The Best Games Like Skyrim: The Ultimate Guide to RPG Heaven

Skyrim is one of the most beloved role-playing games (RPGs) of all time. Its vast open world, deep lore, and immersive gameplay make it a timeless classic that captivates players even a decade after its initial release.

TESV: Skyrim has made a special place in my heart and gave me an adventure that no other game even comes close to. Fortunately, due to Bethesda’s constant support for the game, Skyrim remains a timeless classic. After purchasing Skyrim about fifty times for different versions/platforms, I felt like it was time to explore other RPGs too.

Are you tired of exploring the Nordic lands of Tamriel? Bored of fighting dragons and bandits? Fear not, adventurer! I’ve rounded up some games that will give you the same sense of grand adventure, with a few twists here and there.

If you’re looking for games like Skyrim, you’re in luck! There are plenty of options out there for RPG fans looking for their next adventure. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the best games like Skyrim, including details on who made the game, when it was released, what platforms it’s on, and what RPG sub-genre it falls under, read on!

A quick word about affiliate links

Why am I including affiliate links in this article, you ask? Well, let’s just say I’m trying to make a few coins to fund our mead-drinking and dragon-slaying habit.

That’s right, I’m basically a professional Witcher 3 player at this point, and all that monster-fighting can get pretty pricey.

So by using my links to buy the games I recommend, you’ll not only be getting a great gaming experience, but you’ll also be keeping my virtual tavern tabs paid. Cheers!

I use Amazon simply because, over the years, I have found them to be the most reliable online retailer for games and most often offer the lowest prices on physical games.

Top 15 Games Like Skyrim That Will Surely Quench Your Thirst For Adventure!

From a post-apocalyptic wasteland to a medieval kingdom, these games like Skyrim are bound to make you laugh, cry, and maybe even dance a jig or two.

Just remember, in the words of the great philosopher Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, “Know your role, and shut your mouth.” Okay, maybe he wasn’t talking about video games, but you get the idea. So, grab your sword, gun, or magic staff, and let’s dive in!

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Made by: CD Projekt Red
Released: May 19, 2015
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of the most popular games like Skyrim, and for good reason. With a rich and detailed world, compelling characters, and a deep and intricate storyline, The Witcher 3 is an excellent RPG that will keep you entertained for hours.

The gameplay is similar to Skyrim, with an open world that you can explore at your leisure and a combat system that requires you to think critically and use your skills and weapons to overcome challenges. The graphics are stunning, with breathtaking landscapes, detailed character models, and immersive environments that truly bring the world of The Witcher to life.

Thanks to the latest update towards the end of 2022, CD Projekt Red added Ray-tracing support and substantially improved the graphics of the game.

Similarity to Skyrim: The Witcher 3 has a vast open world with a rich and detailed world, compelling characters, and a deep and intricate storyline, similar to Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim: The Witcher 3 has a darker and more mature tone compared to Skyrim, with more complex and mature themes. The combat system is also more challenging and requires more strategy, making it more difficult than Skyrim.

Grab a copy of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt now: Amazon

2. Cyberpunk 2077

Made by: CD Projekt Red
Released: December 10, 2020
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Google Stadia
RPG sub-genre: Sci-fi
Perspective: First-person
Buy now: Amazon

Cyberpunk 2077 is a futuristic RPG set in a sprawling metropolis where advanced technology and powerful corporations rule the day. Cyberpunk 2077 is an excellent game that will keep you entertained for hours.

Just be sure to buy it on PC, Xbox Series X/S, or PS5. The game runs like a dog on PS4 and Xbox One.

Similarity to Skyrim: Like Skyrim, Cyberpunk 2077 is a massive open world RPG with a detailed setting, and interesting characters. Cyberpunk 2077 and Skyrim also share the same boat in being glitchy launches.

