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25 Best PC Open World Games of All Time

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Best PC Open World Games of All Time

We already published the list of best PC games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PC open world games of all time.

With amazing titles available, the PC gaming community will surely enjoy a great library of open world games.

So, if you’re a PC gamer and love open world games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.

And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.

#25. Mafia II

Mafia II
  • Release Data: 2K Czech/2K Games, 2010
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

If you’re not a fan of deep narratives or lengthy stories, this may not be the game for you.

However, if you’re looking for a game with substance, then Mafia II is worth a try.

It’s clear that the developers have a deep respect for the game’s overall direction, resulting in a highly enjoyable experience.

#24. The Simpsons: Hit & Run

The Simpsons: Hit & Run
  • Release Data: Radical Entertainment/Sierra Entertainment, 2003
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

The Simpsons: Hit and Run is a game that finally captures the witty and beloved spirit of the TV show.

For fans of the series, the game allows you to explore and interact with Springfield and its inhabitants in a way that is truly satisfying.

If you’re a fan of The Simpsons, this game is a must-play.

#23. Assassin’s Creed: Director’s Cut Edition

Assassin's Creed: Director's Cut Edition
  • Release Data: Ubisoft Montreal/Ubisoft, 2008
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Although the game does offer beautifully crafted cities and landscapes to explore, there isn’t a lot to do beyond basic exploration and a limited variety of collectible missions.

But despite its flaws, Assassin’s Creed offers a unique blend of action and exploration that’s well worth experiencing.

#22. Assassin’s Creed III

Assassin's Creed III
  • Release Data: Ubisoft, 2012
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Assassin’s Creed III is an enjoyable game that may not make as big of a leap as the previous installment, but it’s evident that the development team behind it has a genuine passion for the franchise.

PC players, in particular, have plenty to look forward to with an array of options that make it the optimal way to experience it.

#21. Outcast

Outcast
  • Release Data: Appeal/Infogrames, 1999
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Although it can be vexing occasionally, Outcast is primarily an entertaining game.

It falls into the category of older action-adventure combinations, resembling Tomb Raider in gameplay, but embodying the spirit of retro open world games.

At its core, it offers a vast world to explore and a fascinating backstory to uncover, making for an immensely pleasurable experience.

#20. L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition

L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition
  • Release Data: Rockstar Leeds/Rockstar Games, 2011
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

L.A. Noire stands out as a distinctive game, transporting you to a bygone era with its impeccable period atmosphere and a haunting storyline that wouldn’t feel out of place in a classic noir film.

The nights spent in smoky jazz clubs, and the consequences that follow, linger in your mind long after you’ve hung up your badge and holster.

#19. Prototype

Prototype
  • Release Data: Radical Entertainment/Activision, 2009
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Prototype is a well-made game with a few flaws.

It loses its focus on what it’s good at with too much emphasis on the sprawling overworld, and the open-ended gameplay lacks a real purpose other than prolonging the game’s progression.

However, it’s still a remarkably well-made package with an excellent game world to play out the missions in.

#18. Darksiders II

Darksiders II
  • Release Data: Vigil Games/THQ, 2012
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Despite the lack of advanced graphics options, Darksiders 2 on PC remains true to its core experience by offering a diverse range of gameplay genres and a world rich in content.

Whether you’re a fan of the original or a newcomer to the series, you’ll find plenty to enjoy with the seemingly endless amount of quests and collectibles to discover.

#17. Darksiders

Darksiders
  • Release Data: Vigil Games/THQ, 2010
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Darksiders is a game that may seem unoriginal at first glance, but it’s still a joy to play with a lot more hits than misses.

If you already played the console version of the game, there isn’t much incentive to play it again.

However, if you missed it on the console, it’s definitely worth picking up.

#16. Outer Wilds

Outer Wilds
  • Release Data: Mobius Digital, LLC/Annapurna Interactive, 2019
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Outer Wilds is a game that focuses on exploration, knowledge, and experimentation.

It successfully combines these elements to create one of the most captivating games of this generation.

And unlike other space exploration games that take a macro view, Outer Wilds takes a micro view, and this approach works even better.

#15. Assassin’s Creed II

Assassin's Creed II
  • Release Data: Ubisoft Montreal/Ubisoft, 2010
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Assassin’s Creed II is an engaging and visually stunning game that grants you the freedom to explore a meticulously crafted world while providing a thrilling adventure that is full of atmosphere.

Simply put, it is a captivating and exhilarating journey that will keep you captivated, marveling at the intricate details that bring its historical setting to life.

#14. Sleeping Dogs

Sleeping Dogs
  • Release Data: United Front Games/Square Enix, 2012
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Sleeping Dogs presents a captivating story against the atmospheric and exquisitely detailed backdrop of Hong Kong.

With a plethora of additional missions and activities, players are sure to find new adventures and action while exploring the city’s streets.

It’s safe to say that Sleeping Dogs is the underdog for open-world action-adventure games.

#13. Just Cause 2

Just Cause 2
  • Release Data: Avalanche Studios/Square Enix, 2010
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

The sheer entertainment value of Just Cause 2 makes it worth playing, as you can experience exhilarating moments, such as grappling onto a gas canister, shooting it, and propelling yourself into the sky like a rocket.

