Unveiling the Ultimate Open World Experiences: Must-Play Games of August 2023
Discover the ultimate immersive experience with these captivating open world games Explore breathtaking landscapes, embark on thrilling adventures, and lose yourself in limitless possibilities Get ready to lose track of time in these epic virtual worlds!
Occasionally, there are games that players simply can't resist spending hours on end with. Open-world games have the potential to captivate, but they can also be exasperating and monotonous. The size of an open-world game can be both its greatest strength and its downfall. Some games have sprawling maps that require a significant amount of time to traverse, falling on one end of the spectrum.
However, when gameplay is focused, open-world games can offer immersive experiences that hold immense replay value. The attention to detail in these maps is truly mind-blowing. Regardless of whether you love or hate the following titles, they have become some of the highest-selling games in the industry. Let's now explore the most immersive open-world games available.
Death Stranding
Updated August 11th, 2023: We have made revisions to this List to provide readers with a video version of the article. The Video version presents a carefully curated collection of entries from the piece, offering a glimpse of the gameplay for those unfamiliar with it.
Developer | Kojima Productions |
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Many fans were devastated to hear that the renowned game developer Hideo Kojima would no longer be involved in the widely acclaimed Metal Gear Solid series. However, their disappointment was quickly eased when they learned that the legendary creator was launching his own studio. This marked his first venture into the universe of video games as an unrestricted designer, resulting in the creation of Death Stranding.
While some may find it slightly unconventional, the world crafted by Kojima is undeniably extraordinary, particularly in terms of immersion. Players are given the opportunity to assume control of Sam, a "futuristic delivery man" excellently portrayed by the talented Norman Reedus, known for his role in the television series, Walking Dead. Despite its incredibly peculiar nature, the game proves to be incredibly captivating (although some individuals may struggle to appreciate its distinctive gameplay). It unquestionably merits exploration, if only to admire its vast open world.
Developer | Arkane Austin |
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Prey is not your typical open-world game where players have complete freedom to explore the entire map from the start. However, they do have the ability to revisit areas they have previously ventured into. In essence, Arkane Studios has crafted a remarkable 3D Metroidvania experience with Prey. This captivating immersive simulation takes place on Talos 1, a sprawling space station that has fallen under the control of an alien menace.
Talos 1 is a remarkable showcase of world design, skillfully weaving together elements that tell captivating stories through their environments. The interconnected map not only facilitates exploration but also maintains a remarkable level of consistency throughout. Despite the majority of the campaign taking place in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the ability to fully immerse oneself in Talos 1 as a genuine location is effortless.
Shenmue
Developer | Sega AM2 |
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Before its release on the Sega Dreamcast in 1999, Shenmue revolutionized the concept of open-world games. While other developers were focused on transitioning from 2D to 3D, Yu Suzuki dedicated his efforts to creating an incredibly immersive and lifelike video game world, and he unquestionably succeeded.
Taking place in the late eighties, Shenmue allows players to explore various parts of Yokosuka, a small city in Tokyo's Kanagawa prefecture. Every non-playable character (NPC) encountered in the game is fully voiced and possesses distinct personalities and daily routines. Furthermore, the game incorporates historical geographical data to ensure that the in-game weather matches the period in which the story unfolds.
Ghost Of Tsushima
Minecraft
What adds to the awe surrounding Ghost of Tsushima is the fact that it was developed by a western studio. Toshihiro Nagoshi, the mastermind behind Yakuza, has described the game as an extraordinary accomplishment and expressed his astonishment at its historical accuracy. The remarkable attention to detail evident throughout the game is truly astonishing, immersing players in its breathtaking open-world setting.
Developer | Mojang |
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Minecraft is an unstoppable force. Having been in existence for over ten years, it appears that Minecraft will endure indefinitely. With its boundless sandbox, the game offers limitless potential limited only by a player’s imagination. The game's community continually demonstrates that there are no limits to what can be achieved.
It should be noted that Minecraft does not aspire to be a realistic simulation, and it lacks an expansive map teeming with bustling cities and hidden treasures. Nevertheless, Mojang empowers users with the necessary tools to forge their own unique realms.