Difference from Skyrim: Cyberpunk 2077 is set in a futuristic world with advanced technology and powerful corporations, making it vastly different from the fantasy setting of Skyrim. The combat system in Cyberpunk 2077 relies more on shooting, and guns which is quite different than Skyrim’s hack-and-slash.

Grab a copy of Cyberpunk 2077 now: Amazon

3. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Made by: Ubisoft
Released: November 10, 2020
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Google Stadia
RPG sub-genre: Historical
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is an action-packed RPG set in the Viking Age. Personally speaking, it couldn’t entertain me for a solid ten minutes because AC: Valhalla might be a good RPG, but it’s not a great Assassin’s Creed game (Don’t attack me, AC fanboys, I’m one of you!)

Similarity to Skyrim: Valhalla, like Skyrim, has a wide open world with a rich and detailed setting, numerous characters, and adds to the lore of the respected series.. The combat system is quite similar as well with swords, axes, maces, and archery.

Difference from Skyrim: Valhalla is set in the Viking Age and has a more historical setting compared to the fantasy setting of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of Assassins Creed: Valhalla now: Amazon

4. Elden Ring

Made by: FromSoftware, Inc.
Released: February 25, 2022
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Elden Ring is a dark fantasy RPG created by the legendary game developer FromSoftware, Inc. and written by George R. R. Martin. Elden Ring is an excellent game that I’m sure you’ll hate in the initial hours of gameplay, but as you progres, you’ll get accustomed to its unfair difficulty system.

Elden Ring has extremely tough enemies and bosses though. Imagine messing with giants as a Level 1 Nord in Skyrim, not a pretty picture, right? Well, that’s Elden Ring from start to finish!

Similarity to Skyrim: Elden Ring, like Skyrim, is a large open world with a rich and detailed universe, interesting people, and engaging lore.

Difference from Skyrim:: Elden Ring is set in a darker and more mature world compared to the fantasy setting of Skyrim, and the combat system of Elden Ring will leave you with a broken controller.

Grab a copy of Elden Ring now: Amazon

5. Dark Souls III

Made by: FromSoftware, Inc.
Released: March 24, 2016
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Dark Souls III is a challenging and intense RPG from the legendary game developer FromSoftware, Inc. As you must have understood after reading the Elden Ring description above, Dark Souls III is not a walk in the park either.

Similarity to Skyrim: Similar to Skyrim, Dark Souls III includes a sizable open world with a rich and detailed universe, interesting people, and an elaborate and in-depth plot.

Difference from Skyrim:: Dark Souls III is more challenging and intense compared to Skyrim, with a more mature and dark tone. The combat system is also more difficult and requires more strategy, making it a test of skill for even the most experienced players.

Grab a copy of Dark Souls III now: Amazon

6. Dragon Age: Inquisition

Made by: BioWare
Released: November 18, 2014
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Dragon Age: Inquisition is a fantasy RPG from the renowned game developer BioWare. The gameplay is similar to Skyrim, with an open world that you can explore at your leisure and a combat system that requires you to think critically and use your skills and weapons to overcome challenges.

The graphics are stunning, with breathtaking landscapes, detailed character models, and immersive environments that truly bring the world of Dragon Age: Inquisition to life.

Similarity to Skyrim: Dragon Age: Inquisition is an amazing game with a huge open world that’s just as rich and detailed as Skyrim. And the characters are complex and will keep you engaged for hours. Plus, the storyline is deep and intricate, just like the one in Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim: Dragon Age: Inquisition is set in a fantasy world with magic and mythical creatures, making it distinct from the more realistic setting of Skyrim.

The combat system is also more strategic, with a focus on tactics and team management, making it different from the more action-packed combat of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of Dragon Age: Inquisition now: Amazon

7. Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord

Made by: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Released: March 30, 2020
Platforms: PC
RPG sub-genre: Historical
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord is a historical RPG set in the medieval period. The gameplay is similar to Skyrim, with an open world that you can explore at your leisure and a combat system that requires you to think critically and use your skills and weapons to overcome challenges.

