Best Open-World Games That Let You Attend School, Ranked

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Summary

  • Open-world games need immense attention to detail in setting for immersion.
  • Lack of open-world games with academic settings – but a few titles have potential.
  • Hogwarts Legacy, Final Fantasy 8, and Bully offer unique academic experiences in open worlds.

Open-world games require an exceptional level of detail in their settings compared to other types of games. Every element within the game’s geography, culture, and unique features, that is accessible to players, should be carefully thought out and integrated. This careful attention to detail can result in games that are not only visually stunning but also highly immersive.

Games set in educational institutions like schools, academies, or universities are not as abundant as other genres. Although many games do incorporate an academic theme, either in high school settings or fantasy academies, they often don’t qualify as open-world games. However, for gamers seeking to learn within an open-world context, there are a few titles that can cater to this unique preference.

6. Hogwarts Legacy

An Escape From The Mundane Into A Magical World

There’s a lot of talk about the upcoming second part of this series, and it’s evident that Hogwarts Legacy is poised to become a lasting franchise, delving deep into the complexities of the magical world and its numerous inhabitants.

Individuals seeking an immersion into the enchanting academy, famed globally through the “Harry Potter” novels and films, will discover much to delight in here. However, though the school-related elements are captivating, the open-world aspect tends to dwindle as the game progresses.

5. Final Fantasy 8

An Icon Among Other Final Fantasy Titles

Among other “Final Fantasy” titles, “Final Fantasy 8” particularly shines as one of the top JRPGs on the PlayStation. This game is set in the prestigious and imposing Balamb Garden Academy, where students are trained to become SeeDs – an elite group of mercenaries.

In this game, Balamb Garden serves as a significant setting, and the detailed curriculum and content within it contribute to its reputation as one of the outstanding games in the Final Fantasy series. Although the open-world aspects may seem somewhat limited when compared to contemporary definitions of the genre, for individuals seeking an immersive roleplaying experience that also includes a school setting, this game offers an excellent choice.

4. Oblivion

A Charming And Expansive Open World

In the realm of Elder Scrolls: Oblivion, a significant chunk of the Mages Guild questline revolves around guild business rather than traditional scholarly pursuits. Interestingly, the Arcane University, though it may not appear so at first glance, carries an immense weight in the game’s lore and the Imperial City’s history.

Similar to ancient universities depicted in high-fantasy settings, the Arcane University functions primarily as a hub for independent scholarly pursuits rather than an institution where one enrolls as a student. However, there are educational seminars available for participants to attend while within the university’s premises.

3. Skyrim

The College Of Winterhold Is A Unique And Expansive Faction

In Skyrim, and as some enthusiasts argue, among the top faction questlines across the series, the College of Winterhold stands out as a distinctive magical institution unlike its predecessor, the Mages Guild, due to its significantly less stringent approach towards magical oversight.

At the College of Winterhold, you enroll as a student rather than a scholar, and during your studies, you engage in both main story missions and side quests known as radiant quests. Additionally, you have the opportunity to attend magical seminars that cover various aspects of magic. This esteemed institution is particularly beneficial for spellcasters, offering access to advanced spells, even legendary master-level spells, which can significantly enhance a mage character’s battlefield prowess.

2. Bully

GTA Charm In A Prep School Setting

In Rockstar’s collection, Bully might not be as well-known, but it didn’t miss out on a modern update for the new generation. This game transfers the roughness and rebellious spirit typical of GTA games into an entirely new environment – a snobbish prep school. The protagonist, remarkably relatable, isn’t necessarily a bully; instead, he’s portrayed as a loner trying to survive in a school that aims to crush him.

For enthusiasts of classic GTA titles such as GTA 4 or San Andreas, the game Bully remains enjoyable even after years have passed, offering players an engaging experience in school life and providing the opportunity to rebel with thrilling, disorderly outcomes when desired.

1. Pokemon SV

There Are Few Pokemon Locations Like Uva Academy

In the most recent versions of the classic Pokemon games, Scarlet and Violet, there have been some truly groundbreaking additions that left a significant mark on fans. Not only are these games fully open-world, but they also introduced non-linear gameplay to the series for the first time. A significant shift in the game’s structure was also seen with the introduction of Uva Academy.

Many gamers have longed for a well-structured training school in various games, and although there are areas in Scarlet and Violet that require adjustments, the concept of Uva Academy is impressively carried out.

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2025-01-08 09:09