Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

Highlights

  • Open-world games don’t have to be excessively long to deliver a great story and experience.
  • Sunset Overdrive, Metro Exodus, and Gravity Rush offer shorter yet captivating open-world adventures.
  • Quality storytelling, unique gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters make these games stand out.

As a seasoned gamer with decades worth of virtual adventures under my belt, I must say that the trio of games I’m about to introduce to you is nothing short of extraordinary. From the gravity-defying escapades of Gravity Rush to the interstellar intrigue of The Outer Worlds, and finally to the gritty streets of Sleeping Dogs, these titles have left indelible marks on my gaming journey.


In open-world video games, players typically anticipate about 40 hours of primary narrative along with an abundance of additional content to warrant their investment. This type of gaming is frequently lauded for its vast, immersive maps, side missions that enrich the game’s universe, and a prolonged storyline that maintains player engagement throughout the entire playthrough.

Although many games manage to pull it off, not every open-world game should be expected to offer the same depth. The quality of a story often trumps its length, and numerous titles prioritize this. While compact open-world games are still enjoyed, some gamers would welcome a longer stay in these virtual worlds.

6 Sunset Overdrive

Main Story: 10–12 Hours

Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

In 2014, the lively, vibrant game “Sunset Overdrive” was released, offering a blend of comedic action, self-aware humor, and fourth-wall breaks. The story unfolds in an open world that has been overtaken by mutants, a result of people consuming a popular energy drink. This title sees the developers at Insomniac Games adapting the smooth navigation and engaging combat mechanics from “Ratchet and Clank” to an open-world gameplay style.

As a lifelong gamer who has spent countless hours traversing virtual worlds, I can confidently say that Sunset Overdrive stands out for its exceptional momentum-based traversal system. The way this game lets you zip, bounce, and grind through a vibrant, open-world city is nothing short of exhilarating. It’s no wonder that the development team behind it went on to create what many consider the best web-swinging mechanics in gaming – they clearly understand the thrill of soaring through a digital landscape with seemingly endless possibilities.

5 Metro Exodus

Main Story: 15–20 Hours

Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

In Metro Exodus, the open-world concept is approached uniquely. Instead of a single expansive map for free roaming, the game presents several large regions that the characters traverse during their trek across Russia. Upon finishing an area, players can progress to the next one. The 20-hour narrative is flexible, with choices made in combat and exploration having a direct impact on the story’s development.

As a gamer diving into Metro Exodus, I’ve got to say the combat is thrilling and engaging! The weapons pack a solid punch, making each encounter feel substantial. Plus, the enemy AI is cunning and tactical, keeping me on my toes. However, as the game progresses, the levels seem to narrow down, which might be why some folks find it a tad shorter than expected. But don’t let that fool you – this game offers a rich, immersive experience that leaves you yearning for more. The cast of characters in Metro Exodus is endearing and engaging, making me eager to replay the game again and again!

4 Gravity Rush

Main Story: 12–15 Hours

Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

Given the option to choose a superpower, many individuals might prefer flight or strength. However, Gravity Rush presents an intriguing twist on this concept. Debuted on the PS Vita, the game showcases a captivating comic-book aesthetic and offers a unique method for movement. Players are granted the ability to float in mid-air, alter the direction of gravity, and much more, making it an exciting choice for those seeking something different.

As a thrilled enthusiast, I must admit that this intriguing system initially left me a tad disoriented, yet the fun factor quickly made up for it! The unique platforming and combative scenarios offer a challenging playground to test my newly acquired abilities. The narrative may be brief, but it’s delightful in its exploration of the protagonist’s long-lost memories and the mysterious gravity storms that have befallen the quaint open-world town of Hekseville.

3 The Outer Worlds

Main Story: 15–20 Hours

Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

2019 saw the launch of Obsidian Entertainment’s space-faring RPG, The Outer Worlds, which was warmly received due to its immersive sci-fi universe. In this game, players assume command of a modest spaceship, gradually gathering crewmates and comrades as the narrative unfolds. The freedom to explore multiple planets is offered, with each planet revealing clues about a sprawling corporate conspiracy.

The main quest can easily be completed in about 15–20 hours, but there is side content to stretch it further. The game also features several open sections of planets and a few space stations to explore, covering a pretty large area in total. The world, characters, and bright visual design are certain to leave players wanting more after the story ends.

2 Mafia 2

Main Story: 12–15 Hours

Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

In simpler terms, Mafia 2 is an action-packed open-world game that mimics movies such as Goodfellas and The Godfather. It’s widely acclaimed as the standout title of a much-admired series. The storyline, despite being relatively brief, spans several years in the life of criminal protagonist Vito Scaletta. The game is set in the 1940s in Empire Bay, a city modeled after New York City.

In this open-world game, the narrative unfolds in a consecutive manner, without offering many side activities or additional content. Fortunately, the linear storyline is engaging, boasting intriguing characters and top-notch voice acting that lends a sense of reality to the environment. The gameplay primarily revolves around third-person cover shooting and driving, both of which are skillfully implemented.

1 Sleeping Dogs

Main Story: 15–20 Hours

Best Open-World Games That Are Too Short

Sleeping Dogs is an engaging crime-drama video game that immerses players in the role of Wei Shen, a morally ambiguous undercover cop. Unlike the Mafia Trilogy, which draws inspiration from American cinema, Sleeping Dogs embodies the essence of Hong Kong’s crime dramas. This game is praised for its seamless close-quarter combat, captivating characters, and sophisticated visual style.

In just under 20 hours, you could finish the main storyline of this game, but its expansive open world, driving, combat, and captivating elements are likely to keep gamers engaged for much longer. There are numerous short side missions available, yet they can grow repetitive over time. Nonetheless, “Sleeping Dogs” is an exceptional game that has left a lasting impression on fans since its debut more than a decade ago.

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2024-08-03 10:33