Even though Zelda is exclusively available for Nintendo consoles, there are some good alternatives. One of the best can currently be found on Steam for just a few euros.
Which game is it? The Darksiders Warmastered Edition was released in 2016 as the remaster of the first Darksiders game. The action series now consists of 4 parts, and especially the first part gameplay-wise strongly resembles Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda series.
Instead of focusing on family-friendliness, the title relies on more brutal action and a significantly darker and more serious story. Currently, you can get Darksiders Warmastered Edition for a good price, which is especially worth it for Zelda fans, as well as for players who enjoy battling demons, angels, and other beings.
A Zelda-like with its own facets
How does Darksiders Warmastered Edition play? After a spectacular intro, War, the playable Horseman of the Apocalypse, loses his powers. He is given a new chance and must reclaim his abilities. To do this, he makes a pact with the demon Samael and must kill monsters for him to give him their hearts.
The monsters are always located in their own dungeons, which take place on the destroyed Earth. These are visually and gameplay-wise diverse, and as you would expect from Zelda games, there are dungeon gimmicks that must be used for puzzles.
On the post-apocalyptic Earth, you will encounter many demons and angels that you must fend off. The combat system is based on simple combos that can be combined with various weapons. Additionally, there are parry, block, and dodge functions as well as a powerful demon form.
All of this is not particularly complex, but in combat, you can make good use of the various aspects. Usually, the sword is enough. The major difference to Zelda, however, is the level of violence. Although the comic graphics never make it too brutal, the many finishers are comparatively explicit and often remind one of God of War.
Occasionally, the gameplay is also lightened up with smaller set pieces, such as third-person shooting sequences.
The main character sometimes reminds one of the old Kratos. He is quite taciturn, far too serious, and follows his goal strictly. Charm or character development is hardly present, but this fits quite well with the rather simple story. After all, it’s about a destroyed Earth, countless demons, and a Horseman of the Apocalypse.
How is the game received by the community? Of 12,586 user reviews, 87% are positive on Steam. Fans praise Darksiders Warmastered Edition as the best part of the series that can be played over and over again. The comparison to Zelda is often mentioned positively as well. The few criticisms relate to backtracking towards the end of the game and occasional bugs.
How much does Darksiders Warmastered Edition cost on Steam? On Steam, the game is currently 75% off and costs only €4.99, about as much as a Magic TCG booster. This offer is valid until January 5, 2026, so you don’t have unlimited time. Those who want to catch up on the entire series can grab all 4 titles for €19.45. A great way to prepare for the upcoming sequel: Fans thought the game series was dead, but the “evil Zelda” is getting a new installment