18 Must-Play Open World RPGs of 2026
Eneba Hub contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. Learn more
The best open world RPGs start to feel like second homes with every minute spent playing because there’s real comfort in returning to a world molded by your choices. I have spent countless hours on these games – from shaping the story in Baldur’s Gate 3, battling for power in Dune: Awakening, and exploring Cyberpunk 2077’s neon-lit streets.
In this guide, I’ll share some open world games – both timeless classics and recent hits, that are must-plays in 2026. I’ll also make a note of any honorable mentions, so if I missed something out on my list of the best RPG games of 2026, I likely covered it there instead.
Jump to:
The Best Open World RPGs at a Glance
Although I’ve also included Metacritic scores in the respective game sections, my rating is based on a variety of factors based on my time playing a game. These include graphics, story, whether there are any immersion-breaking bugs/glitches, the overall performance, and most importantly, how much fun something is to play.
| GAME | SCORE | PLATFORM |
|---|---|---|
| Baldur’s Gate 3 | 10 | PlayStation 5, Linux, PC, Xbox Series X/S, Mac |
| Elden Ring | 10 | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 10 | PlayStation 4. PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch |
| Dragon’s Dogma 2 | 9 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 | 9 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered | 9 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Monster Hunter Wilds | 9.5 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Starfield | 9 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Dune: Awakening | 9.5 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 9 | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | 10 | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | 9.5 | Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Wii U |
| Fallout 4 | 8.5 | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S |
| The Outer Worlds 2 | 8.5 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| Avowed | 8 | PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X/S |
| The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim | 9 | PC, PlayStation 3/4/5, Xbox 360/One/Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| Fallout: New Vegas | 8.5 | PlayStation 3, PC, Xbox 360/One/Series X/S |
| Horizon Zero Dawn | 8.5 | PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 |
Our Top Picks for Open-World RPGs
In recent years, open world games have taken over the gaming scene. They give players amazing freedom to explore huge worlds packed with adventure. I tested many games and gathered thoughts from friends and colleagues. Here are the best open world RPGs and sandbox games that stand out.
- Baldur’s Gate 3 (2023) – A revolutionary open world RPG where every choice reshapes your journey through deep storytelling and tactical combat. Oh, and it’s on sale right now, so don’t sleep on it.
- Elden Ring (2022) – A masterclass in open world design which blends brutal combat with awe-inspiring exploration in a world that rewards curiosity. It’s glorious, it’s terrifying, and yes – it’s on sale too.
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) – A groundbreaking open world RPG that weaves rich storytelling with meaningful choices in a living, breathing fantasy realm. Also on sale, by the way. Go, go, go.
- Dragon’s Dogma 2 (2024) – Dragons, deep combat, and a massive open world to conquer. This is a highly unique RPG that will pull you in like few others can.
- Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 (2025) – Experience the harsh life of the medieval world in an ultra-realistic RPG that will not leave any history adventure lover indifferent.
Think that’s impressive? There’s plenty more where that came from. Scroll down and get ready to find top rated open world RPGs.
18 Best open world RPGs – Epic Journeys Without Boundaries
The best open world RPGs have evolved, offering rich stories and diverse play styles. Elden Ring offers exploration, while Cyberpunk 2077 brings you to a lively Night City, and Starfield takes you through a vast cosmos. Each game has its own unique world to enjoy. Which of these unforgettable adventures have you completed or still plan to explore?
1. Baldur’s Gate 3 [Best Open World RPG for Storytelling Freedom and Consequence-Driven Depth]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 96% |
| Availability | Steam, GOG, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, GeForce NOW, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2023 |
| Developer / Publisher | Larian Studios |
| What I Love About It | Deep reactive narrative, D&D freedom, meaningful choices, cinematic companions |
If you love open world RPGs, Baldur’s Gate 3 is one of those games that gets what makes the genre special. At its core, it’s a turn-based adventure inspired by D&D where every choice matters. This includes simple actions like picking dialogue options or fighting enemies. It also covers more complex tasks, such as exploring the vast world.
I found the combat tactical and deeply varied – there’s always another way to approach a fight. You can use spells, stealth, and the environment to outsmart your foes. And the visuals? Stunning. Each place, from eerie dungeons to lush forests, feels designed with purpose.
