In the world of gaming, open-world titles offer more than just entertainment—they deliver freedom, exploration, and unforgettable stories. Whether you’re conquering medieval kingdoms, roaming cyberpunk cities, or surviving post-apocalyptic wastelands, the best open world games let you play your way, on your terms.
Choosing the best open-world experience depends on your platform, genre preferences (RPG, action, survival), and how you enjoy gameplay—whether it’s storytelling, combat, or exploration. This guide covers top open-world games from iconic franchises and studios, including Rockstar, CD Projekt Red, Ubisoft, Guerrilla, and FromSoftware.
| Game Title | Developer | Best For |
| Elden Ring | FromSoftware | Best Overall Open World Experience |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | CD Projekt Red | Best Story-Driven Open World |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | Rockstar Games | Best Realistic Open World |
| Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | Ubisoft | Best Historical Open World Adventure |
| Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty | CD Projekt Red | Best Futuristic Open World |
| Horizon Forbidden West | Guerrilla Games | Best Sci-Fi Open World on PlayStation |
Elden Ring – Best Overall Open World Experience
From the creators of Dark Souls and Sekiro, Elden Ring redefines the open-world RPG genre with a seamless blend of exploration and challenging combat. Set in the hauntingly beautiful realm of the Lands Between, the game features vast, interconnected landscapes filled with secrets, danger, and lore. Players can explore freely, taking on bosses, discovering hidden dungeons, or simply roaming the open plains and eerie ruins. Its deep customization system allows for a variety of playstyles—from magic-wielding sorcerers to brute-force warriors. The game is co-created with George R.R. Martin, who helped craft the mythos and backstory behind its mysterious world. Unlike traditional RPGs, Elden Ring offers minimal handholding, encouraging players to uncover their path through trial and triumph. It’s a masterpiece that rewards curiosity, skill, and persistence, standing as one of the most critically acclaimed open-world games ever made.
Elden Ring – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Developer | FromSoftware (Masters of hardcore action RPGs) |
| World Design | Non-linear exploration with no map markers or handholding |
| Combat System | Deep melee/magic mechanics with boss-driven progression |
| Multiplayer | Co-op and PvP invasions supported |
| Platforms | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S |
| Price | ~$60 (base), ~$80 (with Shadow of the Erdtree expansion) |
Why Choose the Elden Ring?
✔ Total Freedom – Explore, fight, or flee at your own pace
✔ Artistic World – Haunting, memorable environments
✔ Boss-Rich Gameplay – Every encounter feels epic
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Best Story-Driven Open World
Often hailed as one of the greatest RPGs ever made, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt combines rich storytelling with vast, diverse landscapes that feel alive with detail. You play as Geralt of Rivia, a seasoned monster hunter navigating political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and deeply personal quests. The game’s world spans war-torn villages, enchanted forests, and bustling cities, each packed with lore and side stories. Choices matter—your actions shape relationships, alter storylines, and influence the game’s multiple endings. Combat blends swordplay, alchemy, and magic, allowing players to adapt Geralt’s abilities to their preferred style. With critically acclaimed expansions like Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, the content extends far beyond the base game. It’s a narrative-driven epic that sets the benchmark for open-world RPGs with emotional depth and world-class writing.
Witcher 3 – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Developer | CD Projekt Red (Known for narrative-rich RPGs) |
| Narrative | Over 100 hours of branching quests and lore |
| World | Massive medieval fantasy setting, from war-torn villages to deep forests |
| Expansions | “Hearts of Stone” & “Blood and Wine” add ~40 hours of premium content |
| Platforms | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Switch |
| Price | ~$30 (Complete Edition) |
Why Choose the Wild Hunt?
✔ Emmy-Level Writing – Deep characters and emotional arcs
✔ Endless Content – Meaningful side quests
✔ Dynamic World – Day-night cycle, NPC routines
Red Dead Redemption 2 – Best Realistic Open World
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterclass in world-building, delivering one of the most realistic and immersive open-world experiences ever created. Set in the fading days of the American frontier, it follows Arthur Morgan, an outlaw navigating loyalty, survival, and moral choices. The game is packed with lifelike details—dynamic weather, animal behavior, and NPC routines all respond to your actions. Its gripping narrative unfolds across sprawling landscapes, from snowy mountains to dusty plains and bustling towns. Players can hunt, fish, rob trains, or simply explore, with every interaction feeling meaningful and organic. It’s a slow-burn epic that rewards patience and exploration, making it a must-play for fans of realism and storytelling.
RDR2 – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Developer | Rockstar Games (Masters of open-world immersion) |
| Setting | 1899 American Frontier |
| Realism | Hunting, crafting, and NPC behavior are incredibly lifelike |
| Story | Follows Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang |
| Platforms | PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Price | ~$40 |
Why Choose the Red Dead Redemption?
