Best 4 Open World Games of all Time

Open World Games That Deserve a place forever in our Steam Deck.

Open world games have become the darling of the gaming industry, combining freedom, exploration, and a sprinkle of chaos into irresistible, sprawling digital landscapes. If you’ve never spent 20 hours getting sidetracked by side quests in an open world RPG while your main objective gathers dust, have you even lived? These masterpieces of map design are here to make you feel like an unstoppable conqueror one minute and a clueless wanderer the next. But hey, that’s the charm.

When done right, open-world games don’t just give you a map to explore; they give you a playground where stories unfold, adventures beckon, and sometimes, glitches turn into accidental comedy gold. Whether you’re hunting dragons, dodging bullets, or simply running errands for NPCs who clearly don’t appreciate your genius, there’s no denying the allure of these expansive games.

But which ones truly stand out? Let’s take a closer look at some of the best open-world games out there, because not all “open worlds” are created equal. Some are vast, vibrant masterpieces; others are…well, we’re looking at you, buggy releases.

What Makes a Great Open World Game?

Not all open world games are built the same (looking at you, repetitive fetch quest infested duds). The best ones combine a rich, engaging world with gameplay that keeps drawing you back. Here’s what separates the legends from the glorified sandboxes:

Freedom of Exploration A truly great open world lets you wander off the beaten path without punishment. Skyrim might seduce you with its main quest (“Dragons, bro!”) but ends up stealing your soul with hours lost crafting potions or buying questionable real estate in Whiterun.

Immersive Storytelling: Open World or Not, the Story Still Matters. Titles like The Witcher 3 practically force-feed you lore while you gallop through lush countrysides. But credit where it’s due; it’s some darn good lore.

Dynamic Gameplay Mechanics

Great open-world games balance freedom with a gameplay loop that doesn’t make you question your life choices. Whether you’re scaling skyscrapers in Spider-Man or stealth-hunting robotic T-rexes in Horizon Zero Dawn, you feel like a badass without constantly relying on cutscenes.

The Must-Plays of Open Worlds

Now, if you’re new to open world games (welcome to the addiction), or just looking for something new to sink hours into, these gems never fail to impress.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 

Nintendo threw out decades of franchise-approved formulas and gave us Breath of the Wild. The result? A gorgeous sandbox where you’re as likely to accidentally set yourself on fire as you are to discover a hidden shrine. Sure, weapon durability makes you question the strength of Hyrulean blacksmiths, but scaling mountains and paragliding through its world makes up for it.

2. Red Dead Redemption 2 

This isn’t just a game; it’s a virtual cowboy lifestyle. RDR2’s world is alive in ways most games can only dream about. The level of detail in its environments is so absurd that you’ll spend hours just fishing while existential cowboy thoughts swirl in your head. Worth it.

3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt 

Geralt of Rivia isn’t just grumpy; he’s got three continents to save, countless quests to complete, and a horse that can apparently teleport onto roofs (Roach, you never fail us). The depth in The Witcher 3 makes other games feel like shallow puddles. Plus, Gwent? That’s a whole sport within the game.

4. Elden Ring 

FromSoftware said, “Open world? Say less.” And Elden Ring was born. With an absolutely massive map, punishing difficulty, and stunning landscapes, this game redefined what “open world” could mean in tandem with relentless challenge. If you love gorgeous environments and also enjoy getting destroyed by random bosses, this one’s for you.

Why Open World Games Keep Players Hooked

At their core, open world games excel because they give players ownership over their experience. Want to roleplay as a lone ranger in a post-apocalyptic wasteland? Cue Fallout 4. Prefer to conquer entire empires with sound strategy (or brute force)? Fire up Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. Open world games are about possibilities, and those possibilities are endless.

But you’ve gotta be careful, friends. One minute you’re “just checking out the new area,” the next it’s 3 a.m., you’re Googling “best Rathalos armor sets,” and existential guilt is creeping in because your laundry still isn’t folded. It’s a slippery slope.

How to Find the Open World Game for You

Choosing an open world game is a bit like deciding what food to order when you’re hangry. Do you want the narrative density of pasta (The Witcher 3) or the chill vibes of a sushi platter (Stardew Valley)? Either way, there’s an open world title that’s bound to suit your gaming taste. 

To get started:

• Ask yourself what vibe you’re after. High-stakes, action-packed combat? Go for Horizon Zero Dawn. Something slower and peaceful? Animal Crossing hits different.
• Read reviews…but not too many. Trust your gut and make sure bugs don’t ruin the experience (Cyberpunk 2077, post-2020 patch, is fair game now).
• Don’t sleep on Indies. Gems like Outer Wilds and Subnautica prove you don’t need six million gigabytes to craft immersive, compelling worlds.

Final Thoughts on Open World Games

Open world games have come a long way from their pixelated ancestors. Whether it’s the atmospheric perfection of Skyrim or the chaotic joy riding of GTA V, they’re more than just games; they’re memories in the making.

Whatever your gaming preferences, remember this advice: save your files often, and maybe take a break to stretch your legs (seriously).

And if you’re a true open-world enthusiast, what’s your favorite title? Share it—we might just agree with your impeccable taste.