Microsoft Flight Simulator
Developer | Asobo Studio |
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Microsoft Flight Simulator may not appeal to everyone, but for those who are captivated by the game's concept, it has the potential to become a cherished favorite. True to its title, this project focuses on providing players with a realistic flight experience, placing a strong emphasis on authenticity. However, players are not left to struggle alone, as the game offers options to adjust the difficulty level. In addition to a mode that features specific flight plans, Microsoft Flight Simulator grants players access to the entire Earth as a world map, allowing them the freedom to choose any location and take flight.
Developer | Endnight Games |
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Platform/s | PC |
Sons of the Forest, the highly anticipated sequel to 2018's The Forest, offers an impressive open-world survival experience. Despite being unfinished, the game already boasts a substantial amount of content, especially for players interested in the survival gameplay rather than the story. Set on a stunning yet hostile island inhabited by cannibals and other locals, players will face the uncertainty of aggression from these native inhabitants.
Sons of the Forest delivers a challenging and captivating gameplay experience. The island beckons players to explore its vast landscapes, but it also hides countless perils that can swiftly lead to demise. Embarking on a journey of discovery, players will encounter thrilling moments that are the highlights of each playthrough. Endnight's creation is a comprehensive survival game that is sure to capture the attention of players once it makes its full debut.
TheHunter: Call Of The Wild
Developer | Expansive Worlds |
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While numerous open-world games include hunting as a component, only a handful are dedicated entirely to this pursuit. theHunter: Call of the Wild stands out as perhaps the most acclaimed hunting game available, and it has earned this distinction over the course of several years. By offering a realistic gameplay experience that values accuracy and strategic thinking, the game entices players to immerse themselves in its expansive landscapes.
Developer | Nintendo EPD |
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The Legend of Zelda series has always been centered around exploration and adventure and has incorporated open-world elements since its debut in 1986. However, it was not until the release of Breath of the Wild, almost three decades later, that the creators fully embraced the concept of a completely open world.
Since Ocarina of Time, no Zelda game has made such a significant impact, both in terms of sales and critical acclaim. Although the size of the map may initially be overwhelming and certain areas can feel empty, the game's unparalleled sense of freedom makes it a must-play for not only fans of the series but also anyone who appreciates adventure.
The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom
Developer | Nintendo EPD |
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Platform/s | Nintendo Switch |
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Despite the potential for redundancy with Zelda's open-world games, Tears of the Kingdom is a truly remarkable experience that deserves recognition in its own right. Serving as a true sequel to Breath of the Wild, TOTK takes players on a journey through a recovering Hyrule, only to be thrown into chaos once again by a new catastrophe. This time, the world is filled with more villages and signs of civilization, resulting in a plethora of charming side quests. While not as barren as its predecessor, TOTK's Hyrule still maintains an aura of uncharted territory waiting to be explored.
Outer Wilds
Nintendo takes a dedicated approach in the sequel by providing players with an array of innovative tools, specifically developed to inspire and empower their creativity. One notable enhancement is Link's newfound ability to combine various items, enabling him to construct vehicles, weapons, and mechanisms that serve as essential puzzle-solving tools. Similar to Breath of the Wild, The Legend of Zelda: The Other Kingdom (TOTK) encourages players to craft their own immersive narratives rather than simply adhering to map markers until the game concludes. However, it's worth mentioning that TOTK, slated for release in 2023, boasts a greater number of quests that contribute to the overarching storyline compared to its predecessor.The protagonist in Outer Wilds is trapped in a 22-minute time loop caused by a star going supernova. To uncover the reason behind this catastrophe, they must explore a solar system and visit various planets for clues. Along the way, players may encounter NPCs going about their lives. Despite the urgent premise, Outer Wilds maintains a relaxed tone, emphasizing exploration as the primary focus. As players gather information about the time loop, they are able to briefly immerse themselves in the distinct and meaningful worlds they encounter.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Developer | Warhorse Studios |
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Kingdom Come: Deliverance is an exceptionally authentic video game, disregarding any technical difficulties. The game's astounding attention to detail offers a remarkably precise portrayal of life during the early 15th century. Additionally, its captivating narrative introduces unforgettable and skillfully crafted characters that further enhance players' immersion into the game world.
