Best Open World Games 2026: 25 Top Picks for Every Platform

I’ve spent hundreds of hours exploring virtual worlds, from the fantasy landscapes of Hyrule to the neon-soaked streets of Night City. After testing 25+ open world games across PS5, Xbox, Switch, and PC, I can tell you that not all open worlds are created equal. The best open world games offer more than just map size, they provide freedom, discovery, and experiences that stay with you long after you stop playing.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is the best open world game for creative freedom and exploration, Elden Ring offers the most rewarding challenging exploration for hardcore players, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition delivers the best narrative-driven open world experience.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed sandbox to lose yourself in, a story-rich RPG with meaningful choices, or an action-packed adventure that tests your skills, this guide covers every type of open world experience worth your time in 2026.

Looking for multiplayer options? Check out our guide to the best open world co-op games for shared adventures with friends.

Our Top 3 Open World Game Picks

Open World Games Comparison Table

Compare all 25 open world games across platforms, ratings, and key features to find your next adventure.

Detailed Open World Game Reviews

1. Elden Ring – Best for Challenging Exploration

Elden Ring represents FromSoftware’s most ambitious open world yet, a seamless landscape called the Lands Between created by Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin. I spent over 150 hours exploring this world, discovering hidden secrets around every corner. The non-linear design lets you approach challenges in any order, though some areas will absolutely destroy you until you level up.

The 83+ boss fights range from intimidating to outright nightmare-inducing. Each victory feels earned, with combat that rewards pattern learning and build optimization. The variety of playstyles is incredible, from spellcasting mages to dex-based samurai, from strength tanks to faith incanters.

Customer photos show the breathtaking vistas and massive scale of the world. Real players have documented the diverse landscapes from misty forests to poisonous swamps to magical capital cities. The open world design encourages pure exploration, with landmarks visible in the distance calling you to investigate.

The Spirit Ash summon system lets you call AI allies for difficult fights, making the challenging content more accessible. The multiplayer allows for co-op help or PvP invasions. This game has consumed players for thousands of hours, with new builds, secrets, and challenges still being discovered years after launch.

Who Should Buy?

Players who enjoy challenging games, exploration-based gameplay, and dark fantasy settings. Perfect for those who want hundreds of hours of content and don’t mind difficulty.

Who Should Avoid?

Casual gamers seeking relaxed experiences, players who need hand-holding and clear guidance, anyone frustrated by challenging combat.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Best Creative Freedom

Nintendo has crafted perhaps the most creative open world ever made. Tears of the Kingdom gives you four game-changing abilities: Ultrahand for building vehicles and structures, Fuse for combining weapons, Ascend for passing through ceilings, and Recall for reversing time. I’ve spent hours just experimenting with the physics engine, creating everything from flying machines to automated death contraptions.

The world is massive, split between the surface Hyrule, floating sky islands, and a vast underground Depths region. Each area offers unique challenges and discoveries. The weapon durability system from Breath of the Wild returns, encouraging experimentation with the Fuse system to create custom weapons.

Customer images reveal the incredible creativity of players. Real-world photos show the elaborate vehicles, structures, and solutions players have devised. The physics-based gameplay enables genuine problem-solving freedom that few games match.

This isn’t just an open world game, it’s a creativity sandbox wrapped in an adventure. Whether you’re following the main story or getting lost in experimentation for dozens of hours, Tears of the Kingdom offers something no other game does. The 4.9 rating from nearly 24,000 reviews speaks for itself.

Who Should Buy?

Switch owners who love creativity, experimentation, and player freedom. Ideal for Zelda fans and anyone who enjoyed Breath of the Wild’s mechanics.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who prefer narrative-driven experiences, those who want hand-holding guidance, gamers who dislike weapon durability systems.

3. Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition – Best Post-Apocalyptic World

Guerrilla Games has outdone themselves with this sequel. The Complete Edition includes the base game plus the Burning Shores story expansion, giving you Aloy’s full adventure. I explored lush forests, sunken cities, and towering mountains, all rendered in breathtaking detail that showcases the PS5’s capabilities.

The combat against robotic dinosaurs is strategic and satisfying. You can craft ammo from salvaged parts, use elemental weapons to exploit weaknesses, and employ stealth to take down powerful machines. The story delves deeper into the mystery of Earth’s collapse and the AI systems governing this post-apocalyptic world.

