Open world games have become a cornerstone of modern gaming. Unlike linear experiences, they offer players freedom to explore vast landscapes, create unique adventures, and shape their journey. In 2025, the gaming industry continues to deliver incredible open world titles with stunning graphics, immersive storylines, and innovative gameplay.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best open world games you must try this year. Whether you enjoy action, role-playing, survival, or adventure, these games provide hours of exploration and unforgettable experiences.

1. The Allure of Open World Games

Before diving into the top picks, let’s understand what makes open world games so special.

Freedom of Exploration

Open world titles let players roam at their own pace. You can focus on the main storyline, take on side quests, or simply wander to discover hidden secrets.

Replayability

With multiple choices and branching storylines, open world games rarely feel the same on a second playthrough.

Immersion and Detail

From day-night cycles to dynamic weather, these games create living worlds that react to player decisions.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

One of the most celebrated open world games, Tears of the Kingdom builds upon the success of Breath of the Wild.

Why You Should Play

  • Expansive world filled with secrets.
  • Unique building and crafting mechanics.
  • Rich lore tied to the Zelda universe.

Perfect For

Fans of fantasy adventures, puzzle-solving, and epic boss fights.

3. Elden Ring

Elden Ring took the world by storm with its massive interconnected world designed by Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin.

Highlights

  • Challenging combat for hardcore gamers.
  • Non-linear exploration with multiple paths.
  • Vast landscapes ranging from castles to swamps.

This game is a must for players who want difficulty combined with freedom.

4. Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V)

Even after years, GTA V remains a benchmark for open world design.

Why It’s Still Relevant

  • Huge city of Los Santos with endless activities.
  • Engaging storyline with three protagonists.
  • Online mode continues to expand with fresh content.

Best Experience

Players who love modern urban environments and freedom to cause chaos.

5. Red Dead Redemption 2

Rockstar’s masterpiece Red Dead Redemption 2 immerses you in the Wild West.

Features

  • Highly detailed environments from snowy mountains to bustling towns.
  • Deep narrative centered on Arthur Morgan.
  • Realistic horse-riding and survival mechanics.

It’s an open world that feels alive, with every NPC having daily routines.

6. Assassin’s Creed Mirage

The Assassin’s Creed franchise returns to its roots with Mirage.

Reasons to Play

  • Focus on stealth-based gameplay.
  • Rich Middle Eastern setting inspired by Baghdad.
  • Smaller but denser map for a more refined experience.

For fans of classic Assassin’s Creed titles, Mirage is a refreshing revival.

7. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty

After a rocky start, Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into one of the most polished open world RPGs thanks to updates and its expansion Phantom Liberty.

Standout Features

  • Futuristic Night City with neon-lit streets.
  • Intriguing espionage storyline.
  • Vast character customization and RPG elements.

If you enjoy sci-fi open worlds, this game is unmissable.

8. Hogwarts Legacy

Step into the wizarding world with Hogwarts Legacy.

Why Fans Love It

  • Explore Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, and the Forbidden Forest.
  • Create your own witch or wizard.
  • Master spells, potions, and magical beasts.

For Harry Potter fans, it’s the ultimate open world fantasy experience.

9. Starfield

Bethesda’s highly anticipated Starfield finally brings space exploration to life.

Key Features

  • Over 1,000 planets to explore.
  • Ship customization and space combat.
  • Deep role-playing and faction-based storytelling.

For fans of Skyrim and Fallout, this game is a dream come true.

10. Minecraft

Though released years ago, Minecraft is still one of the best open world experiences.

Why It’s Timeless

  • Infinite world generation.
  • Creative freedom with building and survival.
  • Multiplayer servers with unique adventures.

Its sandbox design makes it perfect for players of all ages.

11. Horizon Forbidden West

Guerrilla Games delivered another stunning open world with Horizon Forbidden West.

Standout Features

  • A post-apocalyptic world overrun by robotic creatures.
  • Engaging combat mixing melee, ranged, and traps.
  • Breathtaking environments from deserts to jungles.

Aloy’s journey continues to captivate players worldwide.

12. Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut

Set in feudal Japan, Ghost of Tsushima offers a cinematic open world adventure.

Why Play

  • Beautiful landscapes inspired by Japanese history.
  • Fluid sword combat with different stances.
  • Emotional narrative about honor and sacrifice.

The Director’s Cut adds the Iki Island expansion for even more depth.

13. Best Survival-Based Open Worlds

Some open world games focus heavily on survival.

Top Picks

  • ARK: Survival Evolved – Tame dinosaurs, build shelters, and survive hostile environments.
  • The Forest – Survive against mutants on a mysterious island.
  • Valheim – A Viking-inspired world with crafting and exploration.

These are great for players who love resource management and challenges.

14. Multiplayer and Online Open Worlds

Not all open world games are solo experiences.

Recommended Games

  • GTA Online – Endless updates and role-playing servers.
  • Sea of Thieves – Cooperative pirate adventures.
  • Elder Scrolls Online – Massive MMORPG with expansive lore.

Playing with friends makes the open world even more dynamic.

15. Upcoming Open World Games to Watch

The excitement doesn’t end here—2025 and beyond will bring more open world masterpieces.

Titles to Anticipate

  • The Witcher 4 – CD Projekt Red is working on a new saga.
  • Avowed – An RPG set in the Pillars of Eternity universe.
  • GTA VI – Rockstar’s most awaited release.

These will redefine how players experience vast digital worlds.

16. Tips to Maximize Your Open World Experience

Play at Your Own Pace

Don’t rush—explore side quests and hidden areas.

Adjust Settings

Optimize graphics and controls for smoother gameplay.

Experiment

Try different builds, weapons, or paths to see how the story changes.

Conclusion

Open world games are more than just entertainment—they’re immersive experiences where you shape your own story. From fantasy realms like Zelda and Elden Ring to futuristic cities like Cyberpunk 2077, this year offers countless adventures.

Whether you love action, exploration, survival, or storytelling, the titles listed here are the best open world games you must try this year. So grab your controller, load up your favorite world, and let the adventure begin.