Hey everyone! Today we’re counting down our picks for the best open world games that you should check out.
And without further ado, let’s dive right in.
#25. Mad Max
- Release Date: 2015
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
This game got overshadowed at launch by the release of The Phantom Pain, and the general skepticism towards movie-based video games didn’t help either. But let me tell you, Mad Max is anything but your typical movie game. It’s not a direct adaptation of Fury Road but instead uses the Mad Max universe to craft an original story that seamlessly fits within the cinematic lore.
And even nine years after its release, it runs smoothly and looks fantastic, which is quite the feat considering 2015 was riddled with incomplete releases and poor PC ports.
#24. Just Cause 3
- Release Date: 2015
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
The wingsuit-grappling hook-parachute combo in this game is the most fun I’ve had getting from point A to B since Spider-Man. And the controls are designed to encourage risk-taking—either you’ll pull off something insane or crash spectacularly.
And to think about it, traversal in this game isn’t just a mechanic to get you to the game; it is the game. The grappling hook lets you turn a slow descent into a blazing-fast approach, while the parachute can be the difference between life and death. So, in this game, it’s not just about getting somewhere; it’s about how you get there.
#23. Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Wildlands
- Release Date: 2017
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
This title is a stealth-based infiltration game that just happens to have all its bases laid out on a giant map. And just because a game uses a big open map doesn’t mean it has to be the same genre as every other open-world game.
Like, I don’t expect racing games to have background worlds full of quests and NPCs. I’m just driving through, right? Same with Wildlands—the map has enough content for what the game needs. In short, not every game needs to be packed with those elements and be the exact same.
#22. Days Gone
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4
I gotta say, this is a gem of an open-world game. Sure, the world might seem dead except for the people you rescue, the loot for crafting, the camps to take over, and the side missions each settlement offers, like taking out people who wronged the camp or chasing them down on your bike.
Moreover, the story is awesome and the hordes are overwhelming at first, but that’s part of the fun. And there’s nothing like exploring a cave, only to have a hundred freakers suddenly running at you. So trust me, it’s far from boring.
#21. Rise of the Ronin
- Release Date: 2024
- Platform: PS5
It’s frustrating to hear people who haven’t even tried the game spreading nonsense. Sure, the open world might not be the greatest, but it serves its purpose and ties in well with the core combat systems.
Take it from me, the combat is addictive—like crack for gamers. After all, it’s a Team Ninja game, so you know it’s only going to get better with updates.
So, if you’re looking for an engaging and fun experience, give Rise of the Ronin a shot. Trust me, you’ll have a ton of fun with it.
#20. Assassin’s Creed Mirage
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
As the devs promised, this game takes us back to the good old days of Assassin’s Creed. Obviously, don’t expect some huge open world like Odyssey or Valhalla. The map is more like Unity or Syndicate.
Now, the parkour is almost as good as Unity, which is a good thing. And the combat system is more basic compared to the newer games. But if you stack it up against the older games, it’s pretty much on the same level.
So, don’t compare it to the massive RPG epics of the last three games. Appreciate it for what it is.
#19. Mafia: Definitive Edition
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
This isn’t your typical ‘open world’ game. The city looks pretty sweet, but don’t expect a bunch of side quests or fun distractions, unless you count collecting random stuff. When you’re playing the story, you always have a mission objective shoved in your face, so good luck finding time to explore.
However, would I say it’s worth getting this game? Absolutely. I’m having a blast with it. It’s a slower-paced game aiming for that immersive, cinematic feel. Moreover, the missions are varied and consistently engaging, so you won’t get bored.
#18. inFamous: Second Son
- Release Date: 2014
- Platform: PS5, PS4
Even though this title is a cookie-cutter single-player game, it pretty much nails the open-world formula. Remember, this game came out in 2014. Since then, only a couple of games have really pushed the boundaries of the open-world genre: Red Dead Redemption 2 and Death Stranding.
In short, I don’t know what else to say except that you’ll either love this game for its excellent open-world experience, or you might find it lacking because it feels like a generic AAA game overall. This one isn’t for everyone, apparently.
#17. Watch Dogs 2
- Release Date: 2016
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
With this game, Ubisoft nailed it with the open-world puzzles, parkour, and overall gameplay loop.
Not only that, San Francisco is massive in this one. The attention to detail and those random events you stumble upon are also hilarious. No wonder this game’s always in those comparison videos on YouTube with the big dogs.