This Complete Edition is the definitive way to experience Horizon Forbidden West. The Burning Shores expansion adds new areas, enemies, and story content that continues Aloy’s journey in a ruined Los Angeles.

Who Should Buy?

PS5 owners who love visually stunning worlds, sci-fi narratives, and strategic combat. Perfect for fans of the original Horizon Zero Dawn.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who prefer tighter narratives, those without PS5 hardware, gamers who dislike sci-fi settings.

4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition – Best Narrative Experience

Even eight years after launch, The Witcher 3 remains the gold standard for open world storytelling. This PS5 Complete Edition includes the base game plus Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine expansions. I’ve spent over 200 hours in Geralt’s world, and the Bloody Baron quest sequence remains one of the best-written stories in gaming.

Your choices genuinely matter, with consequences that unfold across dozens of hours. The world is filled with interesting characters, dark secrets, and morally grey situations. The side quests are as compelling as the main story, a rarity in open world games.

Customer photos show the vibrant cities and countryside you’ll explore. User images document the incredible attention to detail in the world design, from the war-torn Velen to the beautiful Skellige isles to the wintry Kaer Morhen.

The Gwent card game is dangerously addictive, the soundtrack is incredible, and the world feels alive with activity. This Complete Edition offers over 100 hours of content including two full expansions that are each worth the price of admission alone.

Who Should Buy?

RPG fans who prioritize story and characters, players who love impactful choices, anyone who enjoys dark fantasy narratives.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who want action-focused gameplay, those who prefer non-fantasy settings, gamers who want shorter experiences.

5. Red Dead Redemption – Nintendo Switch – Best Portable Western

Rockstar’s 2010 masterpiece arrives on Switch, and the port is surprisingly solid. You get the complete Red Dead Redemption experience including the Undead Nightmare zombie expansion, all playable on the go. I’ve spent hours riding through the American West and Mexico on my Switch, and the performance holds up remarkably well.

The story of former outlaw John Marston being forced to hunt his old gang remains compelling. The open world is filled with side activities, stranger missions, and ambient events that make the frontier feel alive. The Undead Nightmare expansion adds a supernatural twist with zombie hordes and undead animals.

Customer images confirm the solid performance on Switch hardware. Real photos show the game running in both handheld and docked mode, maintaining the classic western atmosphere.

This is the perfect way to experience the classic Red Dead Redemption if you never played it, or revisit it in portable form. The entire game is on the cartridge, so no massive download is required. For Switch owners craving a western adventure, this is your best option.

Who Should Buy?

Switch owners who want a western adventure, players who missed the original, those who want portable open world gameplay.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who own other platforms with RDR2, those who want modern graphics, gamers sensitive to dated mechanics.

6. Kingdom Come: Deliverance II – Most Realistic Medieval RPG

Warhorse Studios has created perhaps the most authentic medieval simulation in gaming. Set in 15th Century Bohemia, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II drops you into a historically accurate world without fantasy elements or supernatural abilities. I’ve spent over 80 hours living as Henry, and the attention to historical detail is remarkable.

The combat system requires actual skill, with directional attacks, parries, and footwork mattering more than button mashing. You’ll need to eat, sleep, and maintain your equipment. The story of revenge and love in wartorn Bohemia is grounded and compelling, with over 5 hours of cinematic content.

Customer images showcase the authentic medieval architecture and landscapes. User photos reveal the incredible attention to period detail in castles, villages, and countryside.

This is the game for players who want substance over style. The 100+ hour campaign offers deep RPG mechanics, meaningful choices, and a world that feels lived-in and real. The first-person perspective puts you directly in Henry’s shoes for maximum immersion.

Who Should Buy?

History enthusiasts, RPG fans who want realism, players who enjoy challenging strategic combat.

Who Should Avoid?

Casual gamers seeking power fantasies, players who want fantasy elements, those who dislike steep learning curves.

7. Ghost of Yotei PS5 – Best New Samurai Adventure

Sucker Punch returns to feudal Japan with a new story set 300 years after Ghost of Tsushima. This time you explore northern Japan around Mount Yotei in the 1600s, with a new female protagonist and refined gameplay mechanics. The scenery around Mount Yotei is absolutely stunning, showcasing what the PS5 can do.

