The 15 Best Games Like Diablo: Conquer Darkness in These ARPG Alternatives

For fans of dungeon crawling, loot-hoarding, and demon slaying, the Diablo franchise stands as a cornerstone. Its addictive gameplay loop and dark fantasy setting have captivated gamers for decades. But what do you do when you’ve conquered the Burning Hells time and again? Fear not, adventurer, because we’ve compiled a list of 15 exceptional games that capture the essence of Diablo while offering their own unique twists on the action RPG (ARPG) formula. Prepare to delve into these fantastic alternatives and continue your relentless pursuit of epic loot and demonic annihilation.

The Torchlight Series: A Colorful and Accessible Adventure

The Torchlight series, developed by Runic Games, is often hailed as a spiritual successor to Diablo. It shares many of the core gameplay mechanics, including isometric perspective, randomized dungeons, and a focus on character customization and loot acquisition. However, Torchlight distinguishes itself with a brighter, more vibrant art style and a greater emphasis on accessibility.

• Torchlight: The original Torchlight offers a streamlined ARPG experience with three distinct classes: the Destroyer, the Alchemist, and the Vanquisher. The game features a procedurally generated dungeon that extends infinitely downward, promising endless exploration and loot. A standout feature is the pet system, where your animal companion can carry items, fight alongside you, and even be sent back to town to sell unwanted loot.
• Torchlight II: Building upon the foundation of its predecessor, Torchlight II introduces a larger world, four new classes (Engineer, Outlander, Embermage, and Berserker), and multiplayer support. The addition of open-world areas and a more engaging story expands the scope of the adventure. Mod support also allows players to customize their experience with new classes, items, and challenges.
• Torchlight III: While Torchlight III faced mixed reception initially, significant updates have refined the gameplay and addressed many of the criticisms. It retains the series’ signature charm and loot-driven progression but introduces fort building mechanics and a more structured storyline. Despite its initial stumbles, Torchlight III remains a worthy entry in the franchise and offers a fun, accessible ARPG experience.

Path of Exile: The Deepest and Most Complex ARPG

Path of Exile, developed by Grinding Gear Games, is a free-to-play ARPG renowned for its staggering depth and complexity. It features a vast skill tree, a unique gem-based skill system, and a challenging endgame that will test even the most seasoned ARPG veterans.

• Unparalleled Customization: The Path of Exile skill tree is a massive web of passive abilities, allowing for incredibly diverse and specialized character builds. The gem system allows you to augment your abilities with support gems, further expanding the possibilities. This level of customization is unmatched in the ARPG genre.
• Challenging Endgame: Path of Exile’s endgame is a constantly evolving landscape of challenging maps, powerful bosses, and intricate crafting systems. The Atlas of Worlds allows players to shape their endgame experience and tailor it to their preferred playstyle.
• Ethical Free-to-Play Model: Grinding Gear Games has committed to a fair and ethical free-to-play model, ensuring that players can access all content without spending a dime. Cosmetic microtransactions provide the primary source of revenue, ensuring a level playing field for all.

Grim Dawn: A Dark and Gritty Post-Apocalyptic ARPG

Grim Dawn, developed by Crate Entertainment, transports players to a dark and gritty post-apocalyptic world ravaged by war and supernatural forces. The game features a dual-class system, allowing for extensive character customization, and a deep crafting system that rewards exploration and resource gathering.

• Dual-Class System: Grim Dawn’s dual-class system allows players to combine two different masteries, creating unique and powerful character builds. This system encourages experimentation and provides a vast array of options for character development.
• Deep Crafting System: Crafting plays a crucial role in Grim Dawn, allowing players to create powerful weapons, armor, and consumables. The crafting system is deep and rewarding, requiring players to explore the world, gather resources, and learn crafting recipes.
• Grim and Atmospheric World: Grim Dawn’s world is dark, atmospheric, and filled with danger. The game’s grim tone and compelling lore create a truly immersive experience.

Titan Quest: An Ancient Mythology Inspired Adventure

Titan Quest, developed by Iron Lore Entertainment and later THQ Nordic, is an ARPG that draws inspiration from ancient Greek, Egyptian, and Asian mythology. Players embark on a quest to defeat the Titans, ancient beings who have escaped their prison and threaten to destroy the world.

• Mythological Setting: Titan Quest’s setting is a refreshing departure from the typical dark fantasy tropes of the ARPG genre. The game’s environments are richly detailed and evocative of the ancient civilizations they represent.
• Dual-Class System: Similar to Grim Dawn, Titan Quest features a dual-class system that allows players to combine two different masteries. This system provides a wide range of character customization options.
• Extensive Content: Titan Quest offers a wealth of content, including a lengthy campaign, numerous side quests, and a challenging endgame. The game’s replayability is enhanced by the dual-class system and the variety of character builds available.

Victor Vran: A Monster Hunter with a Stylish Twist

Victor Vran, developed by Haemimont Games, is an ARPG that puts players in the role of a demon hunter who must liberate the city of Zagoravia from a demonic infestation. The game features a dynamic combat system, a variety of weapons and powers, and a stylish aesthetic that sets it apart from other ARPGs.

