Seeing as how i haven't seen a good guide to help out people wondering about the RPG (Role Playing Game) genre, i decided to write a short guide where i'd list, in my opinion, what a few great "First time RPG Gamer Games" are.  This is not a guide to help a longtime fan of the RPG genre find a new game.  Instead, this is to someone new to RPG's who would like to sample a few games to find out if they like RPG's.  Just like a bad TV show can turn off a viewer from the entire series, a bad first RPG can turn off a gamer from the genre.

So with that being said, here are my top picks for the best of the RPG genre, for first time players.

Chrono Trigger (SNES). A very good starting game into the RPG genre.  It was my first.  This covers all the parts of a good RPG, which includes some problem solving, a little bit of strategy, and i also find this to be a great first game because there are no random fights.  You won't need to get extra help to beat this one, although it isn't the easiest game ever made or anything.  A perfect first RPG, in my opinion.
- 1 Player. SquareSoft

Final Fantasy 7 (PS1 and PC). Hailed by many as the greatest RPG of all time, there's no way i could not recommend this as a first RPG.  The system is not difficult to learn, and there is a good balance of problem solving and strategy without becoming overbearing.  Also, there is a large number of minigames within the game, to break up the story a little bit.  My only complaint for a first time RPG is that it does have random battles, which can sometimes be rather annyoing.
- 1 Player. SquareSoft

Tales of Symphonia (Gamecube) This is a phenomenal RPG, and especially great for people who find RPG's to be a little boring and repetitive.  In this one, as opposed to the previous two, you have much more control over the characters.  In a battle, instead of picking what you'll do, you have full control over the movement, attacks, and every other detail of the fight.  Also, this can be played with friends, allowing you to each control a character, and work together in the fights.  This is a great game to play with your roommates, friends, or family.  Like Chrono Trigger, there are no random fights, which I think of as a sign of a great first RPG.  Highly highly recommended for anyone.
- 1-4 Players. Namco.

World of Warcraft (PC) For people who'd like a more social gaming experience, theres WoW.  This is an online PC game, where you have all the elements of an RPG, but with other players to work with.  In terms of online games, this has become one of the most popular, and fairly easy for anyone to learn, with a nearly limitless opportunity to improve your skills.  The only drawback to this game is that it is a pay-to-play game.   This means that there is a monthly charge to play this game.  Currently, it is $14.95, with discounts for multiple months purchased at once.  However, it is continuously upgraded and improved, allowing for you to constantly
- 1 Player (online multiplayer)  Blizzard Entertainment.


So there you have it.  Four RPG's that are a great and varied introduction to the world of RPG gaming.  This genre stands out from the typical game, as it combines an immersive storyline with puzzles, problem solving, and logic as they provide hundreds of hours of fun.