Open-world games have come a long way, haven’t they? From sprawling landscapes filled with hidden treasures to dynamic NPCs reacting to your every move, these games are all about immersion.
Whether you want to roam the wild frontier, explore futuristic cities, or survive a zombie apocalypse, open-world games let you carve your own path. But with so many out there, which ones stand out the most?
Many of the best open-world experiences can be found on Steam, but are also available across multiple platforms, including PlayStation and Xbox. Let’s break down the 15 best open-world games that have redefined the genre, offering unforgettable experiences, breathtaking visuals, and endless hours of gameplay.
1. Red Dead Redemption 2
Few games have captured the feeling of a living, breathing world quite like Red Dead Redemption 2.
Set in the dying days of the Wild West, Rockstar’s masterpiece delivers stunning landscapes, deeply emotional storytelling, and an overwhelming sense of immersion. Every action you take affects how the world sees you, whether you choose to be a noble outlaw or a ruthless gunslinger.
The details are staggering—you can watch Arthur Morgan’s beard grow, clean your guns to maintain performance, and even gain weight based on how much you eat.
Towns feel alive, with NPCs remembering your past actions, greeting you accordingly, or even running from you if you’ve terrorized the place. The hunting and fishing mechanics are more detailed than entire games, making even simple activities feel rewarding.
Random encounters on the road make every journey unpredictable, whether you stumble upon a snake-bitten traveler or a gang of outlaws looking to rob you. The main story is unforgettable, filled with moments of triumph, heartbreak, and powerful character arcs.
And when you’re done with the story, the world still has plenty to offer, from treasure hunts to bounty hunting and even tracking down legendary animals. It’s a game that doesn’t just let you explore—it makes you feel like you belong in its world.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
If any game has set the gold standard for RPG storytelling in an open world, it’s The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Geralt of Rivia’s final adventure takes you across war-torn lands, haunting swamps, and bustling cities filled with quests that feel more engaging than the main stories of most other games.
Every decision you make has consequences, sometimes subtle and sometimes world-changing, making every choice feel meaningful. Combat is fast-paced and fluid, allowing you to use magic, swordplay, and alchemy to take down monsters and human enemies alike.
The game’s expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, are as good as full-fledged games on their own, adding even more depth and content. One of the most beloved parts of the game is Gwent, a card game that became so popular it spun off into its own standalone version.
Exploration feels rewarding, as even the smallest side quests often turn into multi-layered stories filled with intrigue, horror, or humor. The world itself is stunning, filled with dynamic weather and breathtaking sunsets that make you want to just stop and admire the scenery.
Unlike many games where side content feels like filler, The Witcher 3 makes every moment count. It’s a game that sticks with you long after you finish it, and it remains one of the most celebrated RPGs of all time.
3. Elden Ring
FromSoftware took their legendary Soulsborne formula and injected it into an open-world setting with Elden Ring, and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Unlike many open-world games that hold your hand, Elden Ring throws you into the vast world of the Lands Between with little direction, forcing you to explore and discover at your own pace.
Every hilltop, cave, or ruin hides something—an enemy that will destroy you in seconds, an incredible piece of lore, or a secret weapon that changes how you play. The combat remains brutally difficult but fair, rewarding careful strategy, precise dodging, and mastery of weapons and spells.
The world is hauntingly beautiful, filled with eerie ruins, towering castles, and breathtaking landscapes that feel ancient and full of mystery. Boss fights are some of the most intense and cinematic in any open-world game, from monstrous dragons to spectral knights who test every ounce of your skill.
Unlike most games with traditional waypoints, Elden Ring encourages pure exploration, rewarding you for following your curiosity rather than a blinking map marker. Its lore, written by George R.R. Martin, adds layers of myth and mystery to the world, making every interaction feel rich with history.
The game’s cooperative multiplayer allows for both jolly cooperation and merciless PvP invasions, keeping the experience unpredictable. If you’re looking for an open-world game that respects your intelligence and challenges your patience, Elden Ring is an unforgettable experience.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Nintendo somehow managed to improve upon Breath of the Wild with Tears of the Kingdom, expanding its open-world mechanics in jaw-dropping ways. The addition of Ultrahand and Fuse lets players manipulate objects and craft unique contraptions, giving unprecedented freedom in solving puzzles and navigating Hyrule.
