Escape Reality with These 10 Mind-Blowing Open-World Games

As open-world games evolve, they offer players even more intricate and immersive landscapes to discover. However, with larger maps come complex storylines and an abundance of quests that can be daunting to tackle. Fortunately, some games encourage players to take a break from the main narrative and appreciate the smaller, seemingly insignificant aspects of their open-world surroundings. Horizon Forbidden West and Ghost of Tsushima, for instance, prioritize their story arcs but also urge players to venture beyond the protagonist's journey and explore the vast world that awaits them.

7 The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild remains unparalleled in its ability to inspire wonder, even after the release of its successor, Tears of the Kingdom. Fans continue to discover hidden gems within the game's vast and uncharted world of Hyrule, relishing the freedom to explore and immerse themselves in its breathtaking scenery and immersive soundtrack. Whether it's taking a moment to enjoy the calming sound of rain or simply basking in the warmth of a campfire, Breath of the Wild offers a unique and unforgettable experience that endures to this day.

6 Red Dead Redemption 2

The design of Red Dead Redemption 2 is truly revolutionary, particularly in terms of its open world. The game's expansive environment offers players an entirely different experience beyond the main storyline, with activities like hunting taking up a significant portion of gameplay. The freedom to explore the American Frontier is unparalleled, allowing players to stumble upon unique situations and experiences that they would have missed out on if they had just followed the linear story of planning heists and assisting the Van Der Linde Gang. Although there are certain limitations in terms of player actions, the sense of freedom and exploration in Red Dead Redemption 2 is truly remarkable.

5 Ghost Of Tsushima

In Ghost of Tsushima, players can appreciate the artistry of both combat and the stunning landscapes. Each area offers a distinct experience, whether it's the lush forests or the sweeping fields of Chinese silver grass. The immersive wind effects add to the atmosphere and make the game unforgettable. Even in the heat of battle, players can find a rhythm in Jin's strikes that allows them to fully immerse themselves in the moment. And when the opportunity arises to compose haikus and take in the serene scenery, it becomes a peaceful escape from the chaos of war.

4 Horizon Forbidden West

Horizon Forbidden West is a standout RPG in PlayStation's lineup, with Aloy's journey through the post-apocalyptic Western United States serving as a captivating backdrop for players to explore. Despite the weight of the world resting on Aloy's shoulders, players can find solace in the vast open world of Horizon Forbidden West. While certain areas may be inaccessible until later in the game, players are eventually given the freedom to traverse the Forbidden West and Burning Shores, where they can hunt machines for resources and hone their skills. Moreover, the game's stunning visuals, powered by Guerrilla Games' Decima engine, offer breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets from various locations throughout the map.

3 Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

In Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, players can still discover hidden secrets within the game's fantastical world, despite its release over a decade ago. Despite not having the largest map in the franchise, the game's attention to detail, including its captivating characters and sprawling landscapes, more than compensates for it. Unlike other open-world games, where ignoring side quests can result in penalties, Skyrim allows players to fully immerse themselves in the main story without the fear of missing out on additional content.

2 Assassin's Creed: Odyssey

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey offers players the chance to explore the rich historical setting of the Peloponnesian War, while still providing a captivating main storyline. The game's immersive environment allows players to marvel at the wonders of Ancient Greece and take in the breath-taking sights of the Mediterranean. For those seeking an educational experience, the Discovery Tour: Ancient Greece mode is available, enabling players to explore the world freely and learn about the various landmarks and historical monuments. This mode can be purchased separately or as part of the Assassin’s Creed Odyssey game, and is easily accessible through the game's main menu.

1 Cyberpunk 2077

The map of Cyberpunk 2077 is vast and diverse, with Night City alone comprising distinct districts like Watson, Westbrook, Pacifica, and Santo Domingo, each with its own unique buildings, clubs, and offices to explore. Beyond the city limits, the Badlands offer a vast desert landscape to explore, while hidden treasures such as the Chram Denya Jinja in North Oak await discovery. Players can simply drive around and take in the sights without completing quests, making each playthrough an exciting journey of discovery.