If you’re a fan of the challenging and dark world of Darkest Dungeon, then you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of 10 turn-based games that share similar gameplay mechanics and themes.
These games will surely keep you engaged and satisfy your craving for strategic battles and overcoming adversity. From the D&D-inspired Solasta: Crown of the Magister to the post-apocalyptic Underrail, each game offers its own unique take on the turn-based genre.
So, if you’re ready to immerse yourself in another world of peril and triumph, check out these games that will surely scratch that Darkest Dungeon itch.
Introduction
Darkest Dungeon has captivated players with its unique blend of challenging turn-based gameplay and haunting atmosphere. The game’s success lies in embracing failure and turning it into a strategic advantage.
As you continue your quest for a thrilling turn-based experience, we have compiled a list of ten games that share similar gameplay mechanics and will keep you entertained until Darkest Dungeon 2 arrives.
1. Solasta: Crown of the Magister
Release Date: TBA | Genre: Fantasy, Turn-Based RPG | Platforms: PC | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Brutal turn-based gameplay, strategic planning
Solasta: Crown of the Magister is a revolutionary step forward for the Dungeons & Dragons franchise. It successfully translates D&D’s 5th edition ruleset into gaming, offering brutal turn-based gameplay akin to Darkest Dungeon.
Don’t expect a warm welcome in Solasta, as it retains the challenging nature of its tabletop counterpart. It’s a standard medieval fantasy adventure where strategic planning and tactical decision-making are key to victory.
2. XCOM Series
Release Date: Various | Genre: Sci-fi, Turn-Based Strategy | Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Unforgiving turn-based RNG, challenging gameplay
If you’re looking for unforgiving turn-based RNG and challenging gameplay, the XCOM series is a perfect fit. These sci-fi strategy games are notorious for serving players unexpected and sometimes devastating outcomes, even with high hit chances.
While the setting differs from Darkest Dungeon, the XCOM series provides similar strategic planning and intense combat.
3. Deep Sky Derelicts
Release Date: 2019 | Genre: Sci-fi, Turn-Based Roguelite | Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Exploration mode, 2D storytelling, balance of difficulty and reward
Deep Sky Derelicts is a turn-based roguelike that shares similarities with Darkest Dungeon regarding exploration mode and 2D storytelling. However, Deep Sky Derelicts takes a more retro-futuristic sci-fi approach.
This game strikes a balance between difficulty and rewarding gameplay, providing a satisfying experience as you navigate the dark depths of space.
4. Battle Brothers
Release Date: 2017 | Genre: Medieval Strategy, Turn-Based Combat | Platforms: PC | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Hexagonal battle simulator, permadeath mechanic
In Battle Brothers, you take on the role of a commander leading a personalized army in hexagonal battles. This medieval strategy game features turn-based combat with a permadeath mechanic, similar to Darkest Dungeon.
Your strategic decisions and the morale and veterancy of your troops will determine the outcome of each engaging battle.
5. Legend of Keepers: Career of a Dungeon Master
Release Date: 2020 | Genre: Fantasy, Turn-Based Roguelite | Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Reversed role as defender of dungeons, controlling a team against heroes, recruit monsters and set traps
Legend of Keepers: Career of a Dungeon Master offers a unique twist on the dungeon crawler genre. You play as the defender of an ominous dungeon, recruiting monsters and setting traps to protect it from heroes seeking to loot your domain.
This reversed role brings a fresh perspective to turn-based gameplay and offers a challenging experience reminiscent of Darkest Dungeon.
6. Iron Danger
Release Date: 2020 | Genre: Fantasy, Turn-based and Real-time Hybrid | Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Unique hybrid combat system, manipulation of time
Iron Danger introduces a unique hybrid combat system that seamlessly blends turn-based and real-time gameplay. As you manipulate time to your advantage, you can change the outcome of combat choices.
This innovative approach, combined with a captivating fantasy world, makes Iron Danger a must-play for fans of Darkest Dungeon.
7. Divinity: Original Sin
Release Date: 2014 | Genre: Fantasy, RPG | Platforms: PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Harsh RPG with no quest markers, difficult turn-based combat
Divinity: Original Sin is a harsh RPG that challenges players with its lack of quest markers and difficult turn-based combat. Like Darkest Dungeon, it doesn’t hold your hand, forcing you to rely on your own wit and strategy to overcome challenges.
The game’s immersive world and intricate combat mechanics make it a worthy addition to any fan’s collection.
8. Alder’s Blood
Release Date: 2020 | Genre: Lovecraftian Stealth, Strategy | Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Lovecraftian atmosphere, emphasis on stealth, reliance on RNG
Alder’s Blood captures the Lovecraftian atmosphere found in Darkest Dungeon and introduces stealth mechanics to its turn-based strategy gameplay. As you face the horrors of a dead god, stealth becomes crucial for survival. However, the element of RNG adds an unpredictable and challenging dimension to the game.
Dive into the world of Alder’s Blood and experience the deep sense of dread reminiscent of Darkest Dungeon.
9. Underrail
Release Date: 2015 | Genre: Post-apocalyptic RPG | Platforms: PC | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Fully-fledged RPG system, exploration and combat options
Underrail offers a fully-fledged RPG system set in a post-apocalyptic world. The game allows for deep exploration and various combat options, allowing players to approach challenges as they see fit.
With extensive character customization and a compelling narrative, Underrail delivers an immersive experience akin to the depth found in Darkest Dungeon.
10. Othercide
Release Date: 2020 | Genre: Post-apocalyptic Sci-fi, Tactical RPG | Platforms: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox | Similarities to Darkest Dungeon: Stylish visuals, turn-based gameplay, focus on strategy
Othercide stands out with its stylish visuals and turn-based gameplay. The game’s post-apocalyptic setting and tactical RPG elements create a gripping and challenging experience. Focusing on strategy and the absence of traditional healing mechanics, Othercide offers a fresh take on the turn-based genre that fans of Darkest Dungeon will appreciate.
Although nothing can truly replicate the unique experience of Darkest Dungeon, these ten games offer gameplay mechanics and atmospheres that will surely captivate and challenge you.
Whether you’re searching for strategic planning, intense turn-based combat, or Lovecraftian horrors, these titles will keep you entertained as you wait for Darkest Dungeon 2.