✔ Cinematic Storytelling – Emotional depth and moral choices
✔ Stunning Environments – From snowy peaks to dusty prairies
✔ Activities Galore – Poker, bounties, fishing, and more
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – Best Historical Open World Adventure
Step into the boots of Eivor, a fierce Viking raider carving a path through war-torn medieval England. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla blends brutal combat with RPG progression, letting players raid, conquer, and expand their settlements. Its richly detailed world is steeped in Norse mythology, historical figures, and legendary artifacts. Choices you make shape alliances, influence the storyline, and determine your legacy as a Viking warrior. From stealth assassinations to large-scale siege battles, the gameplay offers a perfect mix of tactics and action. It’s a gritty yet beautiful adventure that captures the chaos, culture, and spirit of the Viking era.
Valhalla – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Developer | Ubisoft (Known for historically inspired sandbox games) |
| Time Period | 9th-century Anglo-Saxon England |
| Gameplay | Dual-wield combat, naval raids, stealth assassinations |
| Expansion | Includes DLCs set in Paris, Ireland, and Ragnarok mythology |
| Platforms | PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S |
| Price | ~$50 (Standard), ~$80 (Complete Edition) |
Why Choose the Assassin’s Creed Valhalla?
✔ Rich History – Interact with kings, gods, and legends
✔ Strategic Combat – From stealth kills to siege battles
✔ Deep Customization – Gear, tattoos, and settlement upgrades
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty – Best Futuristic Open World
After years of updates and the addition of its Phantom Liberty expansion, Cyberpunk 2077 has transformed into a polished, top-tier open-world RPG. Set in the neon-soaked streets of Night City, it offers a gritty, high-tech dystopia filled with danger and opportunity. The game masterfully blends first-person shooter action with deep role-playing elements and meaningful narrative choices. Players take on the role of V, a mercenary navigating corporate conspiracy, cybernetic upgrades, and shifting alliances. With improved AI, expanded content, and standout performances—including Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand—it delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s now a benchmark for futuristic storytelling and immersive urban exploration.
Cyberpunk 2077 – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Developer | CD Projekt Red |
| Setting | Night City – a dystopian cyberpunk metropolis |
| Expansion | Phantom Liberty introduces new characters, areas, and endings |
| Combat | Hacking, gunplay, cyberware upgrades |
| Platforms | PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Price | ~$40 (Base), ~$60 (with Phantom Liberty) |
Why Choose the Cyberpunk 2077?
✔ Dystopian Brilliance – Blade Runner meets GTA
✔ Complex Choices – Every mission can impact the story
✔ Keanu Reeves – Need we say more?
Horizon Forbidden West – Best Sci-Fi Open World on PlayStation
Aloy returns in Horizon Forbidden West, building on the success of Zero Dawn with a larger, more vibrant open world and refined gameplay mechanics. Set in a post-apocalyptic America reclaimed by nature, the game features breathtaking environments teeming with robotic wildlife. Players explore deserts, jungles, underwater ruins, and futuristic remnants of a lost civilization. Combat is more dynamic, allowing creative strategies using traps, elemental arrows, and machine overrides. The story dives deeper into the mysteries of the old world and Aloy’s connection to it. With its stunning visuals and rich sci-fi narrative, it’s a must-play for fans of futuristic adventures.
Horizon Forbidden West – Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Developer | Guerrilla Games (Known for visual and narrative innovation) |
| World | Post-apocalyptic USA with robotic wildlife |
| Combat | Elemental arrows, traps, and machine hacking |
| Story | Continues Aloy’s journey to save the planet |
| Platforms | PS5, PS4 |
| Price | ~$70 |
Why Choose the Horizon Forbidden West?
✔ Visual Marvel – One of the best-looking open-world games
✔ Creative Combat – Strategy-focused with stunning set pieces
✔ Unique Setting – Nature meets high-t
Final Verdict: Which Open World Game is Best for You?
- For challenge & discovery → Elden Ring
- For deep storytelling → The Witcher 3
- For realism & immersion → Red Dead Redemption 2
- For historical epic → Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
- For sci-fi lovers → Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
- For PlayStation adventurers → Horizon Forbidden West
FAQs: Best Open World Games
1. What is the #1 open world game right now?
Elden Ring continues to dominate with its revolutionary blend of open exploration and challenging gameplay.
2. Which open world game has the best story?
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is the gold standard for narrative depth in open-world RPGs.
3. Are there any open-world games with realistic physics and NPCs?
Yes, Red Dead Redemption 2 is renowned for its lifelike systems and character behavior.
4. What open-world game should I get on PS5?
Horizon Forbidden West and Cyberpunk 2077 (after updates) both run beautifully on PS5.
5. Which open-world games are good for beginners?
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Horizon Forbidden West offer user-friendly mechanics and guided exploration.