Unveiling the Ultimate Open-World Collection on Xbox Game Pass (June 2023)

Open-world games epitomize the finest aspects of gaming, taking them to the extreme by immersing players in fully realized alternate realities. These games grant unparalleled agency and freedom, allowing players to chart their own course. In essence, an open-world game has the potential to become a second life, a realm where players can vanish into.

Given this, it comes as no surprise that some of the gaming industry's most notable titles take the form of open-world games. Fortunately, Xbox Game Pass subscribers have access to a wide selection of these immersive experiences. But with so many options, which world should you venture into next? Which open-world games on Xbox Game Pass reign supreme? To start your journey, these are the must-try titles.

In case someone prefers physical copies, a link will be provided to a game's Amazon listing page, provided one exists.

Middle-earth: Shadow Of War

Shadow of War improved upon the mechanics introduced in Shadow of Mordor and provided players with the freedom to explore a vast open world. Fans of the original game will appreciate the fine-tuned gameplay, which includes new moves and abilities while still delivering the immersive combat found in its predecessor.

One of the standout features of Middle-earth: Shadow of War is its enhanced Nemesis System. This dynamic system breathes life into the game world by allowing players to encounter enemies that have previously defeated them. This unique feature is what sets the franchise apart and has rightfully received high praise for its ability to make the game world feel responsive to the player's actions.

No Man's Sky

When No Man's Sky was first launched in 2016, it faced severe criticism for its lack of engaging gameplay and unfinished design. Many loyal fans were disappointed by the absence of several features that the developer, Hello Games, had initially promised. However, the dedicated designers persevered and diligently worked on enhancing the game in the subsequent years, despite its initial negative reception.

Now, in 2023, No Man's Sky has undergone significant improvements and is now a far superior game compared to its earlier version. Players are finally experiencing the captivating space epic they had eagerly anticipated, resulting in overwhelmingly positive sentiments towards No Man's Sky in recent years. For those seeking a captivating, immersive, and highly addictive open-world experience, this newly transformed adventure is a must-try.

Grounded

Grounded, after a considerable period in early access, has finally made its highly anticipated full debut. This extraordinary game transforms an ordinary backyard into a perilous sandbox teeming with formidable creatures, as players are mysteriously reduced in size, making even a simple blade of grass appear towering in comparison. Stranded in this unfamiliar and treacherous environment, the protagonist faces the daunting task of surviving and finding a way back home, all while adapting to the intricacies of the ecosystem that surrounds them.

Grounded showcases its innovative nature as an open-world game, drawing inspiration from its contemporaries while managing to establish its own distinct identity. Developed by Obsidian, renowned for their ability to create immersive and well-crafted gaming worlds, Grounded stands as yet another impressive addition to their repertoire.

Atomic Heart

Despite receiving a positive but not outstanding reception, Atomic Heart still offers a plethora of content, especially for enthusiasts of surreal sci-fi shooters. Taking place in an alternate version of the 1950s, the game centers around a research facility located in the Soviet Union that has achieved significant technological advancements. However, as is often the case, complications arise, leading to the deployment of an agent to investigate the unfolding situation.

Atomic Heart draws inspiration from beloved classics like BioShock, immersing players in a utopia that has taken a dark turn. This time, the spotlight shines on android-style robots, adding an element of terror to the game. While not as sprawling as other games in its subgenre, Atomic Heart offers an open-world experience with a handful of intriguing side quests. The expansive map occasionally dilutes the intensity of the action, but it compensates with breathtaking vistas that captivate the eye.

Assassin's Creed Odyssey

Xbox Game Pass recently added two Assassin's Creed games, Origins and Odyssey, to its collection. Both games offer expansive open-world experiences with a plethora of content, ranging from essential story missions to optional side quests. When it comes to quality, there isn't much that sets the two games apart, and personal preference may ultimately come down to whether players prefer the setting of Ancient Egypt in Origins or Ancient Greece in Odyssey.

