After delving into the expansive forests and plateaus of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, players often find themselves with an undeniable sense of longing, akin to what one might call a “Hyrule hangover.”Nintendo’s intricate world is brimming with unique discoveries, complex puzzles, and formidable foes, establishing it as one of the most captivating gaming landscapes crafted over the last decade.
While few titles can truly rival the acclaim garnered by Breath of the Wild, there exists a plethora of other games boasting vast worlds inhabited by awe-inspiring creatures. This article invites you to explore several notable projects that offer expansive environments, thrilling quests, or a delightful combination of both. Even if these games do not match the creative prowess of BOTW, they serve to satisfy that adventurer’s itch. Join us as we delve into the top games reminiscent of Zelda: BOTW.
Updated January 4, 2025 by Mark Sammut: The dawn of 2025 has ushered in an array of exciting game releases. As of now, none of the upcoming titles exclaim “Breath of the Wild,”but this could change upon their arrivals. Meanwhile, gamers can keep an eye out for a 2024 release that may provide a similarly enchanting experience. Click below to discover that entry.
Quick Links
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
A Modern Classic Zelda with Elements from BOTW and TOTK
Echoes of Wisdom pays homage to classic Zelda games by implementing an isometric perspective and incorporating traditional dungeons with a linear progression structure. While it may appeal more to fans of Link’s Awakening, this 2024 title still resonates with those who appreciate the expansive nature of Breath of the Wild and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom.
Notably, Princess Zelda takes center stage in this narrative, embarking on a quest to close rifts and safeguard Hyrule, aided by a fairy named Tri and the innovative Tri Rod. This weapon enables her to store echoes, allowing players to summon defeated foes or essential items for puzzle-solving purposes.
Channeling elements of Tears of the Kingdom’s Fuse feature, Echoes of Wisdom emphasizes creativity and exploration through a streamlined system reflecting its more conventional nature. Although it does not present the associated open-world scale, the sandbox elements have been a staple of the franchise since its inception, encouraging players to explore while providing a guided path forward.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Building on BOTW
After six years, the anticipation for Breath of the Wild’s sequel was monumental, yet Nintendo deftly navigated expectations, delivering Tears of the Kingdom, a title that does not fall short. Renowned for its exceptional quality, the Zelda franchise had a high bar to meet, particularly because BOTW set a standard for sandbox gameplay.
Continuing the storyline from its predecessor, the gameplay mechanics remain intact, including weapon degradation, plentiful shrines, and a player-driven narrative. Instead of overhauling the beloved formula, the sequel opts for enhancements, introducing fresh mechanics such as the fusion ability that allows players to craft distinctive weapons and devices essential for puzzle resolution.
While those who were not fans of BOTW may find little appeal in TOTK, dedicated fans of 2017’s installment are expected to relish in the sequel’s offerings.
Fire Ring
Parallel Open-World Design Philosophies
Despite the stark differences between FromSoftware’s Elden Ring and BOTW, including Elden Ring’s Lovecraftian horror elements, both share a common thread in their open-world approach. Players are given the freedom to explore extensive maps, uncovering secrets and facing challenges on their terms. While Elden Ring offers slightly more guidance, its vast and rich landscapes parallel the exploratory essence found in Hyrule.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
The BOTW Spin-Off
Nonetheless, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, while following a distinctly different hack-and-slash style, serves as a compelling follow-up to Hyrule Warriors and a prequel set 100 years before BOTW, showcasing the Great Calamity. For fans eager to delve deeper into the backstory of Hyrule, this title offers a valuable experience.
Immortals Fenyx Rising
Ubisoft’s Take on BOTW
The success of Breath of the Wild has undoubtedly inspired various developers, with Ubisoft’s Immortals Fenyx Rising standing out as a prime example. This 2020 release channels the spirit of Link’s adventures but offers its own unique blend of gameplay mechanics and storytelling. Players step into the shoes of Fenyx, tasked with rescuing the gods corrupted by Typhon, all within a vibrant world divided into diverse regions.
Genshin Impact
Beyond a Simple BOTW Clone
When Genshin Impact first emerged, it was often labeled as simply a Breath of the Wild incarnation. However, since its 2020 debut, MiHoYo’s action RPG has evolved significantly, continuously thrilling players with its sprawling world and engaging combat system. While it does borrow stylistic elements and some traversal mechanics from BOTW, the experience diverges fundamentally in gameplay, with Genshin focusing on real-time squad-based combat and character collection.
