When it comes to the best open-world RPGs, we’ve seen some absolute gems that have defined the genre and set the standard for what players expect from immersive, expansive worlds. From epic storylines to deep character customization and exploration, these games offer the freedom to carve out your own adventure in worlds that feel alive and dynamic.
Navigating post-apocalyptic wastelands or exploring vibrant, futuristic landscapes, these open-world RPGs are the ones that have stood out as the best of the best. Ready to jump into some unforgettable gaming experiences? Here are the top 10 open-world RPGs that have set the bar high.
15. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
- Release Date: 13 February, 2018.
- Developer: Warhorse Studios
- Metacritic Score: 76%
If you’re looking to jump into a game and instantly become the hero of the realm, Kingdom Come: Deliverance might throw you for a loop. This isn’t your typical power fantasy. Instead, it’s a gritty, historical RPG that leans heavily into realism, offering a survival experience that’s not for the faint of heart but still insanely cool. You play as Henry, a regular peasant just trying to make it in 15th-century Bohemia. The game takes you on a journey from rags to riches, slowly but surely, as you become part of the country’s history.
14. Baldur’s Gate 3
- Release Date: August 3, 2023.
- Developer: Larian Studios
- Metacritic Score: 96%
While it’s technically a sequel to Baldur’s Gate 2, you don’t need to have played the older games to jump in. The story stands on its own, but you might want to brush up on some basic DND 5E rules because this game is pure Dungeons & Dragons magic. Don’t worry, though—if you’re used to CRPGs, you’ll find your way around pretty quickly. Baldur’s Gate 3 nails the DND vibe, seamlessly blending it into the gaming world.
13. Divinity: Original Sin 2
- Release Date: 14 September, 2017.
- Developer: Larian Studios
- Metacritic Score: 93%
Divinity: Original Sin 2 offers a deep, tactical RPG experience that rivals any D&D campaign. With its rich world and complex combat, it’s a game that could change how you view CRPGs. Whether you’re a longtime fan of open-world RPGs or new to the genre, these titles are worth exploring. So, get ready to lose yourself in some of the most expansive and immersive worlds gaming has to offer.
12. Red Dead Redemption 2
- Release Date: 26 October, 2018.
- Developer: Rockstar San Diego
- Metacritic Score: 97%
Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterpiece that redefines the open-world genre, offering players an unparalleled experience in the gritty, immersive world of the late 1800s American frontier. The game follows Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as he navigates the complexities of loyalty, survival, and morality in a rapidly changing world. The dynamic open world reacts to the player’s choices, making every decision feel impactful, and the meticulously crafted atmosphere draws players into the heart of the Wild West.
11. Ghost of Tsushima
- Release Date: 17 July, 2020.
- Developer: Sucker Punch Productions
- Metacritic Score: 83%
Ghost of Tsushima is a visually stunning homage to samurai cinema, set in a beautifully realized open world. The game lets you choose between direct combat and stealth, allowing you to tailor your approach to each encounter. The fluid combat system, coupled with a gripping story, makes this game a must-play for fans of the genre. Beyond its combat and stealth options, the game excels in its presentation.
10. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of The Kingdom
- Release Date: 12 May, 2023.
- Developer: Nintendo
- Metacritic Score: 96%
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom builds on the groundbreaking success of Breath of the Wild with innovative new mechanics and a vast, expanded world. The game introduces new ways to interact with the environment and solve puzzles, pushing the boundaries of what an open-world adventure can be. Moreover, the sense of exploration and discovery is heightened, making every corner of Hyrule feel like a new adventure waiting to be uncovered.
9. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
- Release Date: 1 September, 2015.
- Developer: Konami (Hideo Kojima)
- Metacritic Score: 93%
Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain brings a fresh perspective to the series with its open-world approach and enhanced gameplay mechanics. The game combines stealth and action in a way that feels innovative and engaging. With sharp gunplay and intricate stealth mechanics, it offers players a variety of ways to tackle missions and challenges. Kojima’s signature storytelling shines through, with a complex narrative that explores themes of war, betrayal, and redemption.
