*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Read my  Disclaimer for more info.
Open-world games give you the freedom to explore, complete missions, and interact with vast environments at your own pace.
These games often feature massive maps, side quests, and dynamic weather systems that make the world feel alive.
Whether you enjoy role-playing, survival, or action-adventure games, there’s an open-world game for you.
In this post, you will find, a list of the best open-world games across different platforms, what makes each game unique, and where you can play them.
Best Open-World Games
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Platform: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
Breath of the Wild lets you explore a beautiful, sprawling world full of hidden surprises.
Climb mountains, cook food, fight enemies, and solve puzzles.
The open-ended gameplay means you can tackle objectives in any order.
You can even go straight to the final boss if you’re skilled enough.
Why It’s Great:
- Freedom to explore anywhere
- A physics-based environment where everything interacts realistically
- Tons of side quests and hidden locations
2. Red Dead Redemption 2
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Red Dead Redemption 2 is set in a detailed, living Wild West world.
You play as Arthur Morgan, a gunslinger trying to survive as the era of outlaws comes to an end.
The game features realistic weather, wildlife, and NPC interactions.
Your choices affect the story and the world around you.
Why It’s Great:
- A massive, realistic open world
- Engaging story and well-developed characters
- Dynamic interactions with NPCs and environments
3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Nintendo Switch
You play as Geralt, a monster hunter searching for his adopted daughter.
The game features a massive world with varied landscapes, deep storytelling, and engaging combat.
The side quests are so detailed they feel like mini-stories within the main game.
Why It’s Great:
- A rich story with meaningful choices
- A vast world with different regions
- A deep RPG system with character customization
4. Grand Theft Auto V
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
GTA V offers a massive open-world city filled with missions, vehicles, and activities.
You can switch between three main characters, each with their own storylines.
Online multiplayer adds even more replay value.
Why It’s Great:
- A massive and detailed urban world
- Endless side activities and missions
- A fun online multiplayer mode
5. Elden Ring
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
From the creators of Dark Souls, Elden Ring combines challenging combat with an expansive open world.
You can explore on horseback, discover hidden dungeons, and engage in tough boss fights.
The world is filled with secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Why It’s Great:
- Challenging combat with deep lore
- A vast open world filled with mystery
- A unique and rewarding progression system
6. No Man’s Sky
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
No Man’s Sky offers an endless universe to explore.
You can travel between planets, gather resources, and build bases.
The game features procedurally generated planets, meaning no two worlds are the same.
Why It’s Great:
- Infinite exploration possibilities
- Base-building and space travel
- Multiplayer support for cooperative play
7. Cyberpunk 2077
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Set in the futuristic city of Night City, Cyberpunk 2077 features a story-driven open world with deep customization options.
You play as V, a mercenary trying to make a name for themselves.
The game has improved significantly since launch with updates and expansions.
Why It’s Great:
- A detailed and immersive futuristic city
- Customizable characters and gameplay styles
- A gripping main story with branching choices
8. Minecraft
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Mobile
Minecraft is one of the most popular open-world games ever.
You can build structures, explore caves, fight monsters, and play with friends.
The game offers survival and creative modes, allowing you to play how you want.
Why It’s Great:
- Limitless creativity and exploration
- Multiplayer support for playing with friends
- Endless updates and new content
9. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Platform: PlayStation, Xbox, PC
Set in the Viking era, Valhalla lets you explore England’s vast landscape while raiding villages and expanding your settlement.
The game blends history with open-world action.
Why It’s Great:
- A rich, historical open world
- Engaging combat and exploration
- A large number of side quests and activities
10. Horizon Zero Dawn
Platform: PlayStation, PC
You play as Aloy, a hunter in a world filled with robotic creatures.
The game features beautiful landscapes, a deep story, and engaging combat.
Its sequel, Horizon Forbidden West, expands on the world even further.
Why It’s Great:
- A unique setting blending nature and technology
- Fluid combat with different weapons and strategies
- A compelling main character and story
Conclusion
Open-world games let you explore and interact with virtual worlds in your own way.
Whether you prefer action, adventure, or role-playing, there’s a game for you.
The best open-world games offer engaging stories, large maps, and plenty of activities.
If you’re looking for a game that lets you roam freely and make your own choices, any of the games on this list will be a great pick.
Brianna is based in Minnesota in the US at the moment, and has been writing since 2017. She is currently a 3rd Year med student at the time of writing this.