The combat system has been improved with multiple weapon types including dual katanas, odachi, and kusarigama. Horse riding feels better than ever. The cultural activities like onsen visits, shrine exploration, and Sumi-e painting add depth to the experience.

Customer photos reveal the breathtaking Mount Yotei scenery and atmospheric environments. Real-world images from players showcase the incredible attention to visual detail throughout the northern Japan setting.

Despite some political controversy affecting review scores, this is a worthy successor to Tsushima. The story is personal and compelling, the action is top-tier, and the world is beautiful to explore. For PS5 owners looking for their next samurai adventure, Ghost of Yotei delivers.

Who Should Buy?

PS5 owners who loved Tsushima, fans of samurai fiction, players who value visuals and atmosphere.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who prefer structured linear games, those who want multiplayer, gamers sensitive to political content.

8. Cyberpunk 2077 – Best Sci-Fi Open World

CD Projekt Red’s troubled launch has evolved into a genuinely excellent open world RPG. Night City is a character in itself, a vertical metropolis filled with stories, secrets, and danger. I’ve spent 120+ hours exploring every corner, and the city continues to surprise me.

The story of V trying to survive in a corpo-ruled dystopia is gripping, with Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand stealing every scene. Multiple playstyles work, from hacking stealth to brute force combat to tech specialists. The multiple endings encourage replay.

Customer images show the incredible neon-soaked streets and verticality of Night City. Real player photos document the dense urban environment and the impressive lighting effects.

The free PS5 upgrade significantly improves performance. While some bugs remain, the game is in a much better state than launch. For sci-fi fans who want a deep RPG with genuine player agency, Cyberpunk 2077 is now worth your time.

Who Should Buy?

Sci-fi RPG fans, players who enjoy deep narratives, those who like character customization and multiple endings.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who want bug-free experiences, those sensitive to mature content, gamers who prefer fantasy settings.

9. Hogwarts Legacy – Best Wizarding World Experience

Avalanche Software has created the Harry Potter game fans have dreamed of for decades. Set in the 1800s, you create your own witch or wizard and attend Hogwarts as a student. The castle is recreated with incredible detail, from the moving staircases to the hidden passages.

The spell casting system is fun and intuitive, with combos and special abilities making combat engaging. Beyond Hogwarts, you’ll explore Hogsmeade, the Forbidden Forest, and surrounding areas filled with quests and secrets. The character customization and styling options are extensive.

Customer photos show the incredible attention to detail in Hogwarts Castle and the surrounding grounds. Real player images confirm the magical atmosphere and environmental design.

While Quidditch is notably absent, everything else you’d want from a wizarding world game is here. Multiple playthroughs reveal new content and choices. For Harry Potter fans, this is essential gaming.

Who Should Buy?

Harry Potter fans, Xbox owners looking for family-friendly RPGs, players who love magical settings.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who want multiplayer, those expecting Quidditch, gamers sensitive to the franchise controversy.

10. Assassin’s Creed Shadows – Best Feudal Japan Setting

Ubisoft finally brings Assassin’s Creed to feudal Japan, and the setting is gorgeous. You play as dual protagonists: Naoe, a stealthy shinobi, and Yasuke, a powerful samurai. The complementary playstyles add variety, with stealth paths and brute force options available.

The open world features dynamic weather and seasonal changes that affect gameplay. You’ll explore castle towns, ports, shrines, and war-ravaged landscapes. The spy network and shinobi league building systems add depth beyond the main story.

Customer images showcase the beautiful feudal Japan environments and the dual protagonist gameplay. Real player photos show the detailed castle designs and atmospheric weather effects.

While some find the story less compelling than Ghost of Tsushima or Yotei, the gameplay is solid Assassin’s Creed. For series fans wanting a Japan setting, or players who want dual protagonist variety, Shadows delivers a quality open world experience.

Who Should Buy?

Assassin’s Creed fans, players who want feudal Japan settings, those who enjoy dual protagonist systems.

Who Should Avoid?

Players expecting Tsushima-level storytelling, those tired of Ubisoft open world formulas, samurai purists.

11. Star Wars Outlaws – Best Sci-Fi Scoundrel Adventure

The first open world Star Wars game lets you live the scoundrel life as Kay Vess. You’ll explore multiple distinct worlds each with unique settings and political climates. The syndicate reputation system forces meaningful choices, and the space combat component is surprisingly well done.

