Tales of Zestiria similar games & best alternatives

Why it matches

• Both pull you into another world Strong immersion in SAO universe, extensive story and dialogue, fantasy setting, and distraction through grinding and exploration.
• Both lean into fantasy Set in a fictional virtual reality MMORPG world with fantasy elements, original characters, and alternate storylines.
• Both are about getting better Players develop skills, level up, unlock new abilities, and improve companions; learning combat mechanics is rewarding.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with steampunk elements, political intrigue, and fictional worldbuilding typical of JRPGs.
• Both are about getting better Players experience character development, skill progression, and narrative growth over a long campaign.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong progression through leveling, equipment upgrades, unlocking skills, and story advancement.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Set in a fantasy world with demons, magic, and mythical creatures; strong roleplaying elements.
• Both pay no attention to wellbeing Sedentary gameplay with long sessions; no physical activity involved.
• Both ignore status and prestige No social status or recognition systems; focus is on individual play.

Why it matches

• Both are about getting better Players learn and develop skills through job leveling, strategy refinement, and character progression.
• Both lean into fantasy Set in a high fantasy world with classic JRPG tropes like elemental crystals, heroes of light, and mythical creatures.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on accumulating job levels, equipment, and abilities to grow stronger.

Why it matches

• Both pull you into another world Strong nostalgic and immersive fantasy experience; players use it as a way to relive classic JRPGs and escape reality.
• Both lean into fantasy Classic JRPG fantasy setting with amnesia, villains, magic, and imaginative story elements.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on leveling up, skill trees, equipment upgrades, and unlocking new abilities.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy setting with fairies, magical weapons, and anime-inspired story and characters.
• Both are about getting better Players develop characters and weapons through leveling and weapon points, learning new skills.
• Both pay no attention to wellbeing Game involves sedentary play with no physical activity elements.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Deeply rooted in Chinese mythology and fantasy elements, with gods, demons, and ancient lore.
• Both pay no attention to wellbeing Typical sedentary gameplay with long sessions and no physical activity.
• Both are seen as worth the money Players report good value for price with long gameplay and rich content.

Why it matches

• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy theme with anime-style characters, MMO setting, and meta gaming fiction.
• Both pay no attention to wellbeing Reports of long play sessions with little physical activity and some unhealthy habits.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on leveling characters, upgrading gear, and completing quests for advancement.

Why it matches

• Both pull you into another world Players use the game to escape real-life stress, especially during COVID lockdowns, immersing in a rich fictional world.
• Both lean into fantasy Strong fantasy elements with divine knights, mechs, curses, and a fictional continent with rich lore.
• Both are driven by steady progression Strong emphasis on leveling up, acquiring items, upgrading gear, and unlocking abilities.