Home News 13 Games to Play If You Loved Skyrim

13 Games to Play If You Loved Skyrim

by Jonathan Mar 18,2025

The first time you stepped into Skyrim's breathtaking landscape, narrowly escaping execution in Helgen, was likely unforgettable. That unparalleled sense of freedom, the ability to explore a vast wilderness without limitations, is what captivated millions and keeps them returning after a decade. But even the most dedicated Dragonborn eventually seeks new adventures.

While we eagerly await *Elder Scrolls VI*, let's explore some fantastic games that capture the magic of Skyrim's open-world freedom and immersive gameplay:

1. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

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

A classic for a reason, Oblivion offers a similar scope and style to Skyrim. As a prisoner thrust into a conflict involving demonic gods and the assassination of the Emperor, you'll journey across Cyrodil. Explore freely, complete quests, join factions, and build your character with an array of skills, weapons, armor, spells, and more. It's more Elder Scrolls, perfect for bridging the gap until Elder Scrolls VI. Available on PC and playable via backwards compatibility on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

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

A Nintendo Switch masterpiece and one of the greatest fantasy RPGs ever created, Breath of the Wild delivers a secret-filled open world, physics-based combat, phenomenal quests, and stunning visuals. This game truly embraces freedom; you're dropped into Hyrule with essential tools and left to explore, conquer, or simply discover at your own pace. A perfect choice if you crave the unguided exploration of Skyrim. Available exclusively on Nintendo Switch. Tears of the Kingdom offers a similar experience.

3. Dragon's Dogma 2

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

A recent release, Dragon's Dogma 2 delivers a sprawling RPG emphasizing exploration across the realms of Vermund and Battahl. As the Arisen, you'll quest to defeat an ancient dragon, uncovering secrets in a vast, dangerous world. With diverse classes, weapons, armor, and a unique party system featuring player-created allies, it's a substantial fantasy RPG experience. Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC.

4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3 Screenshot
Image credit: CD Projekt
**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 dark fantasy world filled with monsters, magic, and political intrigue. As Geralt, you'll search for Ciri, facing mythical creatures and the spectral Wild Hunt. The game's freedom, compelling story, and challenging battles make it a worthy successor to Skyrim's open-world experience. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC.

5. Kingdom Come: Deliverance

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

For a grounded medieval experience, Kingdom Come: Deliverance offers a unique blend of freedom and realism. As Henry, a blacksmith's son seeking revenge, you'll explore 15th-century Bohemia, completing open-ended quests and mastering a complex battle system. The game's focus on immersion, survival mechanics, and authentic setting provides a stark contrast to Skyrim's high fantasy, yet retains a similar sense of open-world exploration. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC. The 2025 sequel is also highly recommended.

6. Elden Ring

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

A challenging yet rewarding experience, Elden Ring masters the art of exploration. FromSoftware's masterpiece hides secrets and rewards players who thoroughly explore its vast world. The Lands Between offers a unique blend of danger and discovery, making every path worth venturing down. With the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion and Elden Ring Nightreign coming in May, now is the perfect time to experience it. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

7. Fallout 4

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

While a departure from fantasy, Fallout 4 shares Skyrim's open-world design and character customization. Explore the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Boston, battle mutants, and complete quests in a vast, free-roaming environment. It offers a unique post-apocalyptic twist on the formula. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

8. Dragon Age: Inquisition

Dragon Age: Inquisition Screenshot
Image credit: EA
**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 to save Thedas from rifts tearing across the sky. Explore massive open-world maps, defeat monsters, and shape the story through your choices. A solid fantasy RPG with character customization and a compelling narrative. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Dragon Age: The Veilguard (2024) is a great follow-up.

9. Baldur's Gate 3

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

While different in gameplay style, Baldur's Gate 3 shares Skyrim's commitment to player agency. This top-down CRPG offers strategic combat, engaging storylines, and quests that react to your choices. The vast character customization and freedom of approach make it a compelling alternative. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

10. Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning

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

A remastered cult classic, Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning offers fun combat, a huge world, and countless quests. As the Fateless One, you'll explore the Faelands, building your character and facing formidable threats. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.

11. The Forgotten City

The Forgotten City Screenshot
Image credit: PID Games
**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 stands on its own as a unique narrative-driven experience. This detective game, set in ancient Rome, features a time loop mechanic and emphasizes investigation and dialogue over combat. A refreshing change of pace for Skyrim fans. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.

12. Outward: Definitive Edition

Outward: Definitive Edition Screenshot
Image credit: Deep Silver
**Developer**: Nine Dots Studio | **Publisher:** Deep Silver | **Release Date:** May 17, 2022 | **Review:** IGN's Outward review

For a hardcore adventure, Outward challenges players with realistic survival mechanics and consequences. Explore the world of Aurai, facing threats and environmental challenges. The lack of fast travel and unique death system create a truly immersive experience. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC.

13. The Elder Scrolls Online

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

Continue your Elder Scrolls journey in this MMO. Explore familiar and new locations across Tamriel, completing quests and teaming up with other players. Numerous updates and DLCs enhance the experience. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

What's your favorite game like Skyrim?

This is our selection of games for Skyrim fans. Do you agree? Are any of your favorites missing? Share your picks using IGN Playlist!

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