The graphics are stunning, with breathtaking landscapes, detailed character models, and immersive environments that truly bring the world of Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord to life.

Similarity to Skyrim: Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord has a vast open world with a rich and detailed world, complex characters, and a deep and intricate storyline, similar to Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim:: Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord is set in a historical world and has a more realistic setting compared to the fantasy setting of Skyrim. The combat system is also more strategic, with a focus on tactics and teamwork, making it different from the more action-packed combat of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord now: Amazon

8. Dragon’s Dogma

Made by: Capcom
Released: 2012
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Switch
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Dragon’s Dogma is an action role-playing game developed and published by Capcom for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and later for Microsoft Windows. The game is set in a fantasy world filled with mythical creatures and supernatural creatures where players take on the role of a “Arisen”, a chosen one tasked with slaying a dragon.

The game features fast-paced action-packed combat, with a difference: you have the ability to climb on large monsters and enemies to deal critical hits and massive damage. This game mechanic is very similar to Shadow of the Colossus or even Zelda: Breath of the Wild. In addition, Dogma has an in-depth character customization system, and an open-world environment that allows players to explore and take on various quests and missions. With its unique blend of action and RPG elements, Dragon’s Dogma offers an unforgettable gaming experience for players who love adventure and slaying monsters.

Similarity to Skyrim: Dragon’s Dogma shares similarities with Skyrim in terms of its open-world setting and the ability for players to undertake various quests and missions. Both games also feature a strong emphasis on combat and character customization, allowing players to develop their own unique playstyle and engage in battles with a variety of mythical creatures.

Difference from Skyrim: The main way Dragon’s Dogma differs from Skyrim is the ‘climbing on enemies’ mechanic. Honestly, I have never seen another open-world RPG do this, and it is fantastic. There’s nothing like grabbing a giant in Dragon’s Dogma, climbing up their body, and dealing the killing blow to the head. There’s nothing like this in Skyrim, or any other open-world RPG for that matter.

Grab a copy of Dragon’s Dogma now: Amazon

9. The Elder Scrolls series

Made by: Bethesda Game Studios
Released: various, starting with “The Elder Scrolls: Arena” in 1994
Platforms: various, including PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: First-person (previous games), Third-person (recent games)
Buy now: Amazon

The Elder Scrolls series is a long-running and highly acclaimed RPG franchise from Bethesda Game Studios. With rich and detailed worlds, complex characters, and deep and intricate storylines, the Elder Scrolls series is a must-play for any fan of RPGs.

Why is TES series mentioned in a ‘games like Skyrim guide’ you ask? Well, Skyrim was my first TES game, and it led to me to play Morrowind, Daggerfall and Oblivion which are no less than masterpieces.
So, if you’re looking for games like Skyrim, then exploring other games of TES series is a great way to not only play games similar to Skyrim, but also explore more of Skyrim’s lore.

The gameplay is similar to Skyrim, with open worlds that you can explore at your leisure and combat systems that require you to think critically and use your skills and weapons to overcome challenges.

The graphics have improved over the years, with each new installment offering stunning landscapes, detailed character models, and immersive environments that truly bring the world of The Elder Scrolls to life.

Similarity to Skyrim: The Elder Scrolls series features rich and detailed worlds with complex characters and deep and intricate storylines, similar to Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim:: While each installment in The Elder Scrolls series is set in a different world, each one is distinct from the others and offers a unique experience. The combat system, graphics, and storyline will vary from game to game, making each one distinct from the others and from Skyrim.

Check out what Elder Scrolls games are available to buy now: Amazon

10. Fallout 4

Made by: Bethesda Game Studios
Released: November 10, 2015
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
RPG sub-genre: Post-apocalyptic
Perspective: First-person
Buy now: Amazon

Fallout 4 is a post-apocalyptic RPG from Bethesda Game Studios. Fallout 4 is the most recent game of the Fallout series (I’m not even going to consider the abomination Fallout 76 as a Fallout game)

If you’re looking for Skyrim with guns -> Fallout 4 is your answer!

