Games Like Shelter

As the last mother fox on Earth, your cubs need all your care to survive in a merciless world that slowly destroys itself. You have to help them, teach them and save them. And you should never forget that extinction is forever – in the real world and in this 2023 BAFTA award winning experience.

Why similar: Emotional 19.5%, Nature 17%, Survival 13.4%, Walking Simulator 8.4%, Female Protagonist 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: This is the closest thematic match to Shelter, focusing on a mother fox protecting her cubs in a dying, human-impacted world.

As a powerful Lynx, you will make your way through vast open landscapes. In the harsh tundra, you will raise and strengthen your cubs by mastering your skills for hunting prey. Do everything you can to prepare your little ones for the vicious entities dwelling in the wilderness.

Why similar: Nature 17.3%, Emotional 15.1%, Survival 13.6%, Walking Simulator 11.1%, Female Protagonist 9%

Why You'll Like It: The direct sequel expands on the original's mechanics by allowing you to play as a mother lynx protecting her kittens in a larger, more dynamic environment.

Enter the wilderness and keep your calf and your herd safe from harm. Make your way through the open landscapes as a majestic elephant. Be alert and gather your herd during times of danger. Your herd is your family, shelter is your only hope, and survival your only goal.

Why similar: Nature 22.3%, Adventure 11.9%, Emotional 9.5%, Survival 9.3%, Walking Simulator 8%

Why You'll Like It: The third entry in the series introduces herd mechanics and a more communal approach to survival in the wild.

Traverse a vast world as a young lynx cub. Paws – A Shelter 2 Game is a standalone, single player, adventure game with loss and friendship as its central themes. Venture out in the world and make your way home.

Why similar: Survival 14%, Nature 13.2%, Cute 13%, Adventure 11.5%, Emotional 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: This standalone expansion provides a unique perspective by letting you play as a cub separated from your family, emphasizing the struggle to reunite.

A beautiful, 3rd-person exploration game centered around two parallel stories: a fox trying to find her missing family, and a son reconnecting with his estranged father in Alaska. Uncover artifacts from the son's life as he becomes intertwined in the fox’s journey towards The First Tree.

Why similar: Walking Simulator 24.1%, Nature 15.5%, Open World 14%, Atmospheric 12.9%, Exploration 11.1%

Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, emotional exploration game that parallels the journey of a fox searching for her family with a human narrative.

Explore the vast and open landscape as a wild animal. Meadow is an online fable experience that lets old and new fans of the Shelter game series come together and explore a peculiar and wondrous world together.

Why similar: Cute 22.5%, Open World 20.1%, Nature 13.4%, Walking Simulator 10.8%, Exploration 7.4%

Why You'll Like It: A unique multiplayer experience set in the Shelter universe that focuses on social interaction and exploration as various forest animals.

Live the life of a wild wolf in a realistic ecological simulation set in Yellowstone National Park.

Why similar: Nature 25.7%, Life Sim 23.2%, Survival 19.7%, Open World 17.9%, Exploration 6.2%

Why You'll Like It: This highly realistic simulation focuses on the life of a wild wolf, including complex family management and survival in the wilderness.

Explore the remains of a fallen world from fascinating perspectives! Slip into the role of different animals to uncover the fate of an ancient world. Dive into deep waters, fly at lofty heights, dig underground as a mole or even climb steep cliffs with a mountain goat, there are lots of ways of getting around.

Why similar: Nature 17.1%, Emotional 13.4%, Walking Simulator 13%, Family Friendly 8.9%, Third Person 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: You play as a wolf with the ability to possess other animals, offering a deep, atmospheric exploration of a fallen world.

Lost, alone and separated from family, a stray cat must untangle an ancient mystery to escape a long-forgotten cybercity and find their way home.

Why similar: Open World 16.7%, Cute 16.6%, Exploration 16.3%, Atmospheric 15.7%, Third Person 15.5%

Why You'll Like It: While more urban, this game perfectly captures the experience of navigating a world from the perspective of a small animal.

Hike, climb, and soar through the peaceful mountainside landscapes of Hawk Peak Provincial Park as you make your way to the summit.

Why similar: Nature 18.1%, Open World 14.2%, Exploration 13.6%, Cute 12.1%, Walking Simulator 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: While more lighthearted, it captures the same sense of peaceful exploration and connection to nature found in the quieter moments of Shelter.

Escape to an enchanting, living sandbox surrounded by wildlife and nature. Scavenge materials and craft tools to turn your small cabin into a warm, well-supplied home. Survive by fishing, cooking and growing your own food. Be careful though, the forest is as dangerous as it is wonderful.

