Open-World Games With Perfect Endings

by

What happens at the end of a video game’s story is often the most crucial part. Many games stumble when it comes to the finale, and this is especially true for open-world games, which usually have huge environments and very long storylines.

While many games end on a disappointing note, some truly stand out by providing satisfying conclusions. These endings either neatly resolve the story or subtly hint at future adventures without being heavy-handed. The open-world genre, ranging from grand fantasy tales to deeply moving stories, has given us several memorable finales that feel respectful of the player’s time and leave them feeling the journey was worthwhile.

Warning: This article reveals key plot details and endings for several open-world games, including any follow-up games and downloadable content. Read at your own risk!

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Destiny Is Finally Fulfilled

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt provides a satisfying conclusion to Geralt’s story, with multiple endings that truly reflect the player’s decisions throughout the game. Instead of a single, fixed outcome, players experience different results for characters like Ciri and the fate of the kingdom, making the ending feel deeply personal and impactful.

With so many storylines wrapping up, Ciri’s is perhaps the most significant, as she’s set to be the main character in the next Witcher game. Her journey to becoming a Witcher feels like a logical next step for the series, letting the story continue with a fresh protagonist while also providing a fitting conclusion for Geralt, tailored to each player’s unique experience.

Red Dead Redemption 2

A Tragic Masterpiece

Red Dead Redemption 2 is often called one of the greatest open-world games of all time, largely because of its powerful story and how it ends. Following Arthur Morgan’s difficult journey through the Wild West, his final moments are both incredibly sad and strangely beautiful, offering him a chance at redemption and peace.

As a huge fan, I was really moved by the epilogue with John Marston. It beautifully connects this game to the first Red Dead Redemption in a way that just hits you. More than anything, it really shows you what John and the others sacrificed for their freedom and loyalty. It wasn’t some big, explosive finale, but a quiet, peaceful ending that made me think about how even though characters might be gone, what they did still matters.

Horizon Zero Dawn

The Beginning Of Something Greater

As a huge fan, I was blown away by the ending of Horizon Zero Dawn. It wasn’t just about Aloy winning – though she totally did beat HADES! – it was about what she discovered afterward. It turns out defeating HADES was just the beginning, and there are even bigger threats looming. It really changed how I saw her world, and even who Aloy is as a person. It wasn’t a neat and tidy ending, and I loved that!

Following the credits, Sylen discusses with HADES the people who activated him, hinting at a larger, more sinister story. This wraps up the plot of the first game while also setting the stage for a bigger adventure players will uncover in Horizon Forbidden West.

Shadow Of The Colossus

Telling A Tale Through Silence

Shadow of the Colossus is still a prime example of powerful storytelling, using subtle symbolism rather than straightforward plot points. The ending completely changes how players view their journey, leaving them with more questions than answers.

The game ends on a disturbing note: you become a massive, shadowy creature and are compelled to battle humans before being pulled into an abyss. While the final scene is powerfully moving, it deliberately doesn’t offer a clear resolution, leaving players debating the meaning of the events and the player character’s role in the story even now.

Ghost Of Tsushima

Honor And Heartbreak

The ending of Ghost of Tsushima is one of the most emotionally powerful in recent video games. Jin Sakai’s final battle with his uncle, Lord Shimura, presents a heartbreaking choice between upholding tradition and following his heart. No matter which path players choose, the outcome is both tragic and moving, perfectly capturing the game’s central ideas.

The game’s ending beautifully captures Jin’s journey from a warrior to a legendary figure. That last fight, with its stunning visuals of falling leaves and quiet atmosphere, is like a work of art. It brings the story full circle, ending with the same elegance and grace it began with, and provides a truly fitting conclusion to an epic tale.

The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom

Completing The Cycle

With The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Nintendo beautifully concludes a long-running story, bringing an end to the era of chaos and ushering in a time of peace. After restoring the Master Sword, players venture below Hyrule Castle for a final showdown with Ganondorf – a battle that may be the most spectacular in the entire Zelda series.

With the final battle won, Zelda and Link are brought to safety, and the ancient sages change Zelda back into her human form. The ending focuses less on triumph and more on healing the land and bringing a satisfying close to the story, now that the corruption is gone.

Outer Wilds

Ending The Loop At Last

Outer Wilds features a truly memorable ending. After repeatedly experiencing a time loop, players finally reach the conclusion of their adventure by entering the Eye of the Universe. There, they trigger a rebirth for the universe, creating a new cycle full of life and free from the danger of annihilation.

Everything the player has learned and discovered throughout the game finally connects, making even the smallest details crucial to breaking the time loop. This resolution makes all the previous struggles feel meaningful, and changes how the story is understood – it’s not just about fighting against time, but about ultimately finding acceptance.

Read More

2025-11-01 13:36