Unlike traditional sequels that simply add new areas, this game introduces floating sky islands and deep underground caverns, vastly increasing the scale of exploration.
The physics-driven gameplay allows for wild creativity, whether you’re building bridges, launching makeshift rockets, or setting up hilarious chain reactions with explosives. The story takes a more cinematic turn, reintroducing fan-favorite characters and delivering some of the most emotional moments in Zelda history. Every shrine, side quest, and Korok puzzle feels handcrafted, rewarding those who stray from the beaten path.
Combat is fluid and strategic, with the ability to fuse weapons to create devastating (or downright absurd) combinations. The sheer number of secrets in this game is staggering—whether it’s hidden dungeons, unexpected NPC encounters, or mysterious floating structures.
The music beautifully adapts to your actions, subtly shifting tones as you traverse different environments. Simply put, Tears of the Kingdom isn’t just a sequel—it’s an evolution of everything that made Breath of the Wild legendary.
5. Cyberpunk 2077
After a disastrous launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has made one of the biggest comebacks in gaming history. With updates, patches, and the Phantom Liberty expansion, Night City is now the cybernetic dystopia we all dreamed of exploring. The city itself is a visual masterpiece, packed with neon lights, bustling crowds, and hidden alleyways filled with secrets.
Unlike many open-world games, where NPCs feel lifeless, Cyberpunk 2077 makes every character feel unique, with distinct personalities and stories. The choice-based gameplay ensures that no two players experience the same narrative, with some decisions drastically changing the course of the game.
Customization is deep, allowing you to fine-tune V’s cybernetic enhancements, combat abilities, and hacking skills.
Combat is fast and brutal, with a mix of gunplay, melee weapons, and hacking that lets you approach fights in various ways. Driving through the city at night, with the rain glistening on the streets and electronic music blasting, is pure immersion.
The game’s side quests rival its main story in depth, often leading to emotional, shocking, or hilarious moments. Despite its rough launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has proven that with time and dedication, even the most broken games can be polished into something remarkable.
6. Grand Theft Auto V
GTA V remains one of the most played and celebrated open-world games over a decade after its release, and for good reason. The city of Los Santos is packed with life, ranging from high-speed chases in the hills to shady business deals in the downtown area.
The game’s three-protagonist structure is a masterstroke, letting players switch between Michael, Franklin, and Trevor, each with their own unique perspectives and missions.
The sheer variety of activities is mind-blowing—you can rob banks, play golf, race supercars, or just people-watch while chaos unfolds around you. Rockstar’s attention to detail makes every street, store, and random encounter feel like part of a living world. The story is filled with unforgettable moments, blending satire, action, and character-driven drama in a way only GTA can.
GTA Online has kept the game alive for years, introducing heists, new vehicles, and an ever-expanding world of possibilities. Even after finishing the main campaign, players can spend hundreds of hours simply messing around and causing mayhem.
From cinematic shootouts to the most ridiculous stunts imaginable, GTA V lets you create your own chaos. It remains an open-world juggernaut that will be hard to top until GTA VI finally arrives.
7. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
It’s been over a decade, and people are still playing Skyrim—that alone speaks volumes. Bethesda’s fantasy RPG is the definition of freedom, letting players become whoever they want in an expansive, lore-rich world.
The game’s massive map is filled with hidden caves, ancient ruins, and sprawling cities, all packed with stories waiting to be uncovered. Dragons swooping down mid-travel add an element of unpredictability, turning even a casual walk into a life-or-death battle.
The guilds and factions—like the Thieves Guild, Dark Brotherhood, and College of Winterhold—offer entire questlines that feel as deep as the main story. Mod support has kept the game alive, with players introducing everything from graphical overhauls to full-fledged expansions.
Every player’s journey is different, whether they focus on magic, swordplay, archery, or even just stealing cheese from every house. The ability to shape the world—becoming a hero, a villain, or something in between—makes every playthrough fresh.
The music, especially the epic Dragonborn theme, is iconic, adding to the game’s immersive atmosphere. No matter how many times you restart Skyrim, there’s always something new to discover.
8. Days Gone
At first glance, Days Gone might seem like just another zombie survival game, but it offers so much more. Set in a beautifully rendered post-apocalyptic Oregon, the game features vast forests, abandoned towns, and long stretches of open road.