Since Odyssey is a sequel to Origins, it builds upon and refines many of its predecessor's mechanics, especially the combat system. For newcomers to the series, starting with Origins is recommended, as it serves as the first chronological entry. However, it's worth noting that each game in the franchise can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, making Odyssey a viable option as well.

Stranded Deep is an immersive survival game that plunges players into the depths of the Pacific Ocean, leaving them marooned amidst a cluster of captivating islands. Following a harrowing plane crash, the game's objective revolves around skillfully managing vital resources such as food and rest, while also embarking on resourceful expeditions and constructing essential shelters. With its procedurally generated maps, Stranded Deep ensures that each playthrough offers a unique and thrilling experience, while still retaining the core mechanics that make it so captivating.

Survival open-world games can be an acquired taste, but Stranded Deep stands out as a refreshingly challenging addition to the subgenre. Unlike other projects available on Game Pass, this title offers a relatively unique experience, making it a great choice for those seeking a more hardcore campaign.

Valheim

Valheim, developed by Iron Gate, was initially exclusive to Steam for about two years before joining Xbox's Game Preview program, making it accessible to Game Pass subscribers. This Viking-themed survival game is truly outstanding, regardless of the platform. Although still a work in progress, the current version is remarkably solid, capable of providing entertainment for a longer duration compared to the majority of fully released open-world projects.

Valheim immerses players in a sizable world, generated procedurally and divided into different biomes. To survive the world's various enemies and bosses, players must craft weapons and armor. Additionally, the game offers a robust base building system as an added feature. While the combat system may be considered average, the true brilliance of Valheim lies in its overall package rather than any individual aspect.

Astroneer

Are you ready to venture into uncharted territory? Astroneer, a game of crafting and building, immerses players in an unknown planet, challenging them to establish a base and embark on exploration. By uncovering and utilizing resources, players can create a vast array of tools, including the ability to enhance their oxygen supply and undertake longer journeys away from their home base. Eventually, the game allows for interplanetary travel, opening up new frontiers to explore.

Despite its lack of initial guidance, Astroneer is a truly immersive sandbox game that empowers players to explore and create at their own pace. While there are some designated missions, they primarily serve as a framework for those who prefer a bit of direction amidst their freedom. Despite its relatively lesser-known status, Astroneer stands out as a remarkable open-world experience that sets itself apart from other titles available on Xbox Game Pass.

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga encompasses all nine main Star Wars films, offering fans the chance to experience the most unforgettable moments from the original, prequel, and sequel trilogies. Each movie features a selection of distinct missions that follow a relatively linear path, while still allowing for a degree of exploration.

What sets The Skywalker Saga apart is its inclusion of expansive, open-world hubs. These hubs enable players to venture to and explore some of Star Wars' most iconic planets and moons. While these sections provide a sense of tranquility, they can also transform into intense battle zones at any moment, proving that they are not simply intended for leisurely sightseeing. Above all, this LEGO game grants fans the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the meticulously recreated Star Wars universe crafted by TT Games.

Microsoft Flight Simulator

First launched on PC in 2020, Microsoft Flight Simulator later expanded its reach to consoles, debuting on the Xbox Series X/S on July 27, 2021. While it may not fit the traditional definition of an open-world game, Microsoft Flight Simulator undeniably embodies the essence of exploration, granting pilots the ability to traverse the entire globe.

In Medieval Dynasty, players have the unique opportunity to experience life in the Middle Ages. Unlike other games in the genre, such as those featuring mythical creatures or heroic protagonists, this game focuses on the realistic aspects of survival. Players must navigate a world where survival and prosperity are nothing short of miraculous.

Similar to other survival games, Medieval Dynasty incorporates key elements such as resource gathering and monitoring various meters. As players progress, their humble settlement evolves into a thriving community where food scarcity is no longer a concern. However, with growth comes new obstacles to overcome.

Immortals Fenyx Rising

Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed games have seen a steady increase in the size of their maps, reaching massive proportions. As a result, the latest titles, including Valhalla, have become significant time-consuming experiences, even when compared to other open-world games. While Origins and Odyssey, available on Xbox Game Pass, may not be as expansive as Valhalla, they still offer a vast world that can sometimes feel never-ending.

