The Best Games Inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has set a new standard for open-world gaming, combining exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat into a seamless experience that has captivated players worldwide. Its influence can be seen in various other games, many of which have adopted similar mechanics, art styles, and storytelling techniques. This article will explore the best games that share elements with Breath of the Wild, celebrating their unique contributions to the gaming landscape while highlighting how they've been inspired by this groundbreaking title.

1. Genshin Impact

Overview

Released in 2020, Genshin Impact quickly became a phenomenon in the gaming world. This action RPG developed by miHoYo features an expansive open world, vibrant visuals, and a rich narrative steeped in lore and mythology.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Open World Exploration: Much like Hyrule, the world of Teyvat is filled with diverse environments, from lush forests to mountainous terrains.
  • Stamina and Climbing Mechanics: Players can climb almost any surface, with stamina management being crucial to reaching high points and exploring hidden areas.
  • Elemental Combat System: The game’s elemental mechanics allow players to combine different character abilities in creative ways, similar to the various combat options available in Breath of the Wild.

Unique Features

Genshin Impact introduces a gacha system for character acquisition and a party-based combat system that encourages players to switch between characters for strategic advantages. The game’s art style is heavily influenced by anime, offering a different aesthetic from Zelda while still capturing a sense of wonder.

2. Immortals Fenyx Rising

Overview

Ubisoft's Immortals Fenyx Rising, released in December 2020, draws heavily from Greek mythology and offers a whimsical take on the action-adventure genre. Players control Fenyx, a young hero tasked with saving the gods from a dark curse.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Puzzle Solving and Exploration: The game features numerous puzzles scattered throughout its world, many of which require creative use of abilities, reminiscent of the shrine puzzles in Breath of the Wild.
  • Climbing and Gliding: Players can climb most surfaces and use a glider to traverse the landscape, echoing Link's traversal mechanics.
  • Vibrant Open World: The colorful, stylized art direction creates an inviting atmosphere for exploration, similar to Hyrule's varied environments.

Unique Features

Immortals Fenyx Rising incorporates a humorous narrative and a distinct art style, blending action with lighthearted storytelling. The ability to customize Fenyx’s appearance and abilities adds a personal touch to the gameplay experience.

3. Horizon Zero Dawn

Overview

Guerrilla Games’ Horizon Zero Dawn, released in 2017, is an open-world action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by robotic creatures. Players control Aloy, a skilled hunter, as she uncovers her past and battles these mechanical foes.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Open World Exploration: The expansive world encourages players to explore diverse environments, from lush forests to arid deserts, similar to Hyrule.
  • Crafting and Resource Management: Players gather resources to craft weapons, ammunition, and health items, echoing the survival elements found in Breath of the Wild.
  • Engaging Combat: The combat system rewards strategic thinking and skillful use of various weapons, akin to the dynamic battles in Zelda.

Unique Features

Horizon Zero Dawn features a rich narrative and intricate lore, exploring themes of technology and nature. The game’s stunning visuals and detailed world-building create an immersive experience that draws players in.

4. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Overview

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, released in 2011, is a landmark RPG that allows players to explore the vast province of Skyrim, filled with quests, dungeons, and dragons. Its open-world design and freedom of choice have made it a classic.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Exploration Freedom: Players can traverse the world at their own pace, engaging in quests, discovering dungeons, and interacting with NPCs, much like in Breath of the Wild.
  • Diverse Quests and Lore: The game is filled with rich lore and engaging side quests that encourage exploration and immersion.
  • Crafting and Alchemy: Players can craft weapons, armor, and potions, enhancing the survival aspect of the game.

Unique Features

Skyrim’s extensive modding community has kept the game alive for years, allowing players to customize their experience in countless ways. The deep character customization and skill trees provide a level of personalization that enhances replayability.

5. Dark Souls Series

Overview

The Dark Souls series, known for its challenging gameplay and intricate world design, has garnered a dedicated following since the release of the first game in 2011. Players navigate dark fantasy worlds filled with formidable foes and deep lore.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Challenging Combat: Both games feature strategic combat systems that require skill and timing to succeed against tough enemies.
  • Exploration and Secrets: The interconnected world design encourages thorough exploration, rewarding players with hidden paths and treasures.
  • Environmental Storytelling: Both games convey their narratives through the world itself, with lore embedded in item descriptions and environmental details.

