How to Make the Most of Crafting Systems in RPGs

14 December 2024

Crafting systems in RPGs (Role-Playing Games) are like the secret sauce that can take your gaming experience from "meh" to "heck yeah!" Yet, how many times have you gotten deep into a game only to completely ignore crafting because it seemed complicated, unnecessary, or just plain boring? Been there. But trust me—you're missing out on some serious game-enhancing magic if you skip crafting.

If you're one of those players who'd rather loot their way through a dungeon than bother collecting herbs, metals, or random monster parts, don't worry—I've got your back. This guide will help you understand why crafting systems are worth your time (yes, even if you'd rather just swing your sword wildly) and how to make the most of them. Grab your virtual hammer and let’s get crafting!

What Are Crafting Systems in RPGs (and Why Do They Even Matter)?

Crafting systems let you create in-game items, from potions and weapons to armor, food, and everything in between. Think of it as a DIY project that can make your hero WAY cooler. We’re talking personalized gear, overpowered potions, and sometimes even items you can’t find anywhere else.

But why bother? Can’t you just buy stuff from NPCs (non-playable characters) or loot them off defeated enemies? Sure, but crafting often gives you better, more customized results. Plus, there’s something ridiculously satisfying about knowing the sword you’re wielding came from YOUR hard work.

Start Small: Don’t Let Crafting Overwhelm You

Okay, I get it. Crafting systems can feel intimidating. You crack open the crafting menu and suddenly there are 300 different blueprints, 17 types of wood, and a recipe for a “mystic something-or-other” that requires ingredients you can’t even pronounce. Panic mode: activated.

Here’s the deal—don’t try to master crafting all at once. Instead, think baby steps. Start with a simple potion or a basic weapon. Focus on learning one recipe at a time. Before you know it, you’ll be cranking out epic gear like a pro.

Pro Tip #1: Gather Everything (Yes, EVERYTHING)

If you've ever played an RPG, you know the drill: you're wandering around, slaying enemies and picking up random junk. Flowers, rocks, weird animal hides—half the stuff looks useless. You might even be tempted to leave it behind. DON’T YOU DARE.

Even the most seemingly mundane material can come in clutch for crafting. That pile of mushrooms you’ve been hoarding? Potential life-saving healing potions. That scrap metal? Could be the backbone of your next legendary sword. Rule of thumb: If it glows, sparkles, or can be picked up, just grab it. Worst case scenario, you can sell it later.

Pro Tip #2: Pay Attention to Crafting Tutorials, Nerd

I know, I know—tutorials aren’t exactly the most thrilling part of any game. But skipping the crafting tutorial is like baking cookies without reading the recipe. You might end up with something edible, but chances are you’ll make a hot mess.

Crafting tutorials are there to teach you the basics: how to find ingredients, unlock recipes, and use crafting stations. They’ll also clue you in on advanced features like upgrading items or enchanting gear. Trust me, that five minutes of boredom WILL pay off.

Recipes: Your Ultimate Game-Changers

In most crafting-focused RPGs, recipes are like cheat codes. They tell you what you need to make an item and how to go about it. Some games start you off with a handful of recipes, while others make you hunt them down (treasure chests, NPCs, or quest rewards, anyone?).

But here’s the fun part—experimentation! Some games (looking at you, Minecraft or The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim) let you discover recipes by randomly combining items. It’s like being a mad scientist, but way cooler. Just don’t blow yourself up, okay?

Pro Tip #3: Upgrade, Upgrade, UPGRADE!

You crafted a sword, and it’s sick. You’re chopping through enemies like they’re made of tissue paper. But what happens when you hit tougher foes? That once-awesome sword might not cut it anymore (pun intended). And that’s where upgrading comes in.

Many RPG crafting systems let you enhance existing gear with better stats or new abilities. Upgrading is cheaper and faster than starting from scratch, so make it a habit to revisit your gear. Think of it like leveling up your weapons—because even your sword deserves a glow-up.

Pro Tip #4: Save Rare Materials for the Good Stuff

Here’s a rookie mistake: using ultra-rare materials on the first thing you craft. If a material sounds super fancy (e.g., "Dragon Bone," "Phoenix Feather," or anything with the word “mythic” in it), SAVE IT. These are likely for endgame-level items, and you’ll kick yourself later if you burn through them making a pair of low-level boots.

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for inventory descriptions. Rare materials often have hints about their purpose. If in doubt, hoard them until you find a recipe that screams, “I’m worth it!”

Crafting for Profit: Make That Virtual Money

Do you ever find yourself broke in a game, staring longingly at an overpriced sword in a shop window? (Been there, cried about it.) Crafting can be a solid way to earn some extra cash. Create items you don’t need and sell them for profit. Potions, basic gear, or even food items can be a goldmine early in the game.

Some games even have trading systems where crafted items are in high demand. If you’re patient, you could become the RPG equivalent of a tycoon. Just don’t forget about your heroic duties while you’re busy counting your gold.

Multiplayer Crafting: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

If you’re playing a multiplayer RPG, crafting can actually make you the MVP of your squad. Imagine your teammate is low on health, and you whip out a potion you brewed earlier. Boom—you’re the hero of the day.

In some games, you can even specialize in crafting, letting you trade, sell, or gift your creations to teammates. It’s like being the team’s blacksmith, alchemist, or chef—everyone loves you, and you still get to reap the rewards.

Crafting in Different RPGs: A Quick Shoutout

Not all crafting systems are created equal, and that’s part of the fun! Here’s a quick peek at how some popular games handle crafting:

- The Witcher 3: You’ll spend hours scavenging, but the crafted Witcher gear is SO worth it. Plus, Geralt in custom armor? Chef’s kiss.
- Monster Hunter: World: Crafting is mandatory here, especially for potions, traps, and gear. Fighting monsters and then wearing their skins as armor? Hardcore.
- Skyrim: Alchemy, smithing, enchanting—Skyrim’s crafting options are endless. Plus, crafting gets you XP, so it’s a win-win.
- Stardew Valley: Okay, not technically an RPG, but crafting is a huge part of farming life, from crafting tools to artisan goods.
- Final Fantasy XIV: Want to craft and sell gear? This MMO lets you dabble in everything from tailoring to blacksmithing.

Embrace the Crafting Grind (It’s Worth It)

Look, I won’t sugarcoat it—crafting often involves grinding. A LOT of grinding. You’ll need to gather materials, unlock blueprints, and maybe even level up your crafting skills. It can be tedious, sure. But the payoff? Absolutely worth it.

Crafting isn’t just about making cool stuff—it’s about feeling like you’ve truly earned your gear. When you take down a boss using a sword YOU forged or survive a near-death experience thanks to a potion YOU brewed, it hits differently. That’s the beauty of crafting in RPGs.

Final Words: It’s YOUR Adventure, So Own It

At the end of the day, crafting in RPGs is entirely optional. If it’s not your cup of tea, that’s fine—stick to looting or buying gear. But if you’re willing to give it a shot, crafting can add a whole new layer of depth and fun to your adventure. From personalized gear to epic bragging rights, the rewards are endless.

So the next time you stumble across a glowing herb or a chunk of iron ore, don’t just walk past it—pick it up. Who knows? It might be the start of your next masterpiece.