What sets Baldur’s Gate 3 apart, aside from winning Game of the Year 2025, is the extent to which your decisions shape the game. The story reacts to everything you do, making each playthrough feel unique. Also, the writing is excellent. It features memorable characters, dark humour, and twists that will keep you engaged.
Very few RPGs let you shape the world so deeply, with choices that truly matter and storytelling that rivals the best in the genre.
This game is a dream for open world fans. It offers freedom to explore and has D&D roots. These features add strategy and player choice, which few games can match. If you love open world RPGs with rich stories where you can shape your own journey, you’ll remember Baldur’s Gate 3. And if you’re on the lookout for other top RPG games like Baldur’s Gate 3 to dive into after, there are several worthy contenders that capture a similar spirit of storytelling and exploration.
2. Elden Ring [Best Open World RPG for Breathtaking Discovery and Challenge]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 96% |
| Availability | Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, GeForce NOW, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2022 |
| Developer / Publisher | FromSoftware / Bandai Namco |
| What I Love About It | Massive open world, brutal combat, mysterious lore, freedom in exploration |
From the moment you step into the Lands Between, you’re hit with this breathtaking world that feels alive in ways most games only dream of. Every swing of your sword, every dodge, every spell matters because combat is all about timing and strategy. The visuals are also absolutely beautiful – from the golden glow of the Erdtree to the nightmare wasteland of Caelid, every area has its own vibe, its own secrets, with its own dangers lurking around the corner. For those exploring similar RPG games like Elden Ring, few match this level of environmental storytelling and challenge.
What puts Elden Ring on my Mount Rushmore of open world games is how it treats exploration. It’s just you, your curiosity, and a world that rewards you for wandering off the beaten path. You’ll stumble into hidden dungeons, face off against bosses that feel impossible at first (until they don’t), and uncover lore that’s as deep as it is mysterious. It’s more than just surviving, but mastering the world and carving your own path through it.
Brutal, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable gaming experience, and something every gamer must experience at least once.
For open world RPG fans who somehow haven’t played this game yet, this is the game you’ve been waiting for. Elden Ring, as a game, respects you as a player. You’ll sneak into eerie ruins lit by ghostflame, and end up fighting a dragon you didn’t see coming. And if you die (and trust me, you will die), it never feels cheap. It’s fair, and it actually pushes you to pay attention to your next trial.
3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt [Best Open World RPG for Emotional Narrative Adventures]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 93% |
| Availability | Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, GeForce NOW, Amazon Luna, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2015 |
| Developer / Publisher | CD PROJEKT RED |
| What I Love About It | Rich storytelling, meaningful side quests, monster hunting, living world |
I’ve spent hundreds of hours playing open world RPGs, from Assassin’s Creed to Genshin Impact. Still, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands out as one of my best experiences in the genre. You play as Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter. He has two swords, a gravelly voice, and a surprisingly soft heart for romance. For players searching for similar top RPG games with romance options, this title sets a high bar with its deep character relationships and heartfelt storylines.
The combat may take some time to master, but it feels purposeful. You will dodge, parry, and cast magic signs. Also, you’ll prepare for battles by studying monster weaknesses and brewing potions.
I’ve played on PS5, and I can say the game looks amazing. Every place, from the war-torn swamps of Velen to the fairytale charm of Toussaint, shares its own tale. The stunning visuals and strong atmosphere show that the creators paid close attention to detail in their world-building.
Storytelling that cuts deeper than any sword, with even the smallest side quests offering a much deeper narrative than it may appear on the surface.
What truly captivated me after I first played the game was the character-driven story. It features layered quests and moral choices that add interesting depth. Characters felt like real people with authentic problems, motives, and pasts. Also, when you make a choice, you feel it.
Sometimes the consequences don’t show up until hours later, but they hit hard. For RPG fans who want rich characters, real choices, and a lively world, The Witcher 3 is perfect. It lets you shape your story, and that’s what makes it unforgettable.
4. Dragon’s Dogma 2 [Best Open World RPG for Active Combat and Creative Party-Building]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 86% |
| Availability | Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, GeForce NOW, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2024 |
| Developer / Publisher | Capcom |
| What I Love About It | Pawn system companions, dynamic combat, climbing giant monsters |
Dragon’s Dogma 2 has a vocations (classes) system that’s deeper than in the first game. You can choose to rain arrows as an Archer, weave spells as a Mage, or create chaos as the new Trickster. The Trickster uses illusions to turn enemies against each other.
