5 Best Open-World Games To Go Fishing, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a relaxing, simple fishing experience with seasonal variety.
Stardew Valley features skill-based fishing gameplay, selling catches for profit.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla integrates fishing as a key element for trading and progress.

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, I must say that fishing mechanics in video games have come a long way from being just a mere distraction or a simple pastime activity. Today, we can find some truly immersive and engaging fishing experiences that not only help us progress through the game but also offer a moment of tranquility amidst all the action.

In open-world video games, activities like hunting and fishing offer additional depth. These activities become particularly intriguing when resources collection and management are part of the gameplay. Caught prey can be consumed for sustenance or sold to generate income, which in turn can be used to purchase other necessary items within the game.

Some open-world games may offer dull or cumbersome fishing mini-games, but others enhance this feature, resulting in a fun and engaging experience that keeps gamers returning. Here’s a list of top open-world games for those who enjoy fishing.

5 Animal Crossing: New Horizons

A Varied, Simple Fishing Experience

Fish change with the seasons, giving the game a lot of variety
A relaxing experience, ideal after a stressful day

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, players immerse themselves in a tranquil island setting where fishing plays a significant role in daily life. Players can cast their lines in various bodies of water, such as lakes, ponds, and the sea, using an intuitive rod control that feels satisfying to use. The assortment of fish to catch is diverse, and it fluctuates based on factors like weather, season, and time, replicating real-world conditions.

The game offers a tranquil environment where players can unwind, enjoy themselves, and not be burdened by mastering intricate mechanics or experiencing the tension or annoyance often associated with other games.

4 Stardew Valley

A Relaxing Fishing Experience With A Beautiful Pixel Art Design

Fishing requires timing and skill
Players can either sell what they catch for profit, or eat it

Stardew Valley emphasizes farming and fishing activities, providing an enjoyable playtime for those who engage with it. Much like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, this game offers diverse fishing spots such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. Moreover, the fish species in the game alter monthly according to the season, but it presents a unique twist that sets it apart from Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

Success in fishing demands both skill and proper timing, as missing either will lead to an unproductive day. As players refine their abilities and become expert fishermen, they can either sell their daily catches for income or prepare them for sustenance. The captivating pixel art style in Stardew Valley beautifully complements the game’s peaceful, laid-back ambiance.

3 Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Fishing Like A Viking Was Never More Fun

Players can use the fish they catch to upgrade their equipment, make money, and plan feasts
Eivor can fish in lakes, rivers, and fjords

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla stands out not just as a fresh addition to the renowned Assassin’s Creed series, set in the captivating Viking age, but also due to its engaging gameplay mechanics, compelling narrative, and, yes, fishing opportunities. Contrary to some skepticism, there are various fish species that Eivor can reel in from the rivers, lakes, and coastal waters surrounding Norway.

In the game ‘Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’, Eivor doesn’t merely fish for fun, but to advance in the game. Anything caught can be traded for upgrades, used to prepare meals, or sold for silver. It’s essential to recall that during those times, trading was crucial for any settlement’s economy, so fishing was a valuable means of earning a living. Although ‘Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’ might not be as calm or kid-friendly as the last two games on the list, it provides an engaging fishing experience nonetheless.

2 Far Cry 5

Various Fishing Side Quests And Rewards

The game features legendary fish which can be caught and exchanged for special rewards
Several fishing challenges and side quests

In the made-up setting of Hope County, Montana, Far Cry 5 immerses players in an authentic slice of rural American life in the countryside. Fishing plays a substantial part in this game, with players able to employ rods, reels, and diverse lures to catch numerous fish species in rivers, lakes, and other water sources. What sets Far Cry 5 apart is its addition of fishing challenges that are essential for completing side missions and amassing wealth, making angling no longer solely about sustenance or leisure.

The game also includes legendary fish that can be pursued and captured for unique prizes that players wouldn’t want to skip. Although the primary focus of Far Cry 5 is firearm combat, stealth, and survival, this gameplay aspect offers players a tranquil respite when they feel like taking a break and enjoying some peaceful moments by their preferred river.

1 Red Dead Redemption 2

One Of The Most Complete Fishing Experiences In Gaming

Fish behavior is very realistic
Players can catch legendary fish; however, it’s not easy

In terms of simulating the experience of pursuing and capturing wild animals or fishing for large aquatic creatures, few games compare to Red Dead Redemption 2. This game offers one of the most comprehensive hunting mechanisms in gaming to date, and players are given various clothing options and substantial rewards if they decide to sell their catches.

As a keen angler, I find myself drawn to the serene waterscapes of this game – be it lakes, rivers, or ponds. Just like in Far Cry 5, there are legendary creatures here, including rare fish species that I aim to reel in, adding an extra layer of excitement to my pastime. Catching these elusive fish can be a challenge, but the thrill is definitely worth it. The fishing mechanics seem incredibly lifelike, with the fish exhibiting behavior reminiscent of their real-world counterparts, swimming away from the shore in a desperate bid for freedom.

Did you know that one heartwarming aspect of this game revolves around teaching a boy named Jack Marston, who is growing up without his father, how to fish? Arthur Morgan takes on this role.

2024-09-26 07:04