Game Worlds Inspired by Myth and Legend

17 October 2025

Ever wondered what it would be like to walk through the gates of Valhalla or sneak into Hades’ underworld? Well, thanks to video games, you don’t have to wonder anymore. Over the years, game developers have stretched their creative muscles by bringing age-old myths and legends to life in jaw-dropping digital worlds. These aren’t just games—they're interactive mythological rollercoasters.

In this article, we’re diving deep into some of the most iconic, imaginative, and brilliantly built game worlds inspired by mythology and legend. Get ready to slay gods, challenge fate, and immerse yourself in stories as old as time.

Why Mythology Makes Such Great Gaming Material

Let’s be real—myths are the original blockbusters. Epic battles? Check. Love and betrayal? Check. Monsters and magic? Double check. Myths were practically begging to be gamified.

What makes them so appealing? Well, myths come with rich lore, larger-than-life characters, and moral complexities that translate beautifully into quests and battles. They also give players a familiar yet fantastical setting—think ancient ruins, heavenly realms, or cursed forests.

Plus, there's a delicious sense of power that comes from wielding a god's weapons or rewriting destiny.

1. The Norse Apocalypse in God of War (2018 & Ragnarok)

Who doesn’t love Kratos, the angriest man alive (and dead)? After ripping his way through Greek mythology in the earlier games, Kratos finds himself in the frosty grip of Norse myth in the 2018 reboot of God of War.

This time around, he’s got a son, Atreus (aka Loki—plot twist!), and they’re navigating a world packed with gods, giants, and talking world serpents. The game brilliantly blends real mythological figures like Odin, Thor, and Freya with its own narrative, creating a cinematic and emotionally heavy story.

The sequel, God of War: Ragnarok, doubles down on the mythical madness, showcasing Ragnarok—the literal end of days in Norse lore—and throwing in stunning realms like Asgard, Vanaheim, and more.

Myth used: Norse mythology
Vibe: Gritty, emotional, ice-cold fantasy
Must-visit in-game location: Jötunheim—the land of giants, with breathtaking views and secrets galore

2. The Greek Pantheon in Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey

Ubisoft really took the "history meets sci-fi" recipe to a whole new level in Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey. Set during the Peloponnesian War, the game lets you play as a Spartan mercenary navigating a dazzling recreation of Ancient Greece.

But here’s the kicker—this isn’t just a tour of temples and togas. Odyssey dips deep into Greek mythology. Players get to battle mythical creatures like the Cyclops, Medusa, and even face off against Cerberus. There’s Atlantis, Isu tech (basically god-like ancient aliens), and weapons straight out of legend.

Myth used: Greek mythology
Vibe: Sun-drenched epic with philosophical undertones
Must-visit in-game location: The Lost City of Atlantis—yes, it’s as cool as you think

3. Egyptian Lore in Assassin’s Creed: Origins

Before Odyssey, Assassin’s Creed: Origins acted as a mythological appetizer. Set in Ptolemaic Egypt, this game focuses on Bayek, the first Assassin, as he crosses paths with gods and ancient mysteries.

While most of the game is grounded in Egyptian history, the DLC “The Curse of the Pharaohs” kicks the door wide open into the supernatural. Players explore fantastical afterlife realms and go toe-to-toe with Pharaohs turned undead monster bosses.

Myth used: Egyptian mythology
Vibe: Mysterious, mystical, soaked in golden sand
Must-visit in-game location: The Duat—Egypt's surreal afterlife domain filled with celestial boats and judgment halls

4. Celtic Chaos in Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice

If there’s one game that nails the haunting atmosphere of myth, it’s Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. This indie masterpiece tells the story of Senua, a Pict warrior on a journey to save her lover’s soul from Helheim, the land of the dead in Norse mythology.

What’s amazing here is how the game blends myth with mental illness. Senua is battling psychosis, and the game uses audio illusions, unreliable environments, and mythological horror to tell a story that feels raw and real.