Although not small in size, Immortals Fenyx Rising is relatively more compact compared to Ubisoft's recent projects. Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology and incorporating elements from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, this game offers fast-paced combat, an entertaining storyline, and a visually stunning design. Immortals Fenyx Rising primarily focuses on the main storyline, but also rewards players for completing side content with stat progression.

Totally Reliable Delivery Service

Not all open-world games can be considered sandboxes, even though the terms are often used interchangeably. A sandbox game typically allows players to freely explore the game's map from the beginning and gives them the freedom to do as they please. Totally Reliable Delivery Service is a perfect example of a sandbox game, as it imposes very few restrictions on players and encourages them to navigate its island setting in a fun and unstructured manner.

Clearly designed with cooperative play in mind, Totally Reliable Delivery Service is most enjoyable when played with friends who are tackling missions together. The true entertainment comes from the player's own creativity, as they experiment with the intentionally quirky physics of the game, whether it's to complete missions or simply create havoc.

Black Desert

MMOs can often be a matter of personal preference, and Black Desert is no exception. It is a game that tends to divide opinions. While its story and quests may not be the most captivating, Black Desert truly shines in its combat mechanics and expansive world. Drawing inspiration from hack and slash games like Devil May Cry, the combat in Black Desert may not match the precision of Capcom's renowned franchise, but it still offers an engaging experience.

With a vast and breathtaking open-world, Black Desert fully embraces its sandbox design, captivating players with its impressive scale and stunning scenery. Like many MMORPGs, the game is expertly crafted to keep players engaged for months on end, and it has the potential to become all-consuming.

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Sunset Overdrive

Insomniac Games has recently gained recognition for their superhero-themed games featuring the beloved character Spider-Man. However, before Marvel's Spider-Man, the developer had already ventured into the open-world genre with the underrated title Sunset Overdrive. This game's exceptional movement system sets it apart and solidifies its position as one of the top open-world games available on Game Pass.

Basically an expansive playground, Sunset City is teeming with an array of rails and zip lines, enticing players to soar through the air and effortlessly glide above the bustling streets. Moreover, the gunplay within this vibrant metropolis is truly enjoyable, especially as players gradually unlock their complete arsenal of weapons.

TheHunter: Call Of The Wild

TheHunter: Call of the Wild is a unique product that caters to a specific audience. While other game franchises like Far Cry may include hunting as a side activity, TheHunter simulation series focuses solely on the hunting experience. Players explore expansive maps in search of prey, and the game prioritizes realism above all else. The process of tracking and shooting targets is deliberate and methodical, discouraging those who seek quick shortcuts or easily get frustrated. Notably, the game removes any distractions that may detract from the immersive hunting experience.

Call of the Wild offers a diverse selection of reserves that serve as hunting grounds, featuring zones from various locations around the world. However, the base game includes only Hirschfelden and Layton Lake, with additional maps available as downloadable content.

Ghostwire: Tokyo

Originally released as a PlayStation 5 console exclusive, Ghostwire: Tokyo from Tango Gameworks finally made its way to Xbox, arriving directly on Game Pass. The first-person title has sparked mixed reactions among players, as it paints a haunting and desolate Tokyo infested with supernatural occurrences, featuring yokai creatures inspired by Japanese folklore. As the protagonist, Akito, players embark on a mission to track down these spirits while acquiring fascinating abilities throughout their journey.

Compared to traditional open-world projects, Ghostwire: Tokyo's setting is relatively compact, although Tokyo is still considered a decently sized location by most standards. In terms of its structure, the game combines a relatively linear main questline with a respectable variety of additional content, and players are encouraged to explore to some extent. Essentially, this game is best enjoyed as an action-packed single-player experience that can be completed within a reasonable amount of time.