The Pawn system stands out as the game’s most unique feature. Your custom AI companion learns from your playstyle. Then, it finds its way into other players’ worlds to gather knowledge and loot before returning to you wiser than before. It’s a clever twist on multiplayer that brings your party to life. Even if the AI can be a bit odd, like when a Pawn walks off a cliff during battle, it’s always hilarious.
Your party’s your weapon, the world’s your enemy, and every step is a fight to survive.
Nights are deadly, and limited fast travel means danger is everywhere. Wolves can drag you into the woods. If you wander into the wrong area too soon, you’ll need to run for your life. It feels wonky, and the camera feels like it’s against you sometimes, but even with all that, it’s still one of the best RPG games out there.
Be ready for a challenge and maybe wait for a patch or two.
5. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 [Best Open World RPG for Immersive Medieval Realism]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 88% |
| Availability | Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, GeForce NOW (expected), (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2025 |
| Developer / Publisher | Warhorse Studios / Deep Silver |
| What I Love About It | Realistic medieval simulation, grounded storytelling, skill-based combat |
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 consumed my evenings for weeks. If you love games that feel like a beautiful recreation of the medieval era, this might be perfect for you. You play as Henry, a blacksmith’s son trying to survive in 15th-century Bohemia, and survival isn’t easy. Combat is a tough battle of timing, stamina, and direction. Players soon learn that it’s all about heavy hits. One wrong move can lead to death.
The scenes are breathtaking, with sunlight filtering through thick trees and armour gleaming with lifelike detail, making the medieval city in the game feel alive. Every system demanded real skill: I failed at lockpicking more times than I’d like to admit. This all helps the world feel alive in a way few RPGs achieve. NPCs remember your crimes, townsfolk react to your smell and the things they hear, and quests unfold with consequences.
You get to experience the Middle Ages – grit, bruises, and all.
If you enjoy open world games and want an immersive RPG with medieval themes, deep stories, and real consequences, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 will meet your needs. It’s a must-try for fans exploring the landscape of vast open world games.
6. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered [Best Open World RPG for a Timeless Sandbox Reborn]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 85% |
| Availability | Steam, Xbox Store, Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming (Mobile), Eneba |
| Year | 2025 |
| Developer / Publisher | Bethesda |
| What I Love About It | Classic open world freedom, guilds, emergent quests |
Oblivion Remastered is like rediscovering your favorite book with a fresh set of eyes. This is the same beloved, unpredictable sandbox game you remember from 2006. The difference now is that it all looks incredible with Unreal Engine 5. The devs completely reworked the visuals, lighting, shadows, and far-off landscapes. Now, Cyrodiil’s forests shimmer, and its cities’ different locations feel vibrant. However, the NPCs still look hilariously cursed.
What makes Oblivion Remastered shine is the sheer freedom it gives you. You can follow the main quest or chase your own wild ideas. Its spellcrafting system remains a standout in modern RPGs, letting you create absurd effects like sending enemies fleeing at supersonic speed. While the old quirks, such as level scaling and repetitive Oblivion gates, are still here, quality-of-life upgrades like sprinting and a streamlined UI make it a more enjoyable way to experience the gameplay.
It’s a classic return, but it’s smoother and just as magical. Just don’t be fooled by the “Remastered” in its title because, as far as most gamers are concerned, it’s a lot closer to a remake.
Bethesda didn’t fix everything in the Elder Scrolls IV, but they’ve tidied up enough to keep it fun and playable. The quirky charm of the original remains intact. It also has Skyrim’s sense of adventure with deeper RPG systems and some of Bethesda’s best quest writing. If you enjoy open world RPGs with surprises and meaningful choices, Oblivion Remastered is worth exploring. It’s chaotic, creative, and full of nostalgia.
7. Monster Hunter Wilds [Best Open World RPG for Cooperative Ecological Battles]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 90% |
| Availability | Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, GeForce NOW, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2025 |
| Developer / Publisher | Capcom |
| What I Love About It | Massive ecosystems, co-op hunting, evolving monsters |
After hours of exploring huge worlds and joining in wild co-op battles, I thought I knew what to expect from a Monster Hunter game, but this one surprised me pleasantly.
