10 Best Indie Game Zelda-Likes You Need to Play

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I grew up being amazed and, frankly intimidated, by The Legend of Zelda series.

I marveled as my elder cousin navigated the labyrinths, brandishing the sword of Link and vanquishing malevolent spirits along the way.

As I became mature, I discovered numerous pleasures within the series. Since I was brought up with the original, top-down format, it remains my preferred choice until now compared to open-world games such as “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”.

Instead, let me propose a different approach: Given that Zelda is an exceptional series, alas, we don’t see new installments too frequently. In the meantime, consider exploring some fantastic indie games which draw inspiration from our beloved green-garbed protagonist as a way to fill the gap in your gaming experience.

These games reminiscent of Zelda are the best in their class. Regardless if they’re presented in 2D, 3D, pixel art, or using polygons, each one is a valuable addition to your gaming library.

10.
Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas

Questing Across the Water

Upon initial observation, Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas appears to be reminiscent of a game in the Zelda series. However, although it fits the criteria for being included on this list, there is a minor concern that it doesn’t set itself apart enough.

As a gamer, I’d put it this way: “If you’re cool with a game drawing inspiration from classics, Oceanhorn delivers an engaging narrative about my quest to find and rescue my long-lost dad. It’s got all the usual suspects like chucking bombs, guarding myself with a shield, and taking down some seriously menacing beasts. Fun times ahead!

Additionally, it offers some optional difficulties to add excitement, which isn’t typically linked with the usual Zelda experience.

These actions aren’t essential to complete the game, and they often involve tasks such as defeating enemies with a one-hit kill, chatting with villagers, or reading books, among other things. They can be seen as unnecessary tasks that you do to collect diamonds, which speed up your character’s leveling process more quickly.

One standout feature of this game is its captivating soundtrack, which was skillfully crafted by Nobuo Uematsu. When you add in reliable gameplay mechanics and visually appealing graphics, this game that resembles Zelda remains an intriguing choice for gamers to explore.

9.
Lenna’s Inception

Bytten Before Cassette Beasts

Platforms PC
Publisher Bytten Studio
Genre Adventure
Release Date January 17, 2020

Many individuals are familiar with Bytten Studio due to their impressive rendition of the monster-collecting RPG, Cassette Beasts. However, prior to this, they had created a game resembling Zelda titled Lenna’s Inception.

Initially, Lenna spends time casually with the renowned hero. However, a turn of events leads to the hero’s sudden demise. In such a situation, what else can a girl do but step up and rescue the day?

The game’s malfunctioning only adds to her struggles, and there are eight Archangels blocking her path to rescue everyone.

This game stands out due to its semi-random level creation, various possible conclusions, and the option to join forces and play together with a friend. It’s as though if _Cassette Beasts_ were transformed into an adventure title, and that prospect is incredibly thrilling for me as a gamer.

8.
Hob

Transform Your World

I can still remember when I was at PAX West a few years back and saw the station for Hob.

I was immediately captivated by the art style of the game, although it wasn’t until several years had passed that I finally purchased it for the Switch console.

In this expansive, captivating realm, we embark on an extraordinary journey. While the Zelda series is celebrated for its compelling narrative and combative elements, it also boasts a rich collection of brain-teasing puzzles. Similarly, the game Hob presents some genuinely intricate conundrums to unravel.

In your journey, you’ll maneuver, adjust, and rearrange the entire universe for advancement. Along the way, you’ll acquire fresh skills such as grabbing, teleporting, and striking.

For me, the game lacked a storyline, which made it less engaging. Though Link is typically portrayed as a silent protagonist, I personally enjoy having a clear objective or narrative to guide my progress.

7.
Reverie

Zelda Heads to New Zealand

In theory, Reverie seemed like an easy win. It’s reminiscent of Zelda, set in captivating New Zealand landscapes, boasting intriguing mythology, and offering a visually appealing experience.

During play, the game received somewhat varied responses. However, this doesn’t take away from its strong points.

I enjoyed the fact that it incorporated aspects reminiscent of EarthBound, complete with larger-than-life, absurdly comical boss fights against oddball adversaries.

In your downtime from delving into dungeons, you’ll take the time to thoroughly investigate every hidden corner of Toromi Island, and perhaps gather some stunning feathers along the way.

It’s a neat little adventure full of Maori legends and themes.

6.
Ittle Dew

Who Needs Link?

Although I wouldn’t label the Zelda games as sexist, it’s worth considering whether the princess might handle her predicaments on her own. This line of thought could very well have inspired the creation of Ittle Dew.