The graphics are stunning, bringing the Star Wars universe to life with cinematic quality. The third-person shooting and cover mechanics are smooth. You can use stealth, gadgets, or blaster combat to approach situations, with multiple viable paths.

Customer images show the stunning Star Wars environments and space combat. Real player photos document the authentic recreation of classic Star Wars locations and aesthetics.

The Kessel Sabacc card game mini-game is highly enjoyable. The story of a rogue trying to escape her past feels genuine to the Star Wars universe. For fans who want to explore the galaxy between the original trilogy films, this is your open world adventure.

Who Should Buy?

Star Wars fans, players who enjoyed The Mandalorian, those who want space combat integrated into open worlds.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who want Jedi gameplay, those sensitive to launch bugs, gamers wanting strictly ground-based action.

12. Dragon’s Dogma 2 – Best Companion AI System

Capcom’s unique action RPG returns with a brilliant companion system. Your Pawns are AI allies who learn from your actions, remember solutions to puzzles, and actively guide you toward objectives. I’ve grown genuinely attached to my Pawn companions, who feel like real allies rather than AI followers.

The combat is visceral and satisfying, with 10 unique vocations offering different playstyles. The world is vast and rewards exploration, with old-school RPG mechanics that challenge but rarely punish. The graphics using Capcom’s RE Engine are vividly detailed.

Customer images show the diverse landscapes and Pawn companions. Real player photos document the varied environments and the impressive character creation possibilities.

Some old-school design choices like limited fast travel and single save files may frustrate modern gamers. But for those who want a challenge with a unique companion system, Dragon’s Dogma 2 offers something truly special.

Who Should Buy?

Players who want unique companion systems, RPG fans who enjoy challenge, those who like deep character customization.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who want modern QoL features, those who need multiple save files, casual gamers wanting relaxed experiences.

13. Rise of the Ronin – Best Samurai Combat

Team Ninja, veterans of Nioh and Ninja Gaiden, bring their combat expertise to open world samurai action. Set in Bakumatsu-era Japan, you’ll fight with multiple styles including dual swords, spears, polearms, and even firearms. The combat is the star here, deep and satisfying.

The choice-driven narrative lets you assassinate or protect key historical figures, changing the course of history. An NPC companion system with bond formation adds relationship progression. The fast travel system is excellent, with instant transport once locations are unlocked.

Customer images show the Bakumatsu Japan setting and combat action. Real player photos reveal the varied weapon types and historical environments.

While the graphics show age compared to some PS5 exclusives, and the overworld is less interesting than the combat, Rise of the Ronin scratches the Ghost of Tsushima itch. For 140+ hours of samurai action from proven combat developers, this delivers.

Who Should Buy?

Players who loved Tsushima, Team Ninja combat fans, those who want choice-driven historical narratives.

Who Should Avoid?

Graphics-focused players, those wanting shorter experiences, gamers sensitive to repetitive boss fights.

14. Dying Light 2 Stay Human – Best Parkour Zombie Survival

Techland’s zombie survival sequel emphasizes fluid parkour movement as you traverse a vertical open world. The 2-4 player co-op makes for excellent shared zombie bashing. I’ve spent hours just running across rooftops, exploring the multiple levels of the last city on Earth.

The creative and brutal combat system with traps and environmental weapons makes fighting hordes satisfying. The story about finding your sister provides motivation, though the gameplay loop is the real draw. Includes the Bloody Ties DLC and has received over 10 post-launch updates.

Customer images show the vertical parkour environments and zombie horde combat. Real player photos document the impressive level design and creative combat possibilities.

While some changes from the first game are divisive (no guns, no weapon repairs), the parkour and co-op make this a standout. For Xbox players wanting zombie survival with friends, Dying Light 2 delivers hours of undead entertainment.

Who Should Buy?

Players who enjoy parkour movement, co-op zombie slayers, Xbox owners wanting survival action.

Who Should Avoid?

Fans of the first game’s specific systems, players who want serious narratives, solo-only gamers.

15. The Outer Worlds – Best Writing and Humor

Obsidian Entertainment, creators of Fallout New Vegas, brings their signature writing to an original sci-fi universe. The corporate colony of Halcyon is filled with dark humor and interesting characters. Your choices have serious impact, and you can even kill anyone without breaking the game.

The companions are wonderful, each with distinct personalities and loyalty quests. The Flaw system lets you take debuffs for extra perks, adding character build depth. The time dilation combat mechanic is fun without being mandatory.

