Open-World Games With The Best Sword-Fighting Combat

As a huge fan of medieval and fantasy open-world games, I always get excited about the sword fighting. Some games keep it pretty basic – just swing, block, and try to time your defenses. But the really good ones? They have these incredible sword fights where everything depends on perfect timing, and you can break through an enemy’s guard with the right combination of attacks. It’s so satisfying when you pull it off!

I’ve noticed that sword fighting in games really varies. Some, especially the ones trying to be historically accurate with medieval settings, go for a more realistic feel – which isn’t always the most exciting, honestly. But other games just go all-out with huge swords, crazy combos, and a ton of fun, letting you really show off your skills. It depends what you’re looking for, really!

Elden Ring

Challenging Swordplay Where Timing Is Key

Elden Ring is a challenging game, but its open world lets players build up their strength before facing tough bosses. It also features some of the best sword fighting in any open-world game, and offers a variety of weapons and ways to play.

Sword fighting in Elden Ring offers different styles. You can play carefully with large swords, focusing on precise timing and blocking attacks. Or, you can choose faster weapons like katanas and shortswords for a more dynamic, flashy combat experience, especially when combined with special abilities. Many enemies, including bosses, also use swords, making these battles potentially very dangerous.

The Witcher 3

Geralt Of Rivia Is Famed For His Two Swords

I’ve played a lot of fantasy games where you can pick up spears or maces, but in The Witcher 3, Geralt’s all about the swords. Forget everything else – he only uses swords for close combat, plus a crossbow for taking enemies down from a distance. He actually carries two swords with him everywhere – a steel one for fighting people and animals, and a silver one specifically for monsters. It’s a key part of how the combat works!

The sword fighting is really enjoyable and easy to pick up, with difficulty settings to match any skill level. You’ll find yourself spinning, slashing, and even feeling like you’re dancing as you master Geralt’s moves. Magic and potions add variety to battles, and each enemy type—from armored soldiers to fantastical monsters—feels unique to fight.

Ghost Of Tsushima

Japanese-Inspired Sword Combat

Many open-world games focus on European sword fighting, so players might appreciate the different style of Ghost of Tsushima, which takes place in Japan. Though not entirely realistic, the sword combat – using katanas and other weapons – is very enjoyable and satisfying for players who are quick on their feet.

Players defending Tsushima Island from the Mongol invasion will primarily battle enemies who also use swords, leading to exciting and skillful combat. The game features impressive animations, like quickly drawing your katana and immediately attacking, and includes dynamic movements like rolling and spinning during fights.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Authentic First Person Medieval Sword Fighting

For players wanting truly realistic sword fighting in an open-world setting, especially one steeped in the medieval era, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 delivers. Unlike many games, armor actually protects, and you won’t be able to single-handedly defeat hordes of enemies. The combat system is based on precise directional attacks, letting you control your character’s stance and the angle of each strike.

You’ll need to exploit weaknesses in your enemies’ defenses and block or deflect their attacks. The best way to improve Henry’s sword fighting skills is through practice in combat arenas, which also helps you become a better player. You can learn powerful combos based on authentic historical techniques. Through the ‘Ars Dimicatoria’ quest, Henry can even join the swordfighting guild in Kuttenberg and compete in weekly tournaments.

Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord

A Medieval Warfare Sandbox Game With Huge Battles

If you’ve ever dreamed of living as a knight, mercenary, or outlaw in the Middle Ages, Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord lets you do just that. It’s a massive, open-world game where you’re free to explore and play however you want, either solo or with friends online. Epic battles, castle sieges, and intense one-on-one combat are central to the experience, and the swordfighting system is both challenging and satisfying.

In the game, players defend by blocking with their sword or shield in the direction of incoming attacks. It’s not enough to simply hit the block button – you need to carefully watch your opponent. Offense works similarly; varying your attack angle helps surprise enemies. You can experience the combat from either a first-person or third-person perspective.

Rise Of The Ronin

Extremely Flashy Swordplay In 19th Century Japan

Set in Japan during the mid-1800s, Rise of the Ronin features exciting sword fights in a more contemporary historical setting. While not aiming for realism, the game doesn’t sacrifice spectacle. The combat is over-the-top with lots of special moves and combinations, making it some of the most enjoyable sword fighting you’ll find in an open-world game.

Players can quickly move around the screen, performing acrobatic flips and drawing a second weapon before attacking. The stunning sword effects make each katana strike feel powerful and visually impressive.

2025-10-24 10:37