The Ultimate Open-World Games Hall of Fame Unveiled

Over the years, the emergence of games like Elden Ring has revolutionized the gaming landscape, altering both the way people play and their perception of video games as a whole. Unlike other genres, open-world games offer an unparalleled sense of freedom, granting players the ability to shape their own experiences and make decisions according to their preferences. This ensures that each playthrough is unique and personalized. While there is an abundance of open-world titles available, there are four particular games that have not only influenced the genre but also left an enduring impact on the industry itself. These games have solidified their status as the Mount Rushmore of open-world gaming.

Recently, open-world games have garnered mixed reactions, with both criticism and excitement surrounding their design. Some developers have fallen into the trap of filling open worlds with excessive content, leading players to spend countless hours sifting through it. On the other hand, there are instances where open worlds feel empty and lacking in substance. The Mount Rushmore of open-world games is not exempt from these flaws in how their respective worlds were portrayed. However, despite these imperfections, these four games have stood the test of time, with more than two decades separating their releases. They have undoubtedly made an indelible mark on the gaming industry.

Grand Theft Auto 3

When Grand Theft Auto 3 hit the gaming world in October 2001, it brought forth a unique experience. The game immerses players in the shoes of a character named Claude, taking place in the vast 3D metropolis called Liberty City, which is widely cherished by GTA enthusiasts. It introduced a level of freedom that was unprecedented at the time.

Within the game, players have the freedom to explore the city at their leisure, engaging in side quests such as becoming a taxi driver or engaging in petty crimes. These activities can be pursued alongside a lengthy main campaign that takes players through three distinct sections of the city. Moving through the game can be done on foot or by utilizing a vast array of vehicles, and players can utilize a diverse selection of weapons to accomplish a range of tasks, from quick missions to intricate heists and thrilling car chases.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Introducing numerous groundbreaking concepts that have since become commonplace in open-world titles, Grand Theft Auto 3 revolutionized the gaming industry and provided gamers with a tantalizing glimpse into the future of video games. Released in 2001, this game garnered immense critical acclaim and received multiple Game of the Year awards. Although it may not have stood the test of time as well as expected due to its various gameplay limitations, there is no denying the immense significance of Grand Theft Auto 3. Its profound influence on countless subsequent titles is evident and cannot be overlooked.

To truly grasp the magnitude of Skyrim's immense popularity, one must consider the numerous instances in which the 2011 Game of the Year title has been reintroduced to the gaming world since its initial debut over a decade ago. Originally launched during the seventh generation of video game consoles, Skyrim has undergone the process of remastering and reissuing for both the eighth and ninth generations, culminating in the recent release of the Anniversary Edition in 2021 and 2022 for modern-day gaming systems. Furthermore, in 2017, Skyrim also made its way into the realm of virtual reality, allowing players to indulge in the enchanting world of the game through immersive VR technology.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Since its inception in 1986, Nintendo's beloved franchise, The Legend of Zelda, has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. Following the adventures of the silent protagonist, Link, as he embarks on a mission to rescue Princess Zelda from the clutches of the malevolent Ganon, the series has continually amazed fans for over three decades. While the franchise was renowned for its intricate puzzles and expansive worlds, everything changed in 2017 with the arrival of Breath of the Wild. This groundbreaking game abandons tradition by thrusting Link, devoid of any weapons or equipment, into the vast expanse of Hyrule. Players are then tasked with venturing into the unknown to unravel the mysteries that lie before them.

The player is given complete freedom in how they approach the game, with no hand-holding. They can choose to face Ganon right away or fully explore the game's offerings first. The sense of liberation that comes with exploring an open-world game is unmatched, making the game a truly immersive experience.

The game's immersion is enhanced by the challenging terrain, dynamic weather conditions, and the ability to cook meals. It's no wonder that Breath of the Wild was awarded Game of the Year in 2017. Its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, released earlier this year, has proven to be just as excellent, if not better, than its predecessor, according to many.

Elden Ring

Elden Ring stands as the ultimate culmination of knowledge derived from the past 25 years of open-world gaming. Expanding upon the already remarkable foundation established by Dark Souls, Elden Ring seamlessly maintains the same immersive, fluid, and intricate gameplay mechanics that FromSoftware, the developer, is renowned for. Furthermore, the collaborative effort between FromSoftware and esteemed fantasy writer George R.R. Martin, famous for his acclaimed fantasy novel series A Song of Ice and Fire, which served as the basis for the critically acclaimed TV show Game of Thrones, has resulted in a rich and captivating lore for Elden Ring.

Elden Ring's expansive and breathtaking open world is teeming with both peril and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered at every turn. Players are granted the freedom to explore this vast expanse in their own unique way, encountering minimal obstacles that impede their progress. FromSoftware has always excelled at providing a diverse range of character builds, and Elden Ring is no exception. The meticulously crafted open-world map in Elden Ring surpasses expectations, solidifying its place not only as one of the finest games in the genre, but also as one of the all-time greatest gaming experiences.

Elden Ring is available now for PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.