Although open-world games are widely available these days, many of them have a surprisingly similar vibe. Developers often prioritize accessibility, making games easy to pick up but sometimes lacking the depth seasoned players crave. This is where the Most Complex games shine. Titles like those from Kingsgame009 often boast intricate systems, challenging gameplay, and stories that demand your full attention. These Most Complex open-world experiences push the boundaries of what’s possible in the genre, rewarding exploration and mastery with a sense of true accomplishment. They’re a breath of fresh air for players who yearn for something more than just another pretty landscape and a checklist of objectives.
Related:
The beauty of these Most Complex games lies in their complexity. They encourage experimentation, foster a sense of discovery, and ultimately reward players for their dedication. Whether mastering a nuanced combat system, deciphering intricate lore, or navigating a truly unforgiving world, these experiences demand your full attention and offer a unique sense of satisfaction. So, if you’re tired of holding hands and want an open-world game that truly challenges you, look no further than the titles that dare to be different. They’re the Most Complex gems waiting to be unearthed.
PC requirements of these Most Complex games
| Game | CPU | RAM | GPU | Storage |
| Kenshi | 2.0 GHz Dual-Core Processor | 4 GB | GeForce 9600 GT or Radeon HD 4870 | 10 GB |
| Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord | Intel Core i3-2100 or AMD FX-4350 | 8 GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 2GB or AMD Radeon R9 270 2GB | 10 GB |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | Intel CPU Core i5-2500K or AMD Phenom II X4 940 | 8 GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 2GB or AMD Radeon R9 270 2GB | 40 GB |
| Kingdom Come: Deliverance | Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-8320 | 8 GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 760 2GB or AMD Radeon R9 270 2GB | 25 GB |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Intel Core i5-2600K / AMD Ryzen 3 1200 | 8 GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 770 2GB / AMD Radeon R9 280 3GB | 150 GB |
| Elden Ring | Intel Core i5-8400 / AMD Ryzen 3 3300X | 12 GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 3GB / AMD Radeon RX 580 4GB | 60 GB |
| Yakuza: Like a Dragon | Intel Core i5-4460 / AMD Ryzen 3 1200 | 8 GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 760 2GB / AMD Radeon R9 270 2GB | 50 GB |
| Don’t Starve Together | Intel Core i3-2100 / AMD Phenom II X4 940 | 4 GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 550 Ti / AMD Radeon HD 7770 | 1 GB |
Let’s dive into the 8 most complex open-world games that will truly put your skills to the test
Kenshi
| Top Critic Rating | 90/100 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes (Overwhelmingly Positive on Steam) |
| Platform(s) | PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| Released | December 6, 2018 |
| Developer(s) | Lo-Fi Games |
| Publisher(s) | Lo-Fi Games |
Kenshi is arguably the Most Complex Game I’ve ever encountered. This isn’t your typical hand-holding RPG. You’re dumped into a vast, unforgiving world with minimal guidance and expected to survive. Managing your character’s needs, building a squad, and establishing a settlement are just the beginning. The intense, real-time fighting necessitates smart thought and fast reflexes. Although failure is inevitable, you can grow and change due to these setbacks.
Kenshi’s Most Complex Open World truly shines in its lack of a traditional narrative. Instead of a pre-defined quest, you can explore, trade, and carve your own path. This freedom comes at a cost, however. The early game is a brutal grind as you struggle to survive encounters with powerful creatures like Bonedogs. Levelling up and acquiring decent gear is crucial but can be slow and frustrating. Optimizing your approach and learning from your mistakes is the key to overcoming this hurdle.
Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
| Franchise | Mount & Blade |
| Top Critic Rating | Around 77/100 (Metacritic – varies across platforms) |
| Critics Recommend | Generally Favorable (Metacritic) |
| Platform(s) | PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Released | October 25, 2022 |
| Developer(s) | TaleWorlds Entertainment |
| Publisher(s) | TaleWorlds Entertainment |
Mount & Blade: Bannerlord throws you into a vast, Most Complex open-world medieval sandbox where you carve your own destiny. You start as a humble mercenary, but the dream is to build your own kingdom. This isn’t a simple task, however. Bannerlord is a very complex game with a steep learning curve. Mastering the intricate systems of combat, diplomacy, and kingdom management is crucial for success. Understanding how everything interconnects takes time and patience, from training your troops to forging alliances and managing your fiefs.
