The highly anticipated release of Diablo 4 is just around the corner, igniting our excitement! In the meantime, here’s a delightful assortment of games to keep you entertained during the wait.
In November 2019, the official announcement of Diablo 4 being in development delighted fans. Blizzard has now set a launch date for June 2023, building up excitement among gamers. This upcoming installment is poised to be the epitome of ambition and importance, making it one of the highly anticipated action RPGs of the year. With its release in 1997, the original Diablo revolutionized the isometric action-RPG hack-and-slash looting genre, leading to the subsequent labeling of similar games as “Diablo clones.”
The series has garnered an astounding 24 million copies sold globally across all three installments. Its vast universe has been enriched through an array of toys, novels, and comics, captivating fans from every corner. A delightful surprise came in the form of pop singer Halsey, who not only unveiled the highly anticipated Diablo 4 but also mesmerized the audience with a captivating performance as the iconic character, Lillith, at the illustrious 2022 Game Awards. Throughout the years, this series has achieved nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. However, while fans eagerly await its next chapter, they can find solace in exploring some equally captivating alternatives within the genre.
Freshly updated on April 10, 2023, courtesy of Michael Llewellyn: Brace yourselves, for the highly anticipated arrival of Diablo 4 is just around the corner in June 2023. Thus far, glimpses into this upcoming hack-and-slash RPG have been met with great enthusiasm. This riveting series, reigning supreme in its genre, will grace both consoles and PC. With an impressive array of five classes available right from the start, there is a character to suit every style of roleplaying. Alas, for some fervent fans, the wait until the grand June debut may prove unbearable. To alleviate the anticipation, we have expanded this compilation to include an abundance of other games that will satiate your craving for intense hack-and-slash action until Diablo 4 finally graces PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
16 Lord Of The Rings: War In The North
Overlooked in the realm of modernity, the action RPG produced by the same studio responsible for Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance 2 is a remarkable video game rendition of the revered Lord of the Rings saga, titled Lord of the Rings: War in the North.
Reminiscent of the legendary Dark Alliance 2, War in the North emerges as a user-friendly RPG that steers clear of unnecessary intricacies, yet boasts a wealth of intricacy and adaptability in its mechanics. Moreover, the game offers the delightful option for players to embark on an adventure with their dear friends and beloved family, indulging in exhilarating couch co-op action that injects an element of replayability. The captivating campaign showcases three distinct playable characters, each bringing their own unique flair to the hack and slash combat, ultimately illuminating its brilliance.
15 Justice League Heroes
Justice League Heroes, an action RPG powered by the Dark Alliance engine, emerges as the DC universe’s answer to the beloved Marvel Ultimate Alliance series. Embracing the same spirit, this game empowers players to conjure up their ultimate superhero dream team, comprising iconic characters such as Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, and an array of other legendary champions.
Similar to the acclaimed Marvel Ultimate Alliance game, enthusiasts have the freedom to seamlessly transition between various characters when embarking on thrilling solo adventures or immersing themselves in joyous couch co-op sessions with their dear companions. Apart from the beloved DC superheroes, formidable foes such as Brainiac, Gorilla Grodd, and Killer Frost emerge as formidable bosses, providing an exhilarating challenge to conquer.
14 Champions: Return To Arms
Set in the mystical realm of Everquest, Champions: Return to Arms is a captivating PS2 exclusive that serves as the enchanting sequel to the renowned Champions of Norath. Powered by Snowblind’s awe-inspiring Dark Alliance engine, this extraordinary game takes players on an exhilarating journey, completely different from the vast landscapes of Everquest. Unlike its MMORPG counterpart, Champions offers a thrilling top-down action RPG experience, allowing players to embark on daring quests either solo or alongside their loyal companions.
Moreover, Champions: Return to Arms offers a captivating blend of virtuous and sinister decisions that intricately shape the storyline and mission prerequisites. Devotees of Diablo will truly relish the immersive richness and vastness embodied by Champions, as this game presents an extensive gameplay lasting for more than 100 hours, accompanied by an array of diverging story arcs to indulge in.
13 Hades
Hades, being a Roguelike RPG, sets itself apart from the Diablo series in distinctive ways. Nevertheless, with its unparalleled gameplay as one of the most exceptional hack-and-slash games in recent times, enthusiasts are bound to discover numerous delights within its extraordinary take on evading the depths of the underworld.
The comic book-like aesthetic and humor set it apart from Diablo, but the moreish gameplay loop and deep gameplay will keep fans busy until Diablo 4 hits the shelves. SuperGiant Games. announced that the sequel Hades 2 would launch in Early Access in 2023.