Kenshi
Looking for an authentic medieval experience in a game? Look no further! This captivating historical masterpiece will become your latest obsession. Exciting news awaits, as a Switch version is currently being developed, and whispers of a potential sequel have already started to circulate. Fans can only hope that this is merely the beginning of an extraordinary series of Kingdom Come games.
Developer | Lo-Fi Games |
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Platform/s | PC |
Batman: Arkham City
Developer | Rocksteady Studios |
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"Immersive" is not the same as "realistic." While Rocksteady's Arkham games don't strive to be gritty crime dramas, they excel at enabling players to truly become the Dark Knight. Some argue that Arkham Knight represents the pinnacle of open-world design in the franchise, but the Batmobile sections, which divide opinions, may interrupt the experience for those who aren't fans. In contrast, Arkham City avoids such issues and succeeds in virtually every other aspect.
Hogwarts Legacy
Batman deliberately gets himself arrested and sent to Arkham City, a notorious prison that houses Gotham's most dangerous criminals. Equipped with an impressive arsenal and gadgets, the beloved superhero embarks on a mission to uncover Hugo Strange's Protocol 10 while also engaging in various side quests. As Arkham City is primarily occupied by criminals, everyday citizens are scarce on its streets, with only thugs awaiting a confrontation with Batman's formidable combat skills. Although this sparsity may seem frustrating in other open-world games, Arkham City provides a logical explanation for this absence, thereby enhancing the overall immersive experience.
Developer | Avalanche Software |
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Avalanche's Hogwarts Legacy soared with anticipation and achieved unprecedented success upon its release. While there have been previous Harry Potter games, this 2023 title stands out as the first one to truly harness the full potential of the beloved franchise in the gaming world.
Regardless of one's personal connection to Harry's narrative, the enchanting universe of Harry Potter is universally recognized as extraordinary. Hogwarts Legacy allows fans to fully immerse themselves in a world brimming with magic, secrets, and charm. Although the game's storyline may not be groundbreaking, it impeccably captures the essence of the Wizarding World, offering players countless hours to indulge in their fantasies.
Developer | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
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In today's open-world gaming landscape, there's a prevailing belief that "bigger is better." However, Yakuza has consistently challenged this notion. Yakuza 0 demonstrates that size isn't everything, as it unfolds within two districts, Kamurochō and Sotenbori, which may not be sprawling in scope. Nevertheless, these intimately crafted locales seamlessly enhance the main storyline, while also serving as vibrant playgrounds for players to engage in a plethora of entertaining optional activities.
The Yakuza games successfully combine elements of realism and exaggerated humor suitable for B-movies, and the open-world setting primarily emphasizes the former. These expansive maps are brimming with arcades, restaurants, and bars, as well as a plethora of engaging side activities and mini-games.
Mafia 2
Developer | 2K Czech |
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Unlike other games on this list, Mafia 2's open-world serves mainly as a backdrop, lacking substantial activities beyond traveling between main missions. It is not intended to captivate players for hours on end.
Nevertheless, with regards to realism, Mafia 2 excels in capturing the visual style of the late 1940s and early 1950s. The cars, slums, and shops combine to create an immersive environment steeped in historical accuracy, even though it is set in a fictional city. However, these elements cannot be interacted with in a meaningful manner.
Developer | Nine Dots |
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Outward offers a distinctive blend of familiar action RPG elements that results in a truly unique gaming experience. Going beyond the typical gameplay, this open-world adventure incorporates survival mechanics such as a hunger meter, demanding players to stay vigilant. Rather than featuring the clichéd "save the world" narrative, Outward focuses on a more down-to-earth quest of clearing debts, which serves as the initial motivation for players to set out on their journey. This storyline acts as a catalyst for the main character's exploration, gradually transforming into an intrinsic desire to explore the uncharted territories.
