Military games, with their intense combat and strategic planning, naturally lend themselves to the freedom of open-world environments. Imagine vast, unpredictable landscapes where you can truly experience the chaos and realism of modern warfare. These Best Military Open-World Games offer a unique blend of action and exploration, allowing authentic and spontaneous engagements. While many try to combine these elements, only a select few truly create a memorable and cohesive experience.
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The key lies in seamlessly integrating military action with the open world. It’s about creating a believable and engaging world where every encounter feels meaningful. The best games in this category master this balance, offering a rich and immersive experience beyond shooting and driving. They provide a sense of freedom and exploration while maintaining the core elements of military gameplay – strategy, tactics, and the weight of your decisions.
Ghost Recon Wildlands
| Franchise | Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon |
| Top Critic Rating | 76 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Mixed or Average |
| Platform(s) | Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Stadia |
| Released | March 7, 2017 |
| Developer(s) | Ubisoft Paris, Ubisoft Milan |
| Publisher(s) | Ubisoft |
Ghost Recon Wildlands is a landmark in open-world military shooters. Ubisoft masterfully crafted a breathtakingly detailed and expansive rendition of Bolivia, bringing the drug war to life with gritty realism. You lead an elite special ops team tasked with dismantling a powerful cartel. The game focuses on tactical combat, encouraging smart teamwork and rewarding strategic planning.
Whether stealthily infiltrating an enemy base or engaging in intense firefights, Wildlands offers many combat options, ensuring hours of replayability. And let’s not forget the visuals – the stunning open world is a feast for the eyes, setting a new standard for the Ghost Recon series.
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Wildlands is unique in that it prioritizes player choice. You can approach missions in various ways, from stealthy recon to all-out assault. This encourages experimentation and rewards creative problem-solving.
The game’s world feels incredibly alive, with dynamic events and unpredictable encounters constantly keeping you on your toes. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of tactical shooters or a newcomer to the genre, Wildlands offers an unforgettable and challenging experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Arma 3
| Franchise | Arma |
| Top Critic Rating | 83 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes (83% positive reviews on Metacritic) |
| Platform(s) | Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Released | September 12, 2013 |
| Developer(s) | Bohemia Interactive |
| Publisher(s) | Bohemia Interactive |
Arma 3 is the gold standard when it comes to realistic military simulations. This isn’t your average shooter; it’s a demanding experience and rewarding dedication. Imagine vast, meticulously crafted islands where you can engage in massive battles, conduct stealthy recon missions, or even create your own wargames using powerful modding tools. Arma 3 throws you into the deep end with complex combat mechanics, realistic ballistics, and unforgiving vehicle physics.
It’s a steep learning curve, but the payoff is immense for those willing to invest the time. The sense of immersion is unparalleled, making you feel like a true soldier operating within a believable and dynamic environment.
Whether you’re a lone wolf or part of a coordinated squad, Arma 3 offers incredible freedom and flexibility. You can approach missions strategically, utilizing cover, teamwork, and precise marksmanship. The game’s scale and scope are truly impressive, allowing for epic battles with hundreds of AI soldiers and vehicles.
While the complexity might initially seem daunting, it’s a testament to the game’s commitment to realism. Arma 3 isn’t just a game; it’s a sandbox for military enthusiasts, a platform for creative expression, and a challenging yet rewarding experience that will stay with you long after you’ve logged off.
Far Cry 5
| Franchise | Far Cry |
| Top Critic Rating | 83 |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Stadia |
| Released | March 27, 2018 |
| Developer(s) | Ubisoft Montreal, Ubisoft Toronto |
| Publisher(s) | Ubisoft |
Far Cry 5 isn’t your typical war game, but it definitely packs a punch in military-style combat. You’re thrown into the fictional Hope County, Montana, where a doomsday cult has taken over. The game masterfully blends intense gunfights with stealthy takedowns, keeping you on your toes and never quite sure what to expect.
You’ll find yourself battling through dense forests, navigating treacherous rivers, and even flying in various aircraft. The open world is absolutely stunning, and there’s always something new to discover, from hidden caves to wildlife encounters. It’s a game that immerses you in its world and keeps you returning for more.
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The manner in which Far Cry 5 creates tension is what actually makes it unique. The cult’s unpredictable actions and the constant threat of violence create a truly unsettling atmosphere. You never feel completely safe, adding a layer of realism that is often missing in other games.
Whether you’re a fan of intense action or prefer a more strategic approach, Far Cry 5 offers something for everyone. It’s a game that stays with you long after you’ve put down the controller, and it’s definitely one of the best open-world experiences out there.
Ghost Recon Breakpoint
| Franchise | Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon |
| Top Critic Rating | 59/100 (PC) |
| Critics Recommend | Mixed or Average |
| Platform(s) | PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One, Stadia |
| Released | October 4, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | Ubisoft Paris |
| Publisher(s) | Ubisoft |
Ghost Recon Breakpoint, following in the footsteps of Wildlands, delivers another open-world military experience, though with a grittier and more realistic tone. Set on the fictional island of Aurora, owned by a tech billionaire, the game throws you into a conflict when a rogue Ghost, played by Jon Bernthal, seizes control.
You lead your Ghost Recon team, facing new challenges like a robust gear system and survival mechanics. While initial reception was mixed, Breakpoint still offers a compelling open-world experience with a unique setting and challenging gameplay.