Palworld
An Eclectic Mix of Crafting, Survival, and Pokémon
Palworld provides an open-world setting that draws inspiration from various genres while creating a unique gaming experience. This title combines survival mechanics with monster collection and exploratory freedom. Despite initial concerns about its ambitious blend of gameplay elements, Palworld has shaped up into a cohesive and enjoyable adventure.
Super Mario Odyssey
Expanding Another Nintendo Classic
Nintendo’s fantastic year in 2017, which debuted the Switch alongside Breath of the Wild, also saw the release of Super Mario Odyssey. Both titles pepper their worlds with secrets waiting to be uncovered, delivering tightly crafted experiences that allow players freedom to tackle challenges in their own way.
Monster Hunter Rise
Engaging yet Accessible Combat
Monster Hunter Rise continues the trend of accessible combat introduced in Monster Hunter World, making it an excellent choice for those yearning for action-oriented gameplay on the Switch. Although its structure contrasts starkly with BOTW—with a focused experience centered around boss encounters rather than free-roaming exploration—the game is a solid alternative for fans looking for engaging gameplay.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Liberating Exploration in a Rich World
Breath of the Wild rekindled feelings of liberating exploration, reminiscent of the experiences offered by Skyrim. This beloved open-world RPG sets players loose in a beautifully crafted world filled with memorable characters, extensive quests, and countless secrets. Its expansive nature encourages players to immerse themselves fully in the story and world.
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
A Visually Stunning Fantasy Realm
While Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora received a mixed critical reception upon launch, its beautiful recreation of James Cameron’s universe makes it a visually appealing tour. Set in an immersive world, the game offers players adventure and exploration akin to what they might find in BOTW, albeit through the lens of Ubisoft’s design philosophy.
Sonic Frontiers
A Mixed Transition to Open World
Sega’s Sonic Frontiers marks the series’ foray into open-world gameplay, and while it faces its share of challenges—such as performance issues—it presents an inviting world for exploration. Fans of the franchise may find joy in navigating this open environment, drawing some comparisons to the exploration-heavy elements in BOTW.
Asterigos: Curse of the Stars
Diverse Combat Options
Asterigos: Curse of the Stars invites players to explore the cursed city of Aphes while providing varied combat options reminiscent of a hack-and-slash experience. With a focus on exploration and creativity similar to BOTW, it encourages players to find their ideal weapon style throughout their journey.
Grounded
A Sandbox Experience with Unique Perspective
Grounded from Obsidian thrusts players into a backyard adventure, allowing them to navigate through dangers as miniaturized characters exploring a sandbox world. The game incorporates extensive crafting and base-building mechanics alongside captivating exploration, echoing attitudes from BOTW without the strict combat-focused design.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus
Innovative Reinterpretation of the Pokémon Experience
Pokemon Legends: Arceus represents a bold reimagining of classic Pokémon mechanics, prioritizing exploration and player engagement. Despite its segmented biomes, it encourages discovery and interaction over conventional combat, making it enjoyable for fans who cherish the exploration-heavy style of BOTW.
Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles
A Wholesome Adventure Focused on Exploration
Yonder casts players onto a serene island filled with charming inhabitants, unobtrusive mechanics, and an abundance of exploration. Although lacking the combat aspects of BOTW, the game’s narrative structure and rich aesthetics make it a truly delightful experience for those seeking a peaceful adventure.
Marvel’s Spider-Man
Exceptional Traversal Mechanics
Marvel’s Spider-Man presents an iconic portrayal of superhero gameplay, prioritizing traversal mechanics. While it may not align directly with the exploration aspect found in BOTW, the exhilarating experience of swinging through a detailed New York City creates an engaging exploration experience for players.
Sea of Thieves
Cooperative Adventure and Player-Driven Experience
Similar to BOTW’s emphasis on player agency and discovery, Sea of Thieves embodies a “make your own fun”mentality. Whether venturing solo or within a crew, players can choose how they engage with the world, crafting their adventures as they sail towards treasure and thrills in a vibrant open sea.
Ys 8: Lacrimosa of Dana
A Harmonious Blend of Action and Adventure
Ys 8: Lacrimosa of Dana invites players to explore an enigmatic island filled with adventure and character-driven narratives. While it trades in open-world freedom for focused exploration, the fast-paced combat system and strong visual storytelling align it with the engaging gameplay style BOTW lovers appreciate.
Moonlighter
An Indie Gem with High Replay Value
Moonlighter introduces players to the life of a shopkeeper by day and dungeoneer by night, merging shop management with action RPG elements. Although the title is more akin to the classic 2-D Zelda games, the engaging mechanics and heartfelt storytelling provide an experience that appeals to fans eager for adventure and charm.