• Dynamic Combat System: Victor Vran’s combat system is fast-paced and fluid, allowing players to seamlessly switch between weapons and powers. The game encourages experimentation and rewards skillful play.
• Unique Weapon and Power System: Instead of traditional classes, Victor Vran utilizes a weapon and power system that allows players to customize their playstyle. Different weapons offer different abilities, and demon powers provide additional tactical options.
• Stylish Aesthetic: Victor Vran’s visual style is unique and eye-catching, with a blend of gothic horror and steampunk influences. The game’s environments are richly detailed and atmospheric.

Wolcen: Lords of Mayhem: A Visually Stunning ARPG

Wolcen: Lords of Mayhem, developed by Wolcen Studio, is an ARPG that boasts stunning visuals and a deep character customization system. Players embark on a quest to unravel a conspiracy that threatens the stability of the Republic of Wolcen.

• Stunning Visuals: Wolcen’s visuals are among the best in the ARPG genre, with detailed environments, impressive character models, and spectacular special effects.
• Apocalyptic Form System: Wolcen’s unique Apocalyptic Form system allows players to transform into powerful, temporary forms with devastating abilities.
• Rotating Passive Skill Tree: The Gates of Fates are a unique rotating skill tree allowing you to customise your playstyle.

Last Epoch: Time-Traveling ARPG with Deep Customization

Last Epoch, developed by Eleventh Hour Games, is a time-traveling ARPG offering innovative character progression, deep itemization, and engaging endgame content.

• Time-Traveling Story: Explore different eras of Eterra’s history, each with unique enemies, environments, and lore.
• Extensive Class System: Choose from five base classes and specialize into over 15 mastery classes, each with its own skill trees and playstyles.
• Deep Itemization: Discover a vast array of unique and powerful items, craft powerful builds, and customize your character to your liking.

Chronicon: A Retro-Inspired Loot-Fest

Chronicon, developed by Subworld, is a retro-inspired ARPG that focuses on loot, character customization, and endless replayability.

• Retro Aesthetic: Enjoy a nostalgic pixel art style that evokes the classic ARPGs of the past.
• Endless Loot: Discover a seemingly infinite amount of loot, with randomized stats and unique properties.
• Deep Character Customization: Customize your character with a variety of skills, abilities, and items.

Warhammer: Chaosbane: A Brutal Warhammer Fantasy Adventure

Warhammer: Chaosbane, developed by Eko Software, is an ARPG set in the Warhammer Fantasy universe. Players choose from a selection of heroes and battle hordes of Chaos warriors and demons.

• Warhammer Fantasy Setting: Immerse yourself in the dark and brutal world of Warhammer Fantasy.
• Co-op Gameplay: Team up with friends and battle the forces of Chaos together in online or local co-op.
• Multiple Character Classes: Choose from a variety of character classes, each with its own unique abilities and playstyle.

Darksiders Genesis: A Top-Down Action Adventure with Two Horsemen

Darksiders Genesis, developed by Airship Syndicate, is a top-down action adventure game that serves as a prequel to the Darksiders series. Players control Strife and War, two of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, as they investigate a demonic conspiracy.

• Two Playable Characters: Switch between Strife and War, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
• Co-op Gameplay: Play with a friend in online or local co-op.
• Action-Packed Combat: Engage in fast-paced and visceral combat against hordes of enemies.

Book of Demons: A Papercraft Diablo Experience

Book of Demons, developed by Thing Trunk, offers a unique take on the Diablo formula with its papercraft art style and card-based combat system.

• Papercraft Art Style: Enjoy a visually unique and charming papercraft world.
• Card-Based Combat: Collect and use cards to unleash abilities and defeat enemies.
• Flexiscope System: Adjust the length of your game sessions with the Flexiscope system.

MU Legend: A Fast-Paced Korean ARPG

MU Legend, developed by Webzen, is a fast-paced Korean ARPG known for its flashy combat and impressive visuals.

• Fast-Paced Combat: Engage in intense and dynamic combat against hordes of enemies.
• Impressive Visuals: Experience stunning visuals and detailed environments.
• Multiple Classes: Choose from a variety of classes, each with its own unique abilities and playstyle.

Lineage Eternal: A Large-Scale MMORPG with ARPG Elements (Unreleased)

While Lineage Eternal has faced numerous delays and may never see the light of day, it’s worth mentioning due to its ambitious scale and ARPG-inspired gameplay. The game promised massive battles, dynamic environments, and a focus on player agency. Keep an eye on future developments, as this could be a game-changer if it ever releases.

Undecember: A Classless ARPG with Rune-Based Skills

Undecember is a free-to-play classless ARPG where players develop their characters through combinations of Skill Runes, Link Runes, and Equipment. The game features a dark fantasy setting with a variety of dungeons and challenging bosses.

• Classless System: Build your character freely without class restrictions, focusing on specific skills and equipment.
• Rune System: Customize your skills and abilities with Skill Runes and Link Runes.
• Challenging Content: Face challenging dungeons and bosses that require strategic gameplay and character builds.

In Closing: Embrace the ARPG Adventure

The Diablo series has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the ARPG genre, but the games listed above demonstrate the incredible variety and innovation within the space. Whether you’re seeking a deep and complex experience, a lighthearted and accessible adventure, or a dark and gritty world to explore, there’s an ARPG out there for you. So, grab your weapon, gather your courage, and prepare to embark on a new quest for loot, glory, and the eternal battle against the forces of darkness. Happy gaming!