Best Open-World PC Games - Investment Policy

As a seasoned PC gamer with over two decades under my belt, I must say that the open-world genre has truly flourished in recent years, and these three games are undeniably standouts.

As a gamer, I’ve found myself corrected many times about what open-world games truly represent. Contrary to common belief, they aren’t a genre but rather an engaging game mechanic. These games are distinctively marked by expansive landscapes, seamlessly connected without the intrusion of loading screens. This unlimited exploration offers an uncanny sense of immersion, making me feel like I’ve stepped right into the game itself. Open-world experiences can come in various forms, such as role-playing games (RPGs), thrilling third-person adventures, or even high-speed racing games.

On the gaming front, Personal Computers (PCs) have consistently shone due to their versatility in customization and ease of upgrading. The freedom to upgrade a PC with cutting-edge specifications for unprecedented power is an empowering sensation. The vast PC gaming market boasts the largest collection of games among all platforms. However, what are some top-notch open-world games that can be played through Steam, Epic Store, and other digital distribution platforms?

17 Far Cry 5

Fight Fanatics In The American Wilderness

Among the last three principal “Far Cry” games, this position could go to any of them, but the fifth one is chosen primarily because it’s the most recent and features the Hope County setting. This location, reminiscent of Montana, is stunning yet consistently dangerous. It seems like with every step taken in the game, you encounter a band of Joseph Seed’s followers who are more than ready to shower you with bullets.

Although “Far Cry 6” has been released, it falls short in many aspects compared to its predecessor. The first-person shooter gameplay remains enjoyable, the open-world setting offers an exciting exploration experience, and the characters are entertainingly exaggerated.

16 Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain

Venom Snake’s Tactical Sandbox

In contrast to previous series installments, Kojima Productions chose a more open-ended style for the fifth main Metal Gear Solid game, focusing significantly on stealth. Titled Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain, this edition boasts the most engaging gameplay within the series. It offers Venom Snake an extensive array of strategies and gadgets to sneak into enemy bases. Although the world may not be overflowing with items, its vastness is striking. On the other hand, the desolate setting and solitude lend a Western ambiance that harmonizes with the narrative.

In contrast to its series predecessors, The Phantom Pain stands out significantly as the narrative tends to play second fiddle to the gaming experience. Yet, independently considered, it’s undeniably one of the top-notch open-world games for PC.

15 Genshin Impact

Explore The Fantasy Wonderland Of Teyvat

Initially known as “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” with added waifus, the game has evolved into an extraordinary sensation, leaving no doubt that it merits all the acclaim it receives. With each update, Genshin Impact continues to demonstrate its worth, and there’s still much more to come. The world of Teyvat is steeped in legend, mystery, and character; there’s an abundance of activities and sights to explore within this universe.

In Genshin Impact, you’ll find captivating landscapes such as the spellbinding Guyun Stone Forest and the charming Wangshu Inn, each contributing to a breathtaking world that begs to be explored.

14 Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

War, Family, And Destiny In The Heart Of Greece

Few adventure games match the visual allure of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Every corner you turn reveals stunning sights within its beautifully crafted open-world setting. The game is set during the years 431–422 BCE, when a prolonged conflict rages between Sparta and Athens.

In simpler terms, players get to decide whether they want to play as characters named Alexios or Kassandra. Whichever character they pick, they’ll find themselves involved in a conflict from multiple perspectives, striving to reunite their family.

13 Death Stranding

A Cinematic Journey Across A Broken World

Some outstanding open-world video games have achieved unprecedented cinematic quality, with creator Hideo Kojima placing great emphasis on authenticity while developing Death Stranding. The character resembling Norman Reedus, who portrayed Sam Bridges within the game, was almost flawlessly recreated.

The richly narrative journey of Death Stranding demonstrates that even an extensive game like this one can maintain player engagement from start to finish. Offering a distinctive gaming experience, it is accessible on both PC and PlayStation platforms.