The main gameplay is still about defeating huge monsters, but the loops are smoother now. You no longer retreat to town after every hunt, and everything you need to craft, cook, and regroup is all right there with you in the wild.
The change between zones is stunning. What blew me away was the reactive ecosystem, as weather shifts, monsters migrate, and terrain changes around you. Here, the environment plays a key role in the battle. Fighting in a desert that becomes a lightning storm and then a blooming field? Wild.
What could be more challenging than battling colossal beasts in worlds that breathe?
Some reviews say the game isn’t very challenging. But if you want the adventure, exploration, and to team up with friends, Wilds offers a fun, vibrant co-op experience. It captures that Monster Hunter feel and is easy to enjoy.
8. Starfield [Biggest Open World RPG Map]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 83% |
| Availability | Steam, Xbox Store, Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming (Mobile), Eneba |
| Year | 2023 |
| Developer / Publisher | Bethesda Game Studios |
| What I Love About It | Space exploration, ship building, massive scale freedom |
If you’re familiar with either the Skyrim or Fallout series, Starfield feels like stepping into familiar territory, only this time, in a distant sci-fi future of an open world game.
At its core, this is classic Bethesda RPG action. You’ll get to loot abandoned bases, interact with NPCs, and gradually turn your starter ship into a space cruiser. But where Starfield shines is in its sheer scope, with over 1,000 planets that you’re free to explore, each with its own hidden stories and side quests.
A galaxy of stories with you as an endless explorer is beyond exciting. Among other immersive sci-fi games, Starfield stands out for delivering vast exploration and rich narrative depth.
The faction questlines feel like some of Bethesda‘s best writing in years, especially the Crimson Fleet storyline that lets you go full Firefly. The cities are jaw-dropping. New Atlantis, Neon, and Akila each feel like distinct living hubs. If you enjoy open world RPGs, Starfield offers the depth, freedom, and wonder you want…but in space!
9. Dune: Awakening [Best Open World RPG for Harsh-Sand Survival with Intrigue]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 78% |
| Availability | Steam, GeForce NOW, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2025 |
| Developer / Publisher | Funcom |
| What I Love About It | Survival MMO on Arrakis, sandworms, faction politics |
As a huge fan and consumer of all forms of Dune media, it’ll be hard to review this without any form of personal bias. Dune: Awakening feels like a game focused on politics, set in a harsh desert survival nightmare. The plotlines are familiar in your usual scavenge, craft, and build, but with a brutal Dune twist. For players exploring RPGs with survival game elements, the Dune: Awakening title stands out with its intense player-driven politics and unforgiving world.
Dune: Awakening stands out to me for two reasons: its interesting political depth and a story that diverges from the books, movies, and TV shows. While playing Dune, you have to scheme to survive. Join factions, trade spice (the most valuable resource), and manipulate councils to gain power.
This open world game feels truly alive, with player-driven politics, where guilds clash over territory and alliances shift like desert winds. Its open world is vast and oppressive, with towering rock formations, hidden caves, and wrecked ships to loot only if you can survive the journey.
Few games blend survival, exploration, and power struggles this seamlessly.
For open world RPG fans, this is a unique blend of survival grit with high stakes, as Arrakis is brutal and doesn’t forgive mistakes.
10. Cyberpunk 2077 [Top Rated Open World RPG]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 86% |
| Availability | Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, PlayStation Store, Nintendo eShop, Xbox Store, GeForce NOW, Amazon Luna (limited rollout), (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2020 |
| Developer / Publisher | CD PROJEKT RED |
| What I Love About It | Immersive city, strong narrative, build variety, sci-fi atmosphere |
Cyberpunk 2077 felt rushed when it was initially released in 2020, but after the patches, the game has definitely become one of the most immersive open world RPGs ever made. This neon-themed dystopian world finally lives up to the expectation of the futuristic playground gamers were initially promised.
Cyberpunk 2077 is a super cool action RPG game. You play as V, a mercenary. You climb the criminal underworld using gunfights, hacking, and cybernetic upgrades. The skill trees let me craft a net runner build that felt completely my own, from glass-cannon net runner to unstoppable cybernetic tank.
