From sprawling cityscapes to untamed wilderness, these games invite us to immerse ourselves in their vibrant worlds, where every nook and cranny holds the promise of unforgettable discoveries. So, strap on your adventuring boots and get ready to venture into the top 10 open world games that’ll make you forget the real world even exists.
In the vast, ever-evolving landscape of gaming, few experiences can match the sheer freedom and sense of exploration offered by open world games. These digital sandboxes beckon players to embark on grand adventures, forge their own paths, and lose themselves in richly detailed, seemingly boundless realms.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Nintendo Switch)
Let’s kick things off with a classic (with a modern twist). Breath of the Wild isn’t just an open world game; it’s a masterclass in open world design. Hyrule has never felt so vast and inviting, a world begging to be explored on foot, horseback, or even
by paragliding off the tallest mountain (don’t worry, Link can handle it). From scaling ancient ruins to befriending adorable Korok koroks, Breath of the Wild offers a near-perfect balance of discovery, challenge, and pure, unadulterated fun.
Red Dead Redemption 2 (PS4, Xbox One)
Saddle up, partner, because we’re heading to the Wild West – a harsh and unforgiving land, but one brimming with beauty and opportunity (or at least, the opportunity to rob a train or two). Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterfully crafted world, where
every saloon, tumbleweed, and sunset feels meticulously placed. Whether you’re following the story of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw with a heart of gold (or at least tarnished silver), or simply exploring the vast wilderness, Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a truly immersive experience.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch)
The world of The Witcher is a dark and dangerous one, filled with griffins, drowners, and the ever-present threat of political intrigue. But beneath the grim facade lies a world brimming with life (and side quests!).
As Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire, you’ll explore sprawling cities, dense forests, and war-torn landscapes. The Witcher 3 isn’t just about slaying beasts; it’s about making choices, forging relationships, and unraveling a complex narrative.Â
Grand Theft Auto V (PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One)
Los Santos: a city of sunshine, celebrities, and… well, a whole lot of crime. Grand Theft Auto V offers a satirical take on the American dream, letting you loose in a sprawling metropolis where you can steal cars, go on epic heist sprees, or simply relax on the
beach (although, with exploding yachts a frequent occurrence, relaxation might be a relative term). With three playable characters, each with their own storyline and skillset, GTA V offers a wealth of content, from high-octane action to surprisingly funny character interactions.
Forza Horizon 5 (PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S)
Calling all gearheads! Forza Horizon 5 throws you behind the wheel in a vibrant recreation of Mexico, with stunning landscapes ranging from lush jungles to dusty deserts. This isn’t just a racing game; it’s a celebration of cars, from classic muscle cars to cutting-edge hypercars.
With a dynamic weather system and countless challenges to tackle, Forza Horizon 5 offers an open world that’s a joy to simply cruise through, even if you’re not a hardcore racing aficionado. Plus, who can resist the allure of outrunning a dust storm in a souped-up Lamborghini?
Elden Ring (PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S)
For those who crave a challenge (and the occasional existential crisis), Elden Ring beckons. This open world behemoth from FromSoftware throws you headfirst into the Lands Between, a hauntingly beautiful world steeped in lore and crawling with formidable foes.
Exploration is key in Elden Ring, as every corner might hold a hidden treasure, a terrifying enemy, or a cryptic message scrawled on a tombstone. The combat is brutal but rewarding, demanding mastery of timing and tactics. Just be prepared to die… a lot.
Horizon Zero Dawn (PC, PS4)
Imagine a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been relegated to the status of a struggling scavenger species, and the dominant lifeforms are monstrous machines. That’s the world of Horizon Zero Dawn, a vibrant and visually stunning open world filled with robot dinosaurs (yes, you read that
right) and the remnants of a forgotten civilization. As Aloy, a skilled hunter with a mysterious past, you’ll explore this world, unraveling its secrets, taking down mechanical beasts, and crafting powerful weapons. Horizon Zero Dawn offers a compelling narrative, challenging combat, and a world begging to be explored.
Skyrim (PC, PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Switch)
Ah, Skyrim. A game so vast and open-ended, it’s practically become a cultural phenomenon. From slaying dragons to joining a guild of thieves, Skyrim lets you forge your own path in the world of Tamriel. The world itself is a marvel of design, with
snow-capped mountains, sprawling forests, and bustling cities. Whether you’re following the main questline or simply getting sidetracked by a seemingly endless stream of side quests and random encounters, Skyrim offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure.
No Man’s Sky (PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S)
No Man’s Sky has come a long way since its somewhat rocky launch. Today, it offers a truly mind-boggling open world: a universe procedurally generated, meaning every planet, moon, and star system is unique.
That’s right, you can explore an entire universe, filled with diverse landscapes, from lush alien jungles to barren, airless moons. No Man’s Sky offers players a variety of activities, from exploration and resource gathering to base building and even dogfighting in spaceships.
The Elder Scrolls Online (PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Mac, Stadia)
Take the vast world of Skyrim, multiply it by a thousand, and add the joy of playing with your friends (or glorious solitude, if that’s your preference). That’s The Elder Scrolls Online in a nutshell.
Tamriel has never felt more alive, with players from all over the world roaming its vast landscapes, forming guilds, conquering dungeons, and leaving their mark on the world.
So there you have it, adventurers! Our top 10 picks for the open world games that will have you crafting potions, taming mythical beasts, and questioning your sleep schedule in no time.
Remember, this is just a starting point – the world of open world games is vast and ever-expanding. So, grab your virtual backpack, stock up on virtual health potions, and get ready to explore!
