5 Open-World Games Worth Playing Just For Their Character Developments

As a gamer who has traversed through countless digital landscapes and met a myriad of virtual companions, I can confidently say that these open-world games have not only provided me with hours upon hours of entertainment, but they’ve also given life to characters that have left an indelible mark on my gaming heart. From Jaal in Mass Effect: Andromeda, who defied the shadows of his past and stood for hope, to Judy from Cyberpunk 2077, a beacon of light amidst Night City’s grim reality, these characters have taught me more about humanity than any textbook ever could.

As a game enthusiast, I relish the opportunity to dive into expansive, unfamiliar worlds teeming with extraordinary phenomena that you’d only find in fantasy, science fiction, or occasionally, horror films. However, what truly sets certain games apart is the chance to encounter one-of-a-kind, eccentric characters who have the power to win your heart if you let them in.

As a seasoned gamer with years of exploration and adventure under my belt, I must say that open-world games have truly outdone themselves when it comes to character development. From the gripping tale of an alien warrior nurtured in a secluded matriarchal society, to the poignant story of a former monster hunter who traded his sword for the peaceful life of running a vineyard, these games have left me yearning to meet their characters in real life. The depth and complexity of these virtual personalities have added an unprecedented layer of immersion to my gaming experience, making each quest, battle, and interaction all the more meaningful. I eagerly await the next generation of open-world games, knowing that they will continue to push the boundaries of storytelling and character development, leaving me with unforgettable memories and experiences.

5 Mass Effect: Andromeda

One Character Is Its Only Redeemable Feature

Although Mass Effect: Andromeda faced criticism for its overall performance and received some negative feedback, it boasts a standout character who doubles as a romance option regardless of the player’s chosen gender – Jaal. Originating from the Andromeda Galaxy, specifically the planet Havarl, Jaal was brought up in a matriarchal family environment among his numerous siblings and cousins, making him the youngest. This position gives Jaal an endearing “youngest child” personality that sets him apart. He yearns for recognition, and his quirky nature and love for technology are evident from a young age, as he is essentially self-taught in this field.

Maybe what stands out most about this character is his generous spirit and ability to look past differences in race and belief, which makes him an ideal bridge between the latest arrivals and the existing community of intelligent species in Andromeda. He transformed from being suppressed by the prejudiced actions of his bigoted brother, to becoming a leader who guided his entire society towards shedding their outdated and rigid traditions. Beneath his compassionate and insightful facade, he is indeed a true change-maker.

4 Dying Light: The Following

Taught Us That Protecting The Weak Is The Highest Of Calls

Before Techland even began developing Dying Light 2: Stay Human, Dying Light: The Following had already explored a world where small actions and details play a crucial role in society’s salvation. Despite the overwhelming devastation, humanity demonstrates a resilience against extinction, uniting together and working cooperatively to survive, albeit with great effort.

In this game’s title, I encounter some truly remarkable characters, such as Ezgi, who relentlessly battled against the looming oppression and the deceptive protection offered by The Mother to the settlers. She questioned everything, from her father’s desires to the rules of a dystopian society, making her and other extraordinary figures like Fidan and Troy, integral parts of the narrative. This DLC is actually an entirely new story that significantly delves into the character development of the series, pushing Kyle (the protagonist) right up to the brink of his own humanity, for the greater good.

3 Cyberpunk 2077

V Might Be The MC, But Not The Star Of The Show

Since its release, the futuristic open-world game Cyberpunk 2077 has been a hot topic among sci-fi enthusiasts. The latest expansion, Phantom Liberty, took this to new heights by unveiling an underworld hidden within the underbelly of Night City. This hidden world is filled with captivating characters that often outshine V and even the iconic Johnny Silverhand (Keanu Reeves). Characters like Judy, Takemura, Panam, and the lesser-known River Ward truly shine in this game.

1. Not only do their tales reinforce the central objective, but they infuse warmth into an otherwise cold and metallic city, indifferent to who perishes next, even finding humor in it. Each character, who are also potential love interests, offer a glimmer of optimism amidst V’s struggle for survival. They serve as a connection that helps V escape the bleakness of what appears to be an unescapable destiny.

2 NieR: Automata

What Does It Mean To Be Human?

In a bleak, post-cataclysmic world, a band of artificial beings engage in an ongoing battle against the annihilation of mankind. This threat is posed by rogue androids, who have been deployed from extraterrestrial forces with the sole purpose of eradicating humans. The narrative unfolds as we journey with characters 2B, 9S, and A2, their mission being the defense of humanity, a task that requires them to be repeatedly dismantled and rebuilt.

In many ways, the remaining Android characters from NieR: Automata are more human-like than their makers, and this is evident in their actions, story development, and their interpersonal relationships. This game stands out as an exceptional piece of storytelling, offering deeper character growth than might initially appear. If players look past its fast-paced combat and striking visuals, they’ll likely find themselves drawn to the compelling characters. Even those who struggle with captchas (in theory).

1 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Blood & Wine

A Deserved Happy Ending, For A Seasoned Warrior

In essence, The Witcher 3 is an extraordinary achievement, with its innovative combat and meticulously crafted RPG aspects serving as just one part of its allure. However, if I had to single out a standout element that truly sets it apart, it would be the exceptional character development. Characters like Ciri, Yennefer, Triss, and even Geralt himself undergo profound transformations throughout the narrative, giving them a tangible human quality.

1. Players will experience Geralt’s evolution from a ruthless monster hunter known as the Butcher of Blaviken into a nurturing father, and this transformation will be felt rather than merely read about during gameplay. Additionally, the game offers a unique ending for a Witcher who has spent his life battling and seeking justice: a peaceful retirement home nestled in a vineyard.

2024-08-16 07:33