14 Games Like Breath of The Wild that Aren’t Zelda Clones
The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild is one of the best games that Nintendo released in the Zelda saga.
It was released back in 2017 and marked the beginning of an open-world Zelda title. It redefined the gaming and action-adventure genre.
Now, if you have finished BOTW on your Nintendo console, you probably are wondering what else to do.
So, here we bring Zelda alternatives that you could try to feel that RPG challenge once more. Keep learning to find out more of these uncharted seas!
14 Games Like Breath of The Wild that Aren’t Zelda Clones
Horizon Zero Dawn
Release Date: Aug 7, 2020.
Publisher: PlayStation PC LLC.
Developer: Guerrilla.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows.
Metascore: 89.
Horizon Zero Dawn is one of the best open-world games. It takes you into a post-apocalyptic earth where human civilization stopped advancing around 500 A.D., surrounded by nature and colossal mechanical creatures roaming freely everywhere. You play as Aloy, a super agile girl who's on a mission to uncover the secrets of her world and her past.
This action-adventure game focuses on exploration, requiring navigating the map to find gear, craft items, and hunt animals. Combat is complex, with various strategies needed to defeat the mechanical monsters you encounter.
However, when I started playing this game, it took me several hours to understand which enemies were worth fighting. But in the end, the game teaches you that, and with the wide variety of weapons Horizon Zero Dawn offers, you can combat every monster you encounter.
Horizon Zero Dawn features:
Character growth while earning points to level up Aloy and enhance combat skills.
Rich world details with unique tribal cultures, environments, and machine enemies.
Aloy uses an ancient device called a Focus, which highlights points of interest, shows enemy paths, and reveals their type, strengths and weaknesses.
Immersive soundtrack with standout voice acting.
Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition Global Steam CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Immortals: Fenyx Rising
Release Date: Dec 3, 2020.
Publisher: Ubisoft.
Developer: Ubisoft Quebec.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Google Stadia, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S.
Metascore: 81.
Immortals: Fenyx Rising, developed by Ubisoft, humorously reinterprets well-known Greek mythology elements. Set in the mythical Golden Isle, the game’s world is vivid and diverse, with each region reflecting the god who resides there.
You can explore everything from Aphrodite’s idyllic Valley of Eternal Spring to Hephaestus’s Forgelans, immersing yourself in beautifully realized environments.
The story structure is unique, narrated by Prometheus. However, it is frequently interrupted by Zeus, who adds comedic commentary, making the storytelling experience interactive and engaging.
This open-world game combines entertainment and dynamism and offers challenging gameplay. The puzzles made me pull my hair out to overcome them because they were difficult to solve. And, although the bosses aren’t too hard to defeat, Titan did seem like a challenge, which took me a while to beat.
While Immortals Fenyx Rising has its unique charm, it draws heavy inspiration from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Despite its cartoonish aesthetic, it features detailed shader effects, reflections, and other high-end visual details. The vibrant and colorful world invites you to delve deep and explore its intricacies.
Immortals: Fenyx Rising Features
The gameplay includes puzzle-solving challenges.
You can mix melee weapons, bows, and special abilities for dynamic combat experiences.
The game offers a wide world interaction where you can climb, glide, tame animals, and use different tools.
Video game with detailed art style and stunning visuals.
Immortals Fenyx Rising EU Ubisoft Connect CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Release Date: Nov 11, 2011.
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks.
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360.
Metascore: 96.
Skyrim offers a detailed, open world where even simple tasks add depth to the experience. The game modernized the traditional Elder Scrolls skill system, allowing you to choose from multiple unique races, enhancing the gameplay’s intuitiveness.
Dynamic dragon encounters and the game’s Shout system offer thrilling battles and powerful magical abilities. I’ve been playing this game for years, and trust me when I say you’ll never get bored of it.
Elder Scrolls V offers freedom thanks to the open-world design and has many main and side quests.
Not to mention, it also gives you the possibility to replay it countless times with multiple characters. Some of the roles I’ve played are a warrior, an archer, a mage, and an assassin, but there are many more.
Elder Scrolls V visuals showcase breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, the NPCs in Skyrim add depth to the narrative, reacting dynamically to in-game events and sometimes accompanying you through the world, making a memorable journey.
Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim features:
Rich content from main storylines to hidden quests.
The game boasts improved graphics with detailed environments.
Tactile combat with swords and magic combinations.
