There's nothing quite like the initial thrill of exploring Skyrim for the first time. From the dramatic escape from execution in Helgen to the vast, untamed wilderness that beckons you to adventure without boundaries, this legendary RPG has captivated millions with its sense of freedom and adventure for over a decade. However, after years of diving into Skyrim's various editions, many fans are seeking new games to satisfy their craving for fantasy exploration. While we eagerly await the release of the highly anticipated Elder Scrolls 6, here's a curated list of games that echo the essence of Skyrim, perfect for your next adventure.
The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion
Starting with an obvious choice, The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion is the perfect precursor to Skyrim. As a prisoner thrust into the center of a conflict involving demonic gods and the assassination of Tamriel's emperor, you embark on a thrilling journey across Cyrodil. The game offers complete freedom to explore, engage in quests, ally with factions, and enhance your character with a variety of skills, weapons, armor sets, and spells. It's a seamless transition from Skyrim, available on PC and through Xbox Series X | S and Xbox One's backward compatibility feature.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
A flagship title for the Nintendo Switch and a top-tier fantasy RPG, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a must-play. This groundbreaking game offers a vast, secret-laden open world, innovative physics-based gameplay, compelling quests, and a stunning art style. From the moment you descend from the Great Plateau, you're free to explore Hyrule, tackle challenges, or even confront the final boss at your own pace. If you crave the freedom and exploration that defines Skyrim, Breath of the Wild, available exclusively on Nintendo Switch, is an excellent choice. You can also explore its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, for a similar experience.
3. Dragon's Dogma 2
A recent addition to the genre, Dragon's Dogma 2 is ideal for those who relish expansive exploration. Set in the realms of Vermund and Battahl, you play as The Arisen, a warrior on a quest to reclaim your heart from an ancient dragon. The game's focus on discovery is reminiscent of Skyrim, with a world brimming with secrets and encounters with colossal monsters that craft organic stories. Its deep RPG mechanics, including diverse classes, weapons, and a unique player-created ally system, make it a compelling choice for Skyrim enthusiasts. Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is a landmark RPG set in a dark, Slavic-mythology-inspired world. As Geralt of Rivia, you navigate a vast open world filled with challenging battles, moral dilemmas, and a captivating narrative. Whether you choose to pursue the main storyline or explore the world as a bounty hunter, the game offers the same sense of freedom and depth as Skyrim. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC, it's an essential play for fans looking to move beyond Skyrim.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance
For a more grounded RPG experience, Kingdom Come: Deliverance captures the essence of Skyrim's freedom within a realistic medieval setting. As Henry, a blacksmith's son seeking vengeance in 15th-century Bohemia, you'll explore a vast open world, engage in intricate combat, and manage survival mechanics that add depth to your journey. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC, it's a compelling alternative for those seeking a different flavor of exploration. The sequel, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, released in February 2025, further enhances this immersive experience.
Elden Ring
Elden Ring offers a challenging yet rewarding RPG experience that masters the art of exploration. Set in the dying world of The Lands Between, the game rewards curiosity and perseverance, offering a world where every detour holds potential discoveries. With the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion and the upcoming Elden Ring Nightreign, there's never been a better time to explore this punishing yet satisfying game. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Fallout 4
Though not a fantasy RPG, Fallout 4 shares many design elements with Skyrim. Set in a post-apocalyptic Boston, you play as the Sole Survivor, searching for your kidnapped son amidst a sprawling open world filled with quests and exploration. The game's focus on character building and free exploration mirrors Skyrim's gameplay, offering a unique twist on the formula. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, it's a great choice for those who enjoy Bethesda's open-world style.
Dragon Age: Inquisition
Dragon Age: Inquisition is another expansive fantasy RPG that offers over 80 hours of gameplay. As you lead The Inquisition to save Thedas from mysterious rifts, you'll explore vast open-world maps, recruit party members, and make choices that impact the narrative. The game's focus on character development and exploration makes it a fitting follow-up to Skyrim. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, it's an ideal choice before diving into 2024's Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
Baldur's Gate 3
While different in gameplay style, Baldur's Gate 3 shares Skyrim's emphasis on player freedom and choice. This top-down CRPG offers strategic combat and a richly interactive world where your decisions shape the story. With extensive character customization and freedom in quest completion, it's a perfect choice for those who appreciate Skyrim's open-ended nature. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning
A remastered cult classic, Kingdoms of Amalur offers a vibrant fantasy world with engaging combat and numerous quests. As the Fateless One, you explore the Faelands, build your character, and thwart a destructive force. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch, it's a great pick for those seeking another expansive RPG experience.
The Forgotten City
Originally a Skyrim mod, The Forgotten City stands out with its unique time-loop mechanic set in Ancient Rome. As you solve mysteries and navigate the Golden Rule, the game offers a fresh take on the RPG formula, focusing on detective work rather than combat. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch, it's an intriguing choice for those looking for something different yet familiar.
Outward: Definitive Edition
Outward offers a hardcore RPG experience focused on survival and consequence. As an ordinary person in the world of Aurai, you must navigate the environment, manage survival needs, and face challenging quests without the safety net of fast travel or traditional respawn mechanics. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC, it's a great choice for those seeking a challenging twist on open-world exploration.
The Elder Scrolls Online
For those who want to continue their Elder Scrolls journey, The Elder Scrolls Online offers an MMO experience across Tamriel. Explore familiar and new locations, complete quests, and collaborate with other players. With ongoing updates and DLCs, it's an excellent way to extend your adventures in the Elder Scrolls universe. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our pick of games Skyrim fans will love! Agree with our list or our some of your top picks missing? You can share your own top games like Skyrim lists with us via IGN Playlist, our tool that allows you to keep track of your gaming library, create lists and even rank them, discover what some of your favorite creators are playing, and more. Head over to IGN Playlist to find out more, and start creating your own lists to share with us!
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