Horizon Zero Dawn is a fantastic open-world game that flawlessly combines exploration, combat, and RPG elements into a movie-like plot. With a beautiful atmosphere and a lovable main character, it is hands-down one of the best games of our generation. So naturally, there aren’t a lot of games like Horizon Zero Dawn that will live up to your expectations.

If you don’t mind going back in time to play some older games, there are some solid options out there to fill the RPG void this game has likely left in your heart. Here are 5 games we think you should play in 2021 if you haven’t already.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

IGN: 9.3/10
Metacritic: 92%

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is very similar to Horizon Zero Dawn when it comes to the overall look and feel of the open world. Both games also feature a very recognizable and likeable main character.

The fighting styles between the two games are fairly similar and equally difficult. You will likely die a lot if you don’t pay attention to your surroundings. The main differences between the two games are the plots. The Witcher offers a darker, more gritty look into humanity while Horizon tends to take a more optimistic approach to communication.

Considering how widely recognized this game has become — to the point of becoming a Netflix series — it’s not surprising that it’s available on almost every platform. You can pick up a copy for PS4, Xbox One, PC, and even the Nintendo Switch or check out more games like The Witcher 3.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

IGN: 9.5/10
Metacritic: 84%

Skyrim is one of the best games of our generation, building off the foundation of previously successful Elder Scrolls titles and making the open-world genre what it is today. Despite its age, Skyrim is worth playing in 2021.

It features a lot of similar RPG elements you’d see in Horizon Zero Dawn. A large open world, plenty of places to explore, and strong elements of religious institutions. The main difference between the two games is in the overall plot and combat styles. Horizon Zero Dawn features a lot more plot-driven dialogue as opposed to the usual hack and slash method of Elder Scrolls games.

Skyrim is available on almost every platform, including the Nintendo Switch. So you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a copy of the game. If you’re looking for more games like Skyrim, we’ve found those too.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

IGN: 10/10
Metacritic: 97%

Breath of the Wild is an essential Nintendo Switch game everyone should play. It also offers a similar plot and prioritizes exploration through foraging and key landmarks

You get to tame and ride a horse, collect weapons and armor, fight dangerous monsters, and even cook your own delicious meals. While it doesn’t quite have the same grit as Horizon Zero Dan, it has that same feeling of boundless discovery you’d expect from a similar title.

Unfortunately, BoTW is only available on the Switch and the Wii U. So if you don’t have one of the previous two generations of Nintendo consoles, you won’t be able to play. Luckily there are more games like The Legend of Zelda to play.

Genshin Impact

IGN: 9/10
Metacritic: 84%

Genshin Impact looks and feels like a copy of Breath of the Wild. The art styles are very similar, and even the monsters you fight in this open-world RPG are eerily similar. This is why it’s worth playing if you’re a fan of Horizon Zero Dawn.

The open-world environment doesn’t have the same level of detail as HZD, but where it does feel similar is how much it encourages exploration. There is a ton of loot everywhere and each quest is designed to help you discover the world around you without wasting too much time wandering off in a random direction.

Another great thing about Genshin Impact is that it’s entirely free and cross-platform. You can get a copy for PC, Android, iOS, PS4, and Xbox. Unfortunately, the only place it isn’t available yet is on the Switch.

The Outer Worlds

IGN: 8.5/10
Metacritic: 82%

Outerworlds is a first-person shooter game with a rich storyline and tons of loot. Though it lacks the same combat style and atmosphere of Horizon Zero Dawn, many of the elements between games remain the same.

The gameplay between these two titles is surprisingly similar. Where The Outer Worlds differs most is in the setting and combat style. Horizon Zero Dawn takes place in a mountainous post-apocalyptic machine world, and it makes a huge difference in you how you proceed through the open world — especially since you don’t have a gun. It’s dangerously close to being a game like Mass Effect, but with more of a focus on discovery.

The Outer Worlds came out in late 2019, so it’s currently available on PS4, Xbox One, PC, and the Nintendo Switch.

The post The Best Games Like Horizon Zero Dawn in 2021 appeared first on Amusement Muse.