12 Cyberpunk 2077

Explore The Neon Lit Depths Of Night City

Although there were debates about its console version, CD Projekt Red’s game Cyberpunk 2077 was more favorably received on PC, despite having some initial problems. Ignoring the issues for a moment, Cyberpunk 2077 provides an intriguing and immersive open world to delve into, with Night City brimming with details that add depth and authenticity. The narrative is powerful, engaging, and superbly performed; it may not surpass The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, but few games can match its quality.

In the realm of video games, cyberpunk environments like those seen in Deus Ex and The Ascent are not new, but Cyberpunk 2077 offers this setting on a grander scale than ever before within the medium. As expected from CD Projekt Red, the side quests in Night City are typically well-crafted, enriching every nook and structure with life.

11 Valheim

A Survival Sandbox Brimming With Mysteries

Back in early 2021, I was swept off my feet by the storm that was Valheim, a sandbox game from Iron Gate Studios. As a Viking, it threw down the gauntlet for me to battle through diverse landscapes, survive against all odds, and ultimately prove myself worthy of entering the hallowed halls of Valhalla.

In essence, Valheim is an open-ended game that currently lacks a robust storyline, but offers players the means to construct shelters, hunt wildlife, and engage in combat with enemies. Additionally, it allows for cooperation among Vikings if they choose to team up. At this stage, Valheim already delivers a rich gaming experience despite being in development.

10 Fallout: New Vegas

Welcome To The Wasteland’s Wild Side

Although it may not boast the most stunning open-world setting, Fallout: New Vegas demonstrates that superior graphics aren’t always necessary. The game unfolds in a post-apocalyptic future, following the events of Fallout 3. This title is set in the area once known as Las Vegas, now called New Vegas.

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but marvel at the meticulously crafted RPG elements in Fallout: New Vegas. As someone who appreciates quality, I’d highly recommend adding this game to your collection, especially since it’s compatible with both Xbox One and the next-gen Xbox Series X/S. If you’re a fan of The Outer Worlds, you absolutely must give Obsidian Entertainment’s Fallout: New Vegas a try. It could very well be their magnum opus!

9 Horizon Series

Where Nature Meets Machine

Guerilla Games carefully crafted an abundance of detail into the game “Horizon Zero Dawn,” which is renowned for its expansive open-world, divided into various biomes. The game’s sole downloadable content, titled “Horizon: Zero Dawn: The Frozen Wilds, ” transports players to the icy expanse of The Cut, a cold region located in the game’s northern region above Grave-Hoard.

In the continuation of the story following the events of Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden West presents fresh perils, novel machines, and an expansive region to traverse that lies far west from Aloy’s Nora homeland. Initially, both Zero Dawn and Forbidden West were exclusive to PlayStation platforms; however, they made their way onto PC two years after their initial release. Additionally, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered was released on PC on October 31, 2024.

8 Marvel’s Spider-Man

New York Awaits Its Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man

The release of Sony’s “Marvel’s Spider-Man” paved the way for a series of PlayStation exclusives moving to PC, offering PC gamers an opportunity to play one of the top PS5 games from recent times without disappointing. The skillful work of Nixxes Software in delivering high-quality PC adaptations remains commendable.

In this game titled “Marvel’s Spider-Man“, we find ourselves following Peter Parker who has fully embraced his role as Spider-Man. He’s prepared and equipped to protect the citizens of New York City from dangers, whether they are otherworldly or everyday. The environment is a vast open world, skillfully incorporating ray tracing technology, offering an immersive experience. The narrative is strong, and the action sequences, filled with intensity and energy, live up to expectations on every level.

7 Forza Horizon 4 & 5

Speed Through Stunning Open-World Landscapes

While RPGs and adventure games tend to grab more attention, they’re not the only ones capable of boasting stunning open worlds. A prime example that showcases how to do an open-world racing game effectively is Forza Horizon 4. Although it veers slightly towards arcade-style gaming compared to the Forza Motorsport series, its focus lies on exploration in a visually stunning open world, which replicates the landscapes surrounding Edinburgh, Scotland.