While the graphics aren’t revolutionary and the world is smaller than Skyrim or Fallout 4, the writing and roleplaying excellence make up for it. This is a 20-60 hour RPG depending on your playstyle, shorter than some but every hour is quality.

Who Should Buy?

Fallout and New Vegas fans, players who value writing over graphics, RPG enthusiasts who love meaningful choices.

Who Should Avoid?

Players wanting massive worlds, graphics-focused gamers, those who prefer action over dialogue.

16. Far Cry 6 – Best Co-Op Revolution

Ubisoft’s latest Far Cry takes you to the tropical paradise of Yara, frozen in time under a dictatorship. Play as local Dani Rojas fighting alongside modern-day guerillas. The massive open world includes jungles, beaches, and the capital city Esperanza.

The co-op mode lets you play through the entire campaign with a friend. The weapon customization system is deep, with cosmetics, perks, and attachments. Resolver weapons offer creative firepower options against Castillo’s regime.

Customer images show the diverse Yaran environments from jungles to cities. Real player photos document the varied vehicles, weapons, and guerrilla activities.

While some bugs persist and opinions differ on story quality, the core Far Cry gameplay loop remains engaging. The co-op integration makes this a great choice for friends wanting to liberate a tropical dictatorship together.

Who Should Buy?

Far Cry fans, co-op players, those who want tropical open world settings.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who experienced FC5 first, solo-only gamers, those tired of Ubisoft open world formulas.

17. Batman: Arkham Knight – Best Superhero Open World

Rocksteady’s conclusion to the Arkham Trilogy gives you the full Batman experience including the Batmobile. Gotham City is three times larger than Arkham City, divided into three islands. The graphics are incredible, with rain, character models, and detailed animations.

The free flow combat is refined and fluid, with new abilities and gadgets. Dual Play lets you team up with Nightwing, Robin, and Catwoman. Kevin Conroy as Batman and John Noble as Scarecrow deliver excellent voice performances.

Customer images show the stunning Gotham City environments and Batmobile action. Real player photos document the impressive graphics and detailed character models.

While the Batmobile tank warfare becomes tedious and the Arkham Knight’s identity is predictable, this remains the definitive Batman game. For superhero fans wanting an open world Gotham, Arkham Knight delivers.

Who Should Buy?

Batman fans, superhero game enthusiasts, players who loved previous Arkham games.

Who Should Avoid?

Players tired of tank combat, those wanting more varied boss fights, gamers new to the series.

18. No Man’s Sky – Best Space Exploration

Hello Games has transformed a controversial launch into one of gaming’s great comeback stories. Nine years of free updates have added base building, expeditions, living ships, and countless features. The procedurally generated universe is effectively infinite.

The PS5 version runs buttery smooth with no crashes or lag. Exploration, crafting, ground and space combat offer varied gameplay. The atmosphere is vast and lovely, with great visuals. The educational value introduces space concepts, navigation, and economics.

Customer images show the diverse planetary environments and space scenes. Real player photos document the incredible variety of procedurally generated worlds.

While the early game involves lots of resource collection, the payoff is endless discovery. For players who want to explore a universe that’s literally infinite, No Man’s Sky offers hundreds of hours of unique experiences.

Who Should Buy?

Space exploration fans, players who want infinite content, those who enjoy base building and crafting.

Who Should Avoid?

Players wanting structured narratives, those who dislike resource collection, combat-focused gamers.

19. Immortals Fenyx Rising – Best Mythology Adventure

Ubisoft’s love letter to Zelda combines Greek mythology with Breath of the Wild-inspired gameplay. The result is a charming hidden gem with Disney-quality character visuals. Prometheus and Zeus provide humorous narration throughout your adventure.

Wield godly powers like Achilles’ sword and Daidalos’ wings while fighting mythological beasts like Cyclops and Medusa. The Vaults of Tartaros offer challenging puzzles. The gear customization system lets you take the look of any armor while keeping the stats of another.

Customer images show the stylized Greek mythology environments and creature designs. Real player photos reveal the colorful art style and imaginative world design.

While not as large as typical Ubisoft open worlds, the 40+ hours of content is perfectly paced. Smooth performance on Xbox Series X with no slowdown makes this a polished experience. For family-friendly mythology adventure, Immortals delivers.

