The Beauty Of Isometric Perspective Video Games Is Highly Underappreciated

I have been playing video games for as long as I can remember. To me, a great video game immerses you in its world regardless of the game’s performance or graphics. A game is meant to be enjoyed and fun to play. Isometric perspective video games are a hidden gem in the industry that is overlooked by many.

I would encourage every video gamer to give these a try, as I got hooked on them myself when I played The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds on my 3DS. Here are some of the best top-down games that you should give a try, and you can thank me later.

The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening

Let me start by saying that this list is not in chronological order, so feel free to play any one of the titles you are inclined toward first. However, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is my favorite one of the bunch for various reasons.

The remake of the classic game for the Nintendo Switch took my heart in an instant. With the updated graphics and new mechanics introduced, a masterpiece was further polished. This title features some of the best soundtracks in the whole Zelda series.

It also pushes the boundaries of an average video game and has a great variety of complex dungeons, which requires you to put your mind to it and make use of the tools given for the dungeon. This game also has excellent replayability, as there are a lot of side quests and collectibles to collect.

Zelda has never disappointed me, and this game, when it came out in 2019, had me hooked up for weeks as I have above 200 hours in it. I highly recommend it to the players who are new to the genre.

The Charm Of Tunic

Tunic was released in 2022 and was overshadowed by many great triple-A titles like Elden Ring and God of War Ragnarök. However, this game is one of the best games I have ever played, as it is visually stunning. It consists of a vibrant, saturated color palette and beautifully crafted environments. Mix this with great exploration depth and a strategic combat system, and you will have a perfect blend.

What are the best isometric camera videogames?
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It’s a game with a touch of Zelda and the world interconnectivity of Dark Souls. Tunic is a must-play game for any player and the perfect isometric experience for all.

There is an in-game language that, if you learn it, can open your eyes to a whole new world. Learning this language gives you a better idea of the lore, gives puzzle-solving a new twist, and adds another layer of complexity and fun to the game.

The Repetitive Cycle Of Hades

Hades is a little different from the rest of the pack as it focuses highly on its gameplay. It is a rogue-like game in which if you die, you have to start over. However, this is definitely not a bad thing since, with every single run, things change, and you get new items each time.

This game requires you to adapt to the enemy attack patterns, and once you learn them, it is a rewarding and satisfactory moment, as you feel like you have conquered an enormous hurdle, much like the Souls games.

Disco Elysium’s Great Narrative

This title goes off in the complete opposite direction of the previously mentioned game. Disco Elysium is a video game that is highly driven by its narrative and focuses less on its gameplay. That is not to say that the gameplay is bad; it is unique. It is driven based on your interactions and decision-making in the game.

Go through the dialogues, understand what’s going on, and make your decision. This will impact your story progression. This game is filled with intriguing characters and deep backstories. It is an intellectual challenge that prompts the player to think critically before making a decision, as your choices impact the world, the game, and the story.

Standing At Death’s Door

If I could describe Death’s Door in a single sentence, I would say it is Tunic but on drugs. By this, I mean this game has an amazing combat system that is fast-paced compared to Tunic. It also has a great level of design, as there is vertical exploration and interconnectedness.

The game is built in layers, and you feel very confident when you unlock a new gate at the end of the world, which you never thought would open up to the first door of your level. The puzzles are challenging but highly rewarding, and there is a twist to this title.

Recommendations to get into isometric games?
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Death’s Door has an eerie atmosphere compared to Tunic. The gameplay might feel similar but the overall tone of the game is quite dark and mature. There are underlying themes of corporate slavery in the game. Needless to say, Death’s Door is an amazing experience. Overall, these types of games go under the radar and should be appreciated more.