Outward revolves around the themes of exploration and discovery. When venturing out into the world, players must be prepared for their journeys to avoid getting trapped in difficult situations. The map is fully accessible from the beginning, although certain areas are specifically tailored for more experienced players. While Outward does have drawbacks, such as lackluster combat, these may not necessarily deter everyone as the game's open-ended structure is a major advantage.
To fully experience Outward, it is recommended to get the Definitive Edition.
Gothic 2
Developer | Piranha Bytes |
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Platform/s | PC |
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Piranha Bytes achieved open-world perfection with the initial two Gothic games, leading to the developer's continuous endeavor over the next twenty years to recapture the same enchantment. However, the outcomes were mixed. While the first installment is impressive and arguably boasts the finest narrative in the trilogy, Gothic 2 stands among the best projects in terms of open-world design. Taking place on an island, the campaign follows the Nameless Hero's quest to vanquish the dragons, embarking on a journey that spans across all corners of Khorinis.
Sea Of Thieves
Gothic 2 excels in its attention to minute details, elevating its central storyline to new heights. The NPCs within the game feel alive, leading their own independent lives that are completely separate from the protagonist's journey. With a wide array of customization and progression options, Gothic 2 empowers players to create their perfect adventurer, offering endless possibilities for combat, lifestyle, and exploration. Despite its relatively small size compared to modern games, traversing the captivating world of Khorinis is a delight, as long as players are prepared for occasional challenging spikes.Upon its launch, Rare's Sea of Thieves received a mixed reception primarily due to its lack of content. However, more than 5 years later, this pirate-themed game continues to thrive, thanks to the developer's unwavering dedication to the project and the community's appreciation for their efforts. Sea of Thieves offers the option to play either solo or with a crew, each bringing their own advantages, though the latter provides more opportunities. Within its shared world, players can engage in PvP battles as they compete to sink enemy ships.
Sea of Thieves may not be overly challenging, but it strongly encourages exploration and self-sufficiency. Treasure hunters must rely on their own map-reading skills and problem-solving abilities rather than relying on a simple waypoint system. While sailing the seas, there exists a constant sense of unpredictability, ensuring that crews must remain vigilant and alert at all times.
Rust
Developer | Facepunch Studios |
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Criticism of Rust is often directed towards the prevalence of players engaging in indiscriminate shooting and raiding of others' bases. While this behavior can pose challenges for newcomers, it undeniably aligns with the expectations of a post-apocalyptic wasteland, ultimately enhancing the game's immersive open-world experience.
When
Fallout 4
, the radiation zones and irradiated animals in Rust pose minimal risk to knowledgeable individuals. However, the ever-changing behavior of humanity mandates that players must constantly stay alert, thereby enhancing the authenticity of the experience compared to its alternative.
Developer | Bethesda Game Studios |
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Middle Earth: Shadow Of War
Developer | Monolith Productions |
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Initially appearing to be a fusion of a stealth game and another Tolkien-inspired adventure,
Developer | Monolith Productions |
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Although the gameplay and story deviate from Tolkien's Legendarium,
Project Zomboid
it aims to engulf the player in an immersive world filled with enjoyable and unique elements. This includes the enemy orcs, who possess remarkable depths of character and individuality.
Developer | The Indie Stone |
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Platform/s | PC |
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Project Zomboid by The Indie Stone has spent approximately 10 years in Steam's Early Access and currently maintains an average of 20,000 players at any given moment. The streets of West Point and Muldraugh are overrun with zombie hordes as the end of the world looms. Hope is fading, and survival becomes the ultimate goal rather than saving the world or discovering a cure. However, achieving this objective is far from easy.
Despite being a work in progress, Project Zomboid already offers a substantial amount of content and gameplay mechanics. Presently, it stands as one of the most immersive survival sandbox games available, with further enhancements expected in the months and years ahead. It's important to note that Project Zomboid provides a challenging and hardcore experience, so new players should be prepared for a demanding journey.
