Ever since 2013, action RPG fans have been thrilled by the free-to-play online game “Path of Exile.” Played from an isometric perspective, gamers select a character from several fantasy archetypal classes and explore expansive realms to complete quests. These levels are procedurally generated, keeping the experience fresh as players steadily upgrade and customize their characters. This was followed by “Path of Exile 2,” which was released as an early access title in 2024.
For players who have sunk countless hours into both “Path of Exile” games and are looking for something new, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s tried and true fantasy action games or something a little more obscure, there are plenty of similar titles for fans to enjoy. Many of the games we’re mentioning here also have a prominent online component just like the “Path of Exile” titles. These are the five best video games like “Path of Exile,” each offering their own hack-and-slash fun.
Guild Wars 2
Before “Path of Exile,” the go-to free-to-play online fantasy action game was “Guild Wars 2,” released in 2012. Going free-to-play in 2015, the game has players create and customize their character as they navigate the high fantasy realm of Tyria. Players can embark on quests that impact how the story unfolds, either alone or as part of a larger band of heroes. The game offers plenty of battlefield environments where factions of opposing players can openly wage war.
“Guild Wars 2” is still a blast to play over a decade since its launch and continues to receive regular updates and expansions. This includes everything from new story chapters and raid encounters to new mounts for players to acquire. The emphasis on story helps set the game apart from many of its free-to-play contemporaries, with the narrative regularly developed further through updates. Boasting an impressive scope and evolving world, “Guild Wars 2” is the sleeper hit fantasy MMO that “Path of Exile” fans will fall head over heels for.
Grim Dawn
For a darker take on the hack-and-slash genre that places more emphasis on combat than the wider realms of “Path of Exile,” there’s “Grim Dawn.” Released in 2016, the game takes place in a world resembling the Victorian era with humanity on the defensive from extradimensional monster attacks. Choosing between various character classes, players can form parties of up to four people or venture solo as they battle these otherworldly creatures. The game places a heavy emphasis on looting and crafting to improve and construct more formidable gear between quests.
While “Grim Dawn” isn’t the most ambitious online experience, it does resemble “Path of Exile” in terms of gameplay mechanics. Developer and publisher Crate Entertainment has provided the title with regular updates and new content, with the latest additions coming as recently as 2026. A modern hack-and-slash title best experienced with friends, “Grim Dawn” is a cult classic game with striking art design that “Path of Exile” players need to check out as soon as possible.
Lost Ark
One of the most ambitious MMOs launched within the past decade is “Lost Ark,” which debuted in 2019 overseas before coming to North America in 2022. The game takes place in a fantasy realm where the kingdoms of Arkesia and Petrania are at war with one another. Amid this sweeping conflict, the player character moves to prevent the demon Kazeros and his fiendish army from conquering the world. Choosing from a growing selection of characters, players customize their persona accordingly, including which fantasy class they should specialize in. There are beginner classes that players can take in “Lost Ark,” so it’s never too late to jump in.
While there are some big differences between the U.S. and Korean versions of “Lost Ark,” the base gameplay and appeal remain intact. Though there are PvP modes for players to try their luck against human opponents, the game really does focus on building a major PvE experience. The combat is smoothly presented, with the talent mechanics elevating the action considerably, especially in more bombastic set pieces. Another solid free-to-play fantasy action RPG, “Lost Ark” is well worth trying out, particularly for fans of the genre.
Diablo II: Resurrected
The games that “Path of Exile” arguably resembles the most are the “Diablo” titles by Blizzard Entertainment. Of these, the 2021 remaster of “Diablo II,” retitled “Diablo II: Resurrected,” lines up with “Path of Exile” the most from the series. “Diablo II: Resurrected” differs from the original in that it boasts notable visual improvements. Along with quality of life improvements, the remaster allows players to toggle between the original and modern presentations of the game.
The overarching story of the characters attempting to defeat Diablo in Hell is retained, combined with the narrative from the expansion “Diablo II: Lord of Destruction.” The scope and distinct character classes are all there, while the revamp serves as a reminder that the game is still the pinnacle of the franchise. A fantastic update to the 2000 original and its expansion, “Diablo II: Resurrected” is the ultimate way to play the game and needs to be experienced by “Path of Exile” fans.
Last Epoch
Developed and the 2024 loot-based hack-and-slash action RPG “Last Epoch” follows a time traveler out to save the fantasy realm of Eterra. Players navigate multiple timelines to prevent an apocalyptic future from coming to pass courtesy of a reality-erasing phenomenon known as the Void. Players are able to choose from over a dozen classes and the game features online cooperative multiplayer
“Last Epoch” plays out from an isometric perspective and boasts an extensive RPG system. This is most noticeable with the sheer breadth of the skill trees available to players, helping them further make the experience their own. This augments the smooth hack-and-slash gameplay, which is very addictive. An engaging action RPG with a distinct time-travel and alternate reality-hopping premise, “Last Epoch” is a lot of fun.
