Free-to-play action RPG Genshin Impact has received much acclaim since its release in September 2020, mainly due to its vast open world, compelling storyline, and gacha game mechanics. However, if you're on the lookout for similar experiences, there are plenty of other games deserving your attention. From epic adventures to rich narratives and inventive mechanics, here are the top 5 alternative games to Genshin Impact that you may enjoy.
1. Breath of the Wild: Unraveling a World of Adventure
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Often compared to Genshin Impact due to its vast open-world exploration and action-adventure gameplay, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild offers another entrancing journey. Released by Nintendo for the Switch and Wii U, it takes place in a high-fantasy universe filled with puzzles, action, and adventure.
Gameplay
You assume the role of Link, waking from a long slumber to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat the Calamity Ganon. The game offers an enormous, open exploration of Hyrule, full of puzzles hidden around every corner. With no set order in exploration or progression, players can freely traverse the world in any way they prefer. Survival elements such as cooking and temperature also play a significant role.
Story and Setting
The story unfolds as Link recovers his lost memories, gradually revealing the tragic events of the past. Set in a diversified world of forests, mountains, and deserts, Breath of the Wild is renowned for its intricate design, stunning views, and emphasis on exploration.
2. Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom: Embrace a Heartwarming Journey
Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom
Developed by Level-5, Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom is a beautiful, heartwarming RPG that offers much more than just slaying monsters. With its light-hearted narrative, the game bears a notable resemblance to the Ghibli-inspired art style of Genshin Impact.
Gameplay
The game allows you to play as young king Evan, who is ousted from his kingdom. Gameplay consists of exploring the world, battling fantastical creatures in a mix of real-time action and strategy elements, and building and managing your kingdom. Dungeons and puzzles are similarly part of the exploration.
Story and Setting
Set in a vibrant and colorful world, the story revolves around Evan's journey to reclaim his kingdom. Along the way, he makes friends, builds a new kingdom, and tackles the challenges that come with being a leader.
3. Illusion Connect: Merging Strategy and RPG Battles
Illusion Connect
Illusion Connect is an excellent alternative for those who love Genshin Impact's strategic battles. Developed by Superprism Technology, it falls under the genres of strategy and gacha game.
Gameplay
The game relies heavily on tactical elements. Players have to assemble a team of characters, each with unique abilities, to fight against enemies. Strategy becomes crucial as positioning and timing decisions can significantly impact the battle outcome. Like Genshin Impact, it also introduces gacha elements for character collection.
Story and Setting
The game is set in a world straddled with the real and the dream states, where players take the role of a Radiant. Tasked with saving humanity from the nightmares, it offers a fascinating yet intense storyline filled with unique characters.
4. Dragalia Lost: The Impressive Mobile Gacha Game
Dragalia Lost
Developed by Cygames and published by Nintendo, Dragalia Lost draws its strength from the combination of high-quality RPG gameplay and gacha mechanics. Perfect for those seeking a Genshin Impact-esque experience on mobile.
Gameplay
Dragalia Lost features real-time action, allowing players to attack enemies with a series of swipes and taps. Combining dragons into gameplay, the transformations during battles add to the thrill. With the gacha system, it allows players to summon characters, dragons, and other useful items.
Story and Setting
The game's story revolves around the seventh prince of Alberia, Euden, set on a journey in a fantasy world to bond with as many dragons as he can to save his kingdom.
5. Blue Protocol: Stepping Into the Gorgeous Massive Multiplayer World
Blue Protocol
Developed and published by Bandai Namco, Blue Protocol might be the next big thing for Genshin Impact fans. This action-themed MMORPG boasts impressive visuals and gameplay mechanics.
Gameplay
The game offers captivating action RPG combat with first-person exploration, where players can team up with others globally in various quests and raids. Customizable characters, four different classes, and a variety of skills keep the gameplay fresh and addictive.
Story and Setting
Set in a world with spectacular vistas, where the danger lurks around every corner and incorporates time travel, you are tasked to unfold the mysteries of an ancient civilization. The depth of the narrative and the ever-evolving world of Regnus guarantees hours of grind and exploration.
The vast variety of elements in these games makes them ideal alternatives to Genshin Impact. They may not offer exactly the same experience, but each one of them reflects elements of gameplay, aesthetics, and narrative depth that Genshin Impact is loved for. So whether you have maxed out your adventures in Teyvat or simply need a break, you will undoubtedly find something to love in these games.