12 The Golden Axe Series
Drawing inspiration from the Sword and Sorcery genre’s heyday in the 1980s, which boasted timeless gems such as Conan the Barbarian, Beast Master, and Willow, Golden Axe burst onto the scene to resounding praise, earning its place among the elite hack-and-slash arcade games. This remarkable masterpiece seamlessly blends Tolkienesque fantasy with the captivating world of Hyborian Age, granting players the exhilarating freedom to embody a mighty barbarian, a fierce Amazonian warrior, or a stout-hearted dwarven fighter.
The Golden Axe trilogy, with its timeless charm, remains a couch co-op classic that never loses its appeal. Its gameplay, relying on precisely timed actions, heightens the feeling of achievement. You can now find the trilogy on the online stores of Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox, as part of the Sega Vintage Collection and Sega Megadrive/Genesis Classics, unlocking a treasure trove of gaming nostalgia.
11 Darksiders: Genesis
Darksiders: Genesis, an exciting addition to the Darksiders universe, takes players on a thrilling journey before the events of the main series. This top-down hack-and-slash action RPG immerses gamers in the role of Strife, one of the formidable Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. With gameplay reminiscent of Diablo, this game offers a fresh and exhilarating experience. Additionally, the inclusion of a split-screen two-player couch co-op feature makes it perfect for unforgettable gaming sessions with loved ones.
Devotees relished a deeply intimate tale centered around Strife, relishing the fact that the game offered a profound glimpse into the vast expanse of the Darksiders realm and the prequel events preceding its inaugural installment.
10 Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order
Unleashed in the year 2019 exclusively for Nintendo, Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order emerges as a captivating sequel and a refreshing revamp of the beloved isometric action RPG franchise. Rather than simply carrying on from its predecessors, this installment gracefully introduces a whole new narrative within an entirely distinct universe, offering an exciting journey into uncharted territories.
Despite being an independent game that draws inspiration from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the fundamental gameplay mechanics of Ultimate Alliance 3 remain unchanged. The combat in this installment is faster and the overall experience feels incredibly seamless compared to its predecessors. Fans can indulge in the excitement of unlocking numerous Marvel superheroes, all while exploring a comprehensive skill tree for upgrades.
9 Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance Series
In 2001 and 2004, the gaming world witnessed the birth of Baldur’s Gate: Dark Alliance and its sequel. These groundbreaking titles introduced isometric action-RPG spin-offs exclusively for the PlayStation 2 and Xbox platforms, marking a departure from their PC origins in the Baldur’s Gate series.
In the enchanting realm of Forgotten Realms Dungeons & Dragons, Dark Alliance beckons adventurers to embark on a thrilling quest. Here, players are bestowed with the power to embody a valiant human archer, a mystical elven sorceress, or a resolute dwarven fighter. Dark Alliance 2, however, unveils a realm teeming with fresh possibilities, introducing the formidable human barbarian, the enigmatic drow monk, the ethereal moon-elf necromancer, the cunning dwarven rogue, and the devout human cleric.
8 Shadows: Awakening
Unleashed into the world in 2018, Shadows: Awakening emerges as a captivating action RPG crafted and unleashed by the innovative minds at Kalypso Media. This enthralling adventure, a mesmerizing hack-and-slash akin to Diablo, dances with an array of captivating twists and intricately designed gameplay mechanics, ensuring an unparalleled and distinctive gaming experience.
Embark on a thrilling journey through a parallel realm, where players delve into the enigmatic Shadow Realm and the captivating natural world in order to unravel perplexing puzzles and unveil hidden treasures. Within the realm of Awakening, adventurers are presented with a tantalizing selection of three unique characters, each possessing their own captivating storyline. These extraordinary beings possess the remarkable ability to assimilate the essence of 14 diverse characters, seamlessly transitioning between them during their enthralling quest.
7 Sacred 2: Fallen Angel
Unleashed in 2008, Sacred 2: Fallen Angel emerged as an isometric action RPG infused with the art of hack-and-slash. With mechanics reminiscent of the acclaimed Diablo saga, Sacred 2 unfolds within an expansive and diverse open realm, stretching across a staggering 22 square miles.
Embark on a thrilling journey where adventurers have the power to select their destiny from a diverse array of seven extraordinary classes: the ethereal Seraphim, the enigmatic Shadow Warrior of the undead, the mystical high elf mage, the enigmatic Dryad, the skilled and nimble ranged warrior, the mighty Temple Guardian, the relentless Inquisitor, and the enigmatic Dragon Mage. As you traverse through this captivating realm, the path you tread will be influenced by the choices you make, leading you towards either the radiant allure of the light or the mysterious depths of darkness. Along your epic odyssey, countless riveting side quests await completion, offering endless opportunities for exploration and fulfillment.
6 The Incredible Adventures Of Van Helsing Series
Van Helsing’s Extraordinary Exploits is a captivating isometric action RPG that takes inspiration from the iconic characters found within Bram Stoker’s timeless masterpiece, Dracula. Originally released for PC and Xbox One in 2015, this thrilling title later made its way onto the PlayStation 4 in 2017, captivating players across multiple platforms.
