What Are the Best Proxy Games to Play When You Can't Access the Originals?

Proxy games are such a neat concept!

If you’re into *XCOM*, *Phoenix Point* is a great alternative. It’s got that same tactical combat but with a Lovecraftian twist.

And for *Minecraft* fans, *Terraria* is a fantastic proxy. It’s 2D, but the building and exploration are just as satisfying.

I think proxy games can totally stand on their own. Like, *Hollow Knight* started as a *Metroid* proxy but became a masterpiece in its own right.

Anyone tried *Disco Elysium* as a *Planescape: Torment* proxy?

Wow, thanks for all the awesome suggestions, everyone!

I’ve already started checking out *Tooth and Tail* and *Salt and Sanctuary* based on your recs, and they’re both super fun. *Tooth and Tail* is such a clever take on RTS, and *Salt and Sanctuary* totally nails that *Dark Souls* vibe.

I’m also super curious about *Hollow Knight* as a *Metroid* proxy—definitely gonna give that a try next.

And shoutout to whoever mentioned *Temtem* for *Pokémon* fans. I’ve been craving a monster-catching game, so that’s next on my list.

Do you guys think there’s a proxy game that could replace *Elden Ring*? I’ve been dying to play it but my PC can’t handle it.

Thanks again for all the great ideas—this thread is a goldmine!