The first time you escaped Helgen and stepped into Skyrim's vast wilderness is a moment etched in the memories of millions. That unparalleled freedom to explore, a defining feature of the game, has kept players returning for over a decade. But after countless hours spent traversing its icy landscapes, many are seeking new adventures to scratch that fantasy RPG itch. While we eagerly await *Elder Scrolls VI*, here are some fantastic games to bridge the gap.
1. **The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion**
A classic for a reason, *Oblivion* offers a similar scale and style to *Skyrim*. As a prisoner thrust into a conflict involving demonic gods and the murder of the Emperor, you'll journey across Cyrodil, completing quests, joining factions, and developing your character with skills, weapons, armor, spells, and more. It's more *Elder Scrolls*, pure and simple, and a perfect way to continue your Tamriel journey. Available on PC, and playable via backward compatibility on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.
2. **The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild**
A Nintendo Switch masterpiece and one of the best fantasy RPGs ever created, *Breath of the Wild* delivers a secret-filled open world, physics-based combat, phenomenal quests, and stunning visuals. It throws you into Hyrule with minimal guidance, letting you explore, climb, and even tackle the final boss whenever you're ready. If you crave the freedom and unguided exploration of *Skyrim*, this is an excellent alternative. Available exclusively on Nintendo Switch. Its sequel, *Tears of the Kingdom*, offers a similar experience.
3. **Dragon's Dogma 2**
A recent release, *Dragon's Dogma 2* offers a massive RPG experience prioritizing exploration. Across the realms of Vermund and Battahl, you play as the Arisen, tasked with slaying a dragon that stole your heart. The world is brimming with secrets and challenging monsters, creating organic narratives as you survive perilous encounters. With diverse classes, weapons, armor, and a unique party system, it’s a satisfying fantasy RPG on a *Skyrim*-like scale. Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC.
4. **The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt**
A top-tier 100+ hour RPG, *The Witcher 3* 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 offers a huge open world, challenging battles, impactful choices, and a gripping story. Similar to *Skyrim*, it provides freedom to pursue the main quest or live the life of a bounty hunter. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC.
5. **Kingdom Come: Deliverance**
For a grounded medieval experience, *Kingdom Come: Deliverance* captures *Skyrim*'s sense of freedom. As Henry, a blacksmith's son seeking revenge, you'll explore 15th-century Bohemia, complete open-ended quests, and master an intricate combat system. The game emphasizes immersion through realistic survival mechanics, managing food, sleep, hygiene, and equipment. A more involved RPG with a realistic setting. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC. Its sequel, released in February 2025, is even better.
6. **Elden Ring**
A challenging yet rewarding RPG, *Elden Ring* masters exploration. Every area holds significance, rewarding thorough exploration. The game's difficulty is balanced by the satisfaction of overcoming its challenges. With the *Shadow of the Erdtree* expansion and *Elden Ring Nightreign* coming in May, it's a prime time to explore The Lands Between. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
7. **Fallout 4**
While a post-apocalyptic RPG, *Fallout 4* shares *Skyrim*'s design philosophy: a massive open world, character customization, exploration, and quests. You'll fight mutants and navigate a wasteland instead of casting spells on dragons. The freedom to explore and pursue various objectives mirrors *Skyrim*'s open-ended nature. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
8. **Dragon Age: Inquisition**
Another extensive fantasy RPG, *Dragon Age: Inquisition* offers 80+ hours of gameplay. Lead the Inquisition to save Thedas from rifts opening in the sky, exploring vast open worlds, battling monsters, and uncovering a compelling story. Character creation, class selection, and impactful choices are key features. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. *Dragon Age: The Veilguard* (2024) is a great follow-up.
9. **Baldur's Gate 3**
While different in gameplay style (top-down CRPG), *Baldur's Gate 3* offers a massive fantasy world with strategic combat, engaging storylines, and quests that react to your choices. The freedom to build your character and approach quests mirrors *Skyrim*'s open-ended nature. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
10. **Kingdoms of Amalur: Re-Reckoning**
A remastered cult classic, *Kingdoms of Amalur* provides fun combat, a large world, and numerous quests. As the Fateless One, you'll explore Amalur, build your character, and fight to stop a destructive force. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.
11. **The Forgotten City**
Originally a *Skyrim* mod, *The Forgotten City* is a unique detective game set in Ancient Rome, where a time loop resets when a "Golden Rule" is broken. It's a narrative-driven experience with minimal combat, offering a different kind of adventure while retaining some of *Skyrim*'s core elements. Available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch.
12. **Outward: Definitive Edition**
A hardcore RPG where you play as an ordinary person, not a prophesied hero. *Outward* focuses on realism and consequence, with survival mechanics and a unique death system. Exploration is key, with no fast travel and a challenging environment. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC.
13. **The Elder Scrolls Online**
Explore Tamriel with friends in this MMO. Visit familiar locations and new realms, completing quests and building your character. A great choice for those wanting more *Elder Scrolls* after exhausting *Skyrim*. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
AnswerSee Results
This is our selection of games for *Skyrim* fans. Do you agree? Are some of your favorites missing? Share your own top picks using IGN Playlist—a tool to manage your games, create and rank lists, and discover what other players are enjoying. Learn more and start creating your lists!