Dungeons of Hinterberg
A Retreat into a Relaxing Fantasy
Dungeons of Hinterberg encapsulates a leisurely approach similar to BOTW, inviting players to explore its dungeons and interact with charming locales without the pressures of survival. Amidst beautifully rendered environments, the gameplay highlights exploration, allowing players the freedom to rest, unwind, and enjoy the world’s offerings.
Ashen
Striking Art Style and Unique Progression
Ashen stands out with its minimalistic art style and open-world design, presenting players with a distinct exploration experience. While primarily inspired by classic action RPGs, Ashen provides an engaging setting and encourages players to explore and discover secrets at their own pace, reminiscent of the freedom offered in BOTW.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Innovation in Story-Driven Open Worlds
While The Witcher 3 and BOTW diverge significantly in narrative focus and gameplay mechanics, both titles achieve remarkable immersion within their richly crafted worlds. BOTW encourages exploration and freedom, while The Witcher 3 captivates players with intricate storytelling and a well-defined gaming experience.
Eyes
A Timeless Classic Worth Revisiting
Okami’s enchanting adventure allows players to assume the role of Amaterasu, guiding them through a picturesque landscape inspired by Japanese aesthetics. With its emphasis on exploration and artistic expression, this iconic title remains a beloved adventure that resonates well with fans of the Zelda franchise, despite being distinctly different in gameplay mechanics.
Horizon Zero Dawn & Forbidden West
Visually Striking Worlds and Dynamic Combat
In their post-apocalyptic settings, both Horizon Zero Dawn and its sequel, Forbidden West, offer compelling worlds as players battle against artificial beasts. While this series varies significantly from BOTW’s design philosophy, its open-world exploration, gorgeous graphics, and enthralling storytelling deliver an engaging alternative for fans seeking adventure.
Darksiders 2
An Action-Packed Tribute to Classic Adventure
Darksiders 2 presents an enjoyable blend of RPG elements, vast exploration, and thrilling combat, with gameplay reminiscent of classic Zelda titles. While it offers different mechanics, the exploration and combat dynamics ensure that players can continue their open-world adventures long after completing BOTW.
Oceanhorn 2: Knights of the Lost Realm
A Direct Homage to BOTW
Oceanhorn 2: Knights of the Lost Realm offers a 3D aesthetic that directly channels elements from BOTW while retaining gameplay mechanics akin to older Zelda titles. Despite not completely emulating the charm and magic of its inspirations, it serves as an enjoyable, albeit limited, experience for players yearning for more Zelda-like adventures.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3
A Must-Play JRPG for Switch Owners
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has captured hearts with its heartfelt narrative and expansive landscapes that invite exploration. While it doesn’t replicate the same open-ended style as BOTW, its beautifully crafted world and compelling story deliver a fulfilling experience for fans of epic storytelling.
Kena: Bridge of Spirits
Kena: Bridge of Spirits beautifully combines elements of adventure and exploration, crafting a stunning world infused with emotional narrative. Although not a traditional open-world game, its exploration elements complement the captivating visuals, allowing players to immerse themselves in a magical setting reflective of BOTW’s enchanting nature.
Hyper Light Drifter
Atmospheric Adventure in a Unique World
Hyper Light Drifter invites players into a visually striking and mysterious realm that emphasizes exploration and impactful combat. With its evocative storytelling and rich atmosphere, the game presents a compelling journey that echoes the defining elements that fans of Breath of the Wild have come to love.
Ghost of Tsushima
A Beautiful Open World Designed for Immersion
While Ghost of Tsushima follows a more structured narrative with guided gameplay akin to Ubisoft titles, its expansive map is filled with stunning visuals and engaging combat mechanics. Although not as open-ended as BOTW, it provides players with opportunities to immerse themselves in its gorgeous landscapes and historical setting.
Upcoming Games That May Captivate Zelda BOTW Fans
Exciting Prospects Ahead
The gaming industry is perpetually evolving, with fresh opportunities for discovery and adventure emerging continually. Although Nintendo may release a new Zelda title sparingly, fans can still anticipate upcoming releases that may provide similar experiences.
- **Pokemon Legends: Z-A** – Following the acclaim of its predecessor, this title promises to further enhance gameplay focused on exploration, making it a highly anticipated entry for both Pokémon aficionados and BOTW fans.
- **Overthrown** – Sporting a distinctive art style and intriguing mechanics, this game emphasizes city-building alongside sandbox-style exploration, enticing players looking for creative gameplay. A demo is available for those interested.
Leave a Reply