The expansive, explorable worlds of open-world games have captured our attention. However, plenty remains to be discovered in the oceans that frequently encircle these worlds. These aquatic areas provide a distinctive and exhilarating gaming experience, full of hidden hazards, terrifying monsters, and perilous storms. Let’s explore the realm of ocean-based gaming, which takes place in both the open sea’s tranquil beauty and the abyss’s terrible depths.
Whether sailing the high seas in a pirate ship or exploring the alien depths of an underwater world, ocean-based gaming offers a diverse range of experiences. From naval combat to survival, the open seas present challenges and opportunities. Some games, like Subnautica, immerse players in a breathtaking underwater world, while others, such as Raft, challenge players to survive on a raft in the middle of the ocean.
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As technology advances, we expect to see even more innovative and immersive ocean-based gaming experiences. With advancements in graphics and game design, the future of ocean gaming looks bright. So, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice diver, an ocean of games awaits exploration.
Subnautica: Below the Surface
| Developer | Unknown Worlds Entertainment |
| Release Date | December 2014 (Early Access), January 2018 (Full Release) |
| Platform | Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch |
| Genre | Survival, Adventure |
| Top Critic Rating | 86/100 |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
Subnautica, a pioneering oceanic survival game, thrust players into a breathtaking yet perilous underwater world. In this alien ocean, beauty and danger intertwine, creating an immersive experience that has captivated millions. When you crash-land on the planet’s surface, you’re plunged into a watery expanse teeming with both benign and deadly life.
The game’s open-world design allows you to explore the depths at your own pace, but beware of the lurking threats. The colossal Reaper Leviathan, a creature of nightmares, prowls the deep, ready to devour the unwary. Other dangers, such as the elusive Ghost Leviathan and the aggressive Warper, add to the suspense. As you venture deeper, you’ll uncover ancient ruins, discover rare resources, and face heart-pounding encounters with the ocean’s most fearsome inhabitants. Subnautica masterfully blends exploration, survival, and horror, creating a truly unforgettable gaming experience.
Raft: A Thrilling Oceanic Adventure
| Developer | Redbeet Interactive |
| Release Date | June 20, 2022 |
| Platform | Microsoft Windows |
| Genre | Survival, Sandbox |
| Top Critic Rating | 80 |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
Raft is a distinctive survival game that has won over a lot of players. In this game, you are stuck on a little raft in the middle of the big ocean with your friends. You must cooperate to gather materials, make tools, and extend your raft to survive. However, the ocean is not a tranquil location. Sea monsters like enormous squids and sharks wait beneath the waves, poised to strike.
The constant threat of these creatures and the challenges of maintaining your raft and finding food and water make for a thrilling and often chaotic experience. The game’s emphasis on teamwork and problem-solving adds to the fun. Whether you’re fending off a shark attack, building a new section of your raft, or simply trying to stay afloat, Raft offers a truly unique and unforgettable gaming experience.
Sea of Thieves: A Pirate’s Life is a Dangerous One
| Developer | Rare |
| Release Date | March 20, 2018 |
| Platform | Xbox One, Windows 10, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Steam |
| Genre | Action-adventure, Open-world |
| Top Critic Rating | 81/100 |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
Sea of Thieves is a thrilling pirate adventure where danger lurks around every corner. You’re confronted with many natural and supernatural threats from setting sail. A stray cannonball can sink your ship, a Kraken can emerge from the depths to wreak havoc, and treacherous storms can capsize your vessel. Even the seemingly calm seas can hide deadly dangers like sharks and sirens.
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You’ll need a skilled crew to watch your back to survive in this perilous world. Whether it’s fending off rival pirates, battling skeletons, or navigating treacherous waters, teamwork is essential. So, gather your friends, hoist the sails, and embark on an unforgettable adventure. But remember, the sea is unforgiving, and the cost of carelessness is high.
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
| Developer | Ubisoft Montreal |
| Release Date | October 29, 2013 |
| Platform | PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii U, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows PC, Nintendo Switch, Google Stadia |
| Genre | Action-adventure |
| Top Critic Rating | 91/100 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag takes us back to the Golden Age of Piracy, where we become Captain Edward Kenway, a fearsome pirate. This game is a unique departure from the traditional stealth-focused Assassin’s Creed formula, offering an expansive open world across the Caribbean Sea. The heart of this adventure lies in the Jackdaw, your pirate ship, which you can upgrade and customize.
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The open ocean is dangerous, filled with shipwrecks, hidden treasures, and rival pirates. You’ll need to navigate treacherous waters, dodge storms, and outsmart your enemies. While the game doesn’t focus heavily on underwater exploration like Subnautica, there are still plenty of aquatic threats, from sharks to the legendary Kraken. The ocean is always exciting and dangerous, whether battling enemy ships or hunting for treasure.