In the Van Helsing series, players assume the role of the renowned protagonist, Van Helsing, who happens to be the offspring of Abraham Van Helsing, the legendary vampire slayer and Dracula’s ultimate foe. Embarking on a thrilling trilogy, it is the second installment that truly shines, presenting players with unparalleled advantages such as an elevated level limit and an array of unique character classes.
5 Grim Dawn
In 2016, Crate Entertainment unveiled Grim Dawn, an immersive PC game that emerged victorious with the aid of Kickstarter. This action-packed RPG masterfully combined elements from the beloved Titan Quest, employing the remarkable PathEngine to construct a captivating Gothic-Victorian world.
In Grim Dawn, adventurers can embark on their journey by choosing from a diverse roster of six unique classes: the valiant Soldier, the explosive Demolitionist, the mystical Occultist, the lethal Nightblade, the enigmatic Arcanist, and the primal Shaman. By fusing two classes together, players unlock boundless possibilities to shape their characters with a plethora of skills. Furthermore, for avid collectors and treasure seekers, Grim Dawn presents a treasure trove of precious items awaiting discovery, ready to be utilized or traded for fortune.
4 Path Of Exile
Unleashed onto the gaming world in 2013, Path of Exile emerged as a captivating action RPG on the PC. This enthralling adventure unfolds from an isometric viewpoint, enticing players with its free-to-play allure. In a refreshing twist, Path of Exile defies the norm of pay-to-win schemes often found in free-to-play games, offering only cosmetic treasures for those seeking to enhance their visual splendor.
In the realm of Path of Exile, adventurers can delve into the depths of six captivating character classes, each possessing their own extraordinary talents. From the nimble and precise Ranger to the brute strength of the Marauder, or the dexterous Dualist, the divine Templar, the enigmatic Witch, and the elusive Shadow, a wealth of possibilities awaits. Path of Exile defies the norms of money-focused free-to-play games, offering a rich and immersive experience brimming with countless engaging activities.
3 Vikings: Wolves Of Midgard
Unleashed upon the gaming world in 2017, Vikings: Wolves of Midgard stands as a fierce testament to its Diablo-like nature, immersing players within a captivating Norse mythology realm. Within this realm, a myriad of boundless customization options await, beckoning players to sculpt their characters with limitless potential and endless imagination.
The enchanting realm of Midgard beckons players into an immersive experience, where they can embark on a thrilling adventure either solo or alongside friends in the vast online multiplayer or cozy local couch co-op modes. Wolves of Midgard breaks free from the mold of traditional Diablo clones, offering a captivating campaign that entices players to dive back in for multiple playthroughs, all while weaving a mesmerizing tale that adapts and transforms based on the character’s gender.
2 Torchlight 2
In 2012, the PC welcomed the arrival of Torchlight 2, an exhilarating isometric action RPG. Three years later, the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One platforms were graced with its presence. Max and Erich Schaefer, the brilliant minds behind the legendary Diablo, were the masterminds responsible for creating the extraordinary Torchlight series.
Accompanied by the Schaefers, Torchlight II ventures remarkably close to the realms of Diablo, embodying a game that epitomizes the essence of its predecessor. This exquisite sequel not only presents numerous enhancements but also introduces the exhilarating concept of co-op multiplayer and a diversified range of class options. Within this captivating realm, players are bestowed with the choice of four extraordinary classes, each possessing their own unique attributes and powers: the ingenious Engineer, the audacious Outlander, the fierce Berserker, and the enigmatic Embermage.
1 Titan Quest
Unleashed upon the gaming world in 2006, Titan Quest found new life as it underwent a glorious remastering and graced the realms of PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and the Nintendo Switch in 2017. This epic adventure, reminiscent of the legendary Diablo series, unfurls its captivating narrative against the captivating backdrop of Greek, Egyptian, and Chinese mythology.
Titan Quest offers a gratifying journey whether you embark on it solo as a lone adventurer or join forces with others in multiplayer co-op. Players have the freedom to forge their own unique classes and hone their skills according to their preferences. Infused with a captivating narrative penned by the renowned Braveheart screenwriter, Randall Wallace, Titan Quest stands as a formidable contender to the legendary Diablo franchise.
Brace yourselves for an epic adventure, for Diablo 4 shall unleash its dark forces upon the gaming realm in the midst of a blazing June, year 2023. Prepare to embark on this thrilling journey across multiple platforms, including the almighty PC, the majestic PS4 and PS5, the versatile Switch, and the formidable Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S.
Unleashing a surge of creativity, a Diablo 4 player ingeniously crafts a Barbarian character, drawing inspiration from the mighty Shao Kahn of Mortal Kombat.