10 Linear Games That Would Make Amazing Open Worlds

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Open-world video games offer a distinct capability to create an extraordinary level of engagement or involvement that is unparalleled.

In a screen-free environment, you gain access to a vast, immersive world filled with various tasks and intricate mechanics, enabling you to delve deeply into the essence of each game.

Consequently, even though they may be linear, some titles have the potential to transform into expansive open worlds, leveraging the open-ended and explorative nature of such works.

Consequently, to satisfy some deep-seated (and admittedly uncommon) cravings, here’s a compilation of ten linear games that could transform into captivating open worlds.

10.
Singularity

Reconstructing History

One underappreciated gem in the world of First-Person Shooter games is Singularity, renowned not only for its captivating portrayal of history but also for its intriguing time manipulation features.

Implementing the same campaign in an open-world setting would be a daunting endeavor, but it would offer a one-of-a-kind experience, making it worthwhile, even if it is limited to certain areas within the game map.

Exploring a single location across multiple time periods, interacting with surroundings, and controlling the flow of time offers limitless possibilities for fascinating gameplay experiences.

One of the most extraordinary and seemingly unattainable ideas that comes to mind, should it ever become reality, the concept of Singularity would undoubtedly be recognized for its incredible marvel.

9.
Vanquish

Just Cause Style

I’ve consistently regarded Vanquish as one of the top Third-Person Shooter (TPS) games ever made, thanks to its incredibly intense and hard-to-resist gameplay that I’ve yet to find equaled within this genre.

Experiencing the game’s gunplay and movement makes it incredibly thrilling with its rapid pace. To envision those sensations extended to a vast, open environment, battling even larger-than-life bosses, is an unmatched experience.

The design could undergo a transformation beyond just using cover structures, but its core gameplay elements are strong enough to support an incredibly entertaining playstyle when combined with a well-developed progression system.

If we can prolong the “Vanquish” experience beyond the span of four hours, I would consider it satisfactory, even though it might mean a slight diminishment in intensity.

8.
Asura’s Wrath

Fighting with Titanic Gods

In other words, while the gameplay might not be the strongest point of Asura’s Wrath, it still stands out as one of the most unique games from the seventh generation of video game consoles.

Capcom’s title holds an enchanting quality that few other major games possess, thanks to its compelling narrative, striking visuals, and rich mythology. A well-designed gameplay aspect would only serve to deepen these captivating emotions.

Consequently, transforming it into an open world where we could engage in combat with colossal intergalactic deities that dwarf entire constellations, offering us a fair amount of autonomy, would undeniably create a truly remarkable and memorable adventure.

To make the beat-em-up aspects more effective and enhance the overall gameplay, it’s crucial not to reveal the true ending through expansion packs. Only then can we anticipate an outstanding sequel to Asura’s Wrath.

7.
The Last of Us 2

Expanding the Seattle Experience

In my opinion, even though I don’t feel a sequel is necessary for The Last of Us Part 2, it seems logical that the series could evolve into an open-world format, considering the experiences we had in the most recent game.

It’s intriguing to consider various possibilities for a potential third installment, particularly focusing on the unique gameplay elements we’ve come across in Seattle.

In a post-apocalyptic world, having multiple routes to explore and maintaining the same level of immersion, the experience would seem significantly more authentic and engaging, rather than feeling like we’re merely following a set course where solutions to our challenges are predictably discovered.

I’d rather see Naughty Dog create new worlds instead of adding more games to the series. But if they insist on continuing with The Last of Us, that would be my ideal scenario.

6.
Haste

Run to Infinity

2025 saw the emergence of Haste as one of the most enjoyable indie games, and I’m not surprised! Its captivating running mechanic had me hooked from the start. It’s hard to put down once you get going!

Despite its merits, one potential downside I noticed during the experience was the division between each stage, which hindered our progression and interrupted the seamless flow that could have been maintained on an uninterrupted map.

The small area for free roaming is useful, but it’s the infinite mode that truly showcases its main gameplay. If only it could be arranged for uninterrupted, screen-free exploration, it would offer an ideal platform to fully test its limits.

