Open-World Games With Simple But Great Combat Systems

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Summary

  • Some players prefer games with easy-to-understand controls and simple combat mechanics to unwind.
  • Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy offers enjoyable 3D platformer experience with straightforward gameplay.
  • Star Wars Jedi: Survivor provides an entry-level Souls-like experience with engaging lightsaber combat.

Games may offer detailed battle systems and demanding strategic elements that need careful consideration before any action, but it’s essential to remember that not all gamers seek out intricate gameplay challenges. Instead, some players prefer games as a means of relaxation after a taxing day at work or quality time spent with loved ones.

One effective method for unwinding includes delving into expansive environments, and numerous games provide engaging experiences with intuitive controls. Ranging from thrilling superhero journeys to interstellar expeditions on alien worlds, these games often incorporate fighting that is not only fun but also straightforward to master.

10. Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy

The Underdog Of The 3D Platformer Subgenre

At one point, each studio aimed to recreate the ambiance of Super Mario 64. Naughty Dog’s contribution in this regard was Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy. Instead of a central hub for accessing different levels, the main characters, Jak and Daxter, can traverse the magical world to discover collectibles like Precursor Orbs and Power Cells. Fans of 3D platform games should find it quite accessible.

As a devoted fan, I’d share that beyond the usual running and leaping, Jak isn’t your average character. He can dash, punch, and even spin to take down enemies. The vibrant Eco energy colors in Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy offer unique combat abilities and puzzle-solving powers, setting it apart from other 3D platformers. This versatility is what made the game a standout, leading to two sequels and even a racing game spin-off.

9. Far Cry 3

The Third Game Set The New Gold Standard For The Franchise

The first two games were enjoyable with unique qualities, but Far Cry 3 truly took the series to unprecedented levels by offering players the chance to explore the lush Rook Islands filled with pirates. What makes the gameplay in Far Cry 3 so gratifying is that it empowers players to choose their own methods for every situation, whether they prefer a head-on approach or opt for stealth tactics.

Far Cry 3 laid the foundation for the first-person shooter series to follow, setting a high standard. As players journeyed through a vividly realistic yet rough environment, they hunted wildlife, dismantled criminal bases, and crossed paths with unforgettable antagonists – all while feeling like seasoned survivors without the gameplay becoming convoluted.

8. Borderlands 2

Looter Shooters Wouldn’t Be Where They Are Today Without It

Borderlands 2, known for its unique blend of absurd violence and humor, can be aptly described as the forefather of looter shooter games. It built upon the strengths of its predecessor, enhancing the experience with a more engaging storyline and fresh characters. This game was instrumental in establishing the trend of introducing new main characters in each installment, each possessing distinct special skills to enrich the first-person shooting gameplay.

Given Gearbox Entertainment’s role in developing iconic games like Half-Life and Duke Nukem, it’s not shocking that Borderlands 2 delivers exceptional first-person shooter gameplay. Essentially, it can be seen as a first-person shooter adaptation of Diablo, with players exploring vast territories, battling hordes of enemies, and amassing countless treasures.

7. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

An Iconic RPG That Is Still Easy To Pick Up And Play

In contrast to many Role Playing Games (RPGs), The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim stands out as relatively accessible for beginners, yet still retains its charm. Following an engaging character customization process, players are given the freedom to traverse the land of Skyrim at their leisure using any weapon or magic they prefer. This allows them to shape their character into a hero, villain, or anything in between.

In the game Skyrim, the combat system is straightforward and intuitive. The left and right triggers are used to control each hand, allowing your character to wield a weapon or cast spells. Need to use potions or eat food? Simply pause the game to access those options from the menu. Despite its simplicity to learn, the game offers depth that keeps players engaged even today, making it a classic RPG that’s stood the test of time for nearly fifteen years.

6. The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker

Link On His Most Swashbuckling Adventure Yet

Instead of focusing on any novel gameplay tricks, The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker primarily emphasizes the fundamentals of Link’s controls. He can still utilize items, wield his sword, guard with a shield, and roll, much like in other games. However, what truly sets The Wind Waker apart is its emphasis on exploring the vast open seas.