Unique Features

The Dark Souls series is known for its punishing difficulty and deep lore, creating an atmosphere of tension and mystery. The online multiplayer elements, including cooperative play and invasions, add a unique layer to the experience.

6. Tunic

Overview

Tunic, released in 2022, is an indie action-adventure game featuring a small fox exploring a mysterious world. The game combines elements of classic Zelda games with modern design.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Exploration and Puzzles: Much like Breath of the Wild, Tunic emphasizes exploration, environmental puzzles, and combat.
  • Art Style: The isometric view and vibrant colors create a charming aesthetic reminiscent of classic adventure games.
  • Hidden Secrets: Players can discover various secrets and hidden areas, rewarding curiosity and exploration.

Unique Features

Tunic features a unique combat system and an intricate world filled with cryptic lore. The game challenges players to decipher its mechanics and secrets without explicit tutorials, creating a sense of discovery.

7. Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Overview

Xenoblade Chronicles 2, released in 2017, is an expansive JRPG set in a world of floating islands. Players control Rex and his companions as they explore the world and battle against powerful foes.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Open World Exploration: The game features a vast world filled with diverse environments and secrets to uncover, akin to Hyrule.
  • Dynamic Combat System: The combat mechanics allow for strategic gameplay, with a focus on skill and timing.
  • Rich Story and Characters: The narrative is deep, with well-developed characters and engaging quests.

Unique Features

The game features a unique "Blade" system, allowing players to form partnerships with powerful allies. The lush environments and intricate world design create an immersive experience that encourages exploration.

8. The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening

Overview

A remake of the classic 1993 game, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening offers a fresh take on a beloved adventure. Released for the Nintendo Switch in 2019, the game retains its charming story and gameplay while enhancing the visuals.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Exploration and Puzzles: Like Breath of the Wild, players must explore a vibrant world filled with puzzles and dungeons.
  • Combat Mechanics: The combat system is straightforward yet engaging, allowing players to utilize various items and abilities.
  • Nostalgic Elements: The game pays homage to classic Zelda mechanics while introducing new features.

Unique Features

The whimsical art style and charming characters create a delightful atmosphere. The game’s emphasis on exploration and discovery, along with its engaging storytelling, makes it a worthy addition to the Zelda franchise.

9. Spiritfarer

Overview

Spiritfarer is a management game that combines exploration and resource management with an emotional narrative about death and acceptance. Players take on the role of Stella, a ferrymaster who guides spirits to the afterlife.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Exploration and Discovery: Players explore a beautiful world filled with islands and secrets, echoing the exploration aspects of Breath of the Wild.
  • Crafting and Resource Management: Gathering resources and crafting items are key components, enhancing the survival aspect.
  • Emotional Storytelling: The narrative focuses on relationships and personal growth, similar to some of the deeper themes present in Zelda.

Unique Features

The game’s hand-drawn art style and soothing soundtrack create a unique atmosphere. The emotional depth and focus on relationships set it apart from traditional adventure games.

10. Outer Wilds

Overview

Outer Wilds is an exploration-based adventure game that combines space exploration with a time loop mechanic. Players explore a small solar system filled with secrets and mysteries.

Similarities to Breath of the Wild

  • Open-Ended Exploration: The game encourages players to explore at their own pace, discovering secrets and solving puzzles.
  • Environmental Storytelling: The narrative unfolds through exploration, revealing lore and history as players progress.
  • Unique Mechanics: The game features inventive mechanics that challenge players to think creatively, akin to the puzzle-solving elements in Breath of the Wild.

Unique Features

Outer Wilds offers a unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and emotional storytelling within a time-loop structure. The game’s focus on discovery and curiosity creates a captivating experience.

Conclusion

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has left a significant mark on the gaming industry, inspiring a diverse range of games that share similar mechanics, themes, and aesthetics. From expansive open worlds to engaging narratives, these titles provide players with the sense of adventure and exploration that Breath of the Wild perfected. Whether you're looking for similar gameplay mechanics or rich storytelling, these games offer something for every fan of the genre. Explore these titles and immerse yourself in the worlds they have to offer!