If this sounds like your idea of fun, then it’s time to pack your bags and head to the tropical paradise of Panau.

#12. Saints Row: The Third

Saints Row: The Third
  • Release Data: Volition Inc./THQ, 2011
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Whether you’re increasing your hourly income by buying up property, or cruising the city to collect photo ops, drug packages, and sex dolls in your favorite vehicle, there’s never a dull moment in Saints Row: The Third.

This game succeeds tremendously in delivering its particular kind of absurdity, so if you have an appetite for it, you won’t be disappointed.

#11. Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood

Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
  • Release Data: Ubisoft Montreal/Ubisoft, 2011
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Assassin’s Creed II‘s portrayal of Ezio’s journey from streetwise youth to cunning assassin was a true highlight.

Brotherhood sees Ezio flashing his charming smirk frequently, but his character development falls short of the same level of fascination.

Nonetheless, this game still possesses a magical attraction that draws players in with its breathtaking beauty.

#10. Iconoclasts

Iconoclasts
  • Release Data: Konjak/Bifrost Entertainment, 2018
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Don’t be deceived by the colorful and cheerful facade of Iconoclasts, as this game is a challenge that will put your skills and mind to the test.

With its fast-paced combat and tricky puzzles, it demands your quick reflexes and mental agility.

Moreover, the game’s unique boss battles and thought-provoking story will make you ponder your own beliefs and values.

#9. Grand Theft Auto IV

Grand Theft Auto IV
  • Release Data: Rockstar Toronto/Rockstar Games, 2008
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

The PC version of Grand Theft Auto IV was poised to be the definitive edition of the game, thanks to the superior control scheme offered by keyboard and mouse, as well as the potential for enhanced visuals.

If your system can handle it, the PC version is worth checking out, but those who can’t should stick with the console versions.

#8. Saints Row IV

Saints Row IV
  • Release Data: Volition Inc./Deep Silver, 2013
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Saints Row IV is an incredibly fun game that manages to improve upon its predecessors while still retaining some of the same flaws.

If you’re searching for a game that allows you to act like a superhero with unique abilities, then this might even surpass some of the games that are actually marketed as superhero games.

#7. Mafia

Mafia
  • Release Data: Illusion Softworks/Gathering, 2002
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Mafia is a story-driven game that immerses players in the gritty world of organized crime.

As you progress through the game’s campaign, you’ll spend a lot of time driving around the city, carrying out a variety of missions.

Overall, with its gripping story and immersive gameplay, Mafia is a game that’s sure to captivate fans of organized crime tales.

#6. Yakuza 0

Yakuza 0
  • Release Data: Ryu ga Gotoku Studios/Sega, 2018
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Yakuza 0 offers great characters, solid storytelling with a captivating plot featuring two of the series’ biggest and best characters, and improvements to the already-brutal combat.

Moreover, the game’s eccentric presentation and over-the-top humor keep players engaged in the wonderful and freaky world of Yakuza until the end.

#5. Batman: Arkham City

Batman: Arkham City
  • Release Data: Rocksteady Studios/Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, 2011
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

The true magic of this game lies in the exploratory and adventurous experiences you have in the city of Arkham itself.

Whether you’re speeding above the city streets or uncovering forgotten secrets in the tunnels beneath Gotham, this unforgettable adventure will keep you engaged with the cape and cowl long after the credits roll.

#4. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
  • Release Data: Rockstar North/Rockstar Games, 2005
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Following CJ, players will experience his journey from a low-ranking gang member to a major figure in the scene through dozens of exciting missions that involve shooting, driving, and even flying across the game’s expansive landscape.

Additionally, players will discover numerous side missions and secrets that keep the game entertaining long after the main story has been completed.

#3. Grand Theft Auto III

Grand Theft Auto III
  • Release Data: Rockstar North/Rockstar Games, 2002
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

In GTA III, players can steal vehicles and run over pedestrians, or follow the main story by completing missions.

And without this title, we wouldn’t have the same kind of open-world games that we know today.

As one of the most influential games of all time, GTA III easily earns its spot on this list.

#2. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City

Grand Theft Auto: Vice City
  • Release Data: Rockstar North/Rockstar Games, 2003
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

Vice City builds on the success of Grand Theft Auto III by utilizing the same game engine, but switching up the environment and style.

The missions revolve around everything that made the 80’s so wild; drug culture, fast vehicles, and a whole lot of style.

For fans of the 80s and absolute chaos, Vice City is an instant classic.

#1. Grand Theft Auto V

Grand Theft Auto V
  • Release Data: Rockstar North/Rockstar Games, 2015
  • Genre: Action Adventure » Open-World

This entry in the GTA franchise features the biggest map yet, with multiple playable characters and several huge areas to explore.

You can switch between the three characters at any time, taking on unique missions or participating in a wide variety of side activities.

All of these makes GTA V one of the most content-filled open-world games available.


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See also: Best Gaming Chairs & Best Gaming Room Accessories

Are your favorite games on the list?

Deciding which PC open world game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!

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About

Hi, I'm R, and I've been playing video games since I was a kid. My first console was the original PlayStation (the gray one) and I spent countless hours playing Crash Bandicoot series and Spyro series. My second console was the PS2 Fat, and I completed all of the GTA series 100%.


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