Summary
Exploration and experimentation are two of the most fun aspects of video gaming, especially when a game is set in an open world for players to freely survey. Some companies like Bethesda andRockstar have created incredible open-world environments, many of which are from a third-person perspective with an option to view proceedings through the eyes of the protagonist.
Some of the best games ever made are played from a first-person perspective, but surprisingly few take place in large, expansive, fully accessible open worlds. Here are the best open-world games for exploration that are always played from a first-person perspective, ranked based on a combination of overall quality and popularity, taking into consideration how enjoyable they are to explore.
Despite a catastrophic paranormal event removing the population of Tokyo, the open-world map inGhostwire: Tokyofeels surprisingly lived-in. Player-character Akito is possessed by a spirit that gives him special powers to aid in his quest to battle the evil specters inhabitingJapan’s capital cityand discover what happened to its population.
It may not be the largest map on offer, but there is very little in the way of filler, with the few collectibles not providing too much of a nuisance, and having interesting perks attached to them. Many missions put Akito on a somewhat linear path, but the world is otherwise free for exploration and contains plenty of environmental storytelling for those who wish to find it.
Fans of theFar Cryseries will have their favoriteswhen it comes to the different locations and world-building, but many seem to feel thatFar Cry 4is the best. Its successors may have larger maps to navigate and investigate, but the Nepal-inspired Kyrat is said to be the perfect size with just the right amount of content to keep players busy and not feel too crowded or empty.
The various environments of Kyrat are diverse, from rugged snow-capped mountains to lush green forests, and players can travel between these large areas in many different types of vehicles. North Kyrat is initially off-limits, but the map gradually opens up as Pagan Min’s influence is diminished by liberating bell towers.
Even during its turbulent launch,Cyberpunk 2077drew heaps of praise for its sprawling metropolis setting, Night City. Discovering the many secrets of the futuristic megacity’s seven districts is incredibly satisfying, with intriguing points of interest hiding around every corner.
V’s adventure allows players to experience much of the city’s offerings, but they are free to look around in their own time, too, and are sure to find something to keep them entertained among the many side quests and activities. Being a dystopian cyberpunk setting, some parts of the city are pretty bleak thanks to extreme inequality and poverty, but it’s still a fascinating and ruggedly beautiful place to explore.
Some aspects of gameplay inDeus Ex: Mankind Dividedswitch the perspective to third person, but exploration is always first-person. There are also scripted moments following a set path, otherwise, players are free to tour around the cyberpunk dystopiancity of Praguein the year 2029, plus some sections in Dubai and London.
Unraveling a worldwide conspiracy involving the Illuminati, Adam Jensen must utilize his advanced weaponry and augmentations, even though mechanically enhanced people like him are hated. Criticism was aimed at the story ofMankind Divided, largely owing to the somewhat abrupt ending, but the setting is approachable and striking, blending the old architecture of Prague with the technological advancements of the future, and it is not overwhelming in terms of content.
Set in an alternate future where megacorporations dominate life on Earth and have begun galactic colonization,The Outer Worldsgives players the chance to be a colonist in the Halcyon star system. Whether going alone or beingaccompanied by one of the companions, the Stranger should leave no stone unturned when traveling to various settlements and space stations on and around the system’s terraformed planets.
The narrative and deep character customization earnedThe Outer Worldspositive reviews, but the open spacefaring possibilities are what make this title stand out. Often favorably compared with theFalloutseries, many players love meeting the interesting NPCs encountered throughout the game in all the unique locations.
A survival horror game is not often an ideal place for fun exploration, but the world ofSons of the Forestis perfect for a full investigation, especially with friends. There are cannibals and mutated monsters to contend with, plus the threat of starvation and dehydration as player-character Jack seeks out a missing CEO and his family.
Surviving on the island known as Site 2 is difficult, but it’s still a fascinating place to explore and look for resources that can aid in general survival and building shelter. Those who do not wish to battle monsters can play in peaceful mode, where they are free to craft in peace and move around the island carefree without fear of attack.
Another survival horror game with aunique and immersive setting,Subnauticatakes the action below sea level, after Ryley Robinson crashes his spaceship on the ocean planet called 4546B. There are plenty of alluring locations to draw players in for deeper analysis, but players must always be cautious, since large sea monsters are sometimes waiting to catch those who are unaware.
The risk of going deeper is often worth it for the great rewards that can help when crafting, plus there are two islands above the surface level that are fully explorable. There are some more forgiving game modes for those who just want to focus on building and exploring, and there is permadeath in Hardcore mode for those who enjoy a real challenge.
Set in the year 1403 and following on from the events of the first game,Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2features a map that is twice as big as its predecessor.Seeing the Kingdom of Bohemiathrough the eyes of Henry of Skalitz once again, players embark on a journey to avenge the death of Henry’s murdered parents.
The rich open world perfectly encapsulates life in 15th century medieval Europe and is full of activities to do and people to meet. The various interactions and choices made will have an impact on the overall story, even forming the traits and characteristics of Henry, changing how future encounters may unfold.
