Return of the Obra Dinn captivated players with its unique gameplay loop: investigating a mysterious ghost ship, piecing together the fates of its crew through clues and deductive reasoning. If you crave that same blend of mystery, investigation, and historical setting, you're in luck! Several other games offer a similar experience. Here are five of the best games similar to Return of the Obra Dinn, each offering a distinctive twist on the formula.

1. The Case of the Golden Idol

This point-and-click adventure shares Obra Dinn's emphasis on meticulous investigation and deduction. You'll explore a vibrant, hand-drawn world, gathering clues and interviewing eccentric characters to solve a puzzling mystery. While less focused on historical accuracy, its intricate narrative and satisfying puzzle design will appeal to fans of Obra Dinn's investigative gameplay.

2. Unavowed

Unavowed blends supernatural mystery with investigative elements. You'll explore a richly detailed, occult-infused New York City, interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence, and using your supernatural abilities to solve a complex case. The narrative branching and multiple endings make for high replayability, just like Obra Dinn's multifaceted story.

3. Disco Elysium

Disco Elysium offers a unique blend of detective work and RPG mechanics. Although less directly focused on maritime exploration, its emphasis on dialogue, character interaction, and uncovering a complex narrative through investigation strongly resonates with Obra Dinn's core gameplay. The game’s focus on internal monologue and character development adds a layer of depth not found in Obra Dinn, however.

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4. AI: The Somnium Files

This visual novel/adventure game boasts a compelling sci-fi mystery, with a focus on interrogating suspects and using advanced technology to reconstruct crime scenes. While the setting is vastly different, the method of piecing together a fragmented story through clues and interviews directly mirrors Obra Dinn's investigative style. The surreal and captivating story is a major selling point.

5. Her Story

A pioneer of the found-footage video game genre, Her Story challenges players to piece together a narrative from a series of police interview recordings. This minimalist, yet powerfully engaging experience prioritizes deduction and observation—the essence of what makes Obra Dinn so compelling. The low-fi aesthetic makes for a uniquely tense and immersive experience.

Conclusion

Whether you're drawn to the historical setting, the intricate puzzles, or the sheer satisfaction of solving a complex mystery, these five games offer experiences that capture the spirit of Return of the Obra Dinn. Each title adds its unique spin on investigation and storytelling, ensuring a diverse range of options for players seeking a similar thrill.