The gameplay is similar to Skyrim, with an open world that you can explore at your leisure and a combat system that requires you to think critically and use your skills and weapons to overcome challenges. The graphics are breathtaking, with environments that perfectly capture the post-apocalyptic feel and bring the world of Fallout 4 to life.

Similarity to Skyrim: Fallout 4 has a rich and detailed world with complex characters and a deep and intricate storyline, similar to Skyrim. Being developed by the same studio, both Skyrim and Fallout 4 share a similar gameplay. The mod support in both games is massive, giving players sufficient freedom to mess around with game files and console commands.

Difference from Skyrim:: Fallout 4 is set in a post-apocalyptic world, with a focus on survival and the interactions between characters, making it distinct from the open-world exploration of Skyrim. Fallout 4’s graphics are exponentially enhanced than Skyrim.

The game also features a unique VATS (Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System) that slows down time and allows the player to target specific body parts, setting it apart from the more traditional combat system of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of Fallout 4 now: Amazon

11. Red Dead Redemption 2

Made by: Rockstar Studios
Released: October 26, 2018
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC
RPG sub-genre: Western
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Red Dead Redemption 2 is a western-themed action-adventure RPG from Rockstar Studios. With a beautifully rendered world, complex characters, and a deeply engaging storyline, Red Dead Redemption 2 is a must-play for fans of open-world games.

Step into the boots of Dutch Van Der Linde’s main Liutenent, Arthur Morgan. RDR 2 will take you on a journey of an outlaw who’s on the run. The game starts as wreckless and fun, but it’ll leave you teary-eyed towards the end, and that’s a promise!

The game plays similarly to Skyrim, in that it has an open world that can be explored at your own pace and a combat system that puts your strategic thinking and fighting prowess to the test.. The visuals will leave you pondering whether you’re playing a game or watching a movie, with environments that perfectly capture the western feel and bring the world of Red Dead Redemption 2 to life.

Red Dead Redemption is a piece of art, and one of the few games that I feel really hits the mark and connects with gamers on a personal level.

Similarity to Skyrim: Red Dead Redemption 2 has a rich and detailed world, with amazing characters and overall rich environment.

Difference from Skyrim:: Red Dead Redemption 2 is set in a western-themed world, with a focus on the interactions between characters and the life of a cowboy, making it distinct from the open-world exploration of Skyrim.

The game also features a unique Honor system, where the player’s actions will impact their Honor level, affecting how other characters in the game react to them, setting it apart from the more open-ended gameplay of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of Red Dead Redemption II now: Amazon

12. Fable

Made by: Lionhead Studios
Released: various, starting with “Fable” in 2004
Platforms: Xbox, Xbox 360, PC
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Fable is a fantasy-themed action RPG franchise from Lionhead Studios. The gameplay is comparable to that of Skyrim, with an open environment that can be explored at your leisure and a combat system that encourages you to think critically and use your weapons and abilities to overcome obstacles. The graphics are amazing, with environments that perfectly capture the fantasy feel and bring the world of Fable to life.

Similarity to Skyrim: Fable has a rich and detailed world with complex characters and a deep and intricate storyline, similar to Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim:: Fable is set in a fantasy-themed world, with a focus on the interactions between characters and the consequences of the player’s actions, making it distinct from the open-world exploration of Skyrim.

The game also features a unique morality system, where the player’s actions will impact their alignment, affecting how other characters in the game react to them, setting it apart from the more open-ended gameplay of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of one of the games in the Fable Series now: Amazon

13. Mass Effect series

Made by: BioWare
Released: various, starting with “Mass Effect” in 2007
Platforms: Xbox 360, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC
RPG sub-genre: Sci-fi
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

The Mass Effect series is a sci-fi action RPG franchise from BioWare. It is a must-play for fans of sci-fi RPGs.

