10 Games like Diablo to play while we wait for Diablo 5

Diablo 5 is on its way; however, if you are looking for alternatives to the dark world of Sanctuary while we wait for its release, there are plenty of games like Diablo to keep you equally hooked. And the good news is that we have found the top 10 titles to tuck into if you need a break from Diablo 4's recent Vessel of Hatred expansion or just need a change of scenery ahead of the next entry in the beloved demon-filled franchise.

From some of the best co-op games to the best ARPGs out there, the experiences below live by the Diablo code of action and looting galore. We've also made sure to include some equally dark picks if you want more brutal fantasy worlds, as well as some more family-friendly fare for lighter options, so no matter what kind of restbite you are after, we've got you covered, folks.

With more upcoming RPGs on the way, this list may change in the future, but for now, ahead of Diablo 5's big arrival, if you still want the same rush of combat, adventure, and strategy, then read on!

The best games like Diablo to play right now, starting with...

10. Warhammer: Chaosbane

Warhammer: Chaosbane takes the classic ARPG format into the modern era, maintaining the same isometric view, four-play co-op, and class types, but somehow make the whole package feel like it belongs at the tail-end of this decade. Combat is fast-paced but deliberate, making you think twice before you run into an enemy encampment or challenge a boss.

There's a strategy to learning your enemy's moves, and there's enough variety in the baddies that the challenge doesn't fade quickly. Each of the four classes feels distinct and worthwhile, while itemization could've been more inventive for a game released in 2019. All in all, Warhammer: Chaosbane offers a polished yet faithful take on the ARPG genre that's worth the stay in even after Diablo 4.

9. The Ascent

For a Diablo experience that has less of an emphasis on loot in favor of a more action-focused experience, try The Ascent. It's a sci-fi-flavored game that, like Diablo, provides a world you can largely move about in freely while requiring you to level up and acquire the right gear in order to access certain areas (and/or access them safely). It can be played solo or in a 2-4 player co-op, locally or online.

If Diablo's mouse-clicking/button-tapping combat isn't a high point for you, then The Ascent's twin-stick shooter approach for more immediate action may appeal. It's a gorgeous-looking game, too; the highly detailed and wonderfully lit cyberpunk world is an enthralling place to explore and murder in. The Ascent offers XP grinding and a wide variety of loadout options while streamlining the loot experience to minimize your time in the menus. For more details, you can read our The Ascent review.

8. Minecraft Dungeons

Though set in the Minecraft universe, Minecraft Dungeons has little in common with Mojang's world-dominating gaming behemoth beyond looks. It's an ARPG and, as you might expect, far more forgiving and accessible than many others of the genre. Not despite, but because of this, it's a great Diablo alternative regardless of your skill level.

The lower bar for entry makes it a great choice to play with younger relatives, or friends of any age not familiar with the genre, and there aren't many ARPGs you could say that about. It's a well-designed and enjoyable game in its own right, and if you're only interested in being challenged, this still has much to offer you. There are multiple difficulty levels, and you might find yourself in for a nasty surprise if you ignore power-level recommendations. For a Diablo alternative that allows you to ease yourself or others into the experience, Minecraft Dungeons is the perfect choice. Minecraft Dungeons 2 is also now out in the wild, but we love the original, as we mention in our glowing Minecraft Dungeons review.

7. The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing

If you're looking for an indie-priced ARPG with visuals, a story, and gameplay that belie their budget, don't overlook The Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing. After it was released in 2013, two sequels were released in quick succession in 2014 and 2015, respectively, but the original is the undisputed fan-favorite. No doubt inspired by the Diablo franchise, Van Helsing's abilities and class variety most closely resemble Diablo 3, but the skill tree allows for deeper character customization more akin to Diablo 2.

Though unlike Diablo, the Incredible Adventures of Van Helsing is another ARPG that doesn't take itself too seriously, with a refreshing amount of humor thrown into the dialogue portions. Otherwise, Van Helsing tells a captivating Gothic-noir tale in an utterly enchanting world that makes hacking, slashing, and looting about as enjoyable as it gets.

