Games worth discovering

What makes an open world truly great for you?

7K View2024-09-14

Hey everyone,Open world games have become a staple in the gaming industry, but I’m curious to know what you think is essential for an open world to be truly great.Is it the gameplay that matters most, like in Just Cause 3, where the focus is on total freedom and chaotic fun? Or is it the level design, like in Zelda: Breath of the Wild, where every corner of the map feels like it holds a secret just waiting to be discovered?Maybe you prefer games like Elden Ring, where the challenge and unguided exploration make every discovery feel rewarding. Or perhaps it's the narrative and mystery that grabs your attention, like in Outer Wilds, where every planet tells a story, and the universe itself becomes part of the adventure.If you had to choose a maximum of two of these aspects, which ones would make you love an open world, and in what order?

Total freedom to interact with the world: Do you value the ability to do anything and go anywhere? Games like Shadow of War, where you can climb almost any surface, or Skyrim, where you can scale the highest mountains just to take in the view, offer that sense of freedom. Is this sandbox-style world, where you feel like the master of your environment, what defines a great open world for you?
Smart level design that encourages exploration: Is it the way the world is built that matters most? Think of games like Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Red Dead Redemption 2, where the world is rich with hidden stories, collectibles, and lore fragments. In these games, the map itself feels alive, guiding your curiosity with environmental storytelling, cleverly placed landmarks, and secrets that reward those who stray from the beaten path. Does a well-crafted, densely packed world full of discovery make the experience for you?
Addictive gameplay that keeps you hooked for hours: Do you prioritize tight, enjoyable gameplay mechanics that feel great moment to moment? Games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey or Spider-Man have fluid, satisfying combat or traversal that keeps you engaged regardless of what you're doing. Whether it's perfecting your parkour, mastering combat combos, or completing quests, does gameplay that’s fun in every moment define a great open world?
Captivating story that makes the world feel like its own character: Does the narrative pull you in, turning the world into something more than just a backdrop? The Witcher 3, for example, is packed with deep storytelling where even side quests have meaningful character arcs, and Outer Wilds turns exploration into a journey of uncovering hidden truths. Does a world with a gripping, unfolding narrative that feels like a living entity, full of mystery and character development, define the ultimate open world for you?