Best Open-World Games To Play For Animal Lovers

As a passionate gamer who has spent countless hours exploring virtual worlds and forging bonds with digital critters, I can confidently say that these open-world games are absolute delights for animal lovers like myself! The titles listed below offer a delightful balance between friendly companions and dangerous predators, making exploration all the more exciting.

Including animals in open-world video games enhances the sense of realism and vitality within the game. While players may not engage with them extensively, their presence serves to make the gaming experience more captivating. These creatures can range from harmless ones to potentially dangerous predators that players must be cautious around to avoid unexpected attacks during exploration.

As interactions take place within the game, it becomes even more enjoyable since players can tame different creatures, form bonds with them, and have these companions join them on their journey throughout the game. For those who hold a deep affection for animals, these following titles are particularly suitable to provide an entertaining experience and exercise their ‘Dr. Dolittle’ abilities.

As a nature enthusiast, I must admit that the encounters listed here offer a fascinating blend of both friendly and potentially hazardous creatures. From adorable helpers to potentially formidable foes, it’s an intriguing dance of survival in each habitat!

5 Far Cry 5

Learning When To Aim And When To Tame Is Key

Boomer (the dog) plays a critical role in helping players throughout the game
Some animals are friendly, while others pose a significant danger

Unlike previous iterations of the series, Far Cry 5 departs from tropical island or Himalayan settings and instead takes place in a fictionalized version of Montana, USA. The game boasts various types of animals, some friendly, others not. One cherished ally in this adventure is Boomer, an adoring, loyal canine companion who plays a crucial role by assisting players in identifying enemies and recovering potent weapons.

In the open world of Far Cry 5, the animal behavior is remarkably true-to-life, so adventurers must move cautiously through forest territories. It’s crucial to understand when to shoot and when to befriend, as some creatures are peaceful, while others may quickly turn aggressive if they perceive a threat.

4 Horizon Zero Dawn

There’s More To The World Than Mechanical Creatures

Most animals in the world are mechanical
Players can still encounter real animals, but they’re scarce

As players delve into the narrative of Horizon Zero Dawn initially, they might be taken aback by the unsettling reality that unfolds. This game is set in a post-apocalyptic Earth, where it reveals the tragic tale of humans who, through their technological advancements, paved their own downfall. The landscape now teems with mechanical beasts, which roam freely across vast open territories, scavenging for resources and hunting for prey.

In this game, you’ll find both biological creatures and mechanical ones, but the mechanical ones appear more frequently. Yet, the challenge of understanding various machines, determining if they’re potentially harmful, and even learning techniques to domesticate a few for smoother exploration offers an intriguing adventure, especially for those who appreciate animals.

3 Red Dead Redemption 2

Taming Wild Horses Is A Welcome Challenge In The Wild West

Arthur can create a strong bond with his horses
Players can tame wild horses spread across the map

Delving into the untamed Wild West is a thrill in itself, but what truly elevates the experience is having a multi-faceted and endearing character like Arthur Morgan to accompany you on this journey. Red Dead Redemption 2 offers an abundance of unique game mechanics that keep the game engaging and prevent it from feeling repetitive as the story unfolds. One aspect that animal enthusiasts will particularly appreciate is the relationship Arthur can forge with his horse.

Arthur can groom it, nourish it, stroke it, and overall treat it kindly. As Arthur and the horse grow closer, the animal’s endurance will increase, and its responsiveness will be heightened. Initially, one of Arthur’s horses is bought from a stable, but there are also opportunities to tame wild horses across the map. To accomplish this without getting hurt, Arthur needs to familiarize himself with each horse type and monitor his target from afar to boost the chances of success.

2 Minecraft

Taming Animals, One Pixel At A Time

Players can interact with various animal species
Animals are key to farming and survival

The game Minecraft, widely recognized, has its merits. It provides nearly limitless opportunities for those seeking to construct, mine resources, and engage with animals. In this expansive universe, players can domesticate, reproduce, and nurture diverse animal species that are essential for farming, survival, and companionship. However, adventuring solo isn’t always the wisest choice in this vast world.

In a natural and easily comprehensible manner, Minecraft genuinely values its expansive open-world setting by providing players the freedom to craft their surroundings however they desire, all while cultivating a self-managed ecosystem that fosters both player and animal prosperity and harmony.

1 Ghost Of Tsushima

Fox Shrines And Yellow Songbirds Will Show The Way

Songbirds and foxes lead players to areas of interest
The game’s beautiful open prairies make for the perfect environment for wildlife

In the game ‘Ghost of Tsushima’, animals play a significant part in the narrative. Jin Sakai’s horse is not just a means of travel across the vast island of Tsushima, but also, creatures in the wild provide clues to places worth exploring. Experienced players know that finding a fox or a yellow bird is a clear signal to pause and follow them, as they will guide you towards shrines or other points of interest.

In the game “Ghost of Tsushima,” the idea of wildlife integration is exceptionally effective due to its strong focus on the breathtaking splendor of nature. The landscape is filled with expansive, untouched fields and vibrant meadows that players are free to traverse, often coming across diverse animal species during their journey.

2024-09-21 16:33