When we think about video games, especially the expansive ones, a common thought that comes to mind is the sheer size of their maps and the freedom they offer. Modern best open world games of all time often prioritize filling their environments with numerous activities, aiming to provide an unparalleled sense of exploration. While this approach can undoubtedly lead to incredibly immersive open-world games of all time, a delicate balance must be struck. Sometimes, the pursuit of a massive map can inadvertently overshadow the importance of telling a genuinely compelling story, leaving players wanting more than just scale.
Thankfully, this isn’t always the case, and the gaming landscape has evolved significantly. Today, many gamers expect their adventures to be not only fun to play but also to deliver narratives that rival the depth and complexity of top-tier TV shows and movies. Of course, what constitutes a “good” story is often subjective. Therefore, the selection and ranking of the titles featured in this exploration of the best open-world games of all time have been primarily guided by their widespread reputation and the critical reception they garnered upon release. So, let’s dive into some of the most memorable and beloved open-world experiences that have graced our screens.
The Quest for Narrative Depth in Expansive Worlds
Some contemporary open-world experiences can indeed feel somewhat lacking in narrative depth, focusing more on the sheer volume of content than on a cohesive, impactful story. However, the top open-world games manage to weave intricate plots and engaging characters into their vast landscapes, proving that size and story can indeed coexist harmoniously. Many passionate discussions, from casual chats to extensive threads on “best open world games of all time Reddit,” often highlight games that master this delicate balance. These are the titles that transcend mere gameplay to leave a lasting impression, becoming legendary open-world games in the process.
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For those seeking the ultimate freedom on their gaming rigs, considering the best open-world PC games of all time often yields a list of esteemed titles that are similar. The appeal of these games lies in their ability to offer unparalleled player agency within richly detailed worlds. Whether you’re seeking the thrills of combat, the satisfaction of exploration, or the emotional resonance of a well-crafted narrative, the following selections represent the pinnacle of what the open-world genre has to offer. They are, without a doubt, must-play open-world games for any enthusiast.
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
| Title | Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain |
| Genre | Action-Adventure, Stealth |
| Systems | PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows |
| Release Date | September 1, 2015 |
| Available On | PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Steam |
| Where to Play | PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC |
| ESRB Rating | M for Mature (Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Language) |
| Developer(s) | Kojima Productions |
| Publisher(s) | Konami |
| Engine | Fox Engine |
| Platforms | PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~45 Hours Completionist: ~160+ Hours |
Metal Gear Solid 5 truly stands out among the best open world story games for its ambitious narrative and intricate gameplay mechanics. It plunges players into a sprawling espionage adventure with a compelling plot filled with gripping twists and unforgettable characters. The sheer freedom in approaching missions, combined with the deep tactical options, makes every encounter feel fresh and dynamic within its expansive, war-torn landscapes.
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Despite its undeniable strengths in delivering an immersive experience and exceptional gameplay, Metal Gear Solid 5 does face a common critique: it notably lacks a proper, conclusive ending. This absence can leave players feeling a sense of incompleteness, despite the numerous hours of engaging content. Nonetheless, its innovative mechanics and profound narrative elements secure its place among the top open-world games that have pushed the genre’s boundaries.
Ghost of Tsushima
| Title | Ghost of Tsushima |
| Genre | Action-adventure, Stealth |
| Systems | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC |
| Release Date | July 17, 2020 (PS4), August 20, 2021 (Director’s Cut), May 16, 2024 (PC) |
| Available On | PlayStation Store, Steam, Epic Games Store |
| Where to Play | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC |
| ESRB Rating | M (Mature 17+) – Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Language |
| Developer(s) | Sucker Punch Productions |
| Publisher(s) | Sony Interactive Entertainment |
| Engine | Proprietary engine by Sucker Punch |
| Platforms | PS4, PS5, PC |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~25 hours Completionist: ~50-60 hours |
Ghost of Tsushima offers a breathtakingly beautiful and emotionally resonant journey through feudal Japan, easily earning its spot among the best open-world games. The game masterfully explores profound themes of sacrifice, honor, and moral ambiguity as players embody a samurai forced to abandon his traditions for the sake of his homeland. Its stunning visuals and deeply satisfying combat system make every moment in this world a pleasure to experience.
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While the main narrative is powerful, some of the side tasks in Ghost of Tsushima can occasionally feel like distractions from the urgent, overarching plot. However, this minor point doesn’t detract from the overall brilliance of the game, which expertly balances expansive exploration with a deeply personal story. It’s a testament to how an open world can enhance, rather than diminish, a powerful narrative, making it one of the most popular open-world games and a truly legendary open-world game.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
| Title | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt |
| Genre | Action Role-Playing |
| Systems | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, PC |
| Release Date | May 19, 2015 |
| Available On | Physical and Digital Stores (PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Steam, GOG, etc.) |
| Where to Play | PC, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X |
| ESRB Rating | M for Mature (Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Use of Alcohol) |
| Developer(s) | CD Projekt Red |
| Publisher(s) | CD Projekt |
| Engine | REDengine 3 |
| Platforms | Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~50 hours Main + Extras: ~100 hours Completionist: ~170 hours |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is widely considered one of the best open-world RPGs and a strong contender for the best open-world games of all time. Its sprawling, morally grey world of the Northern Realms is brought to life with incredible detail, filled with intricate quests, fascinating characters, and a narrative that masterfully intertwines personal stories with grand, world-altering events. Geralt of Rivia’s journey is not just about monster hunting; it’s a deep exploration of choice and consequence.
Beyond the captivating main storyline, the game’s world feels truly alive, populated by diverse cultures, political intrigues, and countless hidden secrets. Whether you’re exploring the bustling city of Novigrad, the windswept Skellige Isles, or the war-torn lands of Velen, there’s always something new to discover. The sheer depth of content and the emotional resonance of its storytelling make The Witcher 3 a genuinely remarkable and must-play open-world game.
Red Dead Redemption 2
| Title | Red Dead Redemption 2 |
| Genre | Action-Adventure, Open World |
| Systems | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Stadia |
| Release Date | October 26, 2018 (Console), November 5, 2019 (PC) |
| Available On | PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Steam, Epic Games Store |
| Where to Play | PS4, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X/S (via backward compatibility) |
| ESRB Rating | M for Mature (17+) |
| Developer(s) | Rockstar Studios |
| Publisher(s) | Rockstar Games |
| Engine | Rockstar Advanced Game Engine (RAGE) |
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Stadia |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~50 hours Completionist: ~175 hours |
Rockstar Games once again set a new benchmark for the genre with Red Dead Redemption 2, a title frequently cited as one of the best open world games for its unparalleled realism and narrative ambition. This sprawling Western epic invites players into a meticulously crafted world in the dying days of the American frontier. The attention to detail, from the ecosystems to the nuanced character interactions, creates an incredibly believable and immersive experience.
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The story of Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang is a poignant tale of loyalty, survival, and the harsh realities of a changing world. Every character feels fully realized, and the emotional weight of their journey is palpable. While its pacing can be deliberate, the sheer depth of its world and its storytelling prowess make Red Dead Redemption 2 an undeniably legendary open-world game that continues to captivate players.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
| Title | The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim |
| Genre | Action Role-Playing, Open World |
| Systems | PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| Release Date | November 11, 2011 (Original), October 28, 2016 (Special Edition), November 11, 2021 (Anniversary Edition) |
| Available On | Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Nintendo eShop |
| Where to Play | PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| ESRB Rating | M (Mature 17+) – Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Use of Alcohol |
| Developer(s) | Bethesda Game Studios |
| Publisher(s) | Bethesda Softworks |
| Engine | Creation Engine |
| Platforms | Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~33 hours Main + Extras: ~100 hours Completionist: ~230+ hours |
Often revered as one of the quintessential open world games, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim plunged players into a vast, Nordic-inspired fantasy realm teeming with dragons, ancient lore, and endless adventure. Its iconic open-ended design allows players unparalleled freedom to forge their path, whether they choose to follow the main quest as the Dragonborn, delve into ancient ruins, or explore the breathtaking landscapes.
The enduring popularity of Skyrim stems from its incredible sense of discovery and the vast volume of content. From joining various factions to mastering different schools of magic and combat, the game offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Even years after its initial release, Skyrim remains a beloved title, a testament to its compelling world-building and the countless hours of enjoyment it provides, making it a cornerstone of any open-world games list.
Grand Theft Auto V
| Title | Grand Theft Auto V |
| Genre | Action-adventure, Open-world |
| Systems | PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | September 17, 2013 (initial release) |
| Available On | PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Steam, Epic Games Store, Rockstar Games Launcher |
| Where to Play | PlayStation, Xbox, and PC platforms |
| ESRB Rating | M (Mature 17+) – Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Mature Humor, Nudity, Strong Language, Strong Sexual Content, Use of Drugs and Alcohol |
| Developer(s) | Rockstar North |
| Publisher(s) | Rockstar Games |
| Engine | RAGE (Rockstar Advanced Game Engine) |
| Platforms | PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft Windows |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~31 hours; Main + Extra: ~51 hours; Completionist: ~83 hours |
When discussing the best sandbox games, Grand Theft Auto V inevitably enters the conversation, offering a satirical yet incredibly detailed rendition of Los Santos and Blaine County. The ability to switch between three distinct protagonists provides unique perspectives on a compelling, intertwined narrative of crime, ambition, and consequence. The sheer freedom and variety of activities within its bustling urban and rural environments are astounding.
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Beyond the main story, GTA V provides an unmatched playground for chaos and creativity. From high-octane heists to mundane daily activities, the game’s world reacts dynamically to player actions. Its robust online component, GTA Online, further extended its longevity, allowing players to create their adventures within this vibrant world, solidifying its position among the most popular open-world games of all time.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
| Title | The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild |
| Genre | Action-Adventure, Open World |
| Systems | Nintendo Switch, Wii U |
| Release Date | March 3, 2017 |
| Available On | Nintendo eShop, Physical Cartridge (Nintendo Switch, Wii U) |
| Where to Play | Nintendo Switch, Wii U |
| ESRB Rating | E10+ (Everyone 10 and up) – Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes |
| Developer(s) | Nintendo EPD |
| Publisher(s) | Nintendo |
| Engine | Proprietary Nintendo Engine |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, Wii U |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~50 hours Main + Extras: ~100 hours Completionist: ~190+ hours |
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild redefined the open-world genre with its innovative approach to player freedom and environmental interaction. Hyrule, a ruined kingdom under the shadow of Calamity Ganon, becomes an enormous puzzle box where players are encouraged to experiment and discover solutions in myriad ways. The sense of wonder and genuine exploration is unparalleled, making it a true standout.
This game prioritizes emergent gameplay, allowing players to climb almost any surface, glide across vast distances, and utilize a wide array of tools to overcome challenges. It moved away from traditional waypoint following, instead inviting players to navigate and learn from the world itself, truly. This philosophy, coupled with its charming art style and captivating atmosphere, firmly places Breath of the Wild among the best open world games.
Elden Ring
| Title | Elden Ring |
| Genre | Action RPG, Open World |
| Systems | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| Release Date | February 25, 2022 |
| Available On | Physical & Digital via Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store |
| Where to Play | Steam, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| ESRB Rating | M for Mature (Blood and Gore, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence) |
| Developer(s) | FromSoftware |
| Publisher(s) | Bandai Namco Entertainment |
| Engine | Proprietary FromSoftware Engine |
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC |
| How Long to Beat | Main Story: ~55 hours Completionist: ~130+ hours |
FromSoftware’s Elden Ring seamlessly blends the challenging combat and intricate lore of the Souls series with a truly expansive and interconnected open world, creating a unique and enriching experience. The Lands Between is a mysterious and perilous realm, filled with towering bosses, hidden secrets, and environmental storytelling that encourages players to explore every nook and cranny. It’s an experience that values player discovery above all else.
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What sets Elden Ring apart is how its open-world design enhances its challenging gameplay loop. Players are never forced down a single path, allowing them to explore, level up, and find new equipment if they encounter particularly tough obstacles. This freedom, combined with its rich narrative and unforgettable encounters, makes it a powerful contender for the best open-world game of all time and a definitive title in the realm of open-world games.
Similarities Found in the Best Open World Games
| Feature/Similarity | Description | Example Games That Excel |
| Expansive and Seamless Worlds | Games offer vast, interconnected environments with minimal loading screens, creating a continuous and immersive sense of exploration. Design focuses on perceived scale and varied landscapes rather than just raw size. | The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (seamless traversal), Red Dead Redemption 2 (meticulous detail, vast landscapes), Elden Ring (interconnected, vast areas without significant loading). |
| Player Agency & Non-Linearity | Players have significant freedom to choose their path, tackle objectives in different orders, or simply explore. Gameplay often features emergent situations arising from system interactions, leading to unique experiences. | The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (explore at will, join any faction), Grand Theft Auto V (choose how to approach missions, vast sandbox activities), Elden Ring (explore daunting areas in any order, find unique builds). |
| Rich World-Building & Immersion | Worlds are deeply realized with detailed lore, believable ecosystems, dynamic weather, and day/night cycles influencing gameplay. Environments feel alive, populated by diverse characters and subtle storytelling. | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (deep lore, living world, strong NPC interactions), Ghost of Tsushima (stunning historical accuracy, atmospheric elements), Red Dead Redemption 2 (unparalleled environmental detail, dynamic wildlife, believable character routines). |
| Engaging Content & Rewarding Exploration | Beyond the main story, worlds are packed with meaningful side quests, collectibles, and hidden secrets that feel integrated and contribute to the overall experience, incentivizing off-path adventures. | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (side quests are as rich as main quests), The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (every nook hides a puzzle or secret, environmental storytelling), Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (side ops and base building add depth and reward exploration of open zones). |
| Compelling Narrative & Character Development | Even with freedom, games maintain a strong central plot and memorable characters. Storytelling is often interwoven with exploration, with player choices having tangible impacts on the narrative and character arcs. | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (morally grey choices, strong character relationships), Red Dead Redemption 2 (deep, emotional character arcs, impactful choices), Ghost of Tsushima (personal journey of sacrifice and honor, impactful choices on Jin’s path), Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (complex narrative with deep character motivations, though its ending is debated). |
The Enduring Allure of Vast Digital Frontiers
The journey through these 8 best open-world games of all time reveals a common thread: while the size of the map is often a talking point, it’s the quality of the content within that truly matters. These titles have not only pushed graphical and technical boundaries but have also redefined what interactive storytelling and player agency can achieve. They offer boundless opportunities for exploration, deep narratives, and unforgettable moments that stick with players long after the credits roll.
Whether you’re a veteran gamer or just starting your adventure into expansive virtual worlds, these are the best open-world games that provide incredible experiences. From the detailed landscapes of the wild west to the fantastical realms of high fantasy, and from the gritty streets of a cyberpunk metropolis to the serene beauty of feudal Japan, each of these games offers a unique and compelling reason to dive in. They are, without a doubt, the must-play open-world games that have set the standard for the genre and continue to inspire both developers and players alike.
FAQs: The Best Open-World Games
Q1: What defines a “good story” in an open-world game, according to the blog post?
A1: The blog post suggests that a good story in an open-world game rivals the depth and complexity of TV shows and movies. It emphasizes compelling narratives with gripping twists and well-developed characters that remain engaging even within vast, explorable environments.
Q2: Does map size always equate to a better open-world game experience?
A2: Not necessarily. The post highlights that while modern open-world games often focus on large maps, an overemphasis on size without a compelling story can detract from immersion. The best games strike a balance between expansive worlds and rich narratives, offering meaningful content.
Q3: Why are games like Metal Gear Solid V and Ghost of Tsushima highlighted despite their noted flaws?
A3: They are featured because, despite minor critiques (like MGSV’s ending or Ghost of Tsushima’s side tasks), their strengths in narrative depth, compelling characters, innovative gameplay, and immersive world-building secured their high reputation and critical acclaim upon release.
Q4: Are the listed games compatible with all gaming platforms?
A4: While the article mentions “open world games for PC,” “open world games for PS5,” and “open world games for Xbox,” it’s essential to check the specific platform availability for each game, as not all titles are on every system. However, the selections generally represent highly acclaimed titles across major platforms.
Q5: What is the main takeaway regarding the balance between story and exploration in open-world games?
A5: The main takeaway is that the most phenomenal open-world games successfully blend expansive exploration with deeply engaging narratives. They prove that a massive, free-roaming environment can enhance, rather than detract from, a well-crafted and impactful story, making the overall experience truly memorable.
Author
Sardar Khurram is the guy behind the King’s Game. He’s super into video games and writes about them every Day. He tells you what he thinks of new games, how they work, and what’s good and evil. He also discusses developments in the gaming world. This individual is passionate about games and wants to share his thoughts with you! Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
