13 Games to Play If You Loved Skyrim

The first time you escaped Helgen and stepped into Skyrim's vast wilderness is an experience few forget. That unparalleled freedom to explore, a defining feature of the game, has captivated millions for over a decade. But after countless hours in Skyrim's various iterations, many are seeking similar adventures. To bridge the gap until *Elder Scrolls VI*, we've compiled a list of fantastic games that capture the essence of Skyrim's open-world magic.

1. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

Developer: Bethesda Game Studios | Publisher: Bethesda Softworks | Release Date: March 20, 2006 | Review: IGN's Oblivion review

An obvious choice, but a fitting one. *Oblivion*, Skyrim's predecessor, shares the same DNA: a sprawling world, captivating quests, deep character customization, and the freedom to chart your own course. Imprisoned and thrust into a conflict involving demonic gods and the emperor's murder, you'll explore Cyrodil, completing quests, joining factions, and mastering skills, weapons, armor, and spells. It's more *Elder Scrolls*, perfect for bridging the wait for *Elder Scrolls VI*. Available on PC and playable via Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One backward compatibility.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Developer: Nintendo | Publisher: Nintendo | Release Date: March 3, 2017 | Review: IGN's Breath of the Wild review

A Nintendo Switch masterpiece and a phenomenal fantasy RPG, *Breath of the Wild* delivers a secret-filled open world, physics-based combat, stunning visuals, and unforgettable quests. The game throws you into Hyrule with minimal guidance, letting you explore at your own pace, climb mountains, uncover lore, or even challenge the final boss early on. If you crave Skyrim's freedom and unguided exploration, this is a perfect alternative. Available exclusively on Nintendo Switch. *Tears of the Kingdom* offers a similar experience.

3. Dragon's Dogma 2

Developer: Capcom | Publisher: Capcom | Release Date: March 22, 2024 | Review: IGN's Dragon's Dogma 2 review

A recent release, *Dragon's Dogma 2* offers expansive exploration across two realms, Vermund and Battahl. As the Arisen, you'll hunt a dragon that stole your heart, traversing a vast world filled with secrets and challenging monsters. The game features deep RPG mechanics, various classes, diverse weaponry, and a unique party system with player-created allies. Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC.

4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Developer: CD Projekt Red | Publisher: CD Projekt | Release Date: May 19, 2015 | Review: IGN's The Witcher 3 review

A top-tier RPG offering over 100 hours of gameplay, *The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt* immerses you in a Slavic-inspired world of monsters, magic, and political intrigue. As Geralt, you'll search for Ciri, facing mythical creatures and the Wild Hunt. The game provides immense freedom, letting you pursue contracts, explore the world, or focus on the main storyline. The base game and its two DLCs are a must-play. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC.

5. Kingdom Come: Deliverance

Developer: Warhorse Studios | Publisher: Deep Silver | Release Date: February 13, 2018 | Review: IGN's Kingdom Come Deliverance review

A grounded medieval epic, *Kingdom Come: Deliverance* offers a unique take on open-world freedom. As Henry, a blacksmith's son seeking revenge, you'll explore 15th-century Bohemia, completing quests, mastering combat, and managing survival mechanics like hunger, sleep, and hygiene. The game's immersive experience and realistic setting make it a compelling alternative to Skyrim. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC. *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, released in February 2025, is also highly recommended.

6. Elden Ring

Developer: FromSoftware | Publisher: Bandai Namco | Release Date: February 25, 2022 | Review: IGN's Elden Ring review

A challenging but rewarding experience, *Elden Ring* masters exploration, hiding paths and rewards for those willing to explore thoroughly. Every area feels meaningful, rewarding curiosity despite its punishing difficulty. With the *Shadow of the Erdtree* expansion and *Elden Ring Nightreign* coming in May, it's the perfect time to explore The Lands Between. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

7. Fallout 4

Developer: Bethesda Game Studios | Publisher: Bethesda Softworks | Release Date: November 10, 2025 | Review: IGN's Fallout 4 review

While a post-apocalyptic RPG, *Fallout 4* shares Skyrim's design philosophies: a massive open world, character customization, and freedom to explore and complete quests. Set in Boston, you'll fight mutants, uncover the mysteries of the Institute, and explore the Wasteland. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

8. Dragon Age: Inquisition

Developer: BioWare | Publisher: EA | Release Date: November 18, 2014 | Review: IGN's Dragon Age: Inquisition review

Offering over 80 hours of gameplay, *Dragon Age: Inquisition* lets you lead the Inquisition, exploring massive open worlds, battling monsters, and shaping the fate of Thedas. Character creation, class selection, and impactful choices make this a compelling fantasy RPG. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. *Dragon Age: The Veilguard* (2024) is a great follow-up.

9. Baldur's Gate 3

Developer: Larian Studios | Publisher: Larian Studios | Release Date: July 29, 2023 | Review: IGN's Baldur's Gate 3 review

While differing in gameplay style, *Baldur's Gate 3* offers a vast, expansive world with strategic combat, engaging storylines, and impactful choices. The freedom to customize your character and approach quests makes it a satisfying RPG for those who appreciate Skyrim's open-ended nature. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

10. Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning

Developer: Big Huge Games | Publisher: EA | Release Date: February 7, 2012 | Review: IGN's Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning review

This remastered cult classic offers fun combat, a large world, and numerous quests. As the Fateless One, you'll explore Amalur, build your character, and prevent a destructive force. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.

11. The Forgotten City

Developer: Modern Storyteller | Publisher: PID Games | Release Date: July 28, 2021 | Review: IGN's The Forgotten City review

Originally a Skyrim mod, *The Forgotten City* is a unique detective game set in Ancient Rome, focusing on solving a mystery within a time loop. Almost devoid of combat, it offers a different kind of experience while retaining the spirit of exploration. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.

12. Outward: Definitive Edition

Developer: Nine Dots Studio | Publisher: Deep Silver | Release Date: May 17, 2022 | Review: IGN's Outward review

A hardcore RPG emphasizing realism and consequences, *Outward* features survival mechanics and a unique death system. Explore Aurai, face threats, and manage your resources. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC.

13. The Elder Scrolls Online

Developer: ZeniMax Online Studios | Publisher: Bethesda Softworks | Release Date: June 9, 2015 | Review: IGN's The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited review

Explore Tamriel with friends in this MMO. Visit familiar and new locations, complete quests, and build your character. The game's numerous updates and DLCs offer endless content. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

This is our selection of games that capture the spirit of Skyrim. Do you agree? Share your favorites using IGN Playlist—a tool to manage your games, create lists, and discover what others are playing.