Regardless, Haste offers a truly exceptional and strongly suggested playthrough, even if it could function flawlessly as an open-world title.

5.
Splinter Cell Blacklist

A Solid Foundation For Something Bigger

In terms of top-notch stealth games, Splinter Cell Blacklist not only lives up to expectations but also paves the way for future installments in the series with its exceptional quality.

The game transports us to various nations, each offering unique strategies for level design tailored to their specific settings. This results in a remarkably engaging gaming experience that seems ideally suited for an open-world environment.

Traveling across the world on various missions, much like in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, with minimal physical restrictions, would be an amazing concept, given that these vast maps could be seamlessly connected through brief loading screens.

While a sequel might not happen, there’s no denying that the groundwork has been set for a potential follow-up to Splinter Cell Blacklist to be fantastic.

4.
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus

Large-Scale Destruction

The New Colossus is a fantastic follow-up that significantly builds upon the elements that made its precursor special, introducing changes that make it stand out.

In this new setup, the boundaries are less confined, encouraging more exploration and offering increased rewards. This could potentially signify a shift towards an adaptable, open-ended design.

Engaging in battles against Nazis to seize entire territories and eradicate fear from a particular area would undoubtedly be an extraordinary journey, considering that MachineGames has already mastered the art of gunfights, stealth missions, and level construction.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the thrilling adventures in Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus. Yet, there’s an unspoken longing for a revisit to its core ideology, with even more liberty to overthrow their oppressive rule.

3.
Lies of P

Krat in Depth

In recent years, the game “P’s Lies” has been praised as one of the top action-adventure (AA) and Soulslike games, due to its exceptional quality that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of its inspirations.

Similar to Dark Souls and Bloodborne, this game offers a continuous, integrated map design, giving it a more living, less artificial game world feel.

Just as Soulsborne games gained from transitioning into an open-world format with Elden Ring, the game Lies of P could similarly profit by adopting this expansion, thereby offering players a more extensive exploration of Krat.

In terms of excellence within its genre, this provides an excellent foundation for delving deeper into the game’s background story. While a sequel that follows a linear path is acceptable, an open-world version could elevate it significantly.

2.
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

More Treasure Hunting

In my view, the sequential storytelling of “The Last of Us” bears a resemblance to that of “Uncharted”. I personally believe the series is satisfying just the way it is, yet I can comprehend why developers might wish to carry on with it further.

As a result, since Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End masterfully carried out the formula that Naughty Dog has been refining since the beginning of the series, it’s time to progress by surpassing its impressive linear structure.

Just as the Tomb Raider reboot necessitated a more open gameplay structure, continuing the series in this manner seems essential to keep it progressing. This approach would let us immerse ourselves more deeply in the role of an explorer, focusing on the thrill of deciphering clues and discovering hidden treasures.

In a different approach, rather than continuing the storyline with Nathan Drake, since his journey seems complete, it might be more fitting to reintroduce the Uncharted series by featuring a new protagonist, exploring fresh locations, and enhancing the exploration mechanics for an updated experience.

1.
Thief

A Concept With Indescribable Potential

Many supporters of the series felt let down by the latest release, but I personally believe its hidden strengths could potentially catapult the series to unprecedented heights in the future.

Instead of being an open-world game, it explores larger, interconnected mission areas that feel more like a genuine thief’s environment, offering a more engrossing experience.

Re-exploring the mysterious traits of the series, employing fragmented blueprints, and keeping an eye on surroundings to discern our goals might suitably apply to a metropolis vast enough for executing diverse types of heists.

After that, head back to your hideout, resupply, and strategize for your upcoming operation, forming a cycle that may open up numerous gaming opportunities, much like its earlier versions used to do.

Although it might not be the top game on the list, “Thief” has a solid base that could allow the franchise to reemerge and fit into today’s video games. If it fails to do so, I fear we won’t witness another installment from this IP, which would sadden me deeply.

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2025-04-30 18:10