Best PS5 Games For Exploration

by

The PS5 has many games where you can explore, like the visually stunning God of War Ragnarok and the vibrant Cyberpunk 2077. While these games offer open worlds, they don’t necessarily focus on deep exploration – their worlds, though impressive, aren’t as detailed or expansive as some other games.

If you’re like me and love getting lost in huge, detailed worlds, these PS5 games are definitely worth checking out. They aren’t just about exploration, but trust me, they really reward you for wandering off the main path and discovering things yourself – and that’s what I love most about a game.

We also looked at games available on platforms other than PS5, but only if they really showcased impressive exploration.

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach

Became A Courier And See The Sights

Just like the first Death Stranding, the sequel, On the Beach, centers around delivering packages in a world after a catastrophic event. This time around, the main character, Sam, will gain access to faster transportation and helpful equipment – including a three-wheeled motorcycle, a weight-distributing exoskeleton, and even a rope – to make his journeys a bit smoother.

Traveling between Mexico and Australia is a huge part of this game, and it’s definitely one of the most visually stunning games available on the PS5. While the environments are mostly sand and ruins, it’s still a beautiful game. The shelters where you meet characters aren’t the most impressive compared to other post-apocalyptic games, but it’s always enjoyable to find new people with unique personalities – from those surrounded by birds to those harboring dreams of becoming pizza chefs.

Ghost Of Yotei

Bloody But Beautiful

Released in 2025, Ghost of Yotei is a particularly violent game, even allowing players to increase the amount of blood and mud shown on screen. The story follows Atsu, who seeks revenge on the Yotei Six – the group responsible for her parents’ deaths and the destruction of the land of Yotei. While offering plenty of intense sword fighting, Ghost of Yotei appears to focus more on exploration than its inspiration, Ghost of Tsushima.

The game beautifully blends exploration with horseback riding, creating a remarkably peaceful experience. Scaling mountains with clever platforming is also enjoyable. Along the way, you’ll find optional stops – like hot springs to restore health or bamboo groves to boost stamina – that offer helpful benefits. Ultimately, Ghost of Yotei delivers a heartwarming message: even amidst conflict, beauty exists everywhere. The game encourages players to take a moment to appreciate the small things, like a blooming flower, to gain perspective.

Sword Of The Sea

Surfs Up

Similar in spirit to the critically acclaimed game Journey, Sword of the Sea focuses on creating a unique experience. Players start as a statue holding a magical sword, but instead of fighting, they use it as a surfboard to explore vast, sandy landscapes. The goal is to bring life and water back to each area they visit.

Restoring underwater life to barren landscapes is incredibly satisfying, and the game continually rewards you with new experiences for a truly relaxing playthrough – a rare find on PS5. It shares a similar spirit to Okami, blending environmental themes with gameplay reminiscent of Zelda. Beyond the main story, Sword of the Sea offers fun side activities, like futuristic skate parks where you can hone your sword skills – think Tony Hawk, but with swords!

Hell Is Us

No Map, No Problem

Hell is Us is a new post-apocalyptic game for PS5 that focuses on exploration. Getting around isn’t straightforward – you’ll need to carefully read notes, listen to characters, and use your compass to find your way. While it has action combat, it’s more focused on atmosphere and puzzle-solving, similar to the Silent Hill series.

Ultimately, Hell is Us focuses more on exploration and solving puzzles than on fast-paced action. While the lack of guidance while exploring its large world can be challenging, it’s a refreshing and unique experience in 2025 worth checking out. The game doesn’t offer any map markers or directions for quests, big or small, creating a thrilling feeling reminiscent of playing the original The Legend of Zelda on the NES.

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim

Get Lost

While it’s an RPG, The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is a surprisingly great game to let someone explore without much guidance. It has typical RPG elements like fighting, character progression, and skill development, but the real fun isn’t necessarily in the combat. The beginning can be a little slow, but once you’re free to roam the world of Tamriel, it’s just as breathtaking today as it was when it first came out in 2011.

Open-world games have really evolved since 2011, but The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim still offers a unique experience. The joy of freely exploring the world and stumbling upon new towns, caves, and ancient ruins hasn’t faded. Seeing a dragon, mammoth, or giant for the first time remains thrilling, and that feeling holds up even today, whether you’re playing the original game, an updated version, or in virtual reality.

Read More

2025-11-04 14:35