No loading screens between missions, but a seamless, living world to roam freely: open-world games are among the most ambitious projects in the games industry. These titles give players the freedom to write their own story within a carefully designed universe full of hidden secrets and side quests. These are the best open-world games ever made.
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The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Nintendo redefined the open-world genre by letting players climb, glide and explore literally anywhere without invisible walls. The physics-driven puzzles and the freedom to take on the final boss right away made this a milestone in gaming history.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar Games created a stunningly detailed Wild West world in which even the smallest details, from weather to animal behavior, are realistically worked out. The epic story of Arthur Morgan's gang is hailed as one of the best stories ever told in a game.
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Grand Theft Auto V
With three playable protagonists and a huge, lively version of Los Santos, GTA V remains one of the best-selling games ever, years after release. Its combination of dark humor, action and a living world makes it a genre standard.
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The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
As monster hunter Geralt of Rivia, you travel through a grim, morally complex world full of side stories that are often as well written as the main plot. The game is widely regarded as one of the best role-playing games ever made.
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Elden Ring
FromSoftware combined its notorious, merciless combat system with a huge open world designed in collaboration with Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin. The freedom to decide which challenge to take on made the game an instant classic.
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The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
More than ten years after release, this fantasy RPG classic remains relevant thanks to its huge world, countless side quests and a lively modding community. Fighting dragons in Skyrim's snowy mountains is unforgettable for many.
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Horizon Zero Dawn
In a post-apocalyptic world full of robot animals, protagonist Aloy hunts mechanical beasts with a bow and arrow. The unique combination of science fiction and primal survival themes brought a refreshing new take on the genre.
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Assassin's Creed Odyssey
This journey through Ancient Greece offers one of the largest and most detailed open worlds in the franchise, packed with historical locations and mythological creatures. The game combines action RPG elements with the classic assassin formula.
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Cyberpunk 2077
Despite a troubled launch, this futuristic open-world game grew into one of the most visually impressive titles of its generation. The neon-lit streets of Night City offer a unique, cyberpunk-inspired experience.
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Ghost of Tsushima
As samurai Jin Sakai, you defend medieval Japan against the Mongol invasion in one of the most visually stunning open worlds on PlayStation. The game honors traditional Japanese cinema with its artistic style and combat system.
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