No Man’s Sky: A Vast Oceanic Universe
| Developer | Hello Games |
| Release Date | August 9, 2016 |
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, macOS |
| Game Genre | Action-Adventure, Survival, Open World |
| Top Critic Rating | 80 (GameCritics) |
| Critics Recommend? | Yes |
No Man’s Sky is a breathtaking open-world game that invites players to explore a limitless universe. This procedurally generated masterpiece offers a diverse range of celestial bodies, many of which boast stunning oceans. While some aquatic environments are serene and peaceful, others are dangerous. From colossal creatures like the Reaper Leviathan to treacherous storms and underwater currents, these oceans can be as beautiful as they are deadly.
The allure of oceanic exploration in games is undeniable. Titles like Subnautica and Raft have captivated players with their immersive underwater worlds. The concept of survival in hostile aquatic environments, as seen in these games, resonates with many. Games like No Man’s Sky and Disco Elysium offer glimpses into the mysterious depths, whether it’s the eerie fish market or the colossal leviathans lurking below. So, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, the ocean of games offers something for everyone.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
| Developer | Nintendo |
| Release Date | March 3, 2017 |
| Platform | Nintendo Switch, Wii U |
| Game Genre | Action-adventure, open-world |
| Top Critic Rating | 97/100 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
The Great Sea in Breath of the Wild is a breathtaking expanse of water that stretches as far as the eye can see. Its serene beauty, however, belies the dangers lurking beneath its surface. Strong currents can sweep unsuspecting travellers away, and sudden thunderstorms can turn the once-peaceful waters into a tempestuous maelstrom. But the most terrifying threats are the monstrous sea creatures that call this vast ocean home. From the elusive and powerful Guardians to the fearsome Lynels, these creatures are a constant reminder of the dangers that await those who venture too far into the deep.
The Great Sea is just one example of the many captivating and terrifying aquatic environments found in video games. From the mysterious depths of Subnautica to the pirate-infested waters of Sea of Thieves, these games have brought the ocean to life in stunning detail. Whether exploring the sunken ruins of a lost civilization or battling colossal sea monsters, these games offer a wide range of experiences that satisfy any gamer’s thirst for adventure.
RDR2: A Wild West Adventure
| Developer | Rockstar Games |
| Release Date | October 26, 2018 |
| Platform | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows, Stadia |
| Game Genre | Action-adventure |
| Top Critic Rating | 97/100 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend? | Yes |
Red Dead Redemption 2 isn’t just a sprawling Western landscape; it’s a world that extends to the vast, open waters surrounding the map. While the ocean might not be as perilous as other aquatic gaming experiences, it still poses unique challenges. The serene beauty of the sea can quickly turn into a dangerous storm, making navigation treacherous and survival a top priority. So, the next time you’re exploring the world of Red Dead Redemption 2, remember to respect the power of the ocean.
Disco Elysium: A Detective’s Mind
| Developer | ZA/UM |
| Release Date | October 15, 2019 |
| Platform | PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| Game Genre | Role-playing video game |
| Top Critic Rating | 94/100 (Metacritic) |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
Disco Elysium, while not a traditional open-world game, offers a unique and immersive open world in the form of the city of Revachol. One of its most intriguing districts is the Fish Market, a gritty and dangerous coastal neighbourhood. This seedy underworld teems with criminals, addicts, and other unsavoury characters, making it a perilous place for the game’s protagonist, a detective with a troubled past. The Fish Market’s dark and oppressive atmosphere and its intricate web of secrets and dangers create a truly unforgettable gaming experience.
The allure of the ocean has long captivated gamers, inspiring countless titles that transport players to underwater worlds filled with wonder and danger. From the serene beauty of Subnautica to the terrifying depths of the Leviathan-infested waters of the Dead Space series, the ocean has served as a rich source of inspiration for game developers. Whether exploring sunken ships like the Jackdaw in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag or battling sea monsters in games like Raft Wars: Boat Battles, the ocean remains a popular setting for gaming adventures.