8. Xenoblade Chronicles 3
- Release Date: 29 July, 2022.
- Developer: Monolith Soft
- Metacritic Score: 89%
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 combines deep JRPG storytelling with a rich and complex combat system. The game offers a vast, beautiful world filled with intricate lore and engaging characters. The combat system is both strategic and dynamic, allowing players to experiment with different tactics and team compositions. The narrative is emotionally impactful, exploring themes of conflict, identity, and unity. Each character has a distinct personality and backstory, adding depth to the story.
7. Hogwarts Legacy
- Release Date: February 10, 2023
- Developer: Portkey Games
- Metacritic Score: 81%
Hogwarts Legacy offers players a magical journey through the iconic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, set in a richly detailed open world. Players attend classes, learn spells, and uncover hidden secrets in a fully immersive wizarding world. With an engaging storyline and the freedom to shape their own magical adventure, both longtime fans and newcomers find something to love.
6. Starfield
- Release Date: September 6, 2023
- Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
- Metacritic Score: 88%
Starfield delivers on its promise of an expansive spacefaring adventure with a staggering number of planets to explore. Players can dive into the mysteries of space, craft their own story, and engage in deep interstellar exploration. The game’s ambitious scope offers a rich narrative and detailed customizations for spacecraft, setting a new standard for space RPGs.
5. Final Fantasy XVI
- Release Date: June 22, 2023
- Developer: Square Enix
- Metacritic Score: 89%
Final Fantasy XVI takes players to a stunningly detailed world where ancient magic and powerful kingdoms clash. With a new combat system that emphasizes fast-paced action and deep character interactions, it provides a fresh take on the beloved franchise. The game’s sprawling open world is brimming with secrets, side quests, and visually striking locales that enhance the epic storytelling.
4. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
- Release Date: September 26, 2023
- Developer: CD Projekt Red
- Metacritic Score: 89%
Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty revitalizes the original game with a fresh open-world area and a gripping new narrative. Set in an exciting and detailed expansion of Night City, players can experience enhanced gameplay mechanics, new characters, and deeper storylines. This expansion enriches the game’s cyberpunk setting, offering even more to explore and engage with.
3. Elden Ring
- Release Date: February 25, 2022
- Developer: FromSoftware
- Metacritic Score: 96%
Elden Ring expands its already immersive world with new content and updates, including challenging new areas and lore-rich quests. Players can further explore the haunting landscapes of the Lands Between, battling formidable foes and uncovering deeper layers of the game’s mythos. The game’s intricate world-building and the collaborative effort of FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin continue to captivate RPG enthusiasts.
2. Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla
- Release Date: 10 November, 2020.
- Developer: Ubisoft
- Metacritic Score: 84%
Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla plunges players into the world of Norse mythology, blending exploration, combat, and stealth with a Viking twist. The game’s expansive open world is filled with rich detail and immersive environments, capturing the essence of the Viking Age. The narrative offers a gripping storyline that intertwines with historical events and mythical elements.
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- Release Date: 19 May, 2015.
- Developer: CD Projekt Red
- Metacritic Score: 94%
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt took the gaming world by storm with its expansive open world, intricate questlines, and unforgettable characters. The game’s richly detailed world offers countless hours of exploration and adventure, with a narrative that seamlessly blends main quests with engaging side stories. Additionally, the character development is top-notch, with Geralt and his companions evolving throughout the story. The game’s choices and consequences add depth to the narrative, making each decision feel significant.
Summary
So, here is our sassy list of the best open-world RPGs. These games push the boundaries of the genre, providing countless hours of exploration and engagement for fans of immersive storytelling and dynamic gameplay. Not to forget, their graphics and sound are equally amazing, which make you feel like you’re actually in the game.
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