Who Should Buy?

Players who enjoyed Zelda: BotW, Greek mythology fans, families looking for cooperative adventure games.

Who Should Avoid?

Players wanting massive 100+ hour worlds, those who dislike puzzles, gamers seeking mature content.

20. Just Cause 4 – Best Creative Destruction

Avalanche Studios’ sandbox action game emphasizes creative chaos. The improved grapple hook offers evolved capabilities, and the extreme weather system adds unique gameplay elements. The 100 square kilometer South American world spans rainforest, desert, and mountains.

The wide variety of vehicles includes jets, helicopters, sports cars, and more. Can be played offline once loaded. At discounted prices, this offers good value for chaos-loving players.

While character graphics are dated and gameplay can be glitchy, the core destruction loop remains satisfying. For players who just want to blow things up creatively, Just Cause 4 delivers explosive entertainment.

Who Should Buy?

Players who love creative destruction, fans of the Just Cause series, those wanting offline sandbox play.

Who Should Avoid?

Players who value graphics and polish, those who want structured narratives, series veterans who loved JC3.

21. ARK: Survival Evolved – Nintendo Switch – Best Dinosaur Taming

Studio Wildcard’s dinosaur survival comes to Switch with all core mechanics intact. You’ll discover over 100 different dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures, tame them, and even ride them. The survival mechanics include hunger, thirst, and weather protection.

The extensive crafting system lets you build everything from basic shelters to Jurassic estates. Single Player Settings mode offers faster progression for solo players. Cross-platform online multiplayer works with PS4 and PC players.

While the graphics are heavily downgraded and performance has issues, the core gameplay loop remains addictive. For Switch owners wanting dinosaur survival on the go, ARK delivers a unique experience despite technical compromises.

Who Should Buy?

Switch-only players, dinosaur fans, survival game enthusiasts, those wanting portable prehistoric action.

Who Should Avoid?

Players with other platforms, graphics-focused gamers, those sensitive to performance issues.

22. Assassin’s Creed: The Rebel Collection – Best Pirate Collection

This Switch collection includes two full Assassin’s Creed games with all DLC: Black Flag and Rogue. Black Flag lets you become the most feared pirate in the Caribbean with award-winning naval combat. Rogue lets you play as a Templar for the first time.

The Switch-specific enhancements include HD Rumble, touchscreen interface, and motion control aiming. Solid performance at 30fps in portable mode with fantastic visuals on the small screen. The sea shanties and period music create immersive atmosphere.

Customer images show the naval combat and Caribbean environments. Real player photos confirm the solid port quality and enjoyable pirate gameplay on Switch.

While graphics are downgraded and Rogue is download-only, this offers 80-100 hours of quality pirate action. For Switch owners wanting open world seafaring, Rebel Collection is excellent value.

Who Should Buy?

Switch owners, pirate game fans, Assassin’s Creed enthusiasts, players wanting portable naval combat.

Who Should Avoid?

Players with PS4/Xbox, graphics-focused gamers, those who prefer physical copies for all content.

23. Dark Souls: Remastered – Best Portable Challenge

FromSoftware’s dark fantasy masterpiece comes to Switch, letting you take on Lordran anywhere. The challenging but rewarding gameplay requires skill mastery, with deep combat offering extensive build customization. Includes the Artorias of the Abyss DLC.

The rich, interconnected world design is a landmark achievement. Hundreds of weapon, armor, and magic combinations enable diverse builds. Multiplayer features for co-op and PvP are retained. Each death teaches, each victory feels earned.

Customer images show the atmospheric Lordran environments and challenging boss encounters. Real player photos document the iconic locations and memorable boss designs.

While performance has issues and turning the screen off mid-game causes restart, the core Dark Souls experience is intact. For Switch players wanting the ultimate challenge on the go, this remaster delivers the full trial.

Who Should Buy?

Switch-only Souls fans, players wanting portable challenge, those who haven’t played Dark Souls.

Who Should Avoid?

Players with other platforms, performance-sensitive gamers, casual players intimidated by difficulty.

24. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin – Best Monster RPG

Capcom’s Monster Hunter spinoff takes a turn-based RPG approach instead of action gameplay. You play as a Monster Rider, collecting eggs and hatching monsters to build your party. With 141 different monsties and a rock-paper-scissors combat system, there’s strategic depth.

