Want to escape the complexities and challenges of your daily reality? Wish to enter the realm of enchantment where the much-needed magic and spells await you? We’ve got the solution right here!
Entertainment is a form of escapism where you enter a virtual world free from the daily struggle but filled with desirable relaxation mediums. Video gaming should be no different. This medium immerses you in a virtual world where you’re able to interact with various aspects of a new environment. You’ll be able to experience new storylines, step into the shoes of fictional characters, and live in new worlds altogether. Moreover, with the fantasy genre in gaming, things take a wild and magical turn.
If you’re wondering which fantasy games are worth your time, effort, and passion for gaming, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to discover the best fantasy games on offer today!
The Evolution of Fantasy Games
The fantasy video game genre has evolved a lot since its inception in 1980 with Dungeons & Dragons. Early games of this genre, like “Adventure” and “The Legend of Zelda” were simple with pretty basic graphics and animation.
But as technology progressed, so did the fantasy game genre. These games now display some of the best 3D graphics you can get. Also, the in-game landscape is now vast, with hundreds of characters and thousands of fantastical creatures. Not to mention spellbinds now come with enchanting glare, flashes of lights, and complex graphics.
In recent game releases, characters look more lifelike, and the gameplay is also immersing. Players can explore huge open worlds, interact with other characters, and make choices that affect their own unique stories.
Open-World Game Mechanics and Fantasy Games
The open-world game style has contributed heavily to the growth of the fantasy game genre. Previously, the gameplay was much more linear in nature. You could only interact with the monsters and bosses with a few keystroke interactions. You couldn’t utilize your own moves or tactics to overcome challenges.
Nowadays, fantasy games are coming with an open-world style. Here, you can customize your characters, rides, weapons, and companions. Also, you can explore a vast in-game world, buy or conquer lands, build your castle, and showcase your creativity and prowess to the world via online multiplayer gaming.
Besides completing the main storyline missions, you can complete side missions too. There are complex spells you can create by using potions and magical elements from the open-world dungeons and mysterious caves.
Due to these major changes in the genre, it’s now near impossible to imagine fantasy games without an open-world spin.
Now, it’s time to know the best fantasy video games that making the most buzz in the gaming community below:
Elden Ring
You can experience the phenomenal charm of becoming the Elden Lord of the Lands Between by playing Elden Ring. It comes with an alluring fantasy world where the Golden Order and the dark world clashes. The game is full of witty challenges, extreme combat with medieval and magical weapons, and enchanting explorations.
You’ll also find the designs of Hidetaka Miyazaki in the game, along with glimpses of the Dark Souls series. Moreover, the worldbuilding was done by none other than George R.R. Martin, the creator of A Song of Ice and Fire, out of which the Game of Thrones franchise was built.
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Elden Ring - PlayStation 4 |
$35.41 |
Buy on Amazon |
The in-game landscape is vast, and you’ve got miles of countryside to run on your favored steed. You could travel or fight as a single-player or with friends in the multiplayer mode. There isn’t any shortfall of spiraling mountains, grassy plains, foreboding castles, suffocating swamps, mysterious dungeons, and other grand open-world items.
You can modify your character in the in-game studio from scratch. You also have the option to choose your own gaming style, like stealth, all-in-battle, or calling for aid in the mid-battle.
Developer: FromSoftware
Publishers: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release Date: February 25, 2022
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a popular fantasy game you would love to play because of its mythical storyline. In fact, most open-world RPGs and fantasy games have been heavily inspired by the freedom that this game provided at a time when open-world games weren’t all the rage.
According to the in-game storyline, it has been 200 years since The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, and now it’s 4E 201. The High King of Skyrim is no more. Consequently, there’s a civil war in Skyrim. One group wants to break away from the weakened Third Empire, while the other group wants to stay a part of it.
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The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition - Xbox One | $54.99 | Buy on Amazon |
To make the situation worse, this split is the last part of a prophecy from the Elder Scrolls that says the dragons will come back to rule under Alduin, the Nordic God of Destruction. You play the role of the Dragonborn, who has the power to defeat Aldiun and prevent the apocalypse. Frankly, there’s so much the game offers that it’s virtually impossible to state them all. From fighting mythical and fantastical creatures to buying land to turning yourself into a vampire or werewolf, plenty is possible in the world of Skyrim!
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: November 11, 2011
Divinity: Original Sin 2
In the year 1242 AD, the practice of Source magic has been banned due to its harmful consequences in Divinity: Original Sin 2. Whenever Source magic is used, the Voidwoken creatures appear soon after. Those who possess Source magic, known as Sourcerers, are apprehended by the Divine Order, now led by Lucian’s son, Alexandar, after his father’s passing.
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Divinity: Original Sin 2 - PlayStation 4 Definitive Edition |
$47.99 |
Buy on Amazon |
This is the setting for one of the most influential fantasy RPGs of our time. The game puts you in the shoes of a Sourcerer who has the potential to reach Godhood. In your journey to immense power, you’ll face plenty of obstacles, from social strife to the destructive Voidwoken. It is up to you to navigate through each and every hurdle, ensuring that Rivellon is saved from the consequences of the very magic that empowers you!
Developer: Larian Studios
Publisher: Larian Studios
Release Date: September 14, 2017
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Amidst the chaos, tension thickens the air, and the ruins of burned villages paint a grim picture. The formidable Empire of Nilfgaard strikes in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt once more, devastating the defenseless Northern Kingdoms. Those who once sought to exploit Geralt are now gone. In these uncertain times, the future remains uncertain, with no one knowing who will bring peace or sow misery. However, a darker and deadlier force emerges.
