action RPGs present a thrilling blend of fast-paced combat and engaging narratives. Unlike traditional RPGs, the emphasis here lies on real-time battles, where quick reflexes combine with an evolving storyline. This aspect makes action RPGs appealing to players who prefer excitement alongside character development.

Another significant feature is the dynamic environments that often come alive during combat. Players must adapt and strategize on the fly. The adrenaline rush generated by real-time action adds an exhilarating component to storytelling. While there may be challenges in keeping the pacing consistent, the fulfillment that comes from defeating formidable foes makes it worthwhile.

Recommended Games

Noteworthy action RPGs include titles like Dark Souls, renowned for its challenging gameplay and immersive lore. The difficulty level offers players a sense of accomplishment unmatched by many other games. Additionally, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt integrates deep storytelling with fluid combat mechanics, allowing for a rich narrative experience alongside battles.

These games exemplify how action RPGs marry combat and narrative seamlessly, creating an engaging environment that fosters both excitement and emotional connection with the characters and story.

The RPG landscape on Steam is rich and varied, catering to different preferences and playstyles, ensuring there's something for every gamer.

Highlights of Indispensable RPG Titles

In the vast ocean of role-playing games (RPGs) on Steam, there lies a treasure trove of titles that have raised the bar for storytelling, gameplay, and overall experience. This section aims to shine a light on these indispensable RPGs, illustrating their significance in the gaming landscape. These titles represent not just the pinnacle of game design but also the diversity and richness that RPGs can offer to players.

When examining the highlights of these essential titles, it’s vital to consider several elements. First, what makes these games stand out? Often, it’s a combination of engaging narratives, innovative gameplay mechanics, and immersive worlds that players can lose themselves in for hours. Moreover, their ability to resonate with players—both emotionally and intellectually—sets them apart from the rest. These games often serve as cultural touchstones, bridging generations of gamers and influencing the direction of the genre itself.

The Witcher Series

Narrative Depth

The narrative depth of The Witcher series is a cornerstone of its enduring popularity. The storyline intertwines complex characters and moral dilemmas, inviting players to explore the shades of gray in their actions. Unlike many traditional RPGs that favor clear-cut heroic paths, The Witcher encourages players to face consequences for their choices. This rooted narrative feature offers players a deeper emotional engagement, making every decision feel impactful. The player’s journey as Geralt of Rivia is layered with rich lore, enhancing the world-building and crafting a more engaging experience. For anyone interested in narratives that challenge perspectives, this series is a must.

Open World Exploration

Open-world exploration is another hallmark of The Witcher series. The game beautifully combines vast landscapes with intricate quests and side stories waiting to be uncovered. This expansive nature allows players not just to plow through the main storyline but to savor the experience by wandering into hidden corners of the world, encountering unique characters and unearthing lore-rich sites. While the freedom to explore can lead to distractions, it fulfills the desire for a personalized adventure. This aspect makes players feel like they’re part of a living, breathing world, elevating their immersion.

Dark Souls Series

Challenging Gameplay

Challenging gameplay defines the Dark Souls series, inviting players to embrace a sense of perseverance. The series is notorious for its difficulty, but therein lies its charm. It rewards patience and strategic thinking, facilitating a deep satisfaction when overcoming formidable foes. Players aren’t merely participants in a story; they are warriors who grow through honing their skills. This demanding nature appeals to those who relish a sense of accomplishment, transforming frustrations into triumphs. In a world where instant gratification is the norm, Dark Souls carves its niche by demanding dedication.

Atmospheric World-Building

Atmospheric world-building is another key contributing factor enhancing the Dark Souls experience. The series excels at creating hauntingly beautiful environments that tell stories on their own—every ruin and forest conceals traces of history. This non-verbal storytelling invites the player to piece together fragmented lore, promoting curiosity and further exploration. The eerie soundscapes and visual design make the atmosphere thick with foreboding, challenging players to venture forth despite their fear. This unique combination enriches the overall experience, making every encounter feel monumental.

Final Fantasy

MMORPG Experience

Final Fantasy XIV presents a robust MMORPG experience, renowned for its blend of traditional RPG elements with dynamic multiplayer interactions. Players are thrust into a stunning world filled with vast landscapes, intricate quests, and a multitude of player classes. What sets it apart is how it handles the arrival of new players; its community actively welcomes newcomers, making the transition smooth. The game's consistent updates and expansions also enhance its longevity and keep players engaged, crafting a gaming environment that feels alive and ever-evolving.