Minecraft: A Blocky Ocean
| Developer | Mojang Studios |
| Release Date | 18 November 2011 |
| Platform | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Xbox 360, Raspberry Pi, Windows Phone, PlayStation 3, Fire OS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation Vita, Wii U, Apple TV, tvOS, Nintendo Switch, New Nintendo 3DS, ChromeOS, PlayStation 5 |
| Game Genre | Sandbox, Survival |
| Top Critic Rating | 93 |
| Critics Recommend | Yes |
While Minecraft’s oceans may not rival the vast, detailed underwater worlds of games like Subnautica, they certainly shouldn’t be underestimated. Beneath the serene surface lurks various dangers that can quickly turn a peaceful fishing trip into a deadly encounter. Guardians and Elder Guardians, formidable aquatic creatures, patrol the depths, ready to unleash powerful attacks on unsuspecting players. These ancient guardians can decimate even the most well-prepared adventurer with piercing laser beams. So, whether you’re exploring the ocean’s depths for treasure or simply trying to cross a vast body of water, it’s essential to be cautious and prepared.
The ocean has always fascinated people because of its varied ecosystems and enigmatic depths. To provide players the opportunity to explore underwater worlds full of wonder and peril, game makers have long tried to replicate this allure. Games have brought these aquatic settings to life, from the Great Barrier Reef’s tranquil beauty to the Mariana Trench’s terrible depths. The ocean provides a distinctive and engaging gaming experience, whether the excitement of facing off against enormous marine monsters like the Reaper Leviathan or the serene exploration of coral reefs.
Death Stranding: A Haunting Journey
| Developer | Kojima Productions |
| Release Date | November 8, 2019 (PlayStation 4), July 14, 2020 (PC) |
| Platform | PlayStation 4, PC |
| Game Genre | Action, Adventure |
| Top Critic Rating | 82/100 |
| Critics Recommend? | Yes (Generally Favorable) |
While Death Stranding is primarily a land-based adventure, its open-world extends to vast, treacherous oceans. Though not the central focus, these aquatic expanses add a layer of danger and intrigue to the game. Navigating these waters, especially during stormy weather or the dark hours of night, can be perilous. The ocean’s unpredictable nature and potential threats make it a significant challenge for players who dare to venture into its depths.
The ocean in Death Stranding is a fascinating blend of beauty and peril. It’s a place where players can encounter stunning underwater vistas, mysterious creatures, and hidden secrets. However, it’s also dangerous, with powerful currents, deadly storms, and formidable sea creatures lurking beneath the surface. The ocean’s unpredictable nature and the potential for disaster create a sense of tension and excitement, making it a memorable aspect of the game.
Open-World Games with Perilous Waters
| Game Title | Primary Peril | Unique Feature |
| Subnautica | Underwater creatures, environmental hazards | Alien ocean exploration, crafting, survival |
| Raft | Ocean storms, hunger, thirst | Raft building, resource gathering, survival |
| Sea of Thieves | Pirate attacks, storms, mythical creatures | Naval combat, treasure hunting, multiplayer |
| Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag | Pirate attacks, storms, sharks | Naval combat, exploration, historical setting |
| No Man’s Sky | Alien creatures, environmental hazards, space pirates | Procedural generation, space exploration, trading |
| The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | Storms, monsters, environmental hazards | Open-world exploration, puzzle-solving, combat |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Storms, wildlife, human threats | Wild West setting, detailed world, story-driven |
| Disco Elysium | Urban dangers, mental illness | Unique detective story, role-playing, character development |
| Minecraft | Underwater creatures, environmental hazards | Creative building, exploration, survival |
| Death Stranding | Environmental hazards, supernatural threats | Unique delivery gameplay, post-apocalyptic setting, story-driven |
Conclusion
These ten games showcase the diverse ways open-world games can utilize the ocean as a setting. Whether it’s a terrifying alien planet, a pirate’s paradise, or a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the sea can add a new level of danger and excitement to any game. So, the next time you’re looking for a thrilling gaming experience, consider diving into one of these open-world games and exploring their perilous waters.
FAQs
1. What makes these waters so perilous?
The waters in these games are often filled with dangerous creatures, strong currents, and hidden dangers. Players must be cautious and prepared to face challenges.
2. Are there any specific games that stand out for their underwater exploration?
Games like “Subnautica” and “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” are particularly renowned for their immersive underwater experiences. These games offer unique ecosystems, challenging puzzles, and breathtakingly beautiful underwater vistas.
3. Can you recommend some games for players afraid of water?
While these games feature perilous waters, they also offer a range of gameplay experiences. Players uncomfortable with underwater exploration can focus on other aspects of the game, such as land-based quests or combat. Additionally, many games allow players to skip or avoid underwater sections altogether.
4. How do I prepare for underwater exploration in these games?
Before diving into the depths, gathering necessary equipment like oxygen tanks and diving suits is essential. Players should also know the potential dangers and be ready to adapt to changing conditions.
5. Are there any tips for surviving underwater encounters?
Staying calm and focused is crucial. Players should observe the behaviour of underwater creatures and plan their movements accordingly. Using stealth and quick reflexes can help avoid dangerous confrontations.
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