Best Open-World Games That Are Challenging To Finish

Summary

In Sons of the Forest, players face the tough challenge of surviving in an open-world full of cannibals.
Monster Hunter Wilds offers a proper story mode, but completing it is far from easy for newcomers.
Elden Ring, while relatively easier for FromSoftware, presents overwhelming challenges that may deter beginners.

In recent times, the open-world genre has gained significant popularity, leading many AAA games to strive for making their experiences as user-friendly as possible. The challenges in most games set in expansive sandbox environments are generally not overly demanding, ensuring that a large number of players can enjoy these games right up until the end.

In contrast, some players are drawn to tougher experiences within open-world games. Completing these games can seem intimidating, yet those who persevere through the challenges presented by such titles often find themselves greatly enjoying the experience.

8. Sons Of The Forest

A Challenging Open-World Survival Game That’s Tough Yet Satisfying To Master

In the realm of survival games that have captivated numerous gamers, Sons of the Forest lives up to expectations as a thrilling sequel, set in an open-world teeming with cannibals where you’re stranded in a forest. The struggle for survival is tough, but every bit of progress makes it all worthwhile.

As the menacing presence of the cannibals intensifies throughout the game, players should prepare themselves for numerous challenges that come their way. Since death is quite frequent in this game, many players will experience a good amount of disappointment or annoyance before reaching the peak of the story.

7. Monster Hunter Wilds

Despite Its Streamlining, Beginners Will Find Completion To Be A Tall Order

For seasoned Monster Hunter players, Wilds might not meet their expectations, but its introduction of a well-structured storyline, simplified mechanics, and an uninterrupted expansive world make it highly appealing for novice gamers to immerse themselves in this game.

Just as one might anticipate, the game proves challenging. To finish it, players need to keep their equipment current and use smart tactics when facing powerful enemies.

6. Gothic

Players Will Find It Extremely Challenging To Get Into This Title

As soon as players enter the realm of Gothic, they’ll quickly understand that this game is incredibly challenging. Even the least formidable foe in the game must be defeated individually, as the hero will perish if confronted by a group of two or more Scavengers.

It’s great news for players that when they reach a camp and join an alliance, they can learn from the trainers there, making them stronger and more skilled in battles. However, certain tough enemies in the game are incredibly difficult to defeat, leading players to repeatedly load their saved progress until they eventually conquer these difficulties.

5. Batman: Arkham Knight

The True Ending Requires A Ton Of Open-World Busywork

As a gamer, I found that Arkham Knight wasn’t quite as stellar as other Batman games from Rocksteady, but the enhanced combat system and stunning visuals kept me engaged, even with some of the debatable aspects of the game.

To achieve the genuine conclusions of the game, players are required to do so. Delving into the open-world tasks and locating every Riddler trophy can sometimes feel like a challenging chore, however, it’s necessary grinding for the ultimate ending of the game.

4. Metro Exodus

A Tough Yet Engrossing Open-World Action Game That Takes A While To Adjust To

Metro Exodus stands out as one of the most challenging open-world action games available for gamers. Immersing yourself in Artyom’s journey offers an exceptional experience, but players should prepare themselves for a fair amount of tough gameplay if they want to explore all its features in depth.

The fact that the game includes scary aspects only makes it harder for players to navigate through the world and combat its foes. To fully experience this outstanding open-world title, gamers should brace themselves for repeated deaths.

3. STALKER 2: Heart Of Chornobyl

The Difficulty And Glitches Make It Hard To Complete This Long-Awaited Sequel

Completing any Stalker game can be quite a challenge due to its demanding gameplay. But what really sets Heart of Chornobyl apart is the numerous bugs and glitches that not only make it tougher but also detract significantly from the overall gaming experience.

Growing weary from having to revert to an older save due to the game malfunctioning, it eventually becomes frustrating enough that some players decide to abandon the game rather than persist in experiencing all of the incredible effort the developers have put into evolving the STALKER series.

2. Pathologic 2

Death Can Arrive At A Moment’s Notice And Incurs Permanent Penalties

Although intriguing and peculiar as Pathologic 2 might seem, the game leaves no doubt that players should brace themselves for a challenging experience. The survival aspects are merciless, and staying vigilant against adversaries is crucial if one aims to survive.

This game makes it difficult to progress once you die because it imposes penalties. Although these penalties can be lifted after eight deaths, this option means sacrificing the chance to experience the desired ending, as it becomes unattainable.

1. Elden Ring

For Beginners, The Challenge Of This Game Can Be Overwhelming

The game “Elden Ring” stands among the most outstanding open-world action RPGs available for gamers. Despite being considered somewhat easier than some of FromSoftware’s other games, it doesn’t diminish the fact that certain aspects can prove incredibly difficult to overcome.

Certain gamers might struggle immensely to complete this game, particularly following its challenging upgrade. To succeed, it’s crucial for players to understand the type of character they should develop and locate gear and weapons that suit their gaming style. Only then can they conquer this fantastic title.

2025-07-22 17:05