Why similar: Survival 27.8%, Open World 24.8%, Exploration 15.1%, Atmospheric 11.9%, Simulation 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: A gorgeous survival game that emphasizes living in harmony with a vast, atmospheric forest.

Guide a herd of mysterious creatures on a stirring and beautiful journey into the mountains… and beyond.

Why similar: Emotional 20.3%, Nature 16.8%, Female Protagonist 12.6%, Stylized 10%, Exploration 9.6%

Why You'll Like It: A beautiful, emotional journey focused on guiding a herd through a vast, atmospheric landscape.

Spirit of the North is a single-player 3rd-person adventure game inspired by the breathtaking and mysterious landscapes of Iceland. Play as an ordinary red fox whose story becomes entwined with the guardian of the Northern Lights, a female spirit fox.

Why similar: Walking Simulator 22.1%, Adventure 20.3%, Exploration 15.6%, Casual 11.1%, Indie 9.1%

Why You'll Like It: A third-person adventure game where you play as a fox spirit, focusing on environmental puzzles and the beauty of nature.

Submerged is a third-person combat-free game in which you explore a mysterious flooded city and discover the beauty of desolation in vast outdoor environments. You take on the role of Miku, a young girl who has brought her wounded brother to the city in their small fishing boat.

Why similar: Nature 17.5%, Walking Simulator 14.9%, Open World 11.4%, Female Protagonist 10.8%, Family Friendly 10.4%

Why You'll Like It: A relaxing, atmospheric exploration game focused on navigating a flooded, ruined world.

Experience the life of a mountain lion in the brutal wild, Fight and maintain your territory, find a mate and raise cubs of your own which will grow into adults as your parenting skills are put to the test. Hunt prey, both big and small as you level up to become an effective and lethal hunter.

Why similar: Open World 20.4%, Survival 20.3%, Simulation 17.5%, Female Protagonist 15.5%, Cute 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: A simulation game that puts you in the role of a cougar navigating the challenges of survival in the wild.

The Red Lantern is a narrative, dog sledding game about survival. You play as the Musher who, along with her team of 5 sled dogs, must find her way home. Care for your dogs, discover their stories, and learn how to navigate the unknowns of the Alaskan wilderness and prepare for your new life.

Why similar: Emotional 34.3%, Female Protagonist 23.2%, Exploration 18.4%, Walking Simulator 12.5%, Stylized 5.4%

Why You'll Like It: A survival-focused narrative game where you manage a team of sled dogs in the harsh Alaskan wilderness.

Boat, climb, interact and explore in the beautiful ruins of a sunken world.

Why similar: Walking Simulator 16.1%, Nature 15.2%, Emotional 13.1%, Open World 13%, Female Protagonist 11.1%

Why You'll Like It: The sequel to Submerged, offering more refined exploration mechanics and a deeper focus on the environment.

Go on a summer vacation to the Cloudy Valley archipelago! Swim, climb, and explore the different islands at your own pace. Discover treasures or enjoy a cozy and relaxing atmosphere by the waves...

Why similar: Nature 19.2%, Open World 14%, Walking Simulator 12.7%, Exploration 10.8%, Cute 10.3%

Why You'll Like It: A relaxing exploration game that emphasizes the beauty of nature and the joy of discovery.

Even the smallest person can make a big difference. Join Alba, as she sets out to save her beautiful island and its wildlife. And possibly start a revolution.

Why similar: Nature 25.6%, Open World 15.3%, Family Friendly 15.2%, Female Protagonist 13.6%, Exploration 9%

Why You'll Like It: A heartwarming game about exploring an island and protecting its wildlife, capturing the nature-loving spirit of the genre.

Survive your evolution in Neogene Africa starting 10 million years ago. Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey is a third-person open world survival game where you Explore, Expand, and Evolve to advance your clan to the next generation in the exciting new adventure from Panache Digital Games.

Why similar: Survival 20.3%, Open World 19.5%, Nature 18.4%, Exploration 10.6%, Third Person 8.7%

Why You'll Like It: This survival game focuses on the evolution and survival of early primates in a dangerous, untamed natural environment.

Be a stone Golem and try to save Nature with the help of an adorable Fox! Reconnect ancient sources of energy in environmental puzzles. Discover secrets from a lost civilization and save animals on an emotional quest in a cozy, colorful world.

Why similar: Walking Simulator 18.3%, Emotional 15.9%, Family Friendly 11.7%, Third Person 10.6%, Cute 9.4%

Why You'll Like It: A nature-focused exploration game that emphasizes the beauty and mystery of the wilderness.

