Open-world games excel at immersing players in expansive environments that evoke a feeling of insignificance. These games achieve this by presenting vast landscapes that tower over the player characters, creating a sense of awe and curiosity.
The sheer scale of these open worlds, filled with towering mountains, lush forests, detailed cities, and settlements, invites players to explore and discover hidden gems. The contrast between the immense size of the game world and the player's limited presence cultivates a humbling experience that fuels the desire to uncover secrets and embark on thrilling adventures.
5 Death Stranding
An Immersive Journey Through a Bleak, Isolated World
Death Stranding plunges players into a desolate world where isolation and survival are paramount. Traversing vast expanses as courier Sam Porter Bridges, players face complex challenges and eerie landscapes that evoke feelings of hopelessness and solitude.
Struggling with basic tasks like walking and managing equipment adds layers of complexity to the gameplay, enhancing the atmospheric experience of being a small entity in a large, foreboding world.
4 Shadow of the Colossus
An Enigmatic World Filled With Mystery and Giant Beasts
Embark on a haunting journey through the Forbidden Land in Shadow of the Colossus, where the colossal creatures and eerie landscapes emphasize the player's insignificance. The vast, desolate terrain and challenging battles with colossal beings create an atmosphere of isolation and wonder.
3 The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim
A Fantasy Realm Teeming With Adventure and Intrigue
Step into the epic world of Skyrim, where the player embodies the Dragonborn on a quest of epic proportions. Navigate through a rich tapestry of guilds, lore, and challenges that immerse players in a world brimming with danger and excitement.
2 The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
A Grand Adventure in the Vast Realms of Hyrule
Embark on an unforgettable journey in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, where players explore a sprawling world filled with mysteries and challenges. As Link uncovers the secrets of Hyrule, the nonlinear gameplay structure emphasizes the player's role as a small adventurer in a vast, unpredictable world.
1 Red Dead Redemption 2
A Gritty Western Tale of Survival and Redemption
Experience the rugged world of Red Dead Redemption 2, where players navigate the challenges of the Old West as outlaw Arthur Morgan. Amidst vast, unforgiving landscapes and various threats, players are reminded of their humble existence in a world teeming with danger and intrigue.