10 Best Open-World Games With Short Runtimes

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For certain gamers, the duration a video game lasts can be just as vital as its genre, gameplay structure, or storyline. In fact, there are instances when individuals prefer games that are concise and straightforward.

For open-world video games, it’s more challenging to keep things concise and straightforward due to their expansive nature. Typically, these games exceed 50 hours of playtime, with some even reaching over 100 hours on platforms like HowLongToBeat.

In other words, although 30 hours seems long for most games, it’s relatively short when it comes to open-world games.

In a simpler and more conversational manner, these shorter open-world games offer just as much fun as their lengthier counterparts. They’re like miniature versions of the thrill players seek, allowing them to embark on an exciting journey without having to dedicate numerous months to complete it.

Remember that the playtime you’re seeing primarily covers the main storyline, yet it also incorporates some additional missions as a reflection of the common player experience, where individuals often engage in both main quests and side missions rather than exclusively focusing on one or the other.

10.
Fallout 4

Runtime: ~29 Hours

The “Fallout” series of games depicts a vast post-nuclear landscape encompassing multiple maps and territories. In particular, “Fallout 4” takes you through the ruins left by a catastrophe in Boston, known as the Commonwealth.

Completing the main campaign typically requires around 27.5 hours, but if you delve into some side quests or immerse yourself in thorough exploration, it could stretch to about 30 hours. Alternatively, you might opt to invest those 30 hours in constructing and enhancing your Settlement, a task that will undoubtedly eat into your playtime.

In this game, it’s only you and Dogmeat by your side, braving a world beyond your Vault, struggling to survive by foraging resources and staying alive. This survival mechanism is incredibly gratifying, making the gradual build-up of anticipation truly worthwhile.

For individuals seeking a brief taste of the Fallout world, the Commonwealth offers an intensely compact adventure that can be completed in fewer hours compared to the full game.

9.
Far Cry 3

Runtime: ~25.5 Hours

The open-world action game titled “Far Cry 3” is frequently ranked among (or even at the top of) the best in the “Far Cry” series thanks to its exceptional stealth mechanics. What’s more, it doesn’t require a significant time commitment, as you can complete the main storyline within approximately 16 hours.

Absolutely, if you factor in all the additional missions and time spent on crafting in this game, it typically adds up to around 25 hours or more of playtime.

In this first-person shooting game, we delve into topics such as morality and madness, focusing particularly on these aspects within human character, with Jason serving as a prominent example of its central theme. The setting is an ungoverned island, leaving one to wonder what remnants of civilization may still exist there.

It’s a story of violence, first and foremost, but it’s not too long to take in.

8.
Cyberpunk 2077

Runtime: ~30 Hours

When it comes to Cyberpunk 2077, what usually doesn’t cross players’ minds is a brief playtime. Instead, they recall the game as an extensive vortex, offering countless hours of captivating content that could engage them for years on end.

Quite unexpectedly, it turns out that the primary campaign can be wrapped up in just 25.5 hours, leaving the entire Night City open for players to take on any gigs they fancy. For those seeking a quicker experience, the Phantom Liberty DLC offers a main storyline of only 13 hours, expanding to approximately 23 hours when including all side quests.

Furthermore, the chance meetings in this game add a sense of realism, as if the city (and the entire world) is bustling with activity. Fortunately, the character V has ample time at their disposal, allowing players to explore and enjoy the game without feeling pressured for time.

I assure you, although the game initially received a negative reputation at its launch, playing it now is an entirely different story. It’s definitely worth putting in the time and effort; it’s much more refined and captivating compared to its early days. Modern players will find themselves not only satisfied but also exhilarated by their experience.

7.
Assassin’s Creed: Rogue

Runtime: ~22.5 Hours

Among the recent games in the Assassin’s Creed series, Assassin’s Creed: Rogue stands out as a significant shift in the franchise’s direction.

The game is also relatively brief in comparison to others in the series, taking approximately 10.5 hours to finish the main storyline. However, if you factor in side quests and exploring the game world, you’re likely to spend around 22 hours enjoying the full experience.

In this game, you take on the role of Shay Patrick Cormac, initially an assassin who eventually turns against the Brotherhood and aligns with the Templars. This perspective, portraying a traitor, has profound implications for future players, making it a compelling narrative. The storyline is concise yet impactful, with a twist that leaves you feeling uneasy as the plot unfolds.

This game isn’t overly challenging, making it an ideal, compact Assassin’s Creed title for fans yearning for the classic series installments.

6.
Batman: Arkham City

Runtime: ~18 Hours

Even though Batman’s IP is quite extensive, the Arkham games tend to be on the shorter side – for instance, Arkham City, the initial open-world game in the trilogy, typically takes around 12.5 hours to finish the main story. However, given the size of Batman’s rogues gallery, there are numerous additional quests available to extend playtime.

Arkham City, the follow-up to Rocksteady’s smash hit Arkham Asylum, stands among the top open-world games from the PlayStation 3 era. Instead of enduring a night trapped within an insane asylum, you now find yourself exploring a lawless utopia for criminals.

Fans of superhero games will find this title particularly exciting because it offers an authentic, comic book-style narrative. For those enamored with the Batman universe, the Arkhamverse is a treasure trove, as each villain provides a distinctive and engaging gaming experience.

In essence, the playing time for individuals varies between 18 to 22 hours depending on their gaming approach and level of detail preferred. Moreover, they are spared from handling the Batmobile and any compulsory gameplay segments associated with it, making for an enjoyable experience overall.