Deer Journey is a third person walking simulator game. Outcasted by the other deers, an albino fawn is forced to go deep into the forest to find a place to live. Join him on his journey through a world too big for which he may not be yet ready.

Why similar: Nature 27%, Walking Simulator 23.6%, Emotional 21.8%, Third Person 10.1%, Atmospheric 7.5%

Why You'll Like It: A short, emotional walking simulator that focuses on the life and experiences of a deer.

Live as Bigfoot in a peaceful forest-life simulator. Fish, forage, build, and protect wildlife as the guardian of the woods. Create your own Bigfoot and live your best Bigfoot Life.

Why similar: Nature 21.3%, Survival 15.5%, Open World 14.2%, Walking Simulator 13.1%, Exploration 8.9%

Why You'll Like It: A simulation game that allows you to experience the life of a cryptid in a vast, natural environment.

Run, climb and glide your way through a dark Nordic forest and explore its living, breathing ecosystem filled with secrets and mystical creatures. Become Fe and discover a world that you will never want to leave.

Why similar: Atmospheric 38.4%, Adventure 21.8%, Cute 14%, Singleplayer 13.2%, Exploration 12.6%

Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric adventure game where you play as a small creature communicating with the forest through song.

Undertake your new job as a forester in a mystic and peaceful wood. Chop, gather, level up and unravel the expansive forest and its splendor at your own pace, one log at a time!

Why similar: Life Sim 20.1%, Walking Simulator 16.6%, Female Protagonist 13%, Nature 10.4%, Exploration 10.3%

Why You'll Like It: A peaceful, atmospheric exploration game that focuses on the quiet beauty of the natural world.

Get lost beneath the fog in The Wild Eternal, a reflective first-person exploration game. Embark on a meditative journey to heal the scars of your past. Can you escape the cycle of reincarnation?

Why similar: Walking Simulator 21.8%, Nature 21.2%, Female Protagonist 15.1%, Exploration 10.3%, Open World 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: An atmospheric adventure game that explores themes of life and death through the lens of a journey through nature.

Grow your own worlds and nurture a deep natural connection with everything they hold. See your actions change the world for better! Bring the Evertree back to life in this breathtaking world-crafting sandbox, with life management and adventure elements.

Why similar: Nature 15.6%, Life Sim 14.5%, Open World 13.6%, Family Friendly 9.5%, Third Person 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: A world-building and exploration game that focuses on nurturing and restoring the natural world.

Explore the acclaimed animal adventure in never before seen beauty! Slip into the role of different animals to uncover the fate of an ancient world. Dive into deep waters, fly at lofty heights or even climb steep cliffs with a mountain goat, there are lots of ways of getting around.

Why similar: Nature 17.7%, Walking Simulator 15.7%, Emotional 12.6%, Female Protagonist 10.7%, Family Friendly 10.2%

Albatroz is a backpacking adventure RPG that will take you through majestic landscapes in search of your lost sibling. A tale about knowing when to let go and start over.

Why similar: Nature 19.7%, Survival 16.4%, Walking Simulator 14.4%, Open World 10.8%, Exploration 9.7%

In this story-based adventure, play as a tiny sugar glider in your very own nature documentary. Glide among the trees, fight dangerous predators, and explore beautiful environments as you embark on a high-flying journey to save your family.

Why similar: Open World 25.8%, Family Friendly 19.7%, Third Person 17.9%, Exploration 15.8%, Cute 15.1%

Why You'll Like It: An adventure game where you play as a sugar glider, focusing on survival and exploration in a nature-dominated world.

Be the Universe in this epic, award-winning reality simulation game - featuring thousands of playable characters, endless exploration, an extraordinary soundtrack and narration from Alan Watts.

Why similar: Open World 23.5%, Simulation 18.1%, Walking Simulator 13.4%, Exploration 11.4%, Atmospheric 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: A philosophical exploration game that allows you to inhabit anything from animals to planets, capturing the interconnectedness of nature.

Sneak up on your enemies, help Farmer, Goat and Piggy, and start a family!

Why similar: Nature 21.3%, Life Sim 18.1%, Open World 13.8%, Survival 13.2%, Third Person 9.6%

Begin your park ranger journey in Ranger’s Path: National Park Simulator. Maintain trails, assist visitors, check permits and respond to emergencies. Explore diverse biomes and observe varied animal behaviors across a wide range of species.