The journey to becoming a king is incredibly rewarding. The sense of accomplishment you feel when establishing your own dynasty is unmatched. But it’s a long road filled with challenges and setbacks. You’ll encounter cunning rivals, face down ruthless armies, and navigate the treacherous political landscape. Bannerlord demands dedication and a willingness to experiment. But the rewards are Kingdom Come: Deliveranceimmense if you’re willing to put in the effort. This game will stay with you long after you’ve conquered the world.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
| Franchise | The Witcher |
| Top Critic Rating | 93/100 (Metacritic – PC version) |
| Critics Recommend | Overwhelmingly Positive (Across most platforms) |
| Platform(s) | PC, a PlayStation 4 or 5, an Xbox One or Series X/S, or a Nintendo Switch |
| Released | May 19, 2015 |
| Developer(s) | CD Projekt Red |
| Publisher(s) | CD Projekt |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, while perhaps not the most technically demanding game on this list, still delivers an incredibly immersive and rewarding open-world experience. The story is masterfully woven, filled with intriguing characters and morally grey choices with real consequences. Character development is deep and impactful, allowing you to connect with Geralt and the world around him truly. And let’s not forget the combat – it’s a challenging and satisfying blend of swordplay, magic, and monster slaying that will keep you on your toes. If you’re willing to invest the time, The Witcher 3 offers a truly unforgettable adventure.
Related:
Honestly, I can’t recommend The Witcher 3 enough. You’re left thinking about the game long after the credits have rolled. The world feels real, the characters are unforgettable, and the gameplay consistently engages. You gotta try this game, whether you’re a pro or just starting. Seriously, you won’t be sorry.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance
| Franchise | Kingdom Come |
| Top Critic Rating | Around 78/100 (Metacritic – varies across platforms) |
| Critics Recommend | Generally Favorable (Metacritic) |
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and PlayStation 4 |
| Released | February 13, 2018 |
| Developer(s) | Warhorse Studios |
| Publisher(s) | Deep Silver |
If you’re looking for a historically accurate RPG that throws you headfirst into the gritty realities of medieval Bohemia, then Kingdom Come: Deliverance is the game for you. Forget flashy magic and fantastical creatures; this game focuses on realistic combat, where timing and strategy are key. You’ll need to meticulously manage your inventory, craft your own gear, and navigate intricate social interactions that can have long-lasting consequences. It’s a challenging experience that demands patience and attention to detail, but the sense of accomplishment when you overcome an obstacle or master a new skill is incredibly rewarding.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance isn’t for the faint of heart. This challenging game will put your patience and ability to the test. But if you’re willing to embrace the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. The attention to historical detail is remarkable, from the realistic combat mechanics to the intricate social systems. This isn’t just a game; it’s a journey into the past, where your actions have real consequences and every decision matters. So, if you’re ready to step back in time and experience medieval life firsthand, I highly recommend trying Kingdom Come: Deliverance.
Red Dead Redemption 2
| Franchise | Red Dead |
| Top Critic Rating | 97/100 (Metacritic – PlayStation 4) |
| Critics Recommend | Overwhelmingly Positive (Across most platforms) |
| Platform(s) | Xbox – Series X, Series S, and One – PlayStation 4 and 5 – and PC |
| Released | October 26, 2018 |
| Developer(s) | Rockstar Games |
| Publisher(s) | Rockstar Games |
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterpiece that immerses you in its sprawling open world. The world Rockstar created is full of life as if it were actually alive. From the thrill of the hunt and the tranquillity of fishing to the unique bond you forge with your horse and the strategic challenges of managing your gang, there’s an incredible depth of activities to explore. This isn’t just a game; it’s deeper than that.
The story itself is a deeply moving and engaging journey. You’ll be captivated by the intricate plot and the richly developed characters. Red Dead Redemption 2 masterfully blends action, drama, and introspection, leaving you with a profound sense of accomplishment and a lingering emotional impact. It’s a game that stays with you long after the credits roll and deserves its place among the greatest.
Elden Ring
| Franchise | Souls |
| Top Critic Rating | 94/100 (Metacritic – PlayStation 5) |
| Critics Recommend | Overwhelmingly Positive (Across most platforms) |
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, then there’s PC |
| Released | February 25, 2022 |
| Developer(s) | FromSoftware |
| Publisher(s) | Bandai Namco Entertainment |
Elden Ring, FromSoftware’s latest masterpiece, is a challenging and unforgiving action RPG that demands exploration, experimentation, and perseverance. This open-world masterpiece rewards players who are willing to learn from their mistakes, making it one of the most successful games in FromSoftware’s history. The game’s unique blend of challenging combat and open-world exploration allows players to build their own unique character, customizing their playstyle and appearance. This freedom, however, comes with a layer of complexity.
Related:
Players who want to optimize their character builds in Elden Ring need to carefully consider various factors, including stat allocation, equipment choices, and identifying weaknesses. This requires diligent tracking of resources, making wise decisions on how to spend Runes (the game’s primary currency), and ensuring that their chosen build is well-rounded enough to overcome the game’s many challenges.