In the main role, you find yourself as the heroine, accompanied by your companion, Tippsie. Together, you unexpectedly land on an unfamiliar island filled with valuable treasures.

In my enthusiastic fandom, I can confidently say that while the heroic Link may find himself at a loss in certain situations, Ittle is always ready with a plan. Indeed, she’s about to pull off an audacious heist!

Certainly, she might not be a traditional heroine, but it doesn’t diminish the enjoyment we get from this game. It’s filled with inventive puzzles that challenge us to combine relics in creative manners.

Above all, what stands out most is the vibrant and lively visuals in this game, which beautifully accentuate the subtle wit hidden within it.

5.
Blossom Tales: The Sleeping King

Tales of Adventure

It’s reasonable to assume that a good number of us were brought up listening to captivating stories about magic from our elders, be they parents or grandparents.

In Blossom Tales: The Sleeping King, they let me dive headfirst into a tale that’s being spun before my ears, giving me the power to shape its ending!

Besides the existing attractions, you’ll have the opportunity to traverse an expansive open landscape, conquer numerous dungeons, and engage in fierce battles against formidable enemies, some of which are reminiscent of Super Mario Bros. 2.

Though it doesn’t introduce anything entirely fresh and employs common elements such as a boomerang and explosives, the narrative and aesthetic appeal remain delightful.

4.
Hyper Light Drifter

Soulslike Zelda

To be completely honest, prior to compiling this list, I hadn’t given much thought to whether Hyper Light Drifter resembled a Zelda-type game.

But the more I thought about it, the more convinced I became that it qualified.

To me, everything – from its top-down gameplay to the vast, perilous world to traverse – strongly evokes the feeling of playing a Zelda game. However, it’s important to note that the tone of Hyper Light Drifter is significantly darker compared to most Zelda titles.

As a Wanderer, you bear an unquenchable affliction, yearning deeply for a solution to alleviate your suffering.

As a dedicated fan, I find myself constantly on my toes due to the fact that even the slightest misstep can lead to an untimely end for my beloved characters. This requires agility, speed, and strategic thinking in every encounter, ensuring their survival and the continuation of their story.

This adventure is tough and demanding, ideal for gamers seeking a bit more intensity reminiscent of the Souls series.

3.
Nobody Saves the World

Transform Your Hero

As a devoted fan, I must confess, following the enchanting Guacamelee! series, I never imagined that DrinkBox Studios would unveil such an extraordinary gem as Nobody Saves the World.

Transitioning from the Metroidvania-style lucha libre game to an expansive, procedurally generated top-down adventure proved quite significant. Fortunately, this daring move turned out to be exceptionally successful.

Besides the unique art style and zany humor, the real draw of the game is the hero.

Sure, their name is Nobody, but they can eventually transform into more than 15 different forms!

Apart from being thrilling already, you also have the freedom to combine skills and face a constantly evolving final labyrinth for honor and acclaim.

2.
Tunic

One Foxy Hero

It’s clear from the get-go that Tunic was inspired by The Legend of Zelda.

Trade Link for a little foxy warrior, and you have the same sort of adventure.

One aspect of the game that really stood out for me was its respectful homage to the time when the original Zelda was first launched.

One illustration is the “Holy Text” you’ll reassemble page after page, serving as a user guide. It provides valuable tips and methods to aid you in navigating this unexpectedly challenging journey.

Incorporate some grandiose boss fights, captivating music, and breathtaking visual beauty, and the result is an adventure reminiscent of a Zelda-style game.

1.
Death’s Door

Reap What You Sow

Let me just say, Death’s Door was a huge surprise when I first played it.

Although I wasn’t very acquainted with Acid Nerve, fortunately, my affection for Devolver guided me to it. Not only did it become one of my preferred games, but it turned out to be the most outstanding game reminiscent of Zelda that I had played in a long time.

Originally, you were assigned as one among many Crows, responsible for collecting souls and guiding them to the Doorway Sanctum. However, an unexpected turn of events causes your own soul to be lost, compelling you on a significant adventure to reclaim it.

As a gamer, I’ll encounter bizarre and awe-inspiring adversaries, oddball companions that seem straight out of a fantasy novel, and unravel the eerie secrets hidden within my own guild. The journey ahead promises to be a thrilling ride!

If you’re drawn to discovery and adventure, this place offers a wealth of it! You’ll uncover numerous secrets, engage in challenging boss encounters that will stick with you, and even stumble upon hidden abilities to harness.

If you haven’t played it yet, please add this amazing Zelda-like to your collection.

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2025-07-06 16:10