The Legend Of Zelda franchise has left an indelible mark on the gaming world since its inception in 1986, with titles like Tears Of The Kingdom released in 2023. These games continue to influence the industry and captivate players across generations.
The enduring appeal of The Legend Of Zelda has inspired numerous indie developers to create games that resonate with fans. While these indie titles often draw from the older top-down Zelda games, they offer a fresh take on the beloved formula.
1 Moon Hunters – An Exploration-Focused Hack-And-Slash
Steam User Rating: 80%
- Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
- Released: 2016
- Developer(s): Kitfox Games
Moon Hunters offers a pixel art, top-down exploration and hack-and-slash experience reminiscent of Zelda games. While it introduces roguelite elements, it maintains a rewarding exploration focus similar to Zelda titles.
2 Moonlighter – Hack-And-Slash Dungeons And Shop Management
Steam User Rating: 82%
Moonlighter combines roguelite dungeon-crawling with shop management, evoking the essence of Zelda dungeons. While its gameplay differs, the action-RPG elements provide a reminiscent experience for Zelda enthusiasts.
3 Eastward – A Wholesome Adventure
Steam User Rating: 84%
Eastward delivers a charming journey featuring hack-and-slash combat, dungeon exploration, and a cozy world akin to classic Zelda games. The game's visual and narrative elements create a warm and inviting experience similar to Zelda's allure.