Why similar: Nature 17.9%, Open World 13.8%, Life Sim 13.4%, Walking Simulator 11.9%, Family Friendly 10.7%

THE LONG DARK is a thoughtful, exploration-survival experience that challenges solo players to think for themselves as they explore an expansive frozen wilderness in the aftermath of a geomagnetic disaster. There are no zombies -- only you, the cold, and all the threats Mother Nature can muster.

Why similar: Survival 37.3%, Open World 23.8%, Exploration 10.6%, Atmospheric 8.4%, Walking Simulator 7.5%

Play as a border collie and restore color to your human’s world in an atmospheric journey through the northern isles of Scotland. Explore land and sea, uncover hidden paths, herd animals and free wildlife to bring color back to her world, while revealing an emotional story about saying farewell.

Why similar: Nature 17.9%, Emotional 16.3%, Walking Simulator 13.3%, Family Friendly 9.2%, Third Person 8%

Play as a tiny lil' mushroom who's lost in the forest and can't find its way home. Explore unique areas freely at your own pace, chat with friendly inhabitants, and take on different adventures to get back home!

Why similar: Nature 22.9%, Open World 17.4%, Cute 11.2%, Family Friendly 9.4%, Exploration 8.9%

Experience the epic journey of Nuna and Fox as they search for the source of an eternal blizzard that threatens the survival of everything they have ever known.

Why similar: Female Protagonist 29.7%, Atmospheric 19.2%, Nature 15.4%, Cute 11.4%, Adventure 10%

Explore the remains of a fallen world from fascinating perspectives! Slip into the role of different animals to uncover the fate of an ancient world. Dive into deep waters, fly at lofty heights, dig underground as a mole, climb steep cliffs with a mountain goat, and many more!

Why similar: Walking Simulator 19.3%, Female Protagonist 12.9%, Third Person 10.5%, Exploration 9.7%, Emotional 9.2%

You are a nomadic slugcat, both predator and prey in a broken ecosystem. Grab your spear and brave the industrial wastes, hunting enough food to survive, but be wary— other, bigger creatures have the same plan... and slugcats look delicious.

Why similar: Survival 28.5%, Open World 18.1%, Exploration 13.8%, Atmospheric 13.6%, Cute 8.9%

Prologue: Go Wayback! is a single-player open-world emergent survival roguelike where every journey is unique. Traverse a new wilderness that is generated for you every time you play. Chart your path, overcome the elements, and write your own story of exploration.

Why similar: Survival 19.6%, Walking Simulator 18.4%, Open World 17.8%, Nature 12.2%, Female Protagonist 12%

Take on the role of a brave courier rider in The Legend of Khiimori! Bond with your horse and tame the open wilds of 13th century Mongolia. Breed and train horses with specialized abilities to explore every aspect of this diverse and fascinating landscape.

Why similar: Nature 18.6%, Survival 13.7%, Open World 13.2%, Life Sim 13%, Female Protagonist 9.4%

In Zoo Simulator, your main task is to run and manage your own zoo. Renew it and take care of all the animals' needs, ensuring them a peaceful life! Will you attract crowds of visitors? Create your own zoo!

Why similar: Open World 16.3%, Life Sim 15.7%, Nature 14.5%, Family Friendly 14.2%, Simulation 10.3%

Welcome to the beautiful and tropical Petit Island! Relive your grandpaw's youthful adventures by exploring the island and meeting all the unique islanders in this heartwarming open-world narrative exploration game. Preserve his memories before they fade away.

Why similar: Nature 20.6%, Open World 13.3%, Family Friendly 12.9%, Female Protagonist 9.5%, Exploration 9.3%

Step into the tiny metaphorical shoes of a Muri, entrusted with the important task of exploring, cleaning, and restoring a corrupted and decaying beach, one sparkling satisfying patch at a time, in this cute cozy mini-adventure - Project Shoreline!

Why similar: Nature 24.5%, Cute 11.4%, Exploration 11%, Stylized 10.1%, Family Friendly 9.7%

Heart of Altai is an exciting story about the adventures of blogger Arina Demidova, searching for a lost city in the Altai Republic. During the trek, she realises that her fate is closely linked to the ultimate goal of this dangerous and mysterious expedition.

Why similar: Nature 23.5%, Walking Simulator 19.5%, Life Sim 13.1%, Female Protagonist 12.8%, Family Friendly 10.7%

Take a fishing trip to Jura, a remote and beautiful island. Explore, meet the locals, and catch delicious fish!

