8 Open-World Games with Jaw-Dropping Openings

It’s understandable why most open-world games often begin with an exciting event to attract players. Given the abundance of open-world games in the market, some risk fading into obscurity without a grandiose introduction.

It’s fortunate that numerous open-world games deliver on various aspects of gameplay. Whether it’s personal growth stories, epic fights or a blend of all, these open-world games strive to provide an engaging introduction that lays the groundwork for the exciting journey ahead.

8. Horizon Zero Dawn

Following Aloy’s Journey To Maturity Is A Simple And Great Intro

In simple terms, “Horizon Zero Dawn” is a remarkable first game in a series with an intriguing world and deep history. A strong start was crucial to the title’s impact, making the opening of “Zero Dawn” worthy of all the praise it received.

In this game, you guide a character named Aloy who was raised by outcasts and taught survival skills in a world inhabited by aggressive mechanical beings. You start by mastering combat, stealth, and movement techniques as Aloy evolves into a self-assured heroine. The open environment is designed to be manageable for players from the beginning, which is something the sequel could have benefitted from learning.

7. Assassin’s Creed 2

Ezio’s Boisterous Attitude Is Established In No Time

In its heyday, Ubisoft produced one of the most acclaimed video game sequels, Assassin’s Creed 2. From the instant Ezio leaps out a maiden’s window and delivers witty quips before making a swift escape, it’s tough not to take a liking to him.

Shortly after Ezio engages in a battle and challenges his sibling for a rooftop climb, we encounter his family. This scene offers an insight into Ezio’s joyful existence, making the subsequent events that disrupt this peace all the more poignant.

6. Cyberpunk 2077

Every Lifepath Boasts A Unique Introduction That’s A Joy To Witness

Greet Night City with a distinctive and captivating Life Story introduction, designed to introduce characters that will play significant roles in the ensuing game. Although the depth of LifePath may not have met everyone’s expectations, players can still delight in choosing V’s backstory prior to their encounter with Jackie.

The three character paths in Corpo, Nomad, and Street Kid offer unique beginnings, although they might be somewhat short. However, these beginnings successfully immerse players in a thrilling opening that kick-starts their journey through the expansive world of Cyberpunk 2077. Following a series of bonding scenes with Jackie and other companions, V and their newly formed ally launch into an exhilarating mission that lays the groundwork for the grand adventure that unfolds in Cyberpunk 2077.

5. Fallout: New Vegas

Getting Shot In The Head Is An Impactful Way To Start An Adventure

In Fallout: New Vegas, players are immediately drawn in by an engaging prologue. As the character known as the Courier, they’re given a delicate task to complete, but en route, they encounter Benny and his gang who create trouble for them.

Apart from swiping the protagonist’s crucial item, Benny also reveals how the game was manipulated right from the beginning before executing them. This memorable introduction is cherished by fans, as it lays the groundwork for an epic journey that leads players to New Vegas, where they become entangled in a significant conflict involving different influential groups vying for control over this city.

4. Batman: Arkham City

Seeing Bruce Wayne Use A Brutal Counter To Break His Handcuffs Never Gets Old

Arkham Asylum, starring Batman, is considered one of the best superhero games ever created. To make Arkham City stand out for players, Rocksteady recognized they needed a change. They introduced an engrossing open world and refined gameplay mechanics, which were well-received. However, it was an exceptional opening that grabbed both new and returning players.

As Bruce Wayne argues against the establishment of Arkham City, he ends up captured by Hugo Strange and finds himself surrounded by criminals. Despite appearing vulnerable, Bruce demonstrates his exceptional combat abilities by delivering a powerful knee strike that shatters his handcuffs on a criminal’s head. Subsequently, he maneuvers to a higher location and receives the necessary equipment in a strategic drop, thus transforming into Batman.

3. Grand Theft Auto 5

The Game Captures A Player’s Attention From The Very Start With A Pulse-Pounding Heist

In GTA 5, it was the heists that immediately caught the attention of players when they started the game. The game’s prologue unfolds in the snowy town of Ludendorff, serving as an emotional prelude to the mechanics of the game, where Michael, Trevor, and their associates execute a bank robbery.

Not too long after, I find myself in a sticky situation with the law hot on my heels. With no other choice, I and my companions have to fight our way free, desperately trying to evade the local authorities. Regrettably, things take an unexpected turn for the worse – Brad gets hit by their bullets, and assuming Trevor’s worst fears about Michael, I believe he’s met his end. The plot takes a leap forward in time as we fast-forward a few years, with me, Franklin, being tasked to pull off a heist – snatching a vehicle for my boss and bringing it back in one piece. What a gripping opening!

2. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

Players Are Moments Away From A Beheading On The Executioner’s Block Before Alduin’s Destructive Appearance

As a dedicated fan, I still find myself captivated by the enchanting opening sequence of Skyrim even years later. It’s as if I’m being transported back in time, when my own character-crafted hero finds himself in a cart bound for Helgen, a town where our impending execution is only minutes away after we’ve crafted our unique persona. The thrill and suspense never seem to fade.

In this rephrased version, the scene opens with beheadings, setting a foreboding tone, and characters prepare for their demise… but then Alduin appears, destroying everything in his path. Amidst the chaos, the player embarks on a thrilling escape, eventually joining forces with either a Stormcloak or an Imperial faction to learn the game’s fundamentals. Once acquainted, they find themselves thrust into a breathtaking and expansive high-fantasy realm, teeming with opportunities for spontaneous journeys and enabling them to build their own legend as the Dragonborn in this grand world.

1. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Starting Out With A Fight Against Sandman Is A Bold Way To Start The Game

In the follow-up to Marvel’s Spider-Man, you’ll find an impressive continuation that offers additional ways to swing through the city and gives players the chance to manage two web-slinging heroes. While the original game boasted a captivating cinematic opening, few could have predicted the sequel would surpass it as masterfully as it does.

The game initiates by pitting you against Sandman, a fight that showcases Insomniac’s impressive technological advancements on the PS5. Miles is hurled back after just one punch, but he swiftly recovers and glides back into the fray. This encounter between Sandman and the Spider-Men is one of many instances that solidify it as an exceptional introduction in video game history.

2025-03-03 18:17