Since its release, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has been hailed as a revolutionary open-world adventure, blending unrestricted exploration with a brilliant physics system that lets players interact with the environment in creative ways. It's a game that set a new standard for the fantasy genre, offering a light-hearted yet deeply immersive experience. But even among the pantheon of greats, a few titles manage to edge ahead. Based on gameplay, narrative, design, innovation, and critical acclaim, here are the only three video games that can claim to be better than Nintendo's masterpiece—all within the fantasy realm for a fair comparison.
3. Elden Ring (2021)
FromSoftware, known for its punishing Soulslike games, teamed up with Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin to create Elden Ring, a dark fantasy epic set in the shattered Lands Between. Players take on the role of the Tarnished, a resurrected soul tasked with collecting the shards of the Elden Ring to become the Elden Lord. The game rewards curiosity and exploration, much like Breath of the Wild, but with a grittier tone and more complex lore. Its combat is tight, challenging, and deeply satisfying, making every victory feel earned. While both games excel at open-world design, Elden Ring offers a richer narrative and a darker, more varied world that many fans prefer. With a movie adaptation on the horizon, its legacy is already cemented.
2. Baldur's Gate 3 (2023)
Larian Studios' Baldur's Gate 3 is a modern RPG masterpiece that brings the tabletop experience of Dungeons & Dragons to life. Players create their own character and embark on a quest to cure a mind flayer tadpole infection, all while navigating a war between humans and gods. Unlike Breath of the Wild's more linear narrative, Baldur's Gate 3 offers unparalleled agency—every choice ripples through the story, leading to unexpected twists and outcomes. Its intricate detail and passion for the fantasy genre make it a love letter to players who crave deep role-playing. For those who want their decisions to shape the world, this game is a clear step above Hyrule's open-air adventure.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
Topping the list is the game that defined 3D action-adventure: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Released in 1998, it set the blueprint for modern gaming with its time-traveling story, memorable dungeons, and revolutionary lock-on combat. While Breath of the Wild expanded the series' horizons, Ocarina of Time remains the gold standard for its flawless design, emotional depth, and lasting influence. It's a game that has aged gracefully, earning its place as the ultimate fantasy experience that even its successor couldn't surpass.
These three titles—each a masterpiece in its own right—prove that while Breath of the Wild is extraordinary, the fantasy genre has even higher peaks to climb. For fans seeking more thrilling adventures, check out our list of Top 6 James Bond Video Games to Play Before 007 First Light Arrives or dive into How Prime Video's 'Bosch' Became the Gold Standard for Modern Crime Dramas. And if you're in the mood for something spooky, don't miss Horror Shows That Get Better With Every Rewatch.