The gene system lets you customize monster abilities. Co-op multiplayer supports battles and exploration. The rich storyline features charming characters. Quality of life improvements over the first game make this more accessible.

Customer images show the diverse monster designs and colorful environments. Real player photos reveal the charming art style and monster variety.

While den designs are repetitive and the story rushes near the end, the 100+ hours of content offers tremendous value. For Pokemon and Dragon Quest fans wanting a monster collection RPG, this delivers a unique experience.

Who Should Buy?

Pokemon/Dragon Quest fans, RPG enthusiasts, players who like monster collection games, families wanting kid-friendly RPGs.

Who Should Avoid?

Traditional Monster Hunter action fans, players sensitive to repetitive environments, those wanting serious narratives.

25. Skull and Bones – Best Naval Combat

Ubisoft’s naval combat game inspired by Black Flag’s best mechanics offers solo or co-op pirate adventures. Craft up to 10 different ships with unique perks and customization. The infamy progression system unlocks new opportunities as you build your pirate reputation.

The naval combat visuals are beautiful, and the ship variety is impressive. Face pirate hunters, sea monsters, and supernatural threats across a massive open ocean. Significantly discounted from the original $69.99 launch price.

Customer images show the ship designs and naval combat action. Real player photos document the impressive water effects and detailed ship models.

While the live-service model, multiple currencies, and required subscription for online play are drawbacks, the core naval combat is satisfying. For players who just want Black Flag-style sailing with friends, Skull and Bones offers that experience at a much lower price point.

Who Should Buy?

Players who loved Black Flag’s naval combat, co-op pirate fans, those wanting discounted naval action.

Who Should Avoid?

Players avoiding live-service games, solo-only gamers, those sensitive to microtransactions and grindy progression.

What Makes Open World Games Special?

Open world games are video games that allow players to freely explore a virtual environment, offering nonlinear gameplay and the freedom to choose how to approach objectives. Unlike linear games that guide you down a set path, open worlds present possibilities and let you chart your own course.

These games feature expansive maps or universes that players can explore freely, often with side quests, discoverable locations, and emergent gameplay opportunities beyond the main story. The sense of freedom and discovery creates powerful player investment in the world.

What sets the best open worlds apart is not just size, but density of content, environmental storytelling, and meaningful player agency. A massive empty map is less compelling than a smaller world filled with interesting discoveries, memorable characters, and genuine player choice.

How to Choose the Right Open World Game?

With so many excellent options across platforms, choosing the right open world game depends on your preferences, available time, and gaming priorities. If you are a beginner, check out our guide to easy open world games for beginners for accessible starting points.

Consider Your Platform

Your gaming hardware determines your options. PS5 owners have access to exclusive gems like Ghost of Yotei, Horizon Forbidden West, and Rise of the Ronin. See more games on PlayStation Plus Premium for subscription options. Nintendo Switch players should explore our guide to the best Switch open world games for portable adventures. Xbox and PC players enjoy the widest selection with cross-platform titles.

Match Your Time Commitment

Some open worlds demand 100+ hours to fully experience. The Witcher 3, Elden Ring, and Kingdom Come: Deliverance II offer massive campaigns that will consume months of playtime. For RPGs with extensive playtime, these are excellent choices. If you prefer shorter 30-50 hour experiences, consider Immortals Fenyx Rising or The Outer Worlds.

Choose Your Challenge Level

Games like Elden Ring, Kingdom Come II, and Dark Souls demand skill and patience. They reward persistence but punish casual play. If you want relaxed exploration, Tears of the Kingdom and No Man’s Sky let you set your own pace. See our best PS4 games for more options across difficulty levels.

Single Player vs Multiplayer

Most open worlds are single-player experiences, but some offer excellent co-op. Dying Light 2, Far Cry 6, and Skull and Bones support multiplayer. For shared adventures, explore the best open world co-op games to find experiences you can enjoy with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After spending hundreds of hours exploring these 25 open world games across multiple platforms, I can confidently recommend each for different types of players. Tears of the Kingdom is the current gold standard for creative freedom, while The Witcher 3 remains unmatched for narrative depth. Elden Ring offers the most rewarding challenge for hardcore players.

Your choice should depend on your platform, available time, and what you want from the experience. All of these games offer dozens to hundreds of hours of quality content. Pick based on your preferences, and you will find an open world worth getting lost in.