Developer | GSC Game World |
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Platform/s | PC |
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Calling all fans of the STALKER series! These games have garnered immense praise and are definitely worth a try. What's remarkable is that they have gracefully stood the test of time, as they were never intended to be graphically groundbreaking. While none of these games can be classified as traditional open-world experiences, Call of Pripyat is in the same league. Released in 2009, this game presents its campaign across three primary maps, in addition to some smaller sections, granting players the freedom to explore each of these zones in their own unique way. Although they don't seamlessly join together to form a continuous sandbox, these areas effectively function as individual open-world environments that, when combined, contribute to a larger and immersive universe.
Shadow Of The Colossus
Nailing its atmosphere, STALKER creates a fully realized, tense and uncomfortable post-disaster setting. Set in Chernobyl's Zone after a nuclear catastrophe, the games masterfully construct a world that feels authentically lived-in. When it comes to this franchise, Call of Pripyat arguably surpasses its predecessors in delivering this immersive experience. Survival horror enthusiasts, regardless of acquired taste, should consider STALKER a must-play on their gaming list.
Developer | Japan Studio, Team Ico (2005); Bluepoint Games (2018) |
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Platform/s | Shadow of the Colossus (2005)
Shadow of the Colossus (2018)
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Compared to other contemporary open-world games, the Forbidden Land in Shadow of the Colossus is relatively small and devoid of life. As players take on the role of Wander, they explore the desolate expanses in search of colossal creatures known as colossi, who roam freely without bothering anyone. However, Wander's intention is to ultimately slay these majestic beings in order to protect a girl. While this may seem like a typical video game plot, Shadow of the Colossus cleverly defies this convention.
In the Forbidden Land, there is a profound emptiness, with only the colossi as companions. In the pauses between epic battles, players find themselves in complete solitude as they journey from one point to another. Despite the absence of bustling cities or interactive non-player characters, Shadow of the Colossus manages to captivate players through the immersive atmosphere it creates. These moments of tranquility also encourage contemplation of the protagonist's deeds, a reflection not commonly prompted by other games.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Experience card games, dialogue-based intrigues, and even venture into the dating scene, if you dare. Offering abundant sights and activities, this action RPG exudes the essence of a life simulation game, showcasing exceptional dark fantasy elements alongside intricately crafted and harmonious combat mechanics.
While it may not attain the pinnacle achieved by The Witcher 3, Cyberpunk 2077 also excels in numerous aspects.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim
Developer | Bethesda Game Studios |
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Few games match the expansiveness and storytelling depth of The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim. Embarking on an adventure as the Dragonborn, players can freely explore the vast northern province of Tamriel, engaging in epic battles against dragons and absorbing their souls. This oversimplified description barely scratches the surface of the awe-inspiring experience that Skyrim offers.
A plethora of character customization choices, vast landscapes to discover, and occasionally amusing sights to witness and take advantage of, make this Nordic journey a must-play for any enthusiast of open-world games.
Dying Light
After releasing Dead Island, Techland turned its focus to Dying Light, another first-person zombie series. While the two franchises have some similarities, Dying Light distinguishes itself by offering vast open-world environments and putting a strong emphasis on parkour. Some argue that Dying Light 2: Stay Human is enjoyable in its own right, but its predecessor remains Techland's most impressive project to date. Unlike its successor, which prioritizes action over scares, Dying Light undeniably falls into the horror genre, particularly after nightfall.
Admittedly, zombies have become a tired theme, but Dying Light manages to bring back their danger factor. New players must remain constantly vigilant, as they can quickly become overwhelmed by the undead. The main game includes two distinct maps, the Slums and Old Town, each offering a unique experience. However, those interested in picking up Dying Light should consider getting the edition that includes the expansion titled "The Following."
Mad Max
Developer | Avalanche Studios |
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Avalanche Studios, renowned for their explosive and entertaining Just Cause franchise, is synonymous with sandbox gameplay and witty one-liners. While Just Cause 2 and 3 are considered some of the most enjoyable open-world games of all time, describing them as "immersive" wouldn't be entirely accurate, although they do provide a delightful escape from reality. Apart from their successful Just Cause series, Avalanche has developed a few other similar titles. While Rage 2 has garnered a dedicated following, their most immersive open-world game to date is Mad Max, released in 2015. Drawing inspiration from George Miller's beloved movie franchise, this post-apocalyptic game successfully captures the heart-pounding action-packed chases that made the source material so popular.