5.
A Short Hike

Runtime: ~3 Hours

A Short Hike is just that – short. I know, absolutely insane.

To clarify, it’s not an overstatement; it really takes an hour and a half to finish the main storyline. If you opt for the hardcore completionist route, you might spend around five hours in total. However, throughout your journey, you’ll be scaling Hawk Peak, which is an absolute joy from start to finish.

Initially, the game is renowned for its unique climbing mechanics, offering smooth, precise movements along a charming, meandering path. This allows players to savor their journey, pause, and enjoy the scenic views as they advance. The beautiful landscapes only enhance this experience, making it one of the most comforting open-world games you might encounter.

In this game I’m playing, there’s no fighting – instead, my goal is to conquer the peak. The side missions are a blast, filled with oddball tasks that keep things interesting. Plus, the characters you meet along the way are unforgettable, making every interaction feel like a delightful surprise.

Gathering the collectibles in “A Short Hike” isn’t aggravating at all, which makes it an ideal gaming escape for those seeking a brief respite. Players often find themselves drawn back, simply to delve deeper into the mountain and its charming inhabitants once more.

4.
Subnautica: Below Zero

Runtime: ~26.5 Hours

In contrast to the extensive open-world experience offered by the original game Subnautica, the spin-off title Subnautica: Below Zero, while still set underwater, provides a more compact gaming session. Specifically, you can complete the main storyline in approximately 20.5 hours.

In this frozen realm, the chilly winds and vicious beasts aren’t my only adversaries; old man winter himself poses a threat too. Keeping myself warm here isn’t just about battling monsters, it’s also about sipping hot coffee and donning a special survival suit. Interestingly enough, the water, usually a peril in cold environments, is surprisingly warm here, offering me a toasty refuge from the icy tundra that looms overhead.

For those who wish to undertake additional tasks and missions beyond the main storyline, they should anticipate spending approximately 29-30 hours in total. If players aim for a completist playthrough of the game, they’d still be looking at around 31 hours in total.

Below Zero” offers the same enchanting underwater vistas and awe-inspiring wilderness found in the original “Subnautica“, but with an innovative, albeit brief, addition to the gameplay experience.

3.
Firewatch

Runtime: ~4.5 Hours

As a gamer, I often find myself seeking a break from high-octane gaming sessions, and that’s exactly where walking simulators shine. For instance, in the game Firewatch, you’re not so much playing as you are strolling through the breathtaking Wyoming wilderness.

As I sit here, perched high above the forest with my trusty radio by my side, keeping vigil as a fire lookout, I can’t shake off the nagging feelings that keep creeping back into my mind. This game, just 4 hours long if you don’t delve too deeply into its extras, is a concise and immersive journey that packs quite a punch in such a short time frame.

The narrative is equally touching, as it encompasses themes of hope, strife, and self-discovery. It’s a personal, introspective journey that grapples with one’s purpose in life and the future ahead. Many find themselves reflecting deeply on their role in the world, reconciling past experiences, and this emotional rollercoaster often leaves players moved to tears.

In terms of open-world games, it leans towards being linear, but players possess considerable freedom to explore and interact with their surroundings at their own pace.

2.
Ghost of Tsushima

Runtime: ~30 Hours

It’s astounding how much there is to explore and accomplish within the game “Ghost of Tsushima.” Given such a vast amount of content, it seems almost unbelievable that completing Jin’s main storyline (the principal Tales) takes just 25 hours in total. If you’ve already played through this game, I strongly recommend revisiting it with the Japanese language option, as it significantly enhances the overall experience by immersing you deeper into its native tongue.

The island of Tsushima (including Iki Island from the DLC) is expansive, divided into three large areas that often require around 30 hours or more to explore, even if main character Jin Sakai hurries through certain aspects like charms, Mythic Tales, duels, and other optional tales.

As a gamer myself, I’ve found that although this game is concise and perfect for those diving into the narrative quickly, it might consume more of your time than you initially planned due to its engaging gameplay. It’s hard to put down once you start!

For instance, using the loot system causes improvements to different weapon and armor collections within Jin’s inventory, ensuring nothing is left unused and potentially offering a calming, tingly sensation for gamers.

Beyond question, the scene is strikingly beautiful. On numerous occasions, I’ve found myself halted by amazement and curiosity, taking in my environment for extended periods – often unaware that I’ve been admiring pixelated trees for five whole minutes. I suspect those who have witnessed this game’s vistas would concur.

Regardless of whether you’re looking for a quick dip or a deep dive into this open-world game, it promises an enjoyable experience either way! (as a fan)

1.
Marvel’s Spider-Man

Runtime: ~22.5 Hours

Growing up playing Spider-Man 2 on the PlayStation 2, I was thrilled beyond belief when I encountered the web-slinging mechanics in Marvel’s Spider-Man about two decades later. Eventually, it became one of my all-time favorite open-world superhero games, surpassed only by those within the Arkhamverse.

Remarkably, here’s an intriguing fact: the main story can be finished in just 17 hours, and interestingly, other games in this series have also maintained a brief playtime duration. You assume the role of the renowned Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man, dedicating your time to assisting New Yorkers with their various predicaments.

Regrettably, these tasks involve tedious sub-quests like hunting for pesky pigeons, consuming a significant chunk of your playtime. If avoiding such quests that seem uninteresting to you feels appropriate, it’s perfectly fine to do so.

This open-world game is ideal for players seeking a fast-paced yet condensed experience that’s enjoyable and engaging across the board. Luckily, it lives up to expectations, with both Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales offering equally top-notch quality (and they’re both currently available).

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2025-03-12 23:11