Open-world video games have advanced significantly, offering diverse settings from post-apocalyptic wastelands to dark fantasy realms filled with strife and complexity. This evolution reflects a shift towards more mature storytelling, with developers incorporating deep and dark subject matter into their creations.
The growing demand for mature and immersive experiences has led to the emergence of open-worlds with dark, brooding atmospheres that captivate players. Parents should exercise caution when selecting games for children, as the heavy and disturbing themes in some titles can have lasting emotional impacts.
Updated April 25, 2024 by Ritwik Mitra: Open-world gaming has become one of the broadest and most accessible genres, with many titles aiming for a Teen rating to appeal to a wide audience while maintaining depth and complexity.
However, numerous open-world games embrace mature themes, earning a Mature rating and challenging players with thought-provoking narratives.
1 Elden Ring
Dark Exploration and Intriguing Lore Define This Title
Elden Ring stands out as a premier open-world game, encouraging players to delve into its mysterious landscapes filled with hidden marvels. Its departure from conventional open-world tropes contributes to its immense popularity.
True to FromSoftware's signature style, the game delves into dark and profound themes, weaving a tale of demigods embroiled in power struggles and corruption. The narrative prowess of Miyazaki shines through, establishing him as a master of impactful storytelling in video games.
2 Days Gone
A Gritty Tale of Survival Amidst a Zombie Apocalypse
Days Gone explores the dark facets of a world ravaged by zombies, following the journey of Deacon St. John in a morally ambiguous landscape. His quest for his wife leads to intense encounters, highlighting the brutal realities of this post-apocalyptic setting.
The game's ominous atmosphere, coupled with unexpected plot twists, delivers a gripping narrative on humanity's fight for existence in a world overrun by the undead.
3 Death Stranding
Traversing a Haunting Apocalyptic World Filled with Peril
Death Stranding, a brainchild of Hideo Kojima, immerses players in a unique open-world experience centered on traversal challenges. The desolate landscapes, haunted by scavengers and mysterious entities, evoke a sense of melancholy and foreboding.
Players navigate a world shattered by enigmatic beings known as BTs, witnessing the collapse of civilization under their influence. Kojima's unconventional approach to storytelling creates a gripping narrative that explores the depths of human resilience amidst chaos.