Top 7 Must-Explore Open-World Games with Epic Maps

Open-world games have an undeniable allure that can keep players engaged for countless hours. Whether set in historical locations or fantastical environments, these immersive games offer a vast array of options for players to explore. While a compelling main storyline is often a hallmark of the best open-world games, it's the freedom to roam and discover that truly sets them apart. However, a large map can feel daunting if it lacks substance, and an empty world can quickly become a hindrance. That's why open-world games with densely packed maps, full of exciting things to do, are so popular - they constantly challenge and engage players with endless content.

7 Hogwarts Legacy

Hogwarts Castle, a world-renowned landmark, steals the spotlight in Hogwarts Legacy with its own intricate 3D map. The region boasts a plethora of puzzles, mini-games, and side quests, making it a hub of activity. Fans of the Harry Potter series will also delight in the numerous easter eggs scattered throughout Hogwarts. While the other areas on the map don't quite match the density of the wizarding school, they still offer plenty of exploration challenges. Players can partake in 95 Merlin Trials, battle enemies at respawnable camps, and hunt for magical creatures at various locations.

6 Assassin's Creed Odyssey

Assassin's Creed games are renowned for their intricate maps, which are particularly fitting given the importance of parkour in the series. While earlier iterations of the game boasted densely packed cities and buildings, Assassin's Creed Odyssey takes it to the next level, seamlessly blending multiple urban environments with a wealth of content. Set in Ancient Greece during the 5th century BCE, players can travel by sea to various city-states, each of which has been meticulously recreated using the latest historical research. These locations are teeming with intrigue and opportunities for exploration, and whether players choose to approach their objectives through stealth or brute force, there is always a plethora of combat options available.

5 Fallout 4

The immersive world of Fallout 4 is a key factor in its popularity, with a map that is jam-packed with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Set in the post-apocalyptic ruins of Boston and the surrounding area, the game offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. As players journey closer to the city center, they'll uncover even more secrets and challenges to conquer.

But the game doesn't stop there. In addition to the vast array of quests and missions, players can also flex their creative muscles by constructing their own settlements and structures. This feature adds even more depth to an already rich gaming experience, allowing players to truly make the world their own.

4 The Witcher 3

The Witcher 3 sets itself apart from other games by managing to maintain density in its vast open-world map, which spans over 88 square miles for players who own all the DLC. Unlike other games that pack everything into smaller maps, The Witcher 3 achieves this by teleporting players from region to region, eliminating empty land that would otherwise only serve as a means of travel. This ensures that players will never run out of things to do, whether it's completing Witcher contracts, clearing out camps, or engaging in a friendly game of Gwent with someone nearby.

3 Grand Theft Auto 5

In Grand Theft Auto 5, players are immersed in the bustling city of Los Santos, which draws heavy inspiration from Los Angeles. The downtown regions of the map are particularly rich in environment and content, providing players with ample opportunities to engage in a variety of activities, from sports like tennis and darts to adrenaline-pumping races and heists. With Rockstar Games' signature attention to detail, the NPCs scattered throughout the map bring the world to life, ensuring that players never feel isolated or disconnected.

2 Watch Dogs

Players can also explore the city and take part in side missions, such as stopping crimes or helping citizens in need. Additionally, the game offers a variety of vehicles for players to use to navigate the city, including cars, motorcycles, and boats. The open-world nature of the game allows for a lot of freedom and creativity in how players approach missions and interact with the world around them.

1 Batman: Arkham City

The success of Batman: Arkham City can be attributed to its exceptional storytelling, dynamic gameplay, and a compact yet immersive game world. The city of Arkham is packed with activity, thanks to the cleverly placed Riddler challenges that keep players engaged and on their toes. With an endless supply of criminals to fight, the game never loses its excitement, making it a standout superhero adaptation in the world of video games.