The Evil Within 2

The Evil Within 2 successfully stepped up from its predecessor in 2014 to fill the void of horror left by Resident Evil's transition into action gameplay. While it may not be flawless, the game accomplishes its objective. This sequel takes place in the simulated town of Union, where the protagonist, Sebastian, embarks on a mission to save his daughter. While Union may not offer the vastness or abundance of side quests seen in games like Far Cry, it still allows for free exploration, although there is some guidance along the way. Open-world horror projects are not overly common, as these stories often benefit from a more curated experience. However, The Evil Within 2 demonstrates that the genre can thrive within a less restrictive structure.

Despite the slightly dispersed nature of the game, Tango's creation manages to deliver its fair share of genuine scares, largely thanks to its remarkable creature designs. The open design of The Evil Within 2 also contributes to the heightened tension, as there is always the fear that something horrifying, such as Anima, could be lurking just around the corner. Although it may not face much competition, The Evil Within 2 stands as the premier open-world horror game available on Game Pass.

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands

Tom Clancy veterans may perceive Wildlands as somewhat lacking in terms of challenge, variety, and level design. However, the game excels as an open-world title with tactical shooter elements, rather than simply being a tactical shooter set in an open-world environment.

Burnout Paradise Remastered

Burnout Paradise is a highly acclaimed franchise known for its thrilling racing games in the early 2000s. The game takes the series' fast-paced gameplay and adapts it to an open-world structure, offering players the freedom to choose their own racing paths. Despite its relatively smaller size compared to modern settings, Burnout Paradise's open-world is meticulously crafted and offers diverse environments.

In this game, speed is the ultimate objective, and crashes are bound to happen along the way. The true brilliance of Burnout Paradise's map is revealed once players become familiar with its layout, allowing them to navigate through its streets effortlessly without relying on markers.

Watch Dogs 2

Looking to experience the wonders of San Francisco without actually being there? Look no further than Watch Dogs 2. In this thrilling game, you'll step into the shoes of Marcus Holloway, a skilled hacker recruited by DedSec, a group determined to disrupt a pervasive surveillance system. Equipped with a versatile smartphone and accompanied by a charming cast of characters, Marcus navigates a variety of missions in a world that encourages creative problem-solving.

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Watch Dogs 2 truly shines when diverting attention from the main narrative, offering endless amusement through exploration of the game's expansive map. Unlike its Ubisoft counterpart, Assassin's Creed Origins, this open-world title strikes a better balance in terms of duration and substance.

Just Cause 4 Reloaded

The Just Cause franchise does not aim for grandeur, but rather offers a chaotic and destructible world that can be cathartic when executed well. Unfortunately, Just Cause 4 initially fell short as it felt like a rehash of its predecessor and faced criticism for its outdated graphics.

However, Just Cause 4 Reloaded addresses some of the flaws in the base game, resulting in a more enjoyable overall experience. Taking place in the fictional setting of Solís, the world of Just Cause 4 provides a solid playground for wreaking havoc and causing mayhem. For those seeking to indulge in chaos and demolish buildings, this game is sure to satisfy that desire.

State Of Decay 2

Expanding on the strong base established by its predecessor, State of Decay 2 presents players with a series of expansive maps teeming with ravenous zombies. While Meagher Valley stands out as the top choice among the maps, Drucker Country and Cascade Hills also offer their own unique advantages.

Focusing primarily on the aspect of survival, State of Decay 2 challenges players to construct a community that can endure the hardships of living in a post-apocalyptic wasteland.

Conan Exiles

Conan Exiles was released in 2018 and initially received mixed reviews. However, despite this rocky start, the game managed to establish a dedicated fanbase and overcome its early challenges. The survival mechanics in Conan Exiles align well with the sandbox genre, where players are often placed in harsh environments and tasked with enduring as long as possible. The game follows this formula but also offers players the opportunity to thrive by providing them with the necessary tools, as long as they are willing to put in the effort.