You play as Deacon St. John, a drifter and bounty hunter with a tragic past, trying to survive in a world overrun by Freakers (the game’s version of zombies).
The dynamic weather and day-night cycle play a huge role in survival, as Freakers become far more aggressive at night. The motorbike is your lifeline, requiring fuel and repairs, adding an extra layer of immersion to the experience.
Combat is intense, with a mix of stealth, melee, and gunplay, forcing players to think strategically when dealing with massive hordes. The world is filled with hidden stories, whether it’s the remains of a failed camp, a tragic audio log, or the heartbreaking tale of a survivor.
While it launched with some technical issues, post-release updates have turned Days Gone into a polished, underrated gem. The story, which focuses on themes of loss, brotherhood, and hope, surprises players with its emotional depth. If you enjoy open-world survival with an engaging narrative, Days Gone deserves your attention.
9. Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima is the ultimate samurai experience, blending breathtaking landscapes with fluid combat and rich storytelling. Set during the Mongol invasion of Japan, you step into the role of Jin Sakai, a warrior torn between the code of honor and the necessity of using unconventional tactics.
The island of Tsushima is one of the most visually stunning open worlds ever created, featuring rolling fields, dense bamboo forests, and picturesque temples. The combat system is one of the best in any open-world game, offering deep swordplay mechanics that make every duel feel cinematic.
The wind itself guides you to objectives, removing the need for a cluttered UI and making exploration feel organic. The side quests, particularly the mythic tales, offer some of the most rewarding experiences, often leading to legendary armor and abilities.
Stealth gameplay is well-executed, allowing players to embrace the ghostly path of silent assassinations or go full samurai with honorable duels.
The Director’s Cut introduces the Iki Island expansion, adding even more depth and personal stakes to Jin’s journey. The game also features a co-op multiplayer mode, Legends, which adds even more replay value. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a true samurai, Ghost of Tsushima delivers in every way.
10. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed franchise has evolved over the years, and Valhalla takes the series to new heights with its massive Viking setting. You play as Eivor, a Norse warrior leading their clan to settle in England, engaging in brutal raids and forging alliances. The world is vast and richly detailed, covering England’s four major kingdoms and even parts of Norway.
Combat is more visceral than ever, allowing players to dual-wield weapons, unleash powerful finishers, and partake in large-scale battles. The settlement-building system adds a layer of progression, making every decision feel impactful as you grow your Viking village.
Exploration is rewarding, whether you’re uncovering ancient Roman ruins, solving environmental puzzles, or encountering legendary foes from Norse mythology.
The game’s narrative offers multiple choices, shaping Eivor’s journey in ways that lead to different endings. The sheer amount of side content—from flyting (Viking rap battles) to hunting legendary animals—ensures you’ll never run out of things to do.
The Dawn of Ragnarök expansion further expands the mythological aspects, letting players wield god-like powers. If you love history mixed with action-packed gameplay, Valhalla is a must-play.
11. No Man’s Sky
Few games have had a redemption arc as incredible as No Man’s Sky. What launched as a disappointing, barebones experience has evolved into one of the best space exploration games ever made. The game features a procedurally generated universe with billions of planets, each one unique in terms of terrain, wildlife, and resources.
Players can seamlessly travel from planet to planet, mining, crafting, and building bases to survive in harsh alien environments. The game now features deep multiplayer integration, allowing players to explore, build, and even engage in massive space battles together.
Base-building has become one of the most rewarding aspects, allowing for the creation of elaborate settlements across multiple planets. Fleet management lets players command their own starships, sending them on missions to earn valuable resources.
The game’s frequent updates have added features like mechs, underwater exploration, and improved AI interactions.
No Man’s Sky is no longer about just surviving—it’s about thriving and discovering the unknown. Every planet holds the potential for new discoveries, from towering alien monoliths to aggressive sentinel drones guarding hidden secrets. If you ever dreamed of a limitless space adventure, No Man’s Sky delivers in ways once thought impossible.
12. Sea of Thieves
Ever wanted to live the pirate life? Sea of Thieves is the ultimate pirate adventure, letting you and your crew sail the high seas in search of treasure, glory, and chaotic fun. The game is fully multiplayer-driven, meaning every ship you see on the horizon is another crew of real players.
Whether you choose to be a ruthless raider or a peaceful trader, every voyage feels like a unique adventure. Combat is skill-based, with sword fights and naval battles requiring strategy and coordination.
