Best Open-World Games That Feel Great Just To Exist In

Open-world games have improved dramatically, and that makes sense given how popular and successful they are. Big game developers work hard to create immersive experiences with exciting gameplay and stunning visuals in these expansive game worlds.

The best open-world games create truly immersive and unforgettable environments. These worlds are often so beautiful and detailed that players simply enjoy being there, even without actively pursuing goals or completing tasks.

Red Dead Redemption 2

The Immersive Open-World Will Captivate Players In No Time

Right from the start, when players establish their camp in Horseshoe Overlook, *Red Dead Redemption 2* immediately impresses with one of the most beautiful and realistically detailed open worlds ever created. The game’s wildlife feels incredibly lifelike, and it’s possible to spend hours simply hunting and enjoying that aspect of the game.

The towns feel realistic and offer plenty of activities, encouraging players to explore the game world even when they’re not focused on the main story. All these interconnected systems create a fantastic experience that players are really enjoying.

Yakuza 0

The Districts Of Kamurocho And Sotenbori Are Jaw-Droppingly Gorgeous

Yakuza 0 is a fantastic starting point for anyone new to the series, which is truly unique. Watching Kiryu and Majima climb the ranks to become the Dragon of Dojima and the Mad Dog of Shimano is incredibly fun.

Even with a compelling story, the bustling cities of Kamurocho and Sotenbori offer an incredible amount of content that will truly captivate players. Beyond the main quest, you can enjoy activities like visiting arcades, managing properties, revitalizing a cabaret club, singing karaoke, or playing pool and darts – all within beautifully recreated versions of Tokyo’s Kabukicho and Osaka’s Dotonbori.

The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom

The World Exudes A Sense Of Serenity That Encourages Players To Stop And Take In The Sights

Tears of the Kingdom is a truly exceptional video game, building upon the foundation of Breath of the Wild and offering a world with even more ways to explore upwards. While battles can be challenging, particularly against powerful enemies like Lynels and Gleeoks, this is a minor aspect of an otherwise incredible experience.

I’ve been playing *Tears of the Kingdom*, and honestly, it’s just as amazing as *Breath of the Wild* at letting you lose yourself in the world. It’s surprisingly relaxing! I find myself just wandering around, looking for Koroks, trying out new recipes, finding cool horses, and messing around with the Ultrahand – it’s fun just *being* in the game, you know? It’s a huge sandbox and there’s so much to do, but sometimes the best part is just existing in it.

The Sims 3

The Whole Point Of This Game Is To Exist In An Open-World Neighborhood

Players of The Sims 4 still often wish the game had a more open, sandbox-style world. The Sims 3 really set a new standard with its fully open world, making the life simulation gameplay much more immersive and enjoyable.

This feature let players continue managing their Sims’ lives even while those Sims were at work or on dates. It gave players consistent control and made the experience of simply guiding a Sim’s life surprisingly freeing.

Grand Theft Auto Online

Pursuing A Virtual Life Of Crime Feels Great In Los Santos And Its Surroundings

Some single-player fans might roll their eyes at the mention of *GTA Online*, but it deserves recognition – the open-world crime experience it offers is truly unique. Plus, there’s so much to do in *GTA Online* that it’s easy to lose yourself in the game.

When players can enjoy the game without being bothered by disruptive others, earning money through businesses and collecting vehicles truly makes them feel like they’re living a criminal life in the virtual world of Los Santos. This incredibly immersive experience is what draws players into *GTA Online* and keeps them engaged from character creation onward.

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

The Home Of The Nords Is Easily The Most Beautiful World Shown In An Elder Scrolls Game

For fans of immersive role-playing games, *Skyrim* is a top choice. Once you venture out of Helgen and learn the ropes, you’ll be captivated by the game’s beautiful world and the incredible freedom it offers.

In *Skyrim*, players aren’t rushed to complete the main story. You can take your time exploring the Nordic lands and building your own unique story. Enjoying life’s simple pleasures – like buying a home or finding a partner – is a big part of what makes the game so enjoyable.

Cyberpunk 2077

Capitalist Hellscape Aside, Night City Is So Beautiful To Behold That Driving Or Walking Around Feels Amazing

Cyberpunk 2077 immediately captivates players with its stunning depiction of Night City. While the game portrays a dark and troubled future shaped by unchecked capitalism, it’s also incredibly immersive and beautiful.

The new AutoDrive feature gives players another reason to enjoy the world around them, letting V travel across the map on their own. Plus, with fun activities like playing with Joytoys, buying property, and building relationships, simply being in *Cyberpunk 2077* is a really enjoyable experience.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

New York’s Many Boroughs Are A Joy To Swing Around In

Exploring New York City in *Marvel’s Spider-Man 2* is more exciting than ever before. The game feels fantastic with the addition of web wings, letting you swing around with incredible speed and momentum – and that’s just one of the many amazing features of this beautiful game.

You don’t always have to complete every mission or stop every crime. Just swinging around the city as Spider-Man is fantastic and makes you feel like a true hero protecting New York.

2025-10-12 06:05