Community and Collaboration

Community and collaboration are vital components of Final Fantasy XIV. The spirit of togetherness is incredibly apparent, whether it be through cooperative raids, guilds, or even social events within the game. Players forge friendships that transcend the gaming screen, contributing to a supportive ecosystem. However, one downside could be the time investment necessary to keep up with rapidly evolving content, which might intimidate some potential players. Despite this, community aspects remain a significant draw, emphasizing experiences and memories over simple gameplay mechanics.

"In RPGs, it’s not just about the destination – it’s about the journey, filled with choices that impact the story, and the connections made along the way."

These indispensable titles provide insights into what makes RPGs more than just games – they are immersive worlds, challenging experiences, and emotional narratives that resonate deeply with players across the globe.

A dynamic battle scene from a popular RPG, illustrating strategic gameplay and character abilities.

Indie RPGs Making Waves

Indie RPGs are a rising star in the gaming industry, carving their own niche in the vast landscape of titles on Steam. These games, developed outside the traditional studio system, often thrive on creative gameplay mechanics and stirring narratives, proving that big budgets aren't the sole recipe for success. Their importance is manifold: indie RPGs not only challenge conventional design but also foster a sense of community and innovation. They often prioritize storytelling and player choice, elements that resonate deeply with gamers, fostering engagement in a way that few mainstream titles can match.

Moreover, these games can be more accessible, providing experiences that cater to diverse audiences. While triple-A games may aim for broader market appeal, indie RPGs often delve into unique themes, exploring personal, emotional, and social issues that might not be deemed commercially viable by larger companies. As a result, they spark conversations and create meaningful connections with their players.

Studying the Impact of Indie Games

The impact of indie games extends beyond just gameplay; it influences the culture around gaming itself. By fostering diverse perspectives and inclusivity, indie games are reshaping societal views and pushing narratives that challenge the norm. Titles that prioritize player agency allow gamers to craft their own story, which can be empowering and liberating. Gamers are not merely passive consumers; they become storytellers, shaping outcomes based on their decisions.

Additionally, indie developers often experiment with game mechanics and art styles. This leads to unique gameplay experiences that defy traditional genre boundaries. The innovation seen in these titles can sometimes feed back into mainstream games, creating an evolutionary cycle that benefits the entire gaming community.

Noteworthy Indie RPGs

Undertale

Undertale is a standout in the RPG genre, known for its unconventional approach to storytelling and combat. Unlike traditional RPGs that encourage battling enemies, Undertale emphasizes choices and consequences. Players can opt to spare foes rather than fight, leading to a story with multiple endings based on their decisions.

This mechanic is a key characteristic that sets the game apart, as it prompts players to consider the effects of their actions. The humor infused throughout its narrative and its quirky characters enhance its appeal, making it a gem for both casual and hardcore gamers. While the pixelated graphics may not appeal to everyone, its unique feature shines through in its emotional depth and the meaningful connections players build with the story. The advantage of such a format is its replayability; players are drawn back to see how different choices lead to distinct outcomes.

Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium boldly reinvents the RPG wheel, focusing on narrative and character dialogue over traditional combat mechanics. Players step into the shoes of a detective with a troubled past, delving into a richly crafted world filled with political intrigue. The key characteristic here is its narrative complexity and depth of dialogue.

What makes Disco Elysium notable is its skill system that offers players a tapestry of choices, which directly affect their character's development and interactions. Instead of physical confrontations, the game challenges players to solve puzzles and navigate conversations skillfully. While it might not cater to those seeking traditional RPG combat, the strength of its storytelling and visual style makes it a highly regarded title in the indie landscape. It's a tremendous choice for gamers looking for a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the final credits roll.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley may seem like a farming simulator at first glance, but it encapsulates the essence of an RPG through its immersive world and character development. Players manage a farm, build relationships with townsfolk, and engage in various local activities that breathe life into the narrative.

This game is beneficial for its simplicity and accessibility, making it appealing to a wide range of players. What sets Stardew Valley apart is its balance of farming, exploring, and engaging in social activities. The community aspect encourages players to invest time in relationships, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. While the pixelated art style might not be for everyone, the game's charm and sense of accomplishment resonate with players, making it a rewarding experience. The downside could be that some players may find it lacks the intense narrative depth present in other RPGs, but the serenity of its gameplay offers a much-needed retreat in the often chaotic world of gaming.

"Indie RPGs demonstrate how creativity and storytelling can shine outside the shadows of big budgets, offering players experiences that resonate on a personal level."

Game Features that Define RPGs

When we talk about role-playing games, it’s not just about the flashy graphics or explosive combat systems. The magic lies in the features that allow players to merge their decisions, character development, and storytelling arcs. These elements shape not only how we play but how we experience the entire game world. In this section, we will dive into three pivotal features: character customization, narrative choices and consequences, and world-building elements. Each feature paints a broader picture of why RPGs have carved a niche in gaming culture.

