Avernum 2: Crystal Souls similar games & best alternatives

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring The game features a huge open world with many hidden dungeons, secrets, and optional quests encouraging discovery.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on leveling up characters, acquiring items, and completing quests to advance.
• Both reward thinking ahead Turn-based tactical combat and skill management require planning and problem solving.
• Same kind of look Screenshots of both games share a very close visual identity (palette, framing, level of detail).

Why it matches

• Both are carried by their story Strong narrative focus with complex plot, character development, and multiple endings.
• Both lean into fantasy Classic fantasy setting with dragons, magic, political intrigue, and mythical creatures.
• Both reward thinking ahead Turn-based combat requires tactical planning, resource management, and skillful use of abilities.
• Same kind of look Screenshots of both games share a very close visual identity (palette, framing, level of detail).

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Large open world with many secrets, dungeons, and quests encourages extensive exploration.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on leveling up, acquiring items, and improving characters.
• Both are carried by their story Deep narrative immersion with extensive lore, dialogue, and branching quests.

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Large world with many areas to discover and secrets to find.
• Both are carried by their story Strong narrative immersion with meaningful choices and multiple endings.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy and sci-fi hybrid setting with magic, shaping creatures, and mythical elements.

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Game features large open world, unlocking new regions, discovering lore, and exploring forts and dungeons.
• Both are carried by their story Highly praised narrative with meaningful choices, character development, and political intrigue.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with noble characters, magic, mythical creatures, and fictional kingdoms.

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Strong emphasis on discovering new areas, points of interest, and secrets in a procedurally generated world.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on accumulating skills, items, upgrades, and building settlements over time.
• Both are about getting better Strong learning curve with skill acquisition, knowledge of game systems, and personal development.

Why it matches

• Both are driven by steady progression Strong meta-progression system with upgrades, legacy, and item collection driving advancement.
• Both are about exploring Large overworld and many randomized dungeons encourage discovery and curiosity-driven play.
• Both reward thinking ahead Highly tactical combat and planning required; players must devise strategies to survive.

Why it matches

• Both reward thinking ahead High mental challenge with tactical combat, resource management, and strategic decision-making.
• Both are carried by their story Narrative immersion is strong with well-written story, character interactions, and evolving world events.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with magic, mythical creatures, and dark narrative; clear departure from realistic scenarios.

Why it matches

• Both are about exploring Large world, many dungeons, secrets, and quests drive curiosity and discovery.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on leveling, item acquisition, skill development, and unlocking content.
• Both reward thinking ahead Requires planning, risk management, and problem solving.