But hey, Ubisoft, if you’re listening, here’s the deal: Watch Dogs 4 needs to be set in New York City. Imagine virtual tourism meets parkour, mixed with vigilante justice, social hijinks, and of course, hacking—it’s a perfect blend.
#16. Ghost of Tsushima
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4
There’s tons to discover in the game’s beautiful open world. Just traveling between missions and points of interest keeps things interesting with random encounters and little hidden gems that unlock cool stuff like cosmetics or skills.
And sure, there are moments that might drag a bit, but hey, that’s when you can dive into some side quests or check out those other points on the map.
Overall, it’s not the largest open world out there, but trust me, there’s more than enough here to immerse yourself in samurai dreams for hours on end.
#15. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
- Release Date: 2013
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, this one is my personal favorite. I played it and finished it with 100% completion. There’s just something about being a pirate assassin, exploring and wreaking havoc in 18th-century Caribbean islands. They definitely did a great job at combining fun gameplay mechanics with historical setting.
Anyway, this is the first Assassin’s Creed game where traveling with your own ship is a major element. In fact, being a pirate captain and engaging in naval battles with other pirate and navy ships is what this game is famous for. Seriously, firing at other ships is truly addictive!
#14. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
- Release Date: 2020
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
What sets this game apart are the side quests—they’re quickies. None of that trekking halfway across the map nonsense. You find a quest giver, do the deed, and bam, you’re done. It keeps things snappy.
But where Valhalla really shines is in making its world feel alive. The side quests and encounters are subtle and natural. You talk to someone, they drop a hint, and you’re off figuring out how to make things happen without the game holding your hand. It’s like the world’s doing its own thing, and you’re just rolling with it.
#13. Assassin’s Creed Origins
- Release Date: 2017
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Look, it might not have the juiciest NPC drama or a gazillion deep side quests, I’ll give you that. But what it does have is this insane attention to detail. Ubisoft absolutely did their homework. The research, the care they poured into bringing Ancient Egypt to life is really impressive stuff.
Seriously, being able to tour the map and soak in these ancient wonders—that’s what made Origins stand out. It’s that magic of feeling like you’re really there, witnessing history unfold. And hey, even if they strayed a bit from the classic Assassin’s Creed formula, they nailed this aspect.
#12. Hogwarts Legacy
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
So, here’s the deal: the majority of the main missions and most side missions in this game are long and packed with plot and character development.
Now, don’t expect a sprawling open world like Skyrim. Hogwarts Legacy keeps it cozy with just three main areas to explore: Hogwarts itself, Hogsmeade Village, and a chunk of countryside with all the spooky Forbidden Forest vibes.
Sure, it’s not massive in scale, and yeah, there’s some busywork here and there for good measure. However, while it may not be a perfect open-world game, it’s still a great action RPG with an open-world setting.
#11. Death Stranding
- Release Date: 2019
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4
One of the game’s biggest themes is desolation. The world is meant to feel empty and uncomfortable, like a post-apocalyptic wasteland where death has pretty much taken over everything.
And one of my favorite things is to find new ways and new paths to get to places I’ve already been. Moreover, this game is just stunning to look at—it’s got this haunting beauty that’s totally unique.
And if you’re not finding enough to do in this world, maybe you’re not exploring hard enough. Or, let’s be real, maybe this game just isn’t for you.
#10. Batman: Arkham Knight
- Release Date: 2015
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, I get it—not everyone is into the superhero genre. Batman is just a grumpy dude in a bat suit, right? But then Rocksteady dropped Arkham Asylum in 2009, and the world changed ever since. The world they built is dark, gritty, and full of complex heroes, villains, and anti-heroes.
And as for this game, don’t even get me started on the gameplay. The freeflow combat is a masterpiece, the stealth is top-notch, and the detective puzzles are a blast. And even after nine years, it still looks better than a lot of current-gen games.
#9. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
Now, if this game wasn’t slapped with the Assassin’s Creed title, I bet it would’ve been showered with way more praise. Seriously, this game is a masterpiece in its own right.
The graphics are stunning, the story is captivating, and the gameplay is absolutely thrilling.
Sure, the naysayers can whine all they want, but let’s get real here: Ubisoft knows how to craft amazing open-world games that are a blast to play.