As a devoted enthusiast, I’d say that while other games may have dabbled with the concept of sailing across vast oceans, none have executed it quite like The Wind Waker did. With its myriad islands ripe for exploration and engaging side quests, this Legend of Zelda installment offers an exhilarating seafaring adventure that’s as thrilling as a swashbuckling voyage as it is soothing. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just starting out, The Wind Waker is a delightful journey not to be missed!

5. Assassin’s Creed: Origins

Changed The Gameplay Style Of The Franchise Forever

When Assassin’s Creed: Origins was released, it significantly shifted the gameplay style of the series to emphasize its open-world elements. The game allows players to traverse the deserts and cities of ancient Egypt as Bayek of Siwa, offering the traditional Assassin’s Creed parkour experience while introducing a new combat system that immerses players in the role of a warrior.

In Assassin’s Creed: Origins, RPG-like elements were incorporated by having weapons and armor that boosted the main character’s abilities. This transformation made combat more fluid and gave players greater control over attacks, which was a fitting addition to the game’s expansive open world filled with quests. The success of this change carried over to subsequent games, Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey and Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, which adopted this new approach as their standard.

4. Rise Of The Tomb Raider

Lara Croft Continues To The Ultimate Survivor

Following the 2013 reboot of “Tomb Raider,” they shifted gears on Lara Croft, focusing more on exploration. In “Rise of the Tomb Raider,” they took it up a notch by offering expansive areas to traverse. I found myself tracking wildlife, uncovering hidden treasures, and taking on side missions as Lara grew into the tough-as-nails survivor she’s famous for.

Lara is proficient not just in wielding her reliable climbing axes for combat, she also carries various firearms that can be upgraded. This blend of swift third-person shooting and melee battles creates an engaging gaming experience suitable for all players, making the game Rise Of The Tomb Raider hard to resist. This style of gameplay is expected to grow even more in its sequel.

3. Batman: Arkham City

The Superhero Sequel That Proved That Bigger Can Be Better

In Batman: Arkham City, they built on what Batman: Arkham Asylum laid down by refining the fluid combat style of Batman, introducing new maneuvers, quicker movement, and an expanded arsenal of gadgets. Yet, it remains as engaging and user-friendly as its predecessor. The main difference is that instead of a single Metroidvania-style island, you can now freely explore a significant part of Gotham City.

In a simple yet delightful manner, the fighting in Batman: Arkham City stands out as exemplary, even among many big-budget titles like Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor and Mad Max, which attempted to emulate it. However, when it comes down to it, Arkham City still reigns supreme. It paved the way for two sequels that built upon its foundation, enhancing both the exploration and combat aspects.

2. Marvel’s Spider-Man

The Most Accurate Spider-Man Simulator

Given the immense success of “Batman: Arkham City” and “Arkham Knight”, it was hardly unexpected when Sony and Insomniac Games introduced “Marvel’s Spider-Man”. This game drew a significant amount of inspiration from its predecessors, featuring a similar combo-based freeflow combat system. However, instead of focusing on countering attacks, it emphasizes dodging, capitalizing on Spider-Man’s agility.

In addition to embodying the character well, Marvel’s Spider-Man features web-integrated fighting that seamlessly blends with melee combat, offering an authentic and captivating Spider-Man experience. The ability to freely explore New York City teeming with iconic villains and numerous side quests makes for a delightful cherry on top of a delectable Marvel superhero adventure.

1. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

The Lightsaber Combat Is Better Than Ever

Games akin to the challenging and intricate style of “Dark Souls” and “Elden Ring”, such as “Star Wars Jedi: Survivor“, cater to those who might find those titles too demanding. Wielding Cal Kestis’ lightsaber in this Star Wars narrative offers a beginner-friendly Souls-like experience, retaining the thrill while keeping the difficulty level engaging enough to prevent the game from feeling mundane or tedious.

In the game titled “Star Wars Jedi: Survivor“, players embark on an adventure traversing numerous celestial bodies, blending action RPG fighting with maneuvers akin to wall-climbing, parkour, and leaping – much like in a “Tomb Raider” game. The protagonist is Cal, who can alternate between five unique lightsaber combat styles and employ diverse Force skills. Few Star Wars games have offered Jedi fighting as gratifying as this one does.

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2025-01-12 11:34