No Man’s Sky
Mad Max's map depicts a typical desert wasteland, which, despite being somewhat unoriginal and visually unremarkable, provides a suitable backdrop for the series' tone and narrative. The game revolves around vehicular combat, compelling players to continuously enhance their cars as they progress through the campaign. Ultimately, Mad Max revolves around its titular character, and Avalanche has successfully granted fans the opportunity to immerse themselves in an authentic cinematic adventure as Max.
Developer | Hello Games |
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Grand Theft Auto 5
Developer | Rockstar North |
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The open-world exploration featured in the highly-praised Grand Theft Auto 5 surpasses the expectations of most players. Within the vast and fictitious city of Los Santos, there are numerous captivating elements that immerse players for countless hours. This installment by Rockstar Games stands as their most authentic rendition of the Grand Theft Auto series, and those on the lookout for affordable options can now conveniently purchase it at a reduced price due to its long-standing availability.
Divinity: Original Sin 2
While the cars, individuals, and locales portrayed in the game are not real, their design drew inspiration from the actual world, incorporating numerous renowned locations in Los Angeles into the virtual city of Los Santos. This open-world game centered around car theft could be deemed as the epitome of realism.
Developer | Larian Studios |
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With its exceptional writing, unparalleled combat, and extensive amount of content, Divinity: Original Sin 2 stands out as one of the top turn-based RPGs of the past decade. Set in the dark fantasy world of Rivellon, this game delves deep into its rich history. While having knowledge of the franchise's previous entries enhances the experience, it is not essential to fully enjoy the 2017 release.
Unlike a sandbox game that grants players immediate access to the entire map, Divinity: Original Sin 2 is structured into acts, each containing its own distinct areas. Within these chapters, players are free to explore the locations at their own pace, provided they possess the strength to overcome the challenges they may face.
Developer | Team Soho |
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Platform/s | PS2 |
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Released as a PlayStation 2 exclusive in 2002, The Getaway made a significant impact. Team Soho managed to bring the city of London to life with astonishing attention to detail. At the time, it was quite rare to find open-world games set in real-life cities, making this project even more remarkable. The technical prowess of Team Soho remains impressive to this day. One standout feature is the absence of a traditional heads-up display (HUD) and quest directions, adding to the game's immersive experience. While this may occasionally lead to frustration, it compels players to be fully engaged and rely on their instincts rather than mindlessly following markers to progress.
Compared to contemporary open-world games, The Getaway offers a more streamlined experience, focusing primarily on the intertwined narratives of Mark Hammond and Frank Carter. Players can eventually unlock the option to freely explore the map, but this requires completing the main missions. However, similar to many early attempts at open-world gameplay, The Getaway's mechanics have not aged well and were far from flawless to begin with.
Subnautica
Developer | Unknown Worlds Entertainment |
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Subnautica and its sequel, Below Zero, are set on an alien planet predominantly covered in water. Upon reaching 4546B, players embark on a journey to uncover the mysteries of the planet while also seeking an escape route. Below Zero builds upon the above-water aspects of its predecessor, but the true essence of both games lies in the exploration of the depths of the ocean.
Rarely do games offer an open-world experience beneath the waves, and Subnautica sets an exceptionally high standard in this genre. Its remarkable gameplay makes it unlikely for any other game to surpass it in the near future.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Assassin's Creed Odyssey is set in ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. As the newest installment in the series, it provides the most exceptional open-world experience to date. Boasting stunning visuals and exceptional dialogue, Assassin's Creed Odyssey stands out as one of the finest open-world games to delve into. Similarly, Origins and Valhalla also feature captivating open-world environments.
Horizon Zero Dawn & Horizon Forbidden West
Developer | Guerrilla Games |
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Platform/s | Horizon Zero Dawn
Horizon Forbidden West
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Horizon Zero Dawn, an open-world game for the PlayStation 4, stands out as one of the most popular titles in its genre. Transporting players to a world overrun by robotic dinosaurs, where humanity has regressed to a primitive state, the game follows protagonist Aloy on her quest to vanquish the machines and safeguard the survival of humanity. Renowned for its breathtaking visuals and immersive gameplay, Horizon Zero Dawn is widely regarded as a must-play experience for PlayStation 4 gamers.
