Best Sci-Fi Fantasy Games

Key Takeaways

Fans of both sci-fi and fantasy will find unique and engaging experiences in games that blend the two genres creatively.
Titles like ELEX, Hyper Light Drifter, and Shadowrun Returns offer players immersive worlds with intriguing narratives and gameplay.
From tense post-apocalyptic RPGs to tactical turn-based combat encounters, the sci-fi fantasy genre continues to offer diverse and rewarding gaming experiences.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the games mentioned here truly are a treasure trove for those who appreciate the fusion of fantasy and cyberpunk genres.

In the realm of gaming, I’m always drawn to the captivating landscapes of science fiction and fantasy. From the spellbinding worlds of The Elder Scrolls and Dark Souls, where magic and mystery intertwine, to the futuristic battlegrounds of StarCraft 2 and Destiny 2, these realms offer a rich tapestry of experiences that any fan of sci-fi or fantasy would die for.

The genre of sci-fi fantasy is somewhat less common. However, there are a variety of games that blend elements of science fiction and fantasy, offering unique worlds to explore and experiences to have. From the dark-fantasy tone of the sci-fi shooter, Quake, all the way to the mutated world of Caves Of Qud, sci-fi fantasy is a playground for creative world-building.

1 ELEX

A Third-Person RPG In A Post-Apocalyptic World

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Released: 2017
Developer(s): Piranha Bytes
Genre: RPG

In a world blended with science fiction and fantasy, following a post-apocalyptic backdrop, this role-playing game (RPG) is crafted by the team behind the Gothic series – Piranha Bytes. The game, titled ELEX, offers an engaging mix of futuristic weaponry, fantastical creatures, enchantments, and decaying landscapes, creating a unique amalgamation of sci-fi and fantasy elements.

Although it has some unpolished aspects, ELEX still offers an enjoyable journey due to its captivating universe and satisfying exploration. If you’re fond of third-person role-playing games, perilous open worlds, and post-apocalyptic landscapes, give Piranha Bytes’ ELEX a try. Notably, for those who enjoyed the original game, a sequel was released in 2022 and is now available to play.

2 Hyper Light Drifter

A Zelda-Inspired Adventure With Excellent Presentation

Boasting stunning pixel art visuals, the game titled Hyper Light Drifter is a continuous pleasure to behold, offering players breathtaking landscapes to appreciate throughout their adventure. Its skillfully designed aesthetics, sound effects, and music create an immersive atmosphere that maximizes its blend of science fiction and fantasy elements.

Drawing strong influence from games like The Legend of Zelda, Hyper Light Drifter is an action-adventure game that emphasizes methodical exploration and fast-paced battles. The intriguing, vibrant environment should capture the interest of numerous gamers, offering a captivating blend of exciting combat sequences and rewarding exploration experiences.

3 Shadowrun Returns

A Combination Of Cyberpunk And Fantasy Tropes

In essence, Shadowrun Returns, modeled after its tabletop game counterpart, provides an exceptional and unique world with a blend of cyberpunk, science fiction, and fantasy elements created by the gifted team at Harebrained Schemes. This game is the first installment in a series of three turn-based RPGs, and it’s particularly accessible for newcomers, making it an excellent choice for beginners in the RPG genre.

In the gritty, high-tech realm I call home – the world of Shadowrun – I find myself navigating a universe that seamlessly merges the grime of classic cyberpunk with the mystique of fantasy races like elves and orcs. Here, corporations are as ruthless as they come, but magic is real, adding an extra layer of depth to every tactical battle I engage in. If you’re a fan who can’t get enough of both fantasy lore and cyberpunk subculture, Shadowrun Returns is the perfect entry point for your adventure.

4 Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader

An Old-School RPG In The Iconic Universe Of Warhammer 40,000

Embarking on an epic adventure within the ominous, dark-fantasy realm of Warhammer 40,000, I find myself deeply engrossed in the captivating role-playing game titled Rogue Trader. Named after its tabletop counterpart from the same universe, this game is a testament to the intrigue and tension that characterize the grimdark genre, Warhammer 40,000’s unique and chilling atmosphere.

In Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, you’ll find tactical turn-based battles intertwined with role-playing game mechanics based on your party. But what sets this game apart is that it provides a rich narrative experience where your choices truly matter. As you progress through its various acts, you’ll embark on an engaging adventure that responds to your decisions.

5 Quake

A Sci-Fi Shooter With A Dark Fantasy Tone

Without a doubt, the groundbreaking first-person shooter game, Quake, continues to captivate players even today due to its user-friendly movement mechanics, unique blend of dark fantasy and sci-fi themes, and vibrant community of map creators.

In Quake, you’ll find yourself confronting terrifying interdimensional beasts in gothic fortresses and participating in intense firefights with soldiers. This game skillfully blends elements of science fiction and fantasy. The storyline vaguely justifies this blend through “slipgates,” a type of teleporter within the game’s universe. The creatures reminiscent of Lovecraft’s work, along with the military sci-fi motif in some levels, keep Quake’s settings engaging, even though its color palette can sometimes appear drab.

6 Caves Of Qud

A Roguelike RPG In A Unique Sci-Fi Fantasy Setting

With its retro graphics reminiscent of the past and the time-honored strategy of turn-based roguelike games, Caves Of Qud might initially seem challenging for newcomers. Yet, it compensates for this with a vast, immersive open world that harmoniously combines procedural and handcrafted elements. The world in Caves Of Qud, whether above or below ground, is consistently captivating to traverse, and players are often rewarded for their explorations with intriguing NPC encounters and potent loot.

In a nutshell, while Caves Of Qud might resemble classic roguelike games, its creators have made it more user-friendly by offering an option to disable permanent death. This transformation turns the game into an RPG experience, allowing players to savor the intriguing sci-fi fantasy milieu without the stress of losing their advancements. If you’re a fan of science fiction and fantasy settings, or if you appreciate tactical turn-based battles, and can overlook (or even find charm in) vintage graphics, then Caves Of Qud is definitely worth checking out.

2024-08-27 13:34