Character Customization

Character customization sits at the heart of any RPG. It's like crafting your own identity within a digital realm. Choosing your character's appearance, skills, and even backstory is akin to pulling strings on a marionette; the choices you make influence the dance of gameplay. This experience grants players the freedom to embody their characters, making each journey personal.

Available options often range from minor adjustments—like hair color or wardrobe choices—to profound alterations that affect gameplay. For instance, in titles like Dragon Age: Inquisition, how you design your character not only alters physical traits but also their abilities, interactions, and even how they fit within the game's intricately woven lore. Think of it this way: you aren’t just controlling a character; you are essentially breathing life into them, forging a connection that deepens the gaming experience.

Key Benefits of Character Customization:

Enhances player engagement and emotional investment.
Offers diverse playstyles tailored to individual preferences.
Provides a sense of ownership over the game path.

Narrative Choices and Consequences

In the world of RPGs, choices carry weight. The narrative choices players make contribute not only to the storyline but also shape the world around them. Decisions are rarely simple—like choosing to save a village or abandon it. Each option ripples through the game's narrative fabric, resulting in varied consequences that can alter ending scenarios, the fates of characters, or even the alignment of the player’s avatar.

Take The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, for instance. The choices Geralt makes throughout the game lead to varied endings, significantly impacting relationships with characters and the game world itself. The complexity that arises from these decisions fosters a sense of gravity; players must weigh their options carefully, knowing that electing one path may close off others entirely. This intertwining of decision-making and narrative structure promotes a playthrough that’s as unique as each individual player.

"Every choice is a thread that weaves your tale. In RPGs, those threads can create entirely different tapestries of experience."

World-Building Elements

The backbone of any compelling RPG is its world-building elements. A richly developed universe draws players in, making them feel like part of something larger than life. Whether it's the sprawling landscapes of Skyrim or the vibrantly populated streets in Cyberpunk 2077, these environments act as more than mere backdrops; they are living entities filled with stories, cultures, and legends waiting to be unearthed.

A collection of RPG game covers, highlighting both mainstream and indie titles on Steam.

World-building encompasses everything from intricate lore, historical contexts, and diverse cultures to interactive environments and side quests. This level of detail encourages exploration and often rewards the curious with hidden secrets and lore-rich tidbits. Engaging with these elements enhances immersion and invites players to lose themselves in the narrative.

Considerations for Effective World-Building:

Depth in lore creates a believable universe.
Interactive environments encourage exploration and discovery.
Side quests enrich the main story and offer player agency.

In summary, the features that define RPGs are interwoven with the very fabric of the experience. From character customization that adds a personal touch to narrative choices that echo throughout the game, and immersive world-building that keeps players hungry for exploration—these elements collectively form the backbone that supports the rich tapestry of role-playing games.

Multiplayer Elements in RPGs

The landscape of role-playing games (RPGs) has changed dramatically with the incorporation of multiplayer elements. This integration has redefined how players experience narratives and share adventures in vast, virtual realities. In this section, we’ll dissect the significance of multiplayer elements within RPGs, shedding light on their diverse forms, advantages, and considerations that shape this evolving genre.

The Rise of Co-Op Play

Cooperative gameplay in RPGs encourages players to band together, forming alliances against formidable foes. This facet of multiplayer not only nurtures a sense of camaraderie but also adds depth to the gaming experience. Players can solve intricate puzzles that require diverse character abilities, allowing for strategic planning and execution.

For example, titles like Divinity: Original Sin 2 offer seamless co-op integration where friends can explore the world together, making choices that influence the story's direction. This interactivity emphasizes community, where friends can share not just virtual loot, but experiences and memories forged during their quests.

Moreover, co-op play often facilitates access to content that could otherwise be challenging to tackle solo. Boss fights become manageable when combat mechanics are shared among players, and this leads to a gratifying feeling of achievement when just the right combination of skills defeats a tough enemy.

Competitive RPGs

On the flip side, competitive RPGs present players with a Battleground to prove their skills against one another. Titles like Genshin Impact or Diablo III provide environments where players can test their mettle against each other. Here, players dive into unpredictable scenarios where split-second decisions can lead to victory or defeat.

While friendly competition can be enticing, it also transforms the nature of RPGs. The narratives often take a back seat to game mechanics as players focus on optimizing builds and mastering combat mechanics. This shift from cooperative to competitive dynamics means that RPGs are not purely about storytelling anymore; they embody an arena where skill is tested against fierce opponents.

