Open world games give you the freedom to explore huge, detailed worlds at your own pace. With no set paths or limits, you can go wherever you want, take on any quest, and discover hidden secrets. Overall, these games let you tackle challenges at your own risk and provide unparalleled experiences. This blog highlights the best open world video games that promise hours of adventure and excitement.
What if the world was your playground?
With open world games, it almost is!
These titles let you wander vast landscapes, discover hidden gems, and live out your wildest fantasies—whether it’s hunting dragons, building empires, or just cruising through a futuristic city.
Open world games let you do it all on your own terms.
There are no rules—just endless possibilities.
But with so many options, how do you choose the best open-world video games?
Well, this blog rounds up the 20 best open world video games that offer not just jaw-dropping environments but also unforgettable adventures and endless exploration.
Open world games offer unparalleled freedom, letting players explore vast landscapes, uncover hidden secrets, and shape their adventures. From battling colossal foes to soaking in stunning vistas, these games are all about discovery and immersion. Here’s a list of open world video games that every fan of exploration and storytelling should experience:
Tchia is a vibrant, open-world adventure game that lets you explore the stunning tropical landscapes inspired by New Caledonia. As Tchia, you’re not just the protagonist—you have the magical ability to soul-jump into animals and objects, transforming into a bird to soar above the islands or a fish to dive into the shimmering seas.
Whether you’re climbing trees, gliding with a leaf parachute, or playing your ukulele to summon magical effects, every moment feels like a playful discovery. Like other open-world games, Tchia allows players to follow their own path. The game has carved a niche for itself in the open-world genre by focusing on creativity, cultural richness, and the sheer joy of exploration, earning it a loyal fanbase and critical recognition.
Release Date: 21 March 2023
Available on: PS4, PS5, PC, Windows, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X/S
Storage: 15 GB (Download Size)
Minecraft is the ultimate open-world sandbox game where your imagination is the only limit. Drop into a vast, blocky world that’s entirely yours to shape, explore, and survive. You can build a towering castle, dig deep into the earth for precious ores, or brave the dangers of the Nether.
With its endless landscapes of forests, deserts, mountains, and oceans, every step is an adventure waiting to happen. By day, gather resources, craft tools, and create anything you can dream of. By night, fend off creepers, skeletons, and zombies in a fight to survive. Whether you’re exploring caverns, farming, or just hanging out with friends in multiplayer, Minecraft transforms the open world into a canvas for creativity and adventure. Every block you place or destroy adds to the story you’re crafting—your world, your rules, your masterpiece.
Release Date: 17 May 2009
Available on: Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5
Storage: 4 GB (Download Size)
Batman: Arkham City is an open-world thrill ride that lets you step into the boots of the Dark Knight and take on Gotham’s most notorious villains in one of the most immersive urban playgrounds ever created. Set in a sprawling, crime-filled city, you’re free to soar through the skies with Batman’s iconic grappling hook and glider, dive into action-packed combat, and explore every dark alley, rooftop, and hidden corner of Arkham City.
Whether you’re sneaking past enemies in stealth mode, throwing down epic fistfights, or solving intricate riddles scattered throughout the city, every moment feels like a scene straight out of a comic book. With a roster of iconic villains like the Joker, Penguin, and Two-Face waiting to challenge your detective skills and combat prowess, the world feels alive and full of danger at every turn. Upon release, Arkham City was showered with awards and recognition in categories like Best Action Game, Best Writing in a Video Game, Adventure Game of the Year, etc. It was hailed as one of the best open world video games ever made in the superhero category.
Release Date: 18 October 2011
Available on: Play Station 3, Windows, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch
Storage: 1.6 GB (Download Size)
Starfield is a cosmic open-world adventure game that lets you boldly go where no game has gone before—across the stars! Set in a massive, open universe filled with hundreds of planets, space stations, and uncharted regions, the game puts you in the pilot’s seat of your very own spaceship.
Whether you’re exploring alien landscapes, mining resources, or hopping between galaxies, the freedom to roam is truly endless. Starfield is heralded as a milestone in open-world gaming, elevating the genre to new heights by blending the vastness of space with the freedom and interactivity players crave.
Release Date: 6th September 2023
Available on: Xbox Series X, PC
Storage: 125 GB
No Man’s Sky is the ultimate open-world game that drops you into an infinite galaxy full of endless possibilities and endless planets to explore. It’s a different world that no one has ever seen before. It has bizarre creatures, surreal landscapes, and mysterious ruins—it’s all yours to discover.