6. Torchlight 2

Torchlight 2 is another ARPG that doesn't dare stray from the genre recipe but perfects each ingredient for a stand-out, if derivative, final product. Of course, Torchlight isn't without its own identity, as it takes some small liberties to distinguish itself as more than a Diablo clone.

You can have pets, go fishing, and enjoy a robust and lively modding community. But at its core, Torchlight 2 does what ARPGs do best and does it better than most. It makes sense, considering developer Runic Games was formed by two co-creators of Blizzard North and Diablo itself, but the exceptional kill, loot, and upgrade grind at Torchlight 2's center can't be overstated. Head on over to our Torchlight 2 review if you want even more insights into this one!

5. Victor Vran

Another isometric ARPG you can't help but compare to Diablo, Victor Vran isn't innovative, but it is exceptional. Of course, calling Victor Vran a Diablo clone isn't giving it enough credit, nor is it accurate. You won't find different classes here, the combat includes jumping and dodging, the weapon sets are entirely different and include guns, and the lore is infused with a heaping dose of largely effective humor.

Victor Vran does also borrow elements from games like Torchlight and Bastion, but it delivers each element and mixes them so seamlessly that it carves its own identity. And with its own unique style and setting, Diablo fans looking for a slightly different direction would do well to check out Victor Vran.

4. Loot River

If you like the hack-and-slash component of Diablo and the top-down perspective but want something fresh to shake up the formula, look no further than "Tetris meets Dark Souls" indie action-RPG Loot River. Sure, we may have referred to Loot River as "godless" and "a big ol' bully" in the past, but that hasn't stopped us from logging dozens of hours into its clever tetromino-based world.

Loot River takes a fairly conventional roguelike - that is, one with procedurally generated worlds and permadeath - and adds the ability to move the ground underneath your character to solve environmental puzzles and get the drop on enemies. What results is a brutally punishing, but ultimately rewarding Diablo-like that'll keep you coming back for "just one more try."

3. Darksiders Genesis

Darksiders is one of the more well-known series on this list, but it's also one of the more overlooked by fans of Diablo looking for something similar. With Darksiders Genesis, it's never been so tempting for Diablo fans to turn their attention to the Darksiders universe.

Watching the trailer, you'll immediately spot the one key resemblance to Diablo, with Darksiders Genesis embracing an isometric view instead of its predecessor's third-person perspective. That said, Darksiders Genesis is a Darksiders game through-and-through, and the best entry in years. Gorgeous, fast-paced, and unexpectedly funny, Genesis is the magnum opus of the Darksiders formula in Diablo-like clothes. Read our Darksiders Genesis review for more information!

2. Hades 2

Hades 2 is - like the first game - one of the best roguelike games on the market. There's a hint of Diablo to it as well, though, running on an ARPG engine of isometric adventuring and fast-paced combat. A greater emphasis on storytelling and an improved progression loop make the sequel an even more convincing Diablo alternative.

Zagreus is out, and Melinoë is in, bringing with her some new abilities that remix combat in new and interesting ways. There might not be a huge pool of permanent loot to collect and upgrade, but each run still holds surprises in a similar way, thanks to the randomization of a roguelike. Bigger and somehow better than the first game, with more additions and improvements, Hades 2 is a great addition to anybody's collection.

1. Grim Dawn

For those looking for an experience as faithful as possible to the Diablo franchise, Grim Dawn is one for your radar. Oft-described as a spiritual successor to Diablo 2, Grim Dawn's selling point is that it offers the deep character-building, engaging story, and grim mood many felt were missing from Diablo 3.

What Grim Dawn also offers is immensely satisfying grinding and hack-and-slash gameplay. Of course, Diablo 3 wound up a juggernaut despite its woes at launch, meaning you won't find as thriving or diverse a community in Grim Dawn. Still, its successes in capturing the magic of old-school ARPGs elevate Grim Dawn far beyond any other Diablo-like.

For more recommendations, check out our list of all the new games heading our way this year and beyond. Or read our Diablo 4 review and ranking of the best Diablo games next.