Killing dragons provides souls that power the unique Shout System.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition Steam CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey
Release Date: Oct 2, 2018.
Publisher: Ubisoft.
Developer: Ubisoft Quebec.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Project xCloud, Amazon Luna, Google Stadia.
Metascore: 83.
In Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, you will be transported to a vivid rendition of ancient Greece. The game offers an expansive world filled with intricate details. Players step into the shoes of a sellsword, either as Kassandra or her sibling, during the Athens and Sparta war period.
She is an intense, humorous, and captivating character, reminiscent of iconic leads from previous Assassin’s Creed titles.
The game’s narrative is complex, combining ancient bloodlines, secret societies, and personal vendettas.
Odyssey introduces a deeper level of player agency, allowing decisions to shape the protagonist’s beliefs and moral compass. Combat remains engaging, with the return of naval battles and a focus on loot and skill progression.
I was impressed with the level of realism and high-quality graphics. The Assassin’s Creed's open-world design let me explore every corner of its geography, every street of its cities, and every mile of its seas, making me feel part of an ancient world.
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey features:
The decisions made will shape the lead character's personality.
You can upgrade your gear and abilities through an extensive menu system.
The combat system and parkour focus on stealth and strategy.
Assassin's Creed: Odyssey US Xbox One/Series CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Super Mario Odyssey
Release Date: Oct 27, 2017.
Publisher: Nintendo.
Developer: Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch.
Metascore: 97.
Super Mario Odyssey is a captivating journey that combines the charm of classic Mario games with innovative gameplay elements, creating an experience that’s nostalgic and refreshingly new. Set in vibrant and diverse kingdoms, you are invited to play as Mario as you try to rescue Princess Peach from Browser.
The game introduces Cappy, Mario’s hat, which becomes an instrumental tool in this adventure. With Cappy’s unique ability to “capture” and possess various objects and creatures, you can go through challenges imaginatively, from becoming a rocketing Bullet Bill to a towering T-Rex.
But be careful – this fantastic game is highly addictive. I spent an entire night playing, searching for moon rocks in each level, and within the first 19 hours of gameplay, I had already reached the Moon Kingdom.
So, Super Mario Odyssey is a game that delivers everything expected from Mario titles: excellent graphics, vivid colors, continuous action, impressive musical themes, and immersive landscapes.
Super Mario Odyssey features:
The game offers a customizable difficulty where you can choose your challenge level.
You can interact with NPCs who react to Mario’s actions.
Enjoy the post-game content after finishing the main story.
In this version of Mario, you lose a few coins upon dying instead of losing lives, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Super Mario Odyssey is available on Nintendo.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus
Release Date: Jan 28 2022.
Publisher: Nintendo and The Pokémon Company.
Developer: Game Freak.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch.
Metascore: 83.
Pokemon Legends Arceus allows you to experiment with an unprecedented open world in the Pokemon universe. It’s based in the Sinnoh region and is trying to redefine what it means to be a Pokemon trainer.
As usual, you complete the Pokedex and explore the mystical lands while catching Pokemons on your travels.
What makes this game special is the revamped battle system, real-time encounters, and the extension to the Pokemon lore.
As a Pokemon fan, nothing prepared me to see what I define as a Zelda game with Pokemon. I could feel the freedom and all the paths that opened as soon as I started the game. I could approach wild Pokemons, strategize in real-time, and enjoy the Pokemon’s connection with me.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus Game Features:
An open world set in ancient Sinnoh.
Real interaction with Pokemons without random encounters.
A new dynamic battle system that makes you create in-battle strategies.
Multiple biomes rich with unique Pokemon, including rare and legendary.
Pokemon Legends Arceus is available for purchase on Nintendo.
Middle-Earth: Shadow Of Mordor
Release Date: Sep 30, 2014.
Publisher: Warner Bros.
Developer: Monolith Productions.
Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, MacOs, GNU/Linux, Mac Os Classic.
Metascore: 84.
Middle-Earth Shadow of Mordor is one of the best action RPGs in the third person I’ve played. It combines the open world freedom with Lord of the Rings lore to create a unique title that expands the LOTR universe.
You’ll discover the Rings of Power origins and face Sauron’s forces in dynamic combat while learning skills and using your environment in your favor.