The game is a seamless blend of exploration, survival, and creation. Fly your spaceship across star systems, build bases on alien worlds, or dive into the depths of oceans teeming with alien life. Whether you’re mining resources, engaging in intergalactic dogfights, or deciphering alien languages, the sense of discovery never fades.
Release Date: 9 August 2016
Available on: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC
Storage: 14.1 GB (Download Size)
Genshin Impact is an enchanting open-world adventure where you step into the stunning, anime-inspired realm of Teyvat. You’ll soar through the skies with a glider, scale cliffs for breathtaking views, and dive into lush forests or icy tundras—all while solving puzzles and taking down enemies in dynamic combat.
What makes it special? The elemental system lets you create combos by mixing fire, water, wind, and more for satisfying battles. Also, you can swap between characters with unique abilities, adding depth to every fight. Overall, the vibrant fan base and frequent in-game events create a sense of community, making Genshin Impact more than just a game—it’s a shared adventure.
Release Date: 28 September 2020
Available on: PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, iOS
Storage: 35 GB
Sea of Thieves is an open-world adventure where the vast, uncharted seas are your playground, and the pirate’s life is yours to live! Grab your crew—or brave the waters solo—and set sail on a customizable ship in search of buried treasure, ancient ruins, and epic tales of plunder.
The world is alive with dynamic elements like changing weather, roaming sea monsters, and rival crews looking to steal your loot, making every voyage unpredictable. With no set path, you’re free to chart your course, join factions, and even betray alliances if you’re feeling mischievous. It’s an open world where every pirate story is yours to create—just don’t forget to watch for the Kraken!
Release Date: 20 June 2018
Available on: Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC
Storage: 72.8 GB
Fallout is the ultimate open-world game that has a post-apocalyptic wasteland where every rushed car, abandoned building, and desolate highway tells a story of survival and resilience. Imagine emerging from a Vault into a world destroyed by nuclear war, armed with only your wits, a Pip-Boy, and a sense of adventure.
Whether you’re scavenging for supplies, battling mutated creatures, or forging alliances with factions that shape the future of the wasteland, the choices are all yours. The game thrives on its sense of discovery—one moment you’re uncovering a hidden vault teeming with secrets, and the next, you’re customizing your settlement or deciding the fate of an entire community.
Release Date: 10 November 2015
Available on: Play Station, Xbox, PC
Storage: 30 GB
Dark Souls is an unforgettable journey through a dark, interconnected world of danger, mystery, and triumph. As you explore the haunting landscapes of Lordran, every path feels like a puzzle waiting to be solved, with shortcuts to discover and hidden secrets to uncover. The game’s open-world design lets you decide where to go, but every choice comes with risks—powerful enemies, deadly traps, and epic boss fights that test your skill and patience.
Dark Souls has been celebrated as a masterpiece, earning countless awards and inspiring an entire genre of “Soulslike” games. It’s not just a game; it’s a challenge that leaves you with a sense of accomplishment you’ll never forget.
Release Date: 22 September 2011
Available on: PS4, Switch, Xbox One, PC
Storage: 8 GB
The game drops you into the rugged boots of Eivor, a Viking warrior ready to raid, conquer, and carve their legend across 9th-century England. This open-world adventure is a vast playground of sprawling countryside, bustling towns, and ancient ruins begging to be explored. From sailing your longship down misty rivers to leading epic raids on enemy fortresses, every moment feels like a cinematic saga in the making.
The game has earned high praise for its rich world, compelling story, and ambitious scope. It racked up awards, including multiple “Best Game” nods and recognition for its stunning visuals and innovative gameplay. With millions of players worldwide, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is one of the franchise’s finest entries, inviting you to live out your Viking fantasies in an unforgettable open-world experience.
Release Date: 10 November 2020
Available on: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC
Storage: 50 GB
Far Cry 6 is the ultimate open-world sandbox where chaos reigns supreme, and you’re the one stirring the pot. Whether you’re liberating the enemy outposts, hunting exotic wildlife, or cruising through lush landscapes in a beat-up Jeep, every moment feels like a thrilling adventure waiting to spiral out of control. Each game drops you into a jaw-dropping setting—tropical islands, Himalayan peaks, or the heart of anarchy—and challenges you to survive, explore, and overthrow ruthless villains who steal the show with their unforgettable performances.
Far Cry has earned its place as a fan-favourite series, racking up awards for its open-world design, storytelling, and unforgettable antagonists. From its iconic villains like Vaas and Pagan Min to the sheer freedom it offers players, the franchise consistently raises the bar for immersive, chaotic fun.