The gameplay is comparable to Skyrim, with an open world to explore and a combat system that demands you to think critically and utilize your weapons and talents to conquer problems. The graphics are astronomical (pun-intended), with environments that perfectly capture the sci-fi feel and bring the world of Mass Effect to life.

Mass Effect was one of my first RPGs on the Xbox 360, it has a mesmerizing open-world atmosphere. If you’re a Skyrim fan, then the Mass Effect series is a must-play! It wouldn’t be a problem if you ignore the existence of Mass Effect: Andromeda, it has worked out great for me!

Similarity to Skyrim: Mass Effect has a rich and detailed world with complex characters and a deep and intricate storyline, similar to Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim:: Mass Effect is set in a sci-fi universe, with a focus on the interactions between characters and the choices the player makes, affecting the outcome of the story. The game also features a unique dialogue system, where the player’s choices will impact their relationships with other characters, setting it apart from the more open-ended gameplay of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of the Mass Effect Trillogy now: Amazon

14. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Made by: Nintendo
Released: 2017
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a fantasy-themed action-adventure RPG from Nintendo. With a beautiful and expansive world, intricate puzzles, and a deep and engaging storyline, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a must-play for fans of open-world games.

The gameplay is similar to Skyrim, with an open world that you can explore at your leisure and a combat system that requires you to think critically and use your weapons and skills to overcome challenges. The graphics are stunning, with environments that perfectly capture the fantasy feel and bring the world of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to life.

Similarity to Skyrim: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has a rich and detailed world with intricate puzzles and a deep and engaging storyline, similar to Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim:: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is set in a fantasy-themed world, with a focus on the exploration and discovery of new places and secrets rather than the open-world exploration of Skyrim.

The game also features a unique combat system, where the player must use weapons, magic, and their environment to defeat enemies, setting it apart from the more straightforward combat of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of Zelda: Breath of the Wild now: Amazon

15. Pokemon Legends Arceus

Made by: Games Freak
Released: 2022
Platforms: Nintendo Switch
RPG sub-genre: Fantasy
Perspective: Third-person
Buy now: Amazon

Pokemon Legends Arceus is a fantasy-themed RPG from Nintendo and The Pokemon Company, set in the world of Pokemon. With a unique take on the traditional Pokemon formula, Pokemon Legends Arceus features a huge and open world to explore, as well as a rich and engaging storyline.

The gameplay is similar to Skyrim, with an open world that you can explore at your leisure and a combat system that requires you to think critically and use your Pokemon to overcome challenges. The graphics are everything a Pokemon fan wants, with environments that perfectly capture the Pokemon world and bring Pokemon Legends Arceus to life.

Similarity to Skyrim: Pokemon Legends, Arceus has a rich and detailed world with intricate puzzles and a deep and engaging storyline, similar to Skyrim.

Difference from Skyrim:: Pokemon Legends Arceus is set in the Pokemon world, with a focus on capturing, training, and battling Pokemon, rather than the open-world exploration of Skyrim. The game also features a unique combat system, where the player must use their Pokemon to defeat enemies, setting it apart from the more straightforward combat of Skyrim.

Grab a copy of Pokemon Legends Arceus now: Amazon

Final Words:

And there you have it, folks! A list of games that will take you on a wild ride through fantastical worlds where the only limit is your imagination.

There are many games like Skyrim that offer a rich and detailed world, complex characters, and a deep and intricate storyline. Whether you’re looking for a sci-fi RPG, a western-themed action-adventure, or a fantasy-themed open-world game, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of Skyrim or just looking for a great RPG to play, these games are sure to keep you entertained for hours.

Whether you’re a fan of swords and sorcery or prefer a more futuristic approach, these games have got you covered. So go ahead, pick one, and get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with memories (and probably a few bruises) to last a lifetime. Happy adventuring!

Make sure to check out Career Gamers Skyrim blog for amazing reads on Skyrim!