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The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition - PlayStation 5 |
$36.90 |
Buy on Amazon |
The true threat lies in the Wild Hunt, in the middle of the disputes of insignificant armies. These otherworldly riders, haunting and ghastly, have plagued humanity for ages, spreading misery. This time, their sights are set on a specific individual: someone whom Destiny has intertwined with Geralt, someone he considers family. The Wild Hunt’s arrival poses a grave danger unlike any other. If you like fantasy games, you can’t miss this gem from CD Projekt Red!
Developer: CD Projekt Red
Publisher: CD Projekt
Release Date: May 19, 2015
STAR WARS Jedi: Survivor
Want to see yourself as a Jedi Knight? You must play STAR WARS Jedi: Survivor, one of the best fantasy games for major consoles right now. Also, you can embark on exciting journeys throughout the expansive Star Wars galaxy, in an open-world stage. Here, you’ll discover new planets and revisit familiar places.
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Star Wars Jedi: Survivor - PlayStation 5 | $34.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Each planet has its own unique landscapes and challenges, and surely you’ll face tougher enemies when hopping from one planet to the next. You can improve your skills, get new gear, and unlock special abilities as you explore stunning terrains and venture into uncharted areas. If you’re brave enough to go beyond the usual limits, you’ll be handsomely rewarded with incredible treasures and experiences.
Developer: Respawn Entertainment
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Release Date: April 28, 2023
God of War Ragnarök
In God of War Ragnarök, the Fimbulwinter prophesizes the beginning of the world’s end, in Norse mythology. Following the surprising revelations in the first game, Kratos and Atreus must continue their journey through the Nine Realms to find answers. Simultaneously, the Asgardian forces are preparing themselves for the end times, awaiting the coming of Ragnarök.
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God of War Ragnarök - PlayStation 5 | $42.21 | Buy on Amazon |
While they travel, the father-son duo must also navigate the tedious relationship they share. Will they be able to stop Ragnarök in time, while mending their relationship? Or will Kratos’s pride and Atreus’s angst create hurdles in their journey for the truth and saving the Nine Realms? God of War Ragnarök features some of the best storytelling, visuals, and gameplay experiences you can find today. For PS5 owners, this game is an absolute delight!
Developer: Santa Monica Studio
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release Date: November 9, 2022
Resident Evil 4
In Resident Evil 4, the story takes place six years after the events of Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3. The primary character, Leon S. Kennedy, a survivor of the Raccoon City incident, goes to a quiet village in Spain. His primary objective is to rescue the U.S. President’s daughter, who’s been kidnapped by a cult.
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Resident Evil 4 - PS5 |
$39.88 |
Buy on Amazon |
You’ll face a new breed of monsters in this open-world fantasy and survival horror game. These parasite-infected villagers can now use modern weapons to attack you. Also, they are able to work in a team to track you down. Your only hope to withstand such violence is the mysterious merchant who can supply upgrades and weapons.
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Release Date: March 24, 2023
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is set in the 9th century CE, as Norway faced continuous wars and scarce resources. In this game, you’ll guide Eivor and their clan of Norsemen across the icy North Sea. Carving out a fresh future for your clan, you’ll relive the fierce combat style of Viking warriors with an improved fighting system, allowing dual-wielding of weapons against a wider array of foes.
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Assassin's Creed Valhalla Xbox One | $24.90 | Buy on Amazon |
In this fantasy game, to gather vital resources, you can lead raids on specific locations, using your longship to acquire wealth. Settling in the new home, the Vikings face opposition from the Saxons, particularly King Aelfred of Wessex, who condemns them as pagans and seeks to rule over England alone. Against all odds, you must take the necessary actions to maintain the hope of reaching Valhalla.
Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
Publisher: Ubisoft
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate
In Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate, you assume the role of a Hunter. You arrive in Bherna to aid in the study of Monsters in the region. Initially, you’ll undertake the task of gathering resources. These are mostly the easier missions in the game. As the game progresses, you receive missions to defeat various monsters. Similar to previous games in the series, you also must collect valuable materials to craft powerful weapons and equipment.
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Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate (Nintendo Switch) | 679 Reviews | $89.99 | Buy on Amazon |
There are two new styles of hunting, and these are the Valor style and the Alchemy Style. With the Valor style, you’ve got the ability to sheath your weapon, enabling you to charge up powerful attacks and withstand enemy strikes. The Alchemy style focuses on support and includes a special meter that gradually fills up over time. While you get all the features that were provided in Monster Hunter Generations, the Ultimate edition improves the overall gameplay features and graphics to provide a more holistic gaming experience.
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Release Date: August 28, 2018
Dark Souls III
Dark Souls III takes place in the Kingdom of Lothric. In Lothric, your objective is to endure an impending apocalypse resulting from an ongoing clash. The clash is taking place between the proponents of the Age of Fire and those marked with the Darksign. However, like previous entries in the series, players must piece together the story themselves. This adds to the mystique of the game itself.
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Dark Souls 3 The Fire Fades (PS4) |
$24.33 |
Buy on Amazon |
The gameplay of Dark Souls III refines what was introduced in the previous entry, allowing for more player freedom and aggressive gameplay. Unlike previous Dark Souls games, players will also find a fair amount of inspiration from the Bloodborne title, faster-combat, and more dangerous enemies. With plenty of customization options and difficult boss battles, Dark Souls III epitomizes the franchise’s beliefs in terms of gameplay, storytelling, and worldbuilding.
Developer: FromSoftware
Publishers: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release Date: April 12, 2016
Wrapping Up
Now you know which are the best and most popular fantasy games that can fulfill your wish for escapism. Whenever you’re tired of stealth games, first-person shooter games, strategy games, war games, and zombie games, come back to the fantasy genre. As this genre holds the key to calming your excited nerve by offering soothing storylines, lots of spells, magical moments, and utter enchantment.