My favourite part of Cyberpunk 2077 is Night City itself. It’s a metropolis that is jaw-dropping, packed with stories to be explored in every alley. The writing shines brightest in its side quests, which feel like they rival the main story with their emotional depth.
Lose yourself in a sprawling city where every neon light hides a story and every choice shapes your legend.
For open world fans, Night City now feels alive. The revamped AI, improved police chases, and dynamic events make exploration rewarding. If you want an RPG with style and one of gaming’s most breathtaking cities, Cyberpunk 2077 is finally worth your time.
11. Red Dead Redemption 2 [Best Open World RPG for Western Storytelling Excellence]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 97% |
| Availability | Steam, Epic Games Store, Rockstar Launcher, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, (Mobile via cloud only via Xbox remote/PS Remote), Eneba |
| Year | 2018 |
| Developer / Publisher | Rockstar Games |
| What I Love About It | Ultra-realistic world, emotional story, unmatched immersion |
If you’ve ever dreamed of living as an outlaw in the dying days of the American frontier, Red Dead Redemption 2 helps take you through that fantasy.
As the protagonist Arthur Morgan, you’ll experience a game with one of the most realistic open world mechanics ever created. You get to experience hunting that requires tracking and clean kills, horses need brushing and feeding, and your campmates react to how often you contribute.
Combat felt heavy and deliberate when I played; every shot had weight, with the Dead Eye system letting you slow time for cinematic shootouts. The visual style is nothing short of stunning, from snow-capped mountains to swampy bayous, all designed with obsessive attention to detail.
The emotional depth is impeccable. As the Van der Linde gang’s story flows through the Wild West, it encompasses tragedy, loyalty and change. Arthur’s personal journey stands as one of gaming’s greatest character arcs.
Hunt, fight, and survive in the most realistic Western game with a massive open world that you’ll love to get lost in.
For open world fans, this is the ultimate sandbox – you can choose to be an honorable gunslinger helping townsfolk or a vicious outlaw robbing trains, the choice is yours. The slow pace might test some players’ patience, but those who embrace the rhythm will find an experience unlike any other.
12. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild [Open World RPG for Switch]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 97% |
| Availability | Nintendo eShop (Switch only), Eneba |
| Year | 2017 |
| Developer / Publisher | Nintendo |
| What I Love About It | Pure exploration freedom, physics-driven gameplay, emergent solutions |
There are few games as limitless and unique as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, even when talking about the RPGs and open world games. The game actually feels alive, as it’s brimming with beauty and mystery wherever you turn. Every area is packed with secrets waiting to be uncovered, and it’s always incredibly exciting to go after them.
Yet, the part that shines the most is its freedom. You can explore pretty much everything, taking on side quests, finding valuable resources, or just getting lost in the massive world. Climb mountains, glide over valleys, solve puzzles, and build the craziest things, whether to be used in traversing the world, battling enemies, or just for your own amusement.
It’s a very fairy-tale-like RPG adventure with near-unlimited freedom to explore and interact with the world however you see fit.
Even if it’s now a few years old, Breath of the Wild is undoubtedly still one unmissable on Switch. If you love open world RPGs, there’s almost no excuse good enough to justify missing out on it.
13. Fallout 4: Game of the Year Edition [Best Post-Apocalyptic Open World RPG]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 88% |
| Availability | Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming (Mobile), GeForce NOW, Eneba |
| Year | 2015 |
| Developer / Publisher | Bethesda |
| What I Love About It | Open world sandbox, base building, exploration loop |
For open world RPG fans who love the vibe of post-apocalyptic dystopia, it would be hard to find a more perfect game than Fallout 4. Even though it takes place in a complete wasteland, the game’s world is not only massive but actually alive, filled with interesting locations to explore, from ruined cities to underground vaults.
Combat, with Fallout‘s trademark V.A.T.S. system, is super fun, and the customization options for weapons, settlements, and even your own character add a ton of depth. The main story is actually good, yet it’s incredibly easy to get sidetracked, whether you’re building settlements, helping people, or going on your own little mission.
It’s a highly immersive post-apocalyptic world full of both danger and various opportunities, all of which can lead to very interesting outcomes.
