If you're a fan of the legendary "The Legend of Zelda" series, then you're no stranger to the sense of adventure, exploration, and intricate puzzles that it offers. However, once you've played through all the Zelda games, you might find yourself hungry for similar experiences. That's why we've compiled this list of top 5 alternative games to Zelda that will quench your thirst for mystery and adventure. Each game is unique in its own right while still offering gameplay elements reminiscent of Zelda.
1. Okami
Clover Studio developed the action-adventure title Okami, which was later released by Capcom. Released in 2006, Okami takes elements from Japanese mythology and weaves them into a story rich in culture and tradition.
Gameplay
In Okami, players take on the role of Amaterasu, a god in wolf form who uses the 'Celestial Brush' to interact with the world around her. The Celestial Brush mechanic allows players to pause gameplay and draw on the screen, triggering various effects like creating wind or cutting enemies.
Story & Setting
The game’s story takes place in classical Japan, where Amaterasu must save the land from darkness using her powers as a deity. Throughout her journey, she meets various characters from Japanese folklore, adding depth to an already immersive narrative.
2. Moonlighter
Moonlighter is an action RPG indie game developed by Digital Sun and released in 2018. It offers a unique blend of merchant simulation with roguelike elements, making it an interesting alternative to Zelda.
Gameplay
Players control a shopkeeper named Will, who dreams of becoming a hero. By day, he runs his shop, selling goods and managing inventory; by night, he explores dungeons to gather items for his shop. Each dungeon is procedurally generated, providing a unique experience each time.
Story & Setting
Moonlighter is set in a small commercial village where mysterious gates lead to different worlds. One villager, Will, has a dream beyond just settling down as an ordinary merchant – he wants to become a hero and solve the mysteries these gates hold.
3. Secret of Mana
The Secret of Mana is an action RPG game developed and published by Square Enix. Originally released in 1993, it's known for its real-time battle system, which was revolutionary at the time.
Gameplay
The game involves three protagonists who are controlled via AI or other players in local multiplayer mode. It involves exploration through vast landscapes and combat against various enemies using weapons and magic spells.
Story & Setting
In Secret of Mana, players embark on an epic quest to save the world from an empire seeking to control Mana, the source of all magic power in the world. The setting is vibrant and colorful, with lush forests, expansive deserts, and intricate palaces adding depth to this fantasy world.
4. Anodyne 2: Return to Dust
A mix of old-school 16-bit graphics with modern 3D design makes Anodyne 2: Return To Dust stand out from other games on this list. Developed by Analgesic Productions, it's a unique blend of action-adventure and RPG elements.
Gameplay
Anodyne 2 has two main gameplay modes: 3D exploration in a Zelda-like manner, and 2D dungeons that are reminiscent of classic 16-bit games where you fight enemies and solve puzzles to progress.
Story & Setting
In Anodyne 2, players control Nova, a Nano Cleaner who is tasked with saving New Thailand by cleaning up Dust. The game world is surreal and full of strange places to explore, each with its own unique inhabitants and challenges.
5. Hyper Light Drifter
Last but not least, Hyper Light Drifter is an indie action-adventure game developed by Heart Machine that features pixelated graphics and a uniquely quiet storyline.
Gameplay
In this game, players control the Drifter, who possesses technology from a long-lost civilization. The combat focuses on skill-based mechanics requiring precision timing for both attacks and dodges while exploring the world uncovers new weapons and abilities.
Story & Setting
The story of Hyper Light Drifter is told wordlessly through environmental cues and cryptic symbols. The setting draws inspiration from both fantasy worlds and post-apocalyptic themes, creating an atmosphere rich in mystery.
In conclusion, these five games offer varying experiences for those seeking "Zelda"-like adventure games. While they each have their unique twists on gameplay mechanics or storytelling methods, they all encapsulate the spirit of exploration and adventure found within "The Legend of Zelda" series itself.