Release Date: 7 October 2021
Available on: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC
Storage: 57.6 GB (Download Size)
Horizon Forbidden West’s gameplay is a thrilling mix of strategy and action. You’ll use Aloy’s impressive arsenal—bows, traps, slings, and even overridden machines—to take down massive robots with weak spots that demand precision and planning. Combat isn’t just about firepower; it’s about thinking on your feet, crafting on the fly, and using the environment to your advantage.
Outside of battles, there’s plenty to do: unravelling the rich story, upgrading your gear, building relationships with allies, and mastering new skills to take on even greater challenges. Horizon Forbidden West has been showered with praise for its stunning visuals, compelling narrative, and deep gameplay systems. It’s snagged numerous nominations and awards for best game direction, art direction, and technical achievements.
Release Date: 18 February 2022
Available on: PS4, PS5
Storage: 17 GB (Download Size)
The game swings you straight into the bustling heart of New York City, putting the city in the red-and-blue suit of everyone’s favourite wall-crawler. It is one of the best open world video games as it is all about freedom and finesse, with web-swinging mechanics so smooth they make getting around the city feel like an art form.
Soar between skyscrapers, dive off rooftops, and zip-line to your next heroic mission or side activity—it’s all seamless and ridiculously fun. The city is alive with detail, packed with crimes to stop, landmarks to visit, and backpacks full of Spidey lore to collect. Marvel’s Spider-Man swung straight to the top of the charts, earning widespread acclaim for its gameplay, story, and stunning recreation of New York. Critics and fans alike praised it as one of the best superhero games ever made, and it set the stage for even bigger adventures in its sequel.
Release Date: 7 September 2018
Available on: PS4, PS5
Storage: 75 GB
It’s the ultimate fantasy sandbox, where you are the hero of your own epic story—or maybe just a stealthy cheese thief running from guards. Set in the sprawling, snow-capped province of Skyrim, this open-world RPG game offers endless freedom. Explore towering mountains, ancient rules, and bustling towns as you carve out your destiny.
Whether you’re slaying dragons, shouting enemies off cliffs with powerful shouts, or simply picking flowers for alchemy, every corner of the world is packed with adventure and surprises. With over 30 million copies sold, it’s among the best open world video games that captured the hearts of adventurers worldwide.
Release Date: 11 November 2011
Available on: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Storage: 12 GB
Cyberpunk 2077 is a neon-soaked open-world role-playing game that drops you into the gritty, futuristic streets of Night City—a sprawling metropolis where chrome is king and everyone’s hustling to make it big. As V, a mercenary with a chip on their shoulder and head, you will navigate a world filled with high-tech gadgets, underground conspiracies, and characters as colourful as the city’s towering holograms.
The gameplay invites you to live your cyberpunk fantasy: hack into enemy systems, mod your body, and drive sleek rides through rain-soaked streets. Cyberpunk 2077 has been celebrated for its richly detailed world, compelling narrative, and unforgettable characters, earning awards for Best Role-Playing Game and Best Performance for Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand.
Release Date: December 10, 2020
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X, PC
Storage: 70 GB
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a sprawling open-world epic that lets you live out your Wild West fantasies as Arthur Morgan, an outlaw navigating a world on the brink of change. Set in a stunningly detailed and dynamic rendition of 1899 America, the game gives you the reins to explore snow-capped mountains, dusty prairies, and bustling towns full of life. Whether you’re robbing trains, hunting games, or playing poker in a saloon, every action feels grounded in a world that’s as immersive as it is unpredictable.
The game is a critical and commercial juggernaut, sweeping awards for Best Game Direction, Best Narrative, and Best Art Direction. The game has done record-breaking sales and it has been held as one of the best open world video games ever made. Its unparalleled attention to detail, emotional depth, and open-world realism have set a new standard for the genre.
Release Date: October 26, 2018
Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Storage: 150 GB (Drive Space)
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild reimagines what it means to explore an open world, handing you the reins of adventure in a vast, stunningly crafted version of Hyrule. As Link, you’re free to climb mountains, glide across valleys, and dive headfirst into dungeons at your own pace. There’s no hand-holding here; the game trusts you to experiment, whether it’s setting grass ablaze to create an updraft or using magnetism to fling boulders at enemies.
The physics-based gameplay and dynamic systems make every encounter and puzzle feel like a playground for your creativity. All the while, the haunting beauty of the open world and its reactive weather system keep you immersed in the journey. The game is praised as one of the best open world video games and received universal acclaim for its groundbreaking design.