Breakpoint introduces intriguing features like a more robust gear system and a focus on survival mechanics, adding a layer of realism to the gameplay. While criticized for its darker tone and some gameplay changes, the game still boasts an engaging story with a strong antagonist and a surprising crossover with The Terminator in its DLC. If you’re a fan of open-world military shooters and the Ghost Recon series, Breakpoint is definitely worth exploring despite its mixed reception.
The Division 2
| Top Critic Rating | 82 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes (Generally Favorable) |
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PC, Stadia |
| Released | March 15, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | Massive Entertainment |
| Publisher(s) | Ubisoft |
Division 2 throws you into a chaotic Washington D.C. ravaged by a deadly virus. The city is a warzone, and you, as a member of a specialized unit, are tasked with rebuilding society while battling various factions vying for control. This isn’t your typical shooter. It’s a deep RPG with a focus on open-world exploration. You’ll spend hours tweaking your character build, collecting loot, and facing challenging missions. The world itself is dynamic, constantly changing with events and conditions, keeping you on your toes. The gunplay is incredibly satisfying, and exploring the desolate, war-torn capital is a truly immersive experience.
What makes The Division 2 stand out is its focus on realism. The game doesn’t shy away from depicting the grim realities of societal collapse. You’ll witness the impact of the virus firsthand, and the story delves into themes of conspiracy and political intrigue. It’s a gritty, thought-provoking experience that will keep you hooked for hours. If you’re a fan of open-world games, RPGs, and tactical shooters, Division 2 is an absolute must-play. It’s a masterclass in immersive world-building and provides a unique and unforgettable gaming experience.
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
| Franchise | Metal Gear |
| Top Critic Rating | 94 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes (94% positive reviews) |
| Platform(s) | PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC |
| Released | September 1, 2015 |
| Developer(s) | Kojima Productions |
| Publisher(s) | Konami |
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain isn’t your typical open world. It’s more like a vast interconnected playground for espionage and mayhem. You play as Big Boss, building a formidable mercenary army and tackling missions across the globe. The game throws you into a sandbox, encouraging creativity and experimentation.
You can approach each mission in countless ways, whether you’re a ghost in the shadows or a full-on assault. Afghanistan, under Soviet control, becomes your chaotic battleground. After a terrible betrayal, you are a seasoned mercenary named Venom Snake on a mission of vengeance.
True to its Metal Gear roots, The Phantom Pain excels at stealth. It gives you a remarkable amount of freedom within the series, blending exploration, thrilling action, and nail-biting stealth. The story is dark and gripping, and the gameplay is consistently sharp and tactical. It’s a truly unique open-world experience that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the genre.
Battlefield V
| Franchise | Battlefield |
| Top Critic Rating | 81 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Generally Favorable (Metacritic) |
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now |
| Released | November 20, 2018 |
| Developer(s) | DICE |
| Publisher(s) | Electronic Arts |
Fou might know Battlefield V for its intense multiplayer battles, but don’t sleep on its single-player campaign! It’s a collection of standalone “War Stories,” each offering a unique and personal look at World War II. These aren’t linear missions; they often take place in large, open environments. This gives you a real sense of freedom to explore, discover hidden objectives, and really feel like you’re shaping the story. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the typical, tightly scripted war game campaign.
Think of it like this: instead of just following orders, you’re given a mission and the tools to accomplish it your way. Do you want to sneak around? Go for it. Prefer a more direct approach? You have the firepower. This open-ended approach makes each War Story feel fresh and engaging, even if you’ve played through them before. It’s a fantastic way to experience the human cost of war, told through diverse and compelling narratives.
Similarities and PC Requirements of Best Military Open-World Games
| Game Title | Similarities | PC Requirements (General) |
| Ghost Recon Wildlands | Open-world, third-person, military focus, high-quality graphics, modern setting | CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent; GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580; RAM: 8GB; Storage: 40GB+ |
| Arma 3 | Open-world, third-person, military focus, high-quality graphics, modern setting | CPU: High-end; GPU: High-end; RAM: 8GB+; Storage: 40GB+ |
| Far Cry 5 | Open-world, third-person, military elements, high-quality graphics, modern setting | CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent; GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580; RAM: 8GB; Storage: 40GB+ |
| Ghost Recon Breakpoint | Open-world, third-person, military focus, high-quality graphics, modern setting | CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent; GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580; RAM: 8GB; Storage: 40GB+ |
| The Division 2 | Open-world, third-person, military elements, RPG elements, high-quality graphics, modern setting | CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent; GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580; RAM: 8GB; Storage: 40GB+ |
| Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain | Open-world elements, third-person, military focus, high-quality graphics, modern setting | CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent; GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580; RAM: 4GB; Storage: 30GB+ |
| Battlefield V | Open-world elements, first-person, military focus, high-quality graphics, WWII setting | CPU: High-end; GPU: High-end; RAM: 8GB+; Storage: 50GB+ |
Conclusion
These 7 games represent some of the best examples of how to effectively blend military action with open-world exploration. Whether you’re seeking a realistic simulation experience like Arma 3 or a more action-oriented adventure like Ghost Recon Wildlands, there’s something for every type of player in this genre. These games offer a unique blend of tactical combat, immersive storytelling, and breathtaking open worlds, providing countless hours of entertainment for military gaming enthusiasts.
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