Books That Feel Like Video Games

There are few things in life better than stepping into another world for a spell.

I’ve always been an avid reader, and I became obsessed with video games in my early 20s. Today, I still love both gaming and reading for the escapism they provide: exploring fictional worlds, experiencing meaningful stories, and meeting fascinating characters.

Sometimes when I finish an especially immersive video game, I feel sad that it’s over. I still want to get lost in that type of world again…

And that’s where books come in.

Lately I’ve found quite a few books that feel like video games to me. These are just a few of the fantasy and science fiction books that remind me of some of my favorite video games. I hope you find inspiration here, and let me know if you have any more suggestions!

Shadow of the Gods

FEELS LIKE: Skyrim

In the magical, snowy world of Shadow of the Gods by John Gwynne, I feel like I’m lost in the wilderness of Skyrim again. Gwynne’s fantasy world is Viking-inspired with jarls and longships, just as Skyrim‘s Nords are based on the Vikings with their jarls and thanes. Shadow of the Gods is the first book in Gwynne’s Bloodsworn trilogy, so prepare to get swept up in the Skyrim vibes with icy magic, gritty storylines, and memorable characters.

The Last Ranger

FEELS LIKE: Horizon Zero Dawn

If you loved playing Aloy in Horizon Zero Dawn, exploring beautiful open landscapes with a bow on your back, J.D.L. Rosell’s book The Last Ranger will bring back that magic. In this fantasy novel, you meet Leiyn, a hotheaded ranger with secret, forbidden magic. There’s lots of archery, varied landscapes to explore, intriguing characters, and a gripping adventure that blends politics and action — also very Horizon-esque! Plus, it’s the start to a long, exciting series you can binge if you end up loving it as much as I do.

Grimspace

FEELS LIKE: Mass Effect

Somehow Ann Aguirre’s novel Grimspace — another first in series — has all the things I love about my favorite game series Mass Effect. A fierce, memorable heroine (Commander Shepard if she were way more neurotic). A grizzled love interest (hello, Garrus, but make him human, still with scars!). A found family on a spaceship tagging around space. A political conspiracy. Alien friendship. Interstellar action. I have re-read Grimspace so many times, my little mass market paperback is falling apart. Highly recommend!

I’m sure I will be adding to this list as I read more books that feel like video games. In the meantime, do you have any books that feel like games… or the other way around? I’d love to hear your recommendations!

– Ashley