Release Date: 3 March 2017
Available on: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
Storage: 13.4 GB
Grand Theft Auto V is the ultimate open-world sandbox game that unfolds in the sun-soaked streets of Los Santos. You step into the shoes of three wildly different protagonists—Michael, Franklin, and Trevor—each with their own stories, skills, and quirks. The game seamlessly switches between them, letting you pull off elaborate heists, get tangled in bizarre side missions, or just cruise around the city listening to killer radio tracks.
From skydiving to stock market manipulation, the game gives you unparalleled freedom to live your wildest criminal fantasies—or simply chill at a strip club. Its groundbreaking open-world design, rich storytelling, and endless replayability have set the bar for the genre. Now, fans are enjoying Rockstar’s GTA 6 that’s pushing boundaries even further, helping the game achieve greater success.
Release Date: 17 September 2013
Available on: PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC, Windows
Storage: 72 GB to 94 GB
Elden Ring is a stunning open-world game based on George R.R. Martin. Set in the vast and hauntingly beautiful Lands Between, it invites you into a world where every corner holds secrets, dangers, and rewards. This world doesn’t just stretch wide but also digs deep, filled with towering castles, shadowy caves, and eerie ruins—all whispering promises of treasure and peril.
The magic of the Elden Ring lies in its freedom as you are put into a world that challenges you to chart your own path. You won’t find a glowing arrow leading you to your next quest—nope, the game trusts you to follow the whispers of the wind, the lure of a suspicious ruin, or the glow of a distant tree. Mounted on your loyal spectral steed, Torrent, you can gallop across vast meadows, leap over chasms, and sprint away from colossal foes you may or may not be ready for.
Hailed as a revolution in open-world gaming, Elden Ring collected accolades like runes from defeated foes. It claimed Game of the Year 2022 at The Game Awards, with critics and players praising its seamless blend of exploration, challenge, and storytelling.
Release Date: 25 February 2022
Available on: PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC
Storage : 60 GB
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is the crown jewel of open-world RPGs, a game that grabs you by the sword and drops you into the sprawling, war-torn lands of The Continent. As Geralt of Rivia—the grizzled, silver-haired monster slayer—you’re free to roam a world that feels as alive as it is deadly. It’s a sandbox of gritty medieval beauty, where dense forests whisper secrets, sunlit fields hide bandit ambushes, and coastal towns bustle with stories waiting to be unravelled.
In this game, the world just doesn’t exist; it reacts to you. You’ll make decisions in quests—some big, some seemingly small—that ripple through the game’s events, affecting characters, towns, and even nations. It’s an open world that rewards exploration, whether you’re getting through forgotten ruins for hidden loot or galloping through rain-soaked meadows on your trusty horse, Roach.
The combat is fast tactical and infused with a witcher’s flair, letting you mix swords, alchemy, and magical signs to take down everything from common wolves to terrifying wraiths. It won Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2015, along with dozens of other honors, and is often regarded as one of the top open world video games of all time.
Release Date: 18 May 2015
Available on: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Storage: 16 GB (Download Size)
The best open world video games aren’t just about entertainment—they’re about creating memorable experiences that players want to return to again and again. That’s why investing in open world game development is a chance to tap into this ever-growing demand for expansive, player-driven experiences. If you’re inspired to create the next hit open world video game, now is the time to hire game developers to create your game and make it superhit. Because the possibilities for success are endless!
300Mind is the best game development company that doesn’t just create open-world games but builds worlds that players get lost in. We harness the latest technologies to craft open-world experiences that are as vast as your imagination and as engaging as your vision demands. From lifelike characters powered by advanced AI to breathtaking environments filled with detail, we focus on crafting games that stand out and keep players coming back.
We’re experts at bringing ambitious ideas to life, whether it’s creating seamless gameplay, building dynamic ecosystems, or delivering stories that adapt to player choices. Our team doesn’t only develop open world games; they set the stage for a rich, living world where every corner hides a new discovery, every quest challenges the player, and every character has a story to tell.
Titles like Grand Theft Auto V, Red Dead Redemption 2, Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Fallout 4, No Man’s Sky, etc., are some of the best singleplayer open world games. These games excel at creating unforgettable experiences, where every corner hides a new quest, mystery, more breathtaking sight, all while letting you carve your own path.
Some of the best open world video games for PS4 are The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Red Dead Redemption 2, Horizon Zero Dawn, Marvel’s Spider-Man, etc. These games are perfect for anyone looking for adventure and freedom on PS4.
The best open world video games of all time are The Legend of Zelda: Breath of Wild, Red Dead Redemption 2, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Elden Ring, GTA5, Ghost of Tsushima, Far Cry2, Cyberpunk 2077, etc. These games’ success is timeless as they blend vast, immersive worlds with compelling stories, offering endless freedom and exploration.
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