Days Gone, with its compelling story, brutal hordes of Freakers, and open-world freedom, carved a unique niche in the post-apocalyptic genre. If you're craving more of that motorcycle-riding, zombie-slaying, survival-focused action, you've come to the right place. This guide dives deep into games that capture the essence of Days Gone, offering alternatives for different aspects of what made the game so captivating.
Similar Open-World Survival Experiences:
These games share Days Gone's expansive open world, survival mechanics, and the constant struggle for resources:
-
Horizon Zero Dawn/Forbidden West: While lacking the zombie hordes, these games offer a similarly stunning open world filled with dangerous creatures (mechanical beasts instead of Freakers). The crafting, resource management, and exploration elements strongly resonate with Days Gone’s core gameplay loop. The narrative also features a compelling protagonist fighting for survival in a changed world.
-
Ghost of Tsushima: This game doesn't feature hordes of undead, but it provides a similar sense of open-world exploration and intense combat against numerous enemies. The beautiful scenery and focus on stealth and strategic combat offer a different flavor but a comparable level of immersion.
-
Red Dead Redemption 2: While not post-apocalyptic, RDR2 boasts a massive open world brimming with detail, demanding survival elements (hunting, crafting, managing your health), and compelling characters. The sense of freedom and the engaging narrative make it a worthy contender for fans of Days Gone’s open-world exploration.
Games Focusing on Horde Combat:
Days Gone's thrilling horde encounters were a defining feature. These games provide similarly challenging and intense horde combat experiences:
-
State of Decay 2: This zombie survival game emphasizes base-building and strategic combat against hordes. While the scale might not be as grand as Days Gone's, the feeling of overwhelming odds and the need for careful planning mirrors the intensity of those horde battles.
-
Dying Light 2 Stay Human: Parkour, brutal melee combat, and hordes of infected make this game a thrilling choice for Days Gone fans. The verticality of the city adds a unique dimension to the horde combat experience, making it distinct from Days Gone but similarly intense.
Games with a Strong Narrative Focus:
The story and characters in Days Gone were another significant draw. These games offer comparable narrative depth and character development:
-
The Last of Us Part I & II: This critically acclaimed series sets a high bar for narrative-driven post-apocalyptic experiences. The relationship between the protagonists, the emotional weight of the story, and the brutal world resonate deeply with Days Gone's themes.
-
Metro Exodus: This post-apocalyptic survival game features a powerful story set in a beautifully rendered, desolate Russia. The narrative focus and the challenges of survival in a harsh environment create a similar level of emotional investment as Days Gone.
Beyond the Obvious: Finding Your Next Ride
While these games offer similar elements, they all provide unique experiences. Consider what aspects of Days Gone resonated most with you – the open world, the horde combat, the motorcycle, the story – and choose a game that emphasizes those elements. No single game will perfectly replicate Days Gone, but these options offer a variety of compelling alternatives to satisfy that post-apocalyptic itch. Happy gaming!
