When it comes to open-world games, an engaging setting and a variety of activities are essential. Equally important is a combat system that is both enjoyable and challenging. Achieving believable and satisfying gunplay in first and third-person shooters is a complex task, but some open-world titles have excelled in this aspect, offering intense and enjoyable combat encounters.

Let’s explore six open-world games renowned for their exceptional gunplay:

6 Mafia 2

Mafia 2's Authentic 1940s Weapons Deliver Real Impact

In Mafia 2, players encounter a range of deadly weapons, including various 1950s-style Tommy Guns. The magnum unlocked in Chapter 4 offers a truly satisfying shooting experience, with substantial blowback that makes it feel unstoppable. Each machine gun and rifle in the game has a distinct feel, with the Thompson 1928 standing out for its lightning-speed magazine emptying and powerful recoil, contributing to extremely realistic and immersive gunfights.

5 Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Wildlands

Immersive Audio Design and Intense Combat

Ghost Recon Wildlands offers a plethora of lifelike weapons, meticulously crafted to resemble their real-life counterparts. The assault rifles' fast fire rates and significant recoil provide a balanced yet powerful shooting experience. The sound design adds to the intensity of gunfights, creating a fast-paced and thrilling combat environment.

4 Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain

Realism and Power in Every Shot

In Metal Gear Solid 5, the attention to detail in weapon design and functionality is evident. The guns feel powerful and emit an incredibly realistic sound, contributing to a satisfying shooting experience. The open areas allow each bullet to roar through the sky, enhancing the feeling of deadly precision.

3 Red Dead Redemption 2

Impeccable Weapon Realism and Customization

Red Dead Redemption 2 sets a benchmark in attention to detail, offering a diverse selection of lifelike weapons. The game's combat system introduces unpredictability, with characters exhibiting significant inaccuracy, resulting in highly dynamic gunfights. Extensive customization options further enhance the immersive and enjoyable gunplay.

2 Tom Clancy's The Division 2

Unique Weapon Design and Immersive Combat

In The Division 2, the diverse arsenal of pistols, rifles, and shotguns offers a highly satisfying and reliable shooting experience. The game maintains the challenge with clever AI enemies, requiring players to adapt their strategies. Each weapon feels powerful and enjoyable, contributing to intense and balanced gunfights.

1 Far Cry 2

Intense and Unpredictable Gunfights

In Far Cry 2, the weapons' random nature adds a unique and impactful dimension to gunfights. The old and rusty guns feel unstable yet explosive, delivering a powerful and immersive shooting experience. The game's innovative weapon jamming mechanic encourages players to experiment with different guns, adding an element of realism and excitement to each encounter.