The world is filled with secrets, from cursed ships and hidden caves to legendary sea monsters like the Kraken and Megalodon. The dynamic weather and ocean physics make sailing feel incredibly immersive, with storms capable of tearing ships apart.
Regular content updates have expanded the world, introducing new factions, story-driven voyages, and collaborations like Pirates of the Caribbean. Player freedom is at the core of the experience—you can form alliances, betray other players, or simply sail off into the sunset.
Customization is extensive, allowing you to deck out your ship, character, and even your pet monkey or parrot. Whether you play solo or with friends, Sea of Thieves is an ever-evolving sandbox that makes every session unpredictable and fun.
13. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
If you’re looking for a truly immersive medieval experience, Kingdom Come: Deliverance is as realistic as it gets. Unlike most open-world RPGs, there’s no magic, no dragons—just historical accuracy and brutal medieval combat. You play as Henry, a blacksmith’s son caught up in a civil war, forced to grow from a nobody into a capable warrior.
The world is stunningly detailed, featuring 15th-century Bohemia recreated with impressive historical accuracy. Combat is physics-based and unforgiving, requiring careful timing, positioning, and stamina management to survive battles. Unlike traditional RPGs, skills improve through practice, meaning your swordplay, archery, or even reading abilities develop naturally over time.
The game’s commitment to realism extends to its survival mechanics—food spoils, armor gets dirty, and sleeping in proper beds improves your condition.
Quests are complex, often requiring players to use diplomacy, stealth, or brute force to succeed. The lack of traditional waypoints encourages organic exploration, rewarding players who pay attention to NPC conversations and environmental clues.
If you want a game where choices truly matter and medieval life feels authentic, Kingdom Come: Deliverance is a must-play.
14. Fallout 4
Bethesda’s Fallout 4 drops you into a post-apocalyptic Boston, where survival depends on your choices, crafting skills, and combat prowess. Unlike previous Fallout games, this entry introduces voiced protagonists, adding a new layer of personality to interactions.
The Commonwealth is a massive, irradiated wasteland filled with mutant creatures, raider gangs, and hidden vaults containing dark secrets.
One of the game’s standout features is the settlement-building system, allowing players to create and manage their own communities. Combat is faster and more refined than its predecessors, with a mix of real-time shooting and the strategic V.A.T.S. targeting system.
The story centers around your search for your missing son, but like all great open-world games, side quests often steal the show. Factions like the Brotherhood of Steel, the Minutemen, and the Institute offer drastically different paths for shaping the future of the wasteland.
Weapons and armor are highly customizable, letting players modify their gear for different playstyles.
Random encounters keep the world feeling dynamic, from massive mutant behemoths appearing out of nowhere to mysterious strangers offering cryptic advice. Whether you want to be a hero, a villain, or just a wandering scavenger, Fallout 4 gives you endless ways to experience the apocalypse.
15. Horizon Forbidden West
Building on the success of Horizon Zero Dawn, Forbidden West expands Aloy’s journey into an even more breathtaking open world. The post-apocalyptic setting, where nature has reclaimed the ruins of a fallen civilization, is visually stunning.
New biomes, from lush jungles to deep ocean floors, add variety to exploration and combat. The robotic creatures that roam the world are more diverse and dangerous than ever, requiring different tactics to defeat. The game’s expanded traversal system lets Aloy climb more freely, glide through the air, and even dive underwater to discover hidden ruins.
Side quests have been massively improved, featuring deep, engaging stories that feel just as important as the main plot.
The new skill tree system allows for more customization, letting players tailor Aloy’s abilities to suit their playstyle. Combat is more fluid, with enhanced melee attacks and new elemental weapon options. The story continues to unravel the mysteries of the old world, delivering jaw-dropping twists and emotional character moments.
Horizon Forbidden West takes everything great about its predecessor and elevates it, making it one of the best open-world games of this generation.
Final Thoughts
Open-world games offer more than just big maps—they provide players with freedom, immersion, and stories that unfold naturally. Whether you prefer exploring a cyberpunk dystopia, a medieval kingdom, or a vast ocean, these 15 games offer some of the most unforgettable experiences in gaming. What’s your favorite open-world game? Let us know which ones you’ve played and which ones you’re adding to your must-play list!
