An “Extraction Role-Playing Game” (RPG) is a subgenre of role-playing games that combines elements of traditional RPGs with intense, high-stakes gameplay focused on the concept of “extraction.” In these games, players typically take on the roles of characters or operatives who are tasked with infiltrating dangerous environments, gathering valuable resources, completing specific objectives, and then successfully extracting from the area to secure their rewards.
What sets Extraction RPGs apart is their emphasis on risk and reward. The core gameplay loop involves making strategic decisions about how much risk to take on during a mission—balancing the desire for greater rewards with the need for a safe and timely extraction. Failure to extract often results in losing the items or resources collected during the mission, adding a layer of tension and excitement to the gameplay.
These games often feature cooperative multiplayer modes, where players can team up to tackle missions together, or competitive elements, where they must contend with both AI-controlled enemies and other players. Popular examples of games with extraction-based mechanics include titles like Escape from Tarkov and The Cycle: Frontier. These games are known for their immersive environments, complex mechanics, and the thrill of high-stakes gameplay where every decision counts.