Forza Horizon 3, 4, & 5
: Continuing the journey of Aloy, Horizon Forbidden West delves into the eponymous zone, where she seeks crucial insights into a worldwide epidemic. Building upon the triumphs of its predecessor, this sequel amplifies every successful aspect, with particular emphasis on immersive open-world exploration.When it comes to open-world racing game franchises, Forza Horizon surpasses all its rivals. Each game is fantastic in its own way, and Playground does an exceptional job of creating stunning maps that accurately represent different cultures.
While the first two games are impressive, they pale in comparison to their more recent sequels in terms of size and graphics. When it comes to the last three games, personal preference will determine whether players favor the Australian setting of Forza Horizon 3, the Scottish landscape of Forza Horizon 4, or the vibrant Mexico of Forza Horizon 5.
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Developer | Kojima Productions |
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Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain's storytelling was a departure from the focused narrative style of the previous games in the series, catching some players off guard. With an open-world setting, the story seemed scattered and lacking the same impact.
Mortal Online 2
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain truly stands out as a work of art. Its depiction of realism surpasses expectations and distinguishes itself from other games. Whether one admires or despises it, The Phantom Pain undeniably ranks among the most authentic open-world games ever created.
Developer | Star Vault AB |
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Platform/s | PC |
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Marvel's Spider-Man
Developer | Insomniac Games |
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Insomniac Games, the developer, has managed to create an incredibly realistic version of New York City in their latest gaming masterpiece. With attention to detail and precision, players are transported to famous landmarks such as Central Park, leaving them in a state of awe and wonder.
Future open-world games can draw valuable insights from Spider-Man for PlayStation 4. Despite the option to fast-travel, the intricately detailed and immersive city captivates players to the extent that they choose to explore instead. The remarkable craftsmanship exhibited in Spider-Man for PlayStation 4 will leave a lasting impression on players. Spider-Man: Miles Morales also warrants recognition for its exceptional achievements.
Watch Dogs 2
Developer | Ubisoft Montreal |
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While skeptics may argue that the Watch Dogs series is merely a replica of Grand Theft Auto, it transcends this comparison by offering a plethora of unique features. Although both games involve car theft and driving, the similarities end there. Watch Dogs 2 elevates gameplay by empowering players to manipulate their surroundings using advanced technological abilities.
Developer | FromSoftware |
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Beginning at the fragment content:
In 2022's Elden Ring, FromSoftware takes a leap into the realm of open-world gaming after experimenting with open areas in the Souls series. The game is set in the majestic Lands Between, where players assume the role of the Tarnished, entrusted with the important task of collecting the Great Runes to restore the legendary ring. Embarking on this journey, players find themselves immersed in a vast and diverse landscape, divided into expansive regions, each housing grand and intimate dungeons. Elden Ring grants the Tarnished unparalleled freedom, allowing them to forge their own path, while also offering guidance for those who seek it.
The map of Elden Ring is breathtakingly expansive, featuring not only an abundance of locations but also a rich variety of experiences. Players can look forward to epic battles against formidable bosses, engaging in intriguing side quests, delving into captivating lore, and uncovering a plethora of desirable equipment, all waiting to be unearthed within the treasured Lands Between.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Developer | Rockstar Studios |
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Rockstar stands out as the undeniable leader in open-world game development, and Red Dead Redemption 2 has set an exceptionally high benchmark that the entire gaming industry will struggle to surpass. Set in the early 1900s, this Western-themed game vividly brings to life a bygone era of American history, immersing players in meticulously crafted cities and landscapes that effortlessly transport them to a time when outlaws were a commonplace presence.
In Red Dead Redemption 2, the captivating open-world experience goes beyond its stunning visuals and detailed environments. The gameplay meticulously focuses on authentic everyday actions that were commonplace in that era, showcasing Rockstar's dedication to realism while prioritizing realism over entertainment.
