Nothing can act quite like a time sink as open world games. Regardless of the map size, it’s a common enough occurrence that hours go by in the blink of an eye. From engaging in intense fights to exploring the map for rare loot, there are innumerable ways to lose track of time in these titles.
As the holiday season approaches, you may be looking forward to kicking back and investing some well-deserved time off in an open world game. But the question that comes up is “Which one?” Our list should give you a good start!
9. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
One of the best open world games to release for the previous generation, CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt set a new standard for what gamers expected from open-world games. The story missions alone will take a lot of your time, and there are many more side requests to take on for unique rewards.
The two DLCs – Hearts of Stone, and Blood and Wine – add even more content to this already massive game, with the latter introducing an entire new region to the map! If you’re a fan of high fantasy, then The Witcher 3 should definitely be on your open-world games list.
8. No Man’s Sky
When it first launched, No Man’s Sky failed to live up to the lofty ambitions hyped up by developer Hello Games. However, thanks to consistent updates, the title now has fulfilled many of the promises first made when it was revealed.
The procedurally generated worlds allow the player to explore an infinite universe, with something new in every location. Hello Games regularly adds updates to the title as well, and it’s one of those games that’s handy to keep installed for a quick jaunt through space.
7. Red Dead Redemption 2
Second only to Grand Theft Auto, Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of Rockstar’s most impressive entries in the open world games category. The prequel-sequel takes everything that made the first Red Dead Redemption great and adds to it in a masterful way.
Exploring the Wild West as Arthur Morgan is a unique and beautiful experience, as you will come across the oddest encounters in the most stunning locations. With a strong storyline, this game has become many gamers’ best open-world experience to date.
6. Elden Ring
FromSoftware’s first attempt at an open world game is also the studio’s most accessible franchise for those unfamiliar with their game. Elden Ring quickly became one of the best releases of 2022, beating out even God of War, and with good reason.
Hidetaka Miyazaki has crafted a beautiful and vast world, one whose secrets can only be discovered through exploration. The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC adds an entirely new region to the game, guaranteeing you’ll be busy for a long time!
5. Just Cause 4
Looking to cause some mayhem and not worry about the consequences? Avalanche’s Just Cause 4 may be exactly what you’re looking for! It may not have a deep story or super memorable characters, but what it does have is a lot of stuff to blow up in a variety of ways.
Rico’s growing arsenal of gadgets and weapons can be used for a singular purpose, which can provide hours of entertainment. The wingsuit and grappling hook combo also make for a very satisfying movement system that is easy to pick up but very difficult to master.
4. Subnautica
If you weren’t thalassophobic before, this open world game might change that. Set on a planet that is almost entirely a vast and deep ocean, Subnautica requires the player to understand the events leading to their crash landing on this planet.
The game’s survival component can be a great change of pace, as you will have to manage not only hunger and thirst but also oxygen. The many mods available for this game will really up the ante of the scares you will experience once you jump into the deep end.
3. Ghost of Tsushima
The sequel may have been announced, but you’d be surprised by how well Ghost of Tsushima holds up to this day. Sucker Punch’s love letter to Akira Kurosawa’s samurai epics blended fun combat, a compelling story, and a beautiful open world that resulted in an unforgettable experience.
Taking up the sword as Jin Sakai, you will slowly earn your title as the Ghost of Tsushima as you push back against the invading Mongols. This open world game allows you to choose how you wish to face your enemies, even though it requires you to break the samurai code of honor.
2. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Warhorse’s immersive RPG title Kingdom Come: Deliverance might not be every gamer’s cup of tea, but it does nail the medieval setting perfectly. The game has a steep learning curve, but sticking with it can be rewarding if you’re looking for a no-frills experience.
The open world is massive and beautiful and can feel very real as there are no elements of fantasy in this game. Without magic and elves to throw you off, you can get into the boots of your character as you prevail against the endless challenges thrown your way.
1. The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom
The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom retains everything that made the first game a hit and adds even more content to make it one of the most memorable open world games in the market. The world is not as bleak as it was in the previous title, but there is still a lot that needs to be done.
Nintendo introduced several new tools and gadgets for players to use to solve puzzles, take down enemies, and explore this massive open world. Combining items can result in some unique results, and the game encourages players to experiment to their heart’s content.
For more Thumb Wars Gaming coverage, why not check out our incredibly detailed God of War timeline, or if film is more your jam, check out the next big production that proves musicals are here to stay!
