The first time you stepped into Skyrim's breathtaking world, narrowly escaping execution in Helgen and emerging into its untamed wilderness, was likely unforgettable. That unparalleled sense of freedom, the ability to explore anywhere and everywhere without restriction, is why millions return to its icy landscape again and again. But after years exploring Skyrim's various iterations, the urge for new fantasy adventures is undeniable. To bridge the gap until *Elder Scrolls VI*, we've curated a list of exceptional games capturing Skyrim's spirit.
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 perfect one. Oblivion, Skyrim's predecessor, shares the same captivating open-world gameplay, epic quests, and deep character customization. As a wrongly imprisoned individual thrust into a conflict involving demonic gods and the emperor's murder, you journey across Cyrodil, shaping your destiny through exploration, quests, and faction alliances. It's more *Elder Scrolls*, readily 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* offers a secret-laden open world, physics-based combat, stunning visuals, and unparalleled freedom. Hyrule is yours to explore at your own pace; scale mountains, uncover lore, or challenge the final boss—the choice is entirely yours. This unguided exploration mirrors Skyrim's appeal, making it a superb alternative. Available exclusively on Nintendo Switch (and its sequel, *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 addition, *Dragon's Dogma 2* delivers a vast, explorable world across two realms. As the Arisen, you quest to slay a dragon that stole your heart, encountering colossal foes and uncovering secrets. The game emphasizes exploration, featuring diverse classes, weapons, armor, and a unique party system with recruitable 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. In a dark, Slavic-inspired world, Geralt hunts monsters, makes morally ambiguous choices, and follows a gripping narrative. The vast open world allows for freedom of choice; pursue contracts, ignore the main quest, or confront the Wild Hunt—the power is yours. The base game and its DLCs are highly recommended. 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 RPG offering unparalleled freedom. As Henry, a blacksmith's son seeking revenge, you explore a vast open world, complete quests with impactful consequences, and master a realistic combat system. Immersive survival mechanics add depth, requiring attention to food, sleep, hygiene, and equipment. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC. Its sequel, released in February 2025, is even better.
6. Elden Ring
Developer: FromSoftware | Publisher: Bandai Namco | Release Date: February 25, 2022 | Review: IGN's Elden Ring review
A challenging but rewarding RPG. FromSoftware's masterpiece excels in exploration, rewarding curiosity with hidden areas and valuable rewards. Every corner holds a potential discovery. The *Shadow of the Erdtree* expansion and the upcoming *Elden Ring Nightreign* enhance the experience. 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 open-world design, character customization, and quest structure. Explore Boston's wasteland, battle mutants, and uncover the mystery of your kidnapped son. Freedom of exploration is key. 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
Another extensive fantasy RPG with over 80 hours of gameplay. Lead the Inquisition, explore vast open worlds, battle monsters, and unravel a compelling story. Character creation and impactful choices shape your journey. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Consider playing *Dragon Age: The Veilguard* (2024) afterward.
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 (top-down CRPG), *Baldur's Gate 3* shares Skyrim's emphasis on player agency. Its expansive world, tactical combat, and choice-driven narrative offer a unique yet equally compelling experience. Extensive character customization and open-ended quests make it a great choice. 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
A remastered cult classic, offering engaging combat, a vast world, and numerous quests. As the Fateless One, you journey across Amalur, battling threats and shaping your character. 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* stands alone as a unique narrative experience. A time loop mystery set in ancient Rome, it replaces combat with investigation and dialogue, offering a fresh perspective while retaining Skyrim's core DNA. 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 focusing on realism and survival. You're an ordinary person facing debt and environmental challenges in the land of Aurai. Survival mechanics and a unique death system add a layer of complexity. 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
An MMO set in the *Elder Scrolls* universe. Explore familiar and new locations across Tamriel, complete quests, and team up with other players. Numerous updates and DLCs enhance the experience. Available on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
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