What I liked most about this game was its nemesis system, which gives orcs the ability to remember you and become stronger whenever they kill you. I lost many times against an orc, and he was promoted to captain and mocked me every time he saw me. It wasn’t until I unlocked all my skills that I could defeat him.
The game slightly follows the Zelda formula and fully embraces the LOTR storyline.
Middle-Earth Shadow of Mordor Game Features:
Open-world game with LOTR elements.
Huge skill personalization and multiple fighting styles.
A main storyline with side quests that complement the character’s lore.
Parkour abilities resemble Assassin’s Creed’s system.
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor GOTY Steam CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Genshin Impact
Release Date: Sep 28, 2020.
Publisher: miHoYo.
Developer: miHoYo.
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Android, iOs, GeForce Now.
Metascore: 81.
Genshin Impact is what the Zelda games could be if you combine online gameplay, anime-like characters, and freedom.
This open-world RPG allows you to use one of four characters in a party. You can freely switch between them and use each one depending on situations like:
Close combat.
Reaching places.
Exploit personal abilities.
This dynamism allows you to use multiple skill combinations and attacks, making Genshin more unique than other open-world games.
That’s exactly what got my attention when playing. It was not only about leveling up, crafting, and improving skills. The story around all the characters is deep and focuses on the storyline before skipping everything and trying all the skills.
I felt I was playing a Zelda clone with more playability, movements, and lore.
Genshin Impact Game Features:
Open-world exploration with massive replayability.
Anime-like characters that you can use and switch.
Multiplayer gameplay with side quests.
Multiple bosses, challenges, and enemies to defeat.
Genshin Impact is FREE to play on Epic Games.
Final Fantasy XV
Release Date: Nov 19, 2019.
Publisher: Square Enix.
Developer: Square Enix.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Google Stadia
Metascore: 81.
Final Fantasy XV uniquely blends an open world, dynamic combat, and an emotional and meaningful narrative.
You’ll portray Prince Noctis in his search to reclaim the kingdom while forging unbreakable bonds and fulfilling your destiny.
The game compels you with its state-of-the-art graphics and unique RPG elements that all Zelda fans would love.
The game didn’t disappoint me. I could camp under the stars, move across the map in the Regalia, and watch how Noctis, Gladiolus, Ignus, and Prompto’s relationship revolved to generate genuine emotional depth.
Final Fantasy XV Game Features:
Non-linear map that you can explore until its end.
Action-oriented battles with multiple foes simultaneously.
Use of magic, weapons, and team abilities.
Role-playing elements that provide an immersive experience.
Final Fantasy XV: Windows Edition Steam CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Monster Hunter Rise
Release Date: Mar 26, 2021.
Publisher: Capcom.
Developer: Capcom.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Project xCloud, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X/S.
Metascore: 88.
Monster Hunter Rise is the sequel to Monster Hunter World. This second installment takes all you’ve seen from the first title and reduces it to make a fast-paced game centered on hunting giant monsters.
Rise erases all irrelevant aspects and emphasizes a unique experience set in the Village of Kamura. The game challenges you to face colossal creatures, learn patterns, harness skills, and create a unique strategy with your team.
As a veteran of the Monster Hunter series, I was curious what changes to expect from this game. The first time I tried the wirebug and discovered all its possibilities, I knew this was a game-changing to the current combat dynamics.
That’s why Rise is so fun because it’s one of the few games that changed combat and added companions for faster mobility and better gameplay.
Monster Hunter Rise Game Features:
The new wirebug mechanic allows players to extend their playfield, use aerial combos, and quickly return to battle after knockdowns.
A diverse ecosystem with multiple creatures and challenges.
Lobby matchmaking system to find other players.
AI companions with unique skills and hunting usability.
Monster Hunter Rise Steam CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
Release Date: Nov 20, 2020.
Publisher: Koei Tecmo, Nintendo
Developer: Omega Force.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch.
Metascore: 78.
Hyrule Warriors is a unique Zelda title that works as a prequel to Breath of the Wild. It combines traditional lore with fast-paced action to create a title with a gripping narrative.
Experience the events that destroyed Hyrule in real-time and join iconic characters to fight evil and the inevitable outcome.
Like the rest of the Zelda series, this title includes dynamic combats, a short map, and a straightforward story seen in games like Link’s Awakening.
The game felt like returning to an old Zelda game with a fresh perspective. I could fight as Link and see Ganon’s origins while also exploring new facets of the story that I didn’t know before.