So, next time someone tries to knock Odyssey, just remind them how epic it really is. Trust me, they’ll come around.
#8. Horizon Forbidden West
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4
Now, if you ask me, this game is worth every penny just for the open world. It’s one of the best takes on the open-world formula we’ve seen in years.
There’s always something to explore, and the game actually rewards you for doing it. The world feels strangely alive, even though it’s mostly a deserted landmass.
And don’t even get me started on the sidequests. They’re so well-crafted, it feels like they put as much care and production value into them as they did with the main plot.
However, play the first game before this one to avoid confusion.
#7. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
- Release Date: 2023
- Platform: PS5
This game is an absolute powerhouse. They’ve nailed it on every front.
First off, the world is bigger and packed with so much to do that you’ll be swinging and web-slinging for days. And check this out: two heroes, double the fun. They’ve nailed the storytelling and gameplay like pros, not to mention those jaw-dropping suits! It’s basically a fashion show meets superhero showdown.
Moreover, the bad guys aren’t just menacing—they’re complex, nuanced, and downright chilling.
Seriously, this game is a dream come true for Spider-Man fans. It’s like they plucked our wildest fantasies and brought them to life.
#6. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
- Release Date: 2024
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Ichiban and the gang are back in the spotlight, and they’re as lovable as ever, joined by a fresh batch of well-developed newcomers. And while Kamurocho and Yokohama are still part of the mix, the real action happens in Honolulu—and let me say, it’s one of the series’ best cities yet. A true-to-life portrayal of Hawaii, warts and all, and utterly delightful.
Now, let’s talk about combat. They’ve made some simple tweaks that really amp up the dynamism and flexibility. It’s a blast, really. And overall, despite some quirks, the Yakuza series remains solid with this latest installment.
#5. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- Release Date: 2015
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1, SWITCH
The game’s side quests are absolute gold. Seriously, there’s not a single quest where you collect stuff in sight—each side quest offers choices and themes that dig deep into the world.
Granted, some of you might think that it’s not a true open world; however, it’s packed with amazing places to explore and content that’s on par with Bethesda and Rockstar games.
So, if you’re wary of open world games, trust me on this one—The Witcher 3 gets it right. It tops the quest quality of the first two games and still nails that open world feel.
#4. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
- Release Date: 2015
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Now, sure, some say it’s unfinished—and hey, they might have a point. But let me tell you, despite all that, I absolutely loved it.
Here’s the deal: navigating those enemy bases felt so dynamic. You had to scope out the entrances, plan your approach, and then execute it like a boss. It’s that freedom that makes it so engaging. Sure, there might be some rough edges, but when you’re sneaking through those bases, it’s pure adrenaline.
So, if you dig tactical gameplay and a world that lets you call the shots, this virtual open world is where it’s at.
#3. Elden Ring
- Release Date: 2022
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
Personally, I think the best way to enjoy open world games is by exploring some, but not all of it. It’s that sense of mystery and the unknown that really makes an open world shine, you know?
But, hey, not everyone’s on board with the open world trend. Some gamers still prefer the tighter, more linear experiences of the past. And that’s totally valid. Despite Elden Ring being almost perfect for many, its open world design might not click with everyone.
But for those of us who love diving deep into expansive worlds, Elden Ring hits all the right notes.
#2. Grand Theft Auto V
- Release Date: 2013
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
As some of you already know, the modern open world genre as we know it is heavily influenced by the Grand Theft Auto series. Seriously, the influence is so profound that a genre called GTA-like exists because these games are considered legendary.
And I get it—hardcore fans of other open world games sometimes trash-talk Rockstar games, perhaps because they simply dislike anything mainstream. However, GTA V remains immensely popular, with hundreds of thousands of players still actively enjoying it worldwide. And you know why? It’s because they love the open world nature of the game.
#1. Red Dead Redemption 2
- Release Date: 2018
- Platform: PC, PS5, PS4, XSX/S, X1
For me, the game’s open world is on a whole other level. Seriously, it’s the most immersive gaming experience out there. You can stroll into buildings, chat up NPCs with real depth, pick up stuff, and stumble upon these wild side missions that just suck you in. And don’t even get me started on the customization—it’s like living in that world, not just playing in it.
Moreover, jumping into other open world games just doesn’t hit the same after this one. So hear me out, do not play this game if this is your first time with open world games.
So, do you agree with our picks?
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