When it comes to open-world role-playing games, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim reigns as a champion among players worldwide. Its gripping story, beautiful graphics, and immersive gameplay have captivated gamers since its release in 2011. As great as Skyrim is, however, players may desire to explore other games offering a similar level of depth and excitement. This article presents the 10 best games, like Skyrim, to help you embark on new adventures in unforgettable worlds.
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Considered one of the best role-playing games of all time, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an undeniable must-play for Skyrim fans. The game thrusts players into the vast world of the Continent, filled with intriguing stories, memorable characters, and dangerous foes. As Geralt of Rivia, you'll engage in deep, strategic combat, make weighty decisions that affect the world around you, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the Wild Hunt.
2. Dragon Age: Inquisition
Brought to life by Bioware, the studio behind the Mass Effect series Dragon Age: Inquisition offers players a rich world to explore and a deep, engaging storyline. Set in the continent of Thedas, you assume the role of the Inquisitor, tasked with stopping an ominous event known as the Breach. With relationships to build, a war to influence, and countless decisions to make, Dragon Age: Inquisition presents an engrossing and satisfying journey for any Skyrim fan.
3. Fallout 4
While taking place in a post-apocalyptic alternate future rather than a high-fantasy setting, Fallout 4 shares many gameplay elements with Skyrim. Developed by Bethesda, the same studio behind The Elder Scrolls series, Fallout 4 immerses players in its vast open world, full of interesting characters and gripping stories. Players can craft their weapons, build settlements, and engage in a comprehensive perk-based progression system, creating a highly captivating experience worth exploring.
4. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
For a more grounded, realistic take on the open-world RPG genre, Kingdom Come: Deliverance is an excellent choice. Set in the medieval Kingdom of Bohemia, this game features historical accuracy, minimal magic, and an emphasis on realism. Players control a blacksmith's son seeking revenge for the death of his family. With its complex combat that focuses on proper sword fighting techniques and the necessity to maintain the character's health and well-being, Kingdom Come: Deliverance offers Skyrim fans a unique, captivating experience.
5. Divinity: Original Sin 2
Divinity: Original Sin 2 embraces the high-fantasy elements and deep storytelling that Skyrim fans love but executes them with a turn-based combat system. As a customizable player character with the power to use Source magic, you'll partake in a compelling narrative filled with rich world-building and detailed character development. Engage in tactical combat, interact with the environment, and make choices that shape the world around you in Divinity: Original Sin 2's expansive world.
6. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The long-running and highly revered Legend of Zelda series took a bold step in its latest entry, Breath of the Wild, by embracing open-world exploration. Play as the iconic hero, Link, as you traverse the vast realm of Hyrule to save Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Calamity Ganon. With its beautiful cel-shaded graphics, engaging puzzles, and rewarding exploration, Breath of the Wild is an exhilarating experience that will satisfy fans of Skyrim's exploration and adventure aspects.
7. Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Zero Dawn blends the best aspects of the open-world RPG with exhilarating combat against massive robotic creatures. In a post-apocalyptic world filled with lush forests and vibrant biomes, players control Aloy, a skilled hunter seeking answers about her past. With its intriguing narrative, strategic combat, and stunning visuals, Horizon Zero Dawn is a sensational alternative for those seeking a fresh adventure in the vein of Skyrim.
8. Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Although the Assassin's Creed series traditionally focuses on stealth and parkour, the installment of Odyssey takes the franchise in a more action-RPG direction. Set in ancient Greece, players can customize their character's appearance, make choices that have tangible impacts on the world, and immerse themselves in a vast, gorgeous open world filled with historical sites and engaging quests. For Skyrim fans craving an open-world adventure with a historical twist, Assassin's Creed Odyssey is an excellent choice.
9. Dark Souls III
Known for its challenging gameplay and unrelenting atmosphere, Dark Souls III might not be an exact match for Skyrim, but it shares enough similarities to warrant inclusion on this list. As players battle their way through a dark, decaying world, they engage in tense, methodical combat against powerful enemies while raising their character's abilities and discovering captivating lore. Dark Souls III's challenging gameplay and intriguing world make it a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy Skyrim's combat and exploration.
10. The Elder Scrolls Online
For players seeking a more social and collaborative experience while exploring the world of Tamriel, The Elder Scrolls Online provides the perfect solution. Set before the events of Skyrim, this MMORPG allows players to partake in quests, dungeons, and open-world exploration with friends or strangers from around the globe. With regular updates and content expansions, The Elder Scrolls Online constantly evolves, providing players with an unparalleled multiplayer experience in the world they love.
In conclusion, these ten awe-inspiring games offer experiences similar to Skyrim's captivating open-world exploration, character progression, and engaging combat. Each game's unique characteristics breathe new life into the genre, providing players with unforgettable adventures across different realms. Whether you're chasing down mechanical beasts in Horizon Zero Dawn or playing as a sorcerer in Divinity: Original Sin 2, any Skyrim fan will find endless hours of entertainment with these fantastic titles.