In essence, Forza Horizon 5 represents an upgraded and polished successor to its predecessor, FH4. It introduces new features that were absent in the original, while maintaining the open-world format that defines the Forza series. Remarkably, it excels in areas such as graphics, car handling, and a larger variety of drivable vehicles. However, when it comes to raw open-world capabilities, FH4 takes the lead due to its seasonal changes and more varied map. Despite this, it’s important to note that FH5’s world is generally considered more visually appealing.

6 Grand Theft Auto 5

The Urban Jungle Of Los Santos

Despite being years since its initial release, players continue to revisit the world of Grand Theft Auto 5, which is set within the expansive State of San Andreas. This game stands out as a quintessential modern open-world experience, expanding upon the strong foundations established by earlier installments in Rockstar’s renowned series.

Los Santos serves as an immersive sandbox, making Grand Theft Auto 5 one of the most authentically open-world PC games currently available. The vista from the summit of Mount Chiliad, the highest point in the game, is truly awe-inspiring.

5 The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

Magic, Dragons, And Boundless Exploration

A thorough conversation about open-world games wouldn’t feel right without mentioning a title from the Elder Scrolls franchise. While not everyone might consider The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim the best game in the series, its world is undeniably captivatingly beautiful.

In the upgraded version called “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition,” the snowy landscape of Skyrim shines exceptionally beautifully. This improved game, with its remastered artwork, is an excellent starting point for someone new to Role-Playing Games (RPG).

4 Ghost of Tsushima

A Breathtaking Samurai Saga

Ever since its PS4 debut in mid-2020, PC gamers have eagerly anticipated the arrival of the ultimate samurai open-world action RPG. Their wait ended in May 2024 when they finally got their hands on the PC version. While playing Ghost of Tsushima on the PlayStation was enjoyable, it truly shines on a PC platform.

In essence, what makes Ghost of Tsushima stand out is its stunning open-world setting boasting some of the finest visuals in gaming, engaging Samurai combat, and a captivating narrative. Moreover, the Director’s Cut for PC offers an extra treat: the Iki island expansion, inviting players to explore yet another island.

3 Red Dead Redemption 2

A Masterpiece of Immersive Storytelling In The Wild West

Red Dead Redemption 2” showcases exceptional open-world development, set in the year 1899 across the Midwest, West, and South of the United States. While the locales in “Red Dead Redemption 2” are fictional, they draw inspiration from genuine locations.

This game allows you to play from either a third-person or first-person perspective, offering greater flexibility compared to most open-world titles. The level of detail in Red Dead Redemption 2 is exceptional, making it one of the finest open-world experiences available on PC.

2 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

An Open-World RPG That Redefines The Genre

When it comes to open-world design, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt truly stands out as one of the most remarkable examples. Although the game technically features a semi-open world due to loading screens dividing regions, each region is expansive enough that it could easily be a standalone game by itself.

If you enjoy exploring the quest-filled landscapes of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, it’s tough not to acknowledge that it’s one of the most impressive role-playing game achievements in recent years.

1 Elden Ring

Conquer The Lands Between

From Software has consistently stood out as a trailblazer, and it’s no exaggeration to say that anticipation for their first open-world game, Elden Ring, was astronomical. However, they more than met expectations. One reason the Dark Souls formula resonated so deeply is due to the richness of its world, filled with surprises around every corner. While not quite as dense, Elden Ring certainly delivers on this aspect.

The game presents players a massive, enigmatic environment ripe for discovery. Scattered throughout the landscape are numerous one-of-a-kind weapons, armor, charms, battle transformations, consumables, and crucial items. There are no quest markers to lead the way, and the only guidance comes from a faint golden radiance emanating from the Sites of Grace. The exploration experience is stripped down to its core essence, punctuated by periods of combat against inhabitants of the Lands Between.

2024-11-06 05:54