Funcom, the developer of Conan Exiles, has created a diverse range of content. While not exceptional in every aspect, the game can be enjoyed as a single-player experience with a fixed storyline, a PvE survival game focused on base building and raiding, or a cutthroat PvP option. Players have the freedom to choose the server that best suits their preferences. As for the game's open-world, the Exiled Lands are unforgiving, offering vast yet manageable spaces and the occasional breathtaking view. While Conan Exiles may not be the most visually stunning game on Xbox Game Pass, it consistently delivers a visually cohesive experience.

Halo Infinite

Halo Infinite distinguishes itself from traditional open-world games by adopting a more linear approach in its single-player campaign. Throughout the story missions, Master Chief often encounters restrictions that prevent access to certain areas of Zeta Halo. However, the game incorporates dedicated sections of free-roaming exploration in between these narrative moments. This allows players to freely explore Zeta Halo, uncovering secrets and engaging in side quests. Despite not being the main focus, Halo Infinite's single-player map impressively showcases the potential of its open-world design.

343 has created a captivating first-person shooter that boasts impressive visuals, smooth gameplay, and immersive sound design. While the linear missions shine in the campaign, the introduction of an open-world environment in Halo Infinite adds a refreshing element to the beloved franchise.

Terraria

Terraria, released in 2011, has shown its enduring popularity over the years. Developed by Re-Logic, this action-adventure game emphasizes exploration, granting players complete freedom to navigate its impressive sandbox map, which is generated procedurally.

With its combination of combat, survival, and crafting mechanics, Terraria offers a rich and varied experience, attracting a dedicated and enthusiastic fanbase. In addition to the main campaign, the game features numerous modes that adjust the difficulty, resulting in unique and exciting adventures for players to embark on.

Minecraft

Minecraft stands out as a game that truly fosters freedom and exploration. From the moment players enter the virtual world, there are no limitations or constraints on their actions. They can choose to construct a magnificent mansion amidst a lush forest, embark on a mining adventure that takes them to the deepest reaches of the game's universe, or even engage in the intricate task of crafting an elaborate roller coaster. The possibilities are endless.

Though Minecraft does not have any pre-set quests, its main appeal lies in the freedom it offers players to do whatever they please. Serving as the ultimate sandbox project, the game's only limitation is the player's imagination.

Skyrim

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has become a timeless classic in the realm of open-world games, and it shows no signs of losing its popularity even after a decade since its initial release in 2011. The game continues to captivate players as they explore the vast snowy landscapes, enchanting forests, and eerie dungeons of Skyrim.

For those who have yet to experience the epic journey of the Dragonborn, now is the perfect opportunity to delve into this immersive world. And for those who have already embarked on this adventure, the availability of a wide range of mods for Xbox consoles allows them to create a fresh and unique twist on their familiar experience.

SnowRunner stands out from other open-world games by offering a unique experience that sets it apart from the rest, especially within the Spintires franchise. In this sandbox game, players have the opportunity to take control of various trucks and navigate through expansive maps, fulfilling the task of transporting cargo.

This delivery game requires utmost focus, as every trip requires careful planning to avoid any disastrous outcomes. SnowRunner offers a diverse range of missions, keeping the campaign engaging and intriguing despite its notably extensive duration.

Forza Horizon 5

Forza Horizon 5 by Playground Games continues to uphold the reputation of the series as a dependable provider of ambitious open-world racing games. Set in Mexico, the game's map offers a remarkable level of diversity compared to its previous installment, with each region boasting its own unique aesthetic that sets it apart.

As is customary with the franchise, Forza Horizon 5 seamlessly combines lifelike visuals and an immersive world with exhilarating arcade-style gameplay, resulting in a perfect union of elements.

Forza Horizon 4 is also on Xbox Game Pass, and it is a great option for anyone who wishes to drive through Scotland.

Sea Of Thieves

Rare's Sea of Thieves initially faced a tumultuous start, but the game has made remarkable progress since its release. While solo players can still find enjoyment in the game, it truly shines when experienced with a group of friends, as a significant portion of Sea of Thieves revolves around the crew's ability to create their own exciting moments.

