Much like the art or literature worlds, true originality is a rare commodity in gaming. Inspiration often walks a fine line between homage and outright replication. As much as innovation drives progress, many developers find inspiration in existing titles, sometimes to the point where their games feel more like clones than new creations.
This has given rise to games that borrow heavily from others. And many manage to succeed despite—or perhaps because of—their lack of originality. From Saints Row to The Simpsons Hit and Run, here are nine games that blatantly stole their entire premise from other games.
9. Saints Row (2006)
When Saints Row launched, it was seen as another “GTA clone,” a term given to games mimicking the Grand Theft Auto formula of open-world crime mayhem. At its core, it shared many similarities with GTA, from its urban setting to its focus on criminal activities.
It distinguished itself with a greater emphasis on player customization and a more chaotic, over-the-top narrative. As the series evolved, it shed much of its GTA-inspired identity, embracing a unique blend of humor and absurdity, solidifying its own legacy within the gaming world.
8. The Simpsons: Hit & Run (2003)
The Simpsons: Hit & Run took the open-world gameplay made famous by GTA and adapted it to the zany world of Springfield. Released at a time when The Simpsons was still at the height of its popularity, the game mixed sandbox exploration with a wealth of references from the show.
Unlike GTA, Hit & Run was devoid of graphic violence, instead offering a family-friendly experience that stayed true to the essence of the iconic TV series. Despite its clear inspiration, it became a beloved title for its clever integration of “Simpsons” humor into the GTA-style framework.
7. Clone Hero (2017)
Clone Hero unapologetically mirrors the gameplay of the Guitar Hero series, a franchise that once dominated the rhythm game genre. The game has flourished after Guitar Hero’s decline, primarily due to its open-source nature, allowing players to create and share custom songs.
The game’s success lies in its community-driven content, offering endless replayability and a resurgence in interest for plastic instrument gaming. While it borrowed its mechanics directly from Guitar Hero, it has thrived by giving players the freedom to keep the rhythm game genre alive on their terms.
6. Genshin Impact (2020)
When Genshin Impact was first revealed, many dismissed it as a Breath of the Wild clone due to its strikingly similar visual style and open-world mechanics. However, the game introduced a gacha system and an expansive roster of characters that set it apart from its inspiration.
While the influence of Breath of the Wild is undeniable, it has established its own identity through its live-service model and continuous updates. The game’s blend of exploration, combat, and character progression has earned it a massive following, proving that even clones can carve out their own niche.
5. Palworld (2024)
Palworld is a game that wears its Pokemon inspiration on its sleeve. From capturing creatures to battling them, the similarities are impossible to ignore. But the game has a bizarre twist by adding firearms, darker themes, and even a survival aspect that makes it stand out.
Despite the uncanny resemblance to Pokemon, it has drawn significant attention for its unique spin on the monster-catching genre. Whether this attention is due to genuine interest or mere curiosity about its peculiar premise, the game has carved out a space for itself.
4. Dante’s Inferno (2010)
Dante’s Inferno is a classic example of a game that borrows heavily from another—specifically God of War. From its combat mechanics to its epic, mythological storyline, the game is clearly inspired by Kratos’ adventures.
However, by focusing on a journey through the nine circles of Hell, the game provides a unique narrative experience rooted in the literary classic. The game’s dark, visceral tone and engaging combat system earned it praise, even if it never quite escaped the shadow of God of War.
3. Stardew Valley (2016)
Stardew Valley draws significant inspiration from the Harvest Moon series, offering players a similar farming simulation experience. However, it surpassed its predecessor by expanding the gameplay with more in-depth mechanics and a vibrant community of modders.
The game’s developer made Stardew Valley to address the shortcomings he saw in Harvest Moon. The result was a game that not only honored its inspiration but also became a defining title in the farming sim genre.
2. Cuphead (2017)
Cuphead is often compared to Contra for its run-and-gun gameplay and relentless difficulty. However, it sets itself apart with its hand-drawn, 1930s cartoon-inspired art style.
While the gameplay may feel familiar to fans of classic run-and-gun titles, the visual and audio design of the game makes it a truly unique experience. The game’s success is a testament to how a familiar gameplay loop can be revitalized with a fresh aesthetic and challenging content.
1. Oceanhorn (2013)
Oceanhorn is often called a Zelda clone, particularly drawing comparisons to The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker with its top-down perspective and oceanic exploration. But the game offers its own story, characters, and puzzles that differentiate it from Nintendo’s iconic franchise.
While it doesn’t reach the heights of the Zelda series, it remains a solid adventure game that provides a similar experience for players who crave more after finishing Wind Waker.
Have you played any of these games and enjoyed them? Let us know in the comments!