Hyrule Warriors Game Features:
Hordes of enemies are available in intense and epic fights.
Play with multiple characters, such as the four Champions or Zelda.
Switch characters to improve the fight experience.
Characters, weapons, skills customization, and a comprehensive upgrade system.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is available for purchase on Nintendo.
Sonic Frontiers
Release Date: Nov 8, 2022.
Publisher: Sega.
Developer: Sonic Team.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Metascore: 71.
Sonic Frontiers is the latest hedgehog game you didn’t know you wanted. This is the first open world that combines traditional Sonic elements to create a masterpiece set in Starfall Islands.
It offers an open-world experience of adventure, challenges, and a rich storyline. Whether you’ve been following the saga for a long time or just learned about it, this game promises hours of intense gameplay.
I remember booting up "Sonic Frontiers" for the first time and was immediately captivated by the expansive open world. The freedom to explore at Sonic's breakneck speed and the game's stunning visuals and classic elements, such as the usual rings, made it an unforgettable experience.
The combat was fluid, and the challenges were well-balanced, providing a sense of nostalgia and novelty.
Sonic Frontiers Game Features:
Explore the Starfall Islands in a new way. Discover ruins, dense forests, deserts, and flowery fields.
Use classic abilities such as Sonic’s speed, ring collection, and enemy targeting.
Face robotic enemies and engage in fierce battles against bosses.
Rescue characters like Tails and other characters to learn about their stories.
Sonic Frontiers EU Steam CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom
Release Date: May 12, 2023.
Publisher: Nintendo.
Developer: Nintendo Entertainment Planning & Development.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch.
Metascore: 96.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a captivating continuation of the Zelda series, set in the familiar world of Hyrule. It takes place after the "Breath of the Wild" events and goes deep into the mysteries of the Hyrule Kingdom.
Compared to other Zelda games, it introduces new features and challenges like a bigger map with two new places named The Sky Islands up above and The Depths down below. They also give Link a Zonai arm with multiple abilities, being the most powerful Ultrahand.
For some, it’s a masterpiece continuation with a rich narrative, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a breathtaking world you can explore.
For me, Tears of the Kingdom felt like a new air in the Zelda saga. It had something from Twilight Princess, Ocarina of Time, and the rest of the titles I love. And with the Gloom’s introduction, it added a layer of intrigue and urgency to the narrative.
The moment when Zelda vanished and Link's arm became corrupted was shocking and exhilarating. It’s when I knew that this game was unique.
The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Game Features:
Evolving storyline that continues BOTW events and adds new enemies.
Link’s new equipment and abilities give the saga a refreshing tone.
New terrains for exploration are available. The Sky Islands open new challenges for players.
Unique landscapes and dark places appear throughout Hyrule, showing decadence and quick change.
Zelda Tears of the Kingdom is available for purchase on Nintendo.
Elden Ring
Release Date: Feb 25, 2022.
Publisher: FromSoftware, Bandai Namco Entertainment.
Developer: FromSoftware.
Platforms:Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series XS.
Metascore: 96.
Elden Ring is a masterful creation that combines the world-building of George R. R. Martin with the impeccable game design of FromSoftware, making it the ultimate Dark Souls-like game.
This action role-playing game takes you to the "Lands Between.” It’s a vast realm teeming with mysteries, dangers, and a rich lore waiting to be unraveled.
The game is open and allows you to start whenever you want. All you need to do is jump in the Lands Between and head on.
After playing, the vast open world, filled with details, hidden secrets, and challenging foes, kept me on the edge. The sense of exploration, combined with the game's deep lore and complex combat mechanics, made every moment epic.
Elden Ring Game Features:
Expansive open world with a non-linear approach. You can travel to multiple landscapes, such as grassy plains and ancient ruins.
Extensive and complex lore is required to understand the game’s logic.
Dynamic combat mechanics known from the Souls games, now with extra features exclusively for Elden Ring.
Full character customization where you can edit from nose to body shape and more.
Elden Ring EU Steam CD Key is available for purchase on RoyalCDKeys.
Games Like Breath of The Wild - Summary
These games, like Breath of the Wild, changed gaming history.
So, it doesn’t matter whether you are experimenting with Zelda for the first time or just looking for new adventures in RPGs. These titles will give you exciting moments with top-notch mechanics that you should try whenever you have time.
Go deep into their stories, challenges, lore, and world, and discover what it means to get lost in realms full of possibilities.