Upon entering the expansive and breathtaking open-world as pirates, an endless array of adventures awaits. Crews embark on trade missions, embark on quests to uncover buried treasure, and fend off formidable adversaries such as the Kraken or ghost ships, all in the pursuit of survival and triumph.

Batman: Arkham Knight

The open-world experience in the Arkham series becomes even more exhilarating with the addition of the Batmobile. Racing through the streets of Gotham in Batman's iconic vehicle provides an adrenaline rush. While gliding from one mission to another using only Batman's cape is enjoyable, the excitement reaches new levels with the intense car movement.

As with previous installments in the series, Batman: Arkham Knight offers a thrilling and immersive open-world adventure. In addition to its main campaign, the game boasts a plethora of supplementary content to explore and enjoy.

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Fallout: New Vegas

Though Fallout 4 may outshine New Vegas in terms of its graphics, newer features, and slightly improved optimization, New Vegas holds a special place as the crown jewel among Fallout's three-dimensional, first-person games. This distinction can be attributed to Obsidian's expertise in refining the role-playing elements that were already present in Fallout 3 to a level of perfection that Fallout 4 struggled to achieve in its subsequent release.

The Mojave wasteland, although it may appear outdated by contemporary standards, continues to offer an enduringly exhilarating experience as the Courier embarks on a fateful journey after being shot and left for dead.

Montana provides an enjoyable sandbox setting for Far Cry 5, although it may not be as diverse or exotic as other locations in the Ubisoft series. The game's campaign can be repetitive but rarely dull, with each area of the map reflecting the unique personality of the main cult member governing it. The villains in Far Cry 5, including Faith Seed and Joseph, are particularly captivating and distinct from one another, adding to the overall appeal of the game.

Yakuza: Like A Dragon

Yakuza: Like a Dragon brought forth a new era in Sega's franchise, providing a welcoming entry point for newcomers who are not inclined to play through the previous seven main titles. While it maintains the series' signature captivating storytelling and eccentric side activities, Yakuza: Like a Dragon introduces several changes to the traditional elements of the franchise. Kazuma Kiryu graciously steps aside as the main protagonist, allowing the more youthful yet endearing Ichiban Kasuga to take the spotlight.

Yakuza's iconic beat 'em up combat is now replaced by a turn-based battle system reminiscent of Dragon Quest in this entry. Furthermore, the game takes a departure from Tokyo's Kamurocho and instead introduces Isezaki Ijincho's Yokohama, providing a refreshing change of scenery that is sure to captivate both seasoned and new players.

Skate 3

Skate 3 offers a different experience compared to Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, leaning more towards a simulation style of gameplay. It presents a moderately challenging learning curve. The game's accessibility is enhanced by the inclusion of an Easy mode, making it the most approachable installment in the series. However, Skate 3 remains true to the core elements that have garnered a loyal following for this franchise.

Set in the skater-friendly city of Port Carverton, players have the freedom to explore its various districts while honing their skills in mastering a wide array of tricks. With a deliberate choice to keep the storyline minimalistic, the game caters to those who simply want to indulge in the joy of skateboarding within an expansive open-world setting.

Prey

Combining elements of stealth, RPG, and Metroidvania, Prey offers a challenging and captivating gaming experience with its inclusion of puzzles, first-person combat, and exploration. While the size of the space station may not compare to other maps available on Xbox Game Pass, its masterful design and density make it a truly immersive environment.

Special Mention: Death Stranding (PC Game Pass)

In Death Stranding, available on PS5, PS4, and PC, players embark on a unique journey unlike any other. Developed by Hideo Kojima, this post-apocalyptic game challenges players to navigate through a devastated America, carrying and delivering packages to various locations. The game also presents the opportunity to establish a communication network, potentially igniting a revival for humanity.

At its core, Death Stranding can be described as a walking simulator, especially during its initial stages. Players are burdened with multiple packages, requiring careful planning and navigation to ensure the safe delivery of each item. Occasionally, they may encounter the need to engage in combat or confront formidable creatures along the way.