Why similar: Nature 19.5%, Walking Simulator 15.3%, Female Protagonist 10.6%, Exploration 8.6%, Third Person 8.1%

Winter Burrow is a cozy woodland survival game about a mouse returning home to restore their childhood burrow. Explore, gather resources, craft, knit warm sweaters, bake pies and meet the locals.

Why similar: Nature 24%, Survival 19%, Life Sim 16.7%, Exploration 10.7%, Cute 10.2%

Sheltered is a deep and emotional survival management game. You take on the role of protecting four family members who, after a global apocalypse, have found their way to a deserted shelter.

Why similar: Survival 67.6%, Open World 15%, Simulation 8.7%, Singleplayer 3%, Adventure 2.9%

Bumblebee – Little Bee Adventure is a story-driven, narrative 3D flight exploration game in which you control a little bee on its journey to find a new home. On its quest to find a beautiful and fitting it discovers distant places, friendly and calm animals, and amazing and dangerously habitats.

Why similar: Nature 23%, Family Friendly 15.3%, Open World 14.6%, Walking Simulator 10.5%, Exploration 9.5%

Reach a summit never climbed before in this survival-climber from the creators of Furi and Haven. Climb anywhere and plan your route carefully, managing pitons and resources to survive unforgiving Mount Kami. Discover what Aava is willing to sacrifice to achieve the ascent of a lifetime.

Why similar: Survival 15.1%, Walking Simulator 14.1%, Open World 12.6%, Stylized 11.4%, Exploration 9.3%

Morels is a simulation game about mushroom hunting and wildlife photography. Explore a diverse range of regions spanning across the United States. Increase your hunter and photographer levels by collecting a variety of mushrooms, photographing animals, and completing weekly tasks.

Why similar: Nature 19.6%, Walking Simulator 17%, Survival 10.8%, Open World 9.8%, Family Friendly 9.8%

Embark on a short, playful adventure in your cozy flying boat and sail through fluffy clouds. Discover floating islands and befriend their quirky citizens. Jump, roll, climb, and skate through Cloudburg as Skye faces her biggest obstacle on her way to the Royal Postal Academy!

Why similar: Nature 20.6%, Open World 15.1%, Walking Simulator 12.4%, Exploration 9.8%, Family Friendly 9.7%

Firewatch is a single-player first-person mystery set in the Wyoming wilderness, where your only emotional lifeline is the person on the other end of a handheld radio.

Why similar: Walking Simulator 36.7%, Open World 17.2%, Atmospheric 15.6%, Exploration 12.8%, Adventure 9.8%

ARIDA: Backland's Awakening. A story of survival and adventure in the brazilian backlands. Face the drought to explore the more arid regions, gather resources and discover clues about the fate of the young Cícera.

Why similar: Nature 17.6%, Emotional 15.3%, Female Protagonist 12.2%, Family Friendly 12.2%, Survival 11.9%

Enjoy the serenity of the Amazon rainforest in this cozy short nature exploration game. As a butterfly researcher on a five-day camping trip, explore nearby tracks, take photos, meet animal friends, and journal the discoveries found along the way!

Why similar: Nature 18%, Walking Simulator 17.4%, Female Protagonist 11.7%, Family Friendly 11%, Exploration 9%

Through the Woods is a third-person Norse horror adventure set in a forest on the western shores of Norway that tells the story of a mother and her missing son.

Why similar: Nature 19.7%, Walking Simulator 17.3%, Third Person 12.2%, Female Protagonist 12%, Survival 10.7%

Grab your backpack and climb on in, it’s time to hit the road! Head out on a gentle journey in your reliable old caravan, crafting hearty meals, running market stalls and sharing goodies with local townsfolk. Spread kindness, share, and help prepare for the annual Whizz Bang Fair!

Why similar: Open World 23.1%, Life Sim 19.1%, Cute 13.9%, Exploration 13.8%, Stylized 9.6%

A land of discovery stretches out before you. Explore the beautiful, rugged world of RiME. Armed with your wits and a will to overcome—and the guidance of a helpful fox—you must explore the enigmatic island, reach the tower's peak, and unlock its closely guarded secrets.

Why similar: Exploration 22.8%, Atmospheric 18.3%, Open World 15.7%, Adventure 13.6%, Walking Simulator 9.9%

Morels 2 is a simulation game about mushroom hunting and wildlife photography. Explore a diverse range of locations spanning across the globe. Increase your hunter and photographer levels by collecting a variety of mushrooms, photographing animals, and completing weekly tasks.

Why similar: Nature 24.2%, Walking Simulator 22.2%, Family Friendly 16.4%, Simulation 11.4%, Adventure 6.7%