Fallout 4 is really an adventure that makes you feel like you’re truly part of its ruined world. If you love post-apocalyptic settings but would rather not have to live in one in real life, this is as close as it gets without stepping over that line, and honestly, it’s quite perfect.
14. The Outer Worlds 2 [Best Open World RPG for Witty Sci-Fi Role-Playing]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 83% |
| Availability | Steam, Xbox Store, Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming (Mobile), Eneba |
| Year | 2025 |
| Developer / Publisher | Obsidian |
| What I Love About It | Humor, player choice, branching dialogue, space RPG satire |
The Outer Worlds 2 is really quite a gem among the RPG and open world games alike. It may not be as limitless as some other picks on this list, but a little narrower focus field is exactly what makes the best parts of this game shine.
It takes place in a huge, retro-futuristic cosmic colony in a distant solar system on the edge of the explored space. The game’s open world is a blend of gritty corporate control and space-faring adventure, all wrapped nicely in a cleverly written satire.
There is a ton to explore and choose from, with decisions that impact your story, your companions, and the whole colony alike. Each planet you visit offers a fresh batch of surprises. Plus, it improves upon the first game in a number of ways, with a stronger focus on role-playing (once you pick your skills, you can’t change them).
The Outer Worlds 2 is a satirical retro-futuristic RPG that hits all the right notes and is perfect if you ever wanted to take the Fallout vibe and add space travel to it.
The Outer Worlds 2 simply has a great balance between freedom and immersive narrative, which is incredibly satisfying. And while it may not be perfect, it’s a super fun experience worth having, especially for gamers who enjoy RPGs that focus on the role-play element.
15. Avowed [Best Open World RPG for Immersive First-Person Fantasy]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 88% |
| Availability | Steam, Xbox Store, Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming (Mobile), Eneba |
| Year | 2025 |
| Developer / Publisher | Obsidian |
| What I Love About It | First-person fantasy RPG, magic combat, deep lore world |
Avowed is the kind of game that reminds you why you fell in love with open world games in the first place. This first-person fantasy adventure blends Obsidian’s legendary storytelling with fast-paced combat and vibrant, handcrafted zones.
This open world game is filled with several dense, interconnected regions, each packed with secrets, side quests, and environmental puzzles that reward exploration. If you’re hunting for fantasy games that captivate with world-building and discovery, Avowed sits comfortably among the elite.
One thing that’s unique about Avowed is how deep the magic and story go. From casting black holes to deciding the fate of entire towns, Avowed lets you leave your mark. My dialogue choices actually mattered; I watched an entire town’s fate change based on one conversation.
Obsidian took a big swing with deep lore and magic that feels alive.
In a genre crowded with sandbox RPGs that often feel like being surface-level or needlessly complex, Avowed finds a balance that works. It’s not reinventing the RPG, but for fans of Pillars, Skyrim, The Outer Worlds, or even Hogwarts Legacy, it’s worth a look..
16. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim [Best Open World RPG for Player Choice]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 94% |
| Availability | Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, Game Pass, GeForce NOW, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2011 |
| Developer / Publisher | Bethesda |
| What I Love About It | Endless replayability, freedom to roleplay anything, massive dragons |
You didn’t think I’d ignore this, did you? Skyrim might almost be old enough to drive, but thanks to years of updates it’s as playable as ever. True to form, you take on the role of a prisoner, but this time your execution is stopped not by an emperor asking for help (as in Oblivion) but thanks to a massive dragon.
The huge beast starts burning down the village you’re in, setting everything into chaos and giving you the chance to escape. From there, you’re completely free to go anywhere and do practically anything, whether that’s steal everything that’s not nailed down or build yourself up into a fearsome monster slayer.
Bethesda has rightly made a name for itself by offering players huge open worlds, and Skyrim’s is rarely rivalled: while the map size of roughly 14–15 square miles is small by modern standards, it’s packed with arguably a lot more content than contemporary open world titles. Basically, if you can see something, you can probably find a way to reach it.
The world of Skyrim still looks magnificent in all its wintry glory, but it’s the sheer level of player choice that helped it win multiple awards.
Bethesda games are also known for their jank, which Skyrim isn’t immune to. However, the good news is this is usually funny (like having NPCs spin on the spot for no reason) rather than game-breaking. There’s also nothing that stopped Skyrim from winning multiple Game of the Year awards. Travel to the icy mountains and see for yourself; I guarantee you’ll enjoy yourself.