Myth used: Norse and Celtic elements
Vibe: Psychological, intense, stunningly immersive
Must-visit in-game location: Helheim—the bleak, chaotic realm ruled by the goddess Hel

5. Hindu Mysticism in Raji: An Ancient Epic

Not nearly enough games tap into Indian mythology, which is criminal, considering its depth and vibrancy. Thankfully, Raji: An Ancient Epic swoops in to change that.

You play as Raji, a young girl chosen by the gods to rescue her brother from demons. Along the way, you get help from deities like Durga and Vishnu and fight creatures pulled straight from Hindu legends. The game’s art style is inspired by traditional Indian architecture and Pahari painting, making it a visual treat.

Myth used: Hindu mythology
Vibe: Spiritual, artistic, emotionally resonant
Must-visit in-game location: Lok—the demon realm full of eerie atmosphere and visual storytelling

6. Japanese Spirits in Ōkami

Let’s shift gears to one of the most artistic interpretations of myth in gaming: Ōkami. You control Amaterasu, the sun goddess, who takes the form of a white wolf. The game’s story is a beautifully animated retelling of Japanese Shinto legends, complete with divine artifacts and monstrous yokai.

With a painterly art style that mimics traditional Japanese ink wash, Ōkami isn’t just a game—it’s a playable work of art. Every frame is storybook-worthy, and the world feels alive with ancient, spiritual energy.

Myth used: Japanese Shinto mythology
Vibe: Whimsical, poetic, deeply spiritual
Must-visit in-game location: Kamiki Village—the heart of the story and a peaceful haven with hidden depth

7. Slavic Folk Horror in The Witcher Series

If you’ve played The Witcher, you know it doesn’t hold your hand—not in combat, not in story, and definitely not in moral choices. Based on Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski's books, the games dig deep into Slavic mythology and folklore.

Particularly in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, you face off with all manner of twisted creatures like Leshens, Noonwraiths, and Baba Yaga-inspired witches. The world is grim but richly layered with lore—perfect for players who love their myths served with a side of political drama.

Myth used: Slavic mythology
Vibe: Dark fantasy, morally gray, rich in lore
Must-visit in-game location: Crookback Bog—home to the Crones, the creepiest brunch squad you'll ever meet

8. Chinese Myth in Black Myth: Wukong

This one’s still in development, but let’s talk about the buzz. Black Myth: Wukong is shaping up to be a Soulslike action RPG based on the legendary tale of the Monkey King from the Chinese classic “Journey to the West.”

From what we’ve seen in trailers, you’ll be facing off against mythical beasts, wielding martial arts prowess and shapeshifting abilities, all while soaking in jaw-dropping scenery inspired by Chinese legends.

Myth used: Chinese mythology
Vibe: Martial arts meets high fantasy
Must-visit in-game location: The Heavenly Realm—though we haven’t explored it fully, it promises divine battles and mythical heights

Why We Love These Mythical Worlds

So, why do we keep returning to these myth-powered game worlds? Simple. They make us feel something. Whether it's awe, terror, or a sense of nostalgic wonder, mythology taps into something universal.

It’s the thrill of stepping into stories that have been told for centuries and making them your own. In these worlds, you're not just reading about heroes—you are one.

What’s Next in Myth-Based Gaming?

As game tech advances and storytelling becomes even more nuanced, expect to see more mythologies get their time in the spotlight. African gods, Polynesian legends, Aztec sun rituals—there's a treasure trove of untapped myths just waiting for some digital love.

Indie developers, especially, are exploring these lesser-known mythologies, which is exciting because it means more unique perspectives and fresher game mechanics.

So, buckle up. The age of mythological gaming Renaissance is just getting started.

Final Thoughts

Game worlds based on myths and legends aren’t just cool—they’re timeless, like the stories they’re based on. They breathe new life into ancient tales and let us interact with gods, monsters, and epic quests in ways that books and movies just can’t match.

So next time you boot up your console or PC and find yourself in some ancient land filled with the whispers of gods, just remember—you’re a part of a digital legend.