Finale

The Future of RPGs on Steam

The landscape of role-playing games (RPGs) on Steam is constantly evolving, capturing the attention of gamers both old and new. The future holds a landscape rich with innovation, excitement, and creativity. As technology advances, so do the possibilities for game developers, resulting in unique experiences that push boundaries. It is not just about entertaining players; it’s about crafting entire worlds that feel alive and personal. Here, we will discuss emerging trends, the significant role community feedback plays, and what this means for the future of RPGs.

Emerging Trends and Technologies

The technological advancements in gaming often lead the way for new gameplay experiences. Here are a few trends shaping the future of RPGs on Steam:

Virtual Reality (VR) Integration:
More developers are exploring ways to bring immersive experiences into RPGs. Imagine traversing a vast fantasy world in virtual reality. This could redefine character interaction and combat scenarios, allowing players to physically experience quests like never before.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Improvements:
AI is not just for NPC behavior anymore. We may see smarter quests, where dynamic storylines adapt based on individual player choices, making every playthrough unique. This technology can help create more believable characters, enhancing player engagement.
Procedural Generation:
Randomly generated content is getting more sophisticated. Future RPGs could offer expansive worlds generated on-the-fly, providing a different adventure every time. Players may find themselves lost in ever-changing landscapes filled with unpredictable quests and challenges.
Cross-Platform Play:
As gamers desire more connectivity, RPGs are trending towards enabling gameplay across multiple platforms. Steam users might soon embark on adventures alongside friends playing on consoles or mobile devices, fostering a vibrant community of players not limited by hardware choices.

"As gaming technology evolves, RPGs will offer deeper narratives, personalized experiences, and boundless worlds for players to explore."

These trends paint an optimistic future, broadening horizons for RPG players seeking authentic and engaging experiences.

The Role of Community Feedback

Community feedback forms the backbone of a thriving RPG ecosystem. Survival in today's gaming market relies on developers listening to the voices of their player base. This interaction fosters an ongoing relationship that benefits both parties.

Game Development Cycle:
More developers are implementing beta testing phases, allowing players to test games prior to full releases. Such feedback can guide necessary changes, whether it’s tweaking gameplay mechanics or adjusting difficulty levels. A product shaped by its audience is often more warmly received.
Modding Communities:
Many RPGs have robust modding communities that breathe new life into older titles. Developers that embrace modders are forming alliances with their players, allowing them to extend the gameplay experience significantly. This collaboration often turns a good game into a great one, fostering creativity within the community.
Surveys and Polls:
Gamers aren’t just passive participants; they’re active contributors. Many studios regularly conduct surveys to gather insights into player preferences. This data plays a role in future development, aligning RPG features with community expectations.
Ongoing Updates and Support:
Feedback doesn’t stop at launch. Developers are now more than willing to roll out patches frequently based on player commentary. The continuous improvement of a game post-launch can cultivate a loyal community that feels their input truly matters.

The active engagement of players will serve as a guiding force for RPG evolution, ensuring that the games resonate with the communities that cherish them.

As we look ahead, the confluence of technology and player engagement sets the stage for RPGs on Steam to evolve unpredictably and excitingly. The potential for richer narratives, expansive worlds, and community-driven development will keep gamers invested for years to come.

The End

The exploration of RPGs on Steam unveils a sprawling universe where imagination and storytelling come alive. It’s crucial to understand that this digital platform serves as a burgeoning hub for gamers keen on immersing themselves in rich narratives and vast worlds. From indie gems to blockbusters, RPGs are not merely games; they are experiences that foster emotional connections and strategic thinking.

Recap of Notable RPGs

Several RPGs on Steam have carved out their unique niches, leaving memorable impacts on players.

The Witcher Series: Renowned for its complex characters and morally ambiguous choices, it sets a high bar for narrative depth.
Dark Souls Series: Offers a challenge wrapped in a beautifully crafted world, where every death teaches a valuable lesson.
Final Fantasy XIV: A shining example of community-driven gameplay, it combines personal journeys with cooperative storytelling.
Undertale: This indie title captivates players with its distinctive approach to PvE combat through non-traditional mechanics.
Disco Elysium: A groundbreaking narrative experience, blending RPG elements with deep social commentary.

These titles exemplify both innovation and tradition, illustrating how the genre has evolved while paying homage to its roots.

Final Thoughts on the RPG Landscape

The RPG landscape on Steam is as diverse as it is engaging. It constantly adapts, influenced by player feedback and technological advancements. As we look toward the horizon, we see potential for even more expansive open worlds, intricate storytelling, and evolving player dynamics. The role of community feedback remains vital; it helps shape the experiences that developers craft. Moreover, the questlines that capture our hearts often reflect broader societal themes, making the medium a powerful tool for reflection.

Have More Great Articles:

A majestic dragon soaring over the mountains of Azeroth