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
| Franchise | Yakuza (now officially known as “Like a Dragon”) |
| Top Critic Rating | Around 85/100 (Metacritic – varies across platforms) |
| Critics Recommend | Overwhelmingly Positive (Across most platforms) |
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, or PC. |
| Released | January 16, 2020 |
| Developer(s) | Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio |
| Publisher(s) | Sega |
Yakuza: Like a Dragon” might surprise you. While it’s a turn-based RPG at its core, it’s far from your typical JRPG experience. This game boasts a surprisingly deep and vibrant open world, reminiscent of the classic Yakuza games. You’ll lose yourself in the bustling streets of Yokohama, stumbling upon quirky side quests and engaging with the eccentric locals. This unique blend of open-world exploration and turn-based combat sets “Like a Dragon” apart, offering a refreshing take on the RPG genre.
Related:
The combat is a fascinating mix of classic JRPG turn-based strategy and the over-the-top action the Yakuza series is known for. Each character has unique skills and abilities, and the turn-based system allows for strategic party management and devastating combos. Get ready for an amazing ride! You never know what will happen; it will keep you guessing the whole time.
Don’t Starve Together
| Franchise | Don’t Starve |
| Top Critic Rating | Primarily known for its multiplayer focus, less emphasis on traditional critical reviews |
| Critics Recommend | Generally Positive (Based on user reviews and community reception) |
| Platform(s) | PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch |
| Released | April 21, 2016 |
| Developer(s) | Klei Entertainment |
| Publisher(s) | Klei Entertainment |
In ‘Don’t Starve Together,’ you and your friends must fight to survive in a really tough world. You’ll need to work together to gather resources, craft tools, and build shelter, all while facing the ever-present threat of starvation, freezing temperatures, and monstrous creatures. This co-op experience amplifies the challenges of the original “Don’t Starve,” demanding even greater teamwork and resource management.
The unforgiving nature of “Don’t Starve Together” makes it a truly intense and rewarding experience. Wasting precious daylight can have dire consequences, leaving your group vulnerable to terrifying nocturnal creatures. Mastering the game’s intricate systems and optimizing your approach is crucial for survival. This isn’t just about gathering resources; it’s about understanding your environment, anticipating needs, and working together effectively to overcome the constant pressure.
Characteristics of Complex Games
| Characteristic | Description |
| Intricate Systems | Deeply interconnected systems that influence each other (e.g., resource management affecting unit strength, which impacts diplomacy and trade). |
| High Learning Curve | Requires significant time and effort to master due to numerous rules, strategies, and nuances. |
| Emergent Gameplay | Unexpected and unpredictable outcomes arise from player choices and interactions. |
| Depth and Replayability | High replay value due to the vast number of systems and interactions, allowing for diverse strategies and discoveries. |
| Emphasis on Player Choice and Consequence | Decisions have significant and lasting impacts on the game world, both immediate and long-term. |
| Strategic Depth | Requires careful planning and strategic thinking, including anticipating opponents’ moves, managing resources efficiently, and making critical decisions under pressure. |
Game Genres with Complex Characteristics
| Genre | Description |
| Grand Strategy Games | Civilization, Europa Universalis, Crusader Kings |
| 4X Games | Stellaris, Endless Space |
| Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Games | StarCraft, Age of Empires |
Conclusion
In a world of increasingly accessible open-world games, these titles stand out by embracing complexity. They demand your attention, test your skills, and offer a level of depth that can be truly rewarding for seasoned gamers. So, if you’re looking for a challenge and a truly immersive experience, be sure to check out these most complex open-world games.
These are just a few examples of today’s most complex open-world games. These titles push the boundaries of what’s possible in the genre, offering deep gameplay systems, challenging combat, and immersive stories that will keep you engaged for hours on end.
FAQs: Most Complex Open World Games
- What defines “complexity” in open-world games?
Complexity can stem from intricate systems like deep RPG mechanics, dynamic AI, vast interconnected worlds, player choice with significant consequences, and intricate crafting or social systems. - Which games are generally considered the most complex?
Titles often cited include “Elden Ring,” “Red Dead Redemption 2,” “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt,” “Grand Theft Auto V,” and “Horizon Forbidden West.” - How does complexity impact gameplay?
Complexity can increase immersion, challenge, and replayability by offering deeper player agency and emergent storytelling. However, it can also increase difficulty and learning curve. - Are complex open-world games for everyone?
No, they cater to players who enjoy intricate systems, deep lore, and significant challenges. Casual gamers may find them overwhelming. - What are the benefits of complex open-world games?
They offer unparalleled freedom, replayability, and a sense of accomplishment. Mastering them can be deeply rewarding for those who invest the time to do so.
Author