17. Fallout: New Vegas [Open World RPG with Best Story]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 84% |
| Availability | Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, Xbox Store, Game Pass, GeForce NOW, (Mobile via cloud), Eneba |
| Year | 2010 |
| Developer / Publisher | Obsidian / Bethesda |
| What I Love About It | Best RPG writing, faction choices, branching endings |
Obsidian made a name for itself in the RPG world with two Neverwinter Nights games, but New Vegas was its first open world RPG. Handed the Fallout reins by Bethesda, Obsidian created an engaging, albeit scrappy, standalone spin-off.
New Vegas inherits a lot from its predecessor, Fallout 3, including the general structure and look, which led to some initial reviews calling this more of an expansion than a proper game. However, if you’re like me and can look past the surface similarities then you’ll find a story-rich RPG with a lot of Obsidian’s hallmarks, including a branching narrative and player choice that carries real weight.
You take on the role of a courier whose only job is to deliver a package to New Vegas. Of course, things don’t go according to plan. You’ll find yourself embroiled in quests related to the militant-but-good New California Republic and the slave-owners-but-efficient Caesar’s Legion, with most roads leading to a possible confrontation with New Vegas’ overlord Mr. House.
Although it starts off feeling like an inferior Fallout 3, it soon becomes evident New Vegas has better writing than that game. A must-play for fans of deep narrative RPGs.
New Vegas was kind of the Fallout series’ little brother at release, but thanks to the second season of the Fallout TV series (which used it as a setting), the game’s drawn renewed attention. I recommend trekking through the digital Mojave to see for yourself why the game’s worth playing.
18. Horizon Zero Dawn [Best Open World RPG for Creature Design]
| My Score |
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
☆
★
|
| Metacritic | 89% |
| Availability | Steam, Epic Games Store, PlayStation Store, PlayStation Plus (rotations), Eneba |
| Year | 2017 |
| Developer / Publisher | Guerrilla Games / Sony |
| What I Love About It | Robot dinosaurs, strong protagonist, beautiful open world |
Look, if the phrase “robot dinosaurs” doesn’t sell you on this game then I don’t know what will. Set in a future version of Earth ruled by animal-like Machines, you control Aloy in her quest to find out the secret to the robot beasts. Horizon Zero Dawn spawned multiple sequels, spin-offs and DLC, but the original game still holds up. If you’re a fan of action RPGs with a story worth caring about, then I can easily recommend this game.
The world itself, too, is worth exploring. Plenty of games offer an open world but fail to pack much content into it. This isn’t an issue with Horizon Zero Dawn as there’s always some Machine to hunt or area to explore, and it all looks gorgeous.
Aside from the environment, the combat feels meaty and I especially like the variety of weapons you can use. These range from different bows through to the wonderfully-named Ravager Cannon, which fires a high-damage projectile. A remastered version was released in October 2024, but to be honest the original graphics still hold up very well.
You get to fight giant mechanical dinosaurs and cool-looking robot animals. Enough said!
Although there are newer games in the series, the original earns a place on this list for being the first to do everything they do. You’ve got weighty combat, a beautiful open world, RPG progression, and did I mention robot dinosaurs? It has plenty of those!
Wrap-Up and Honorable Mentions
There you have it: 18 excellent open world RPGs that run the gamut from award-winning (Elden Ring, Baldur’s Gate 3) to the critically-acclaimed (Fallout 4, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild) and everything in between. Well, almost everything; any list only has so much room on it.
If I’m missing a particular title in the ranks of the best RPGs in 2025/206, whether released recently or simply still fun to play, don’t worry. I’ve got a few other recommendations for you.
If you like space/sci-fi open world games, No Man’s Sky continues to go from strength-to-strength with consistent, free updates. Hytale may still be in Early Access, but it already offers a more RPG-focused take on Minecraft’s open world procedural generation.
Want something new? Crimson Desert combines single-player open world RPG fantasy with MMO mechanics, while I recommend the anime-inspired The Seven Deadly Sins: Origin if you’re after a free open world RPG.
FAQs
Baldur’s Gate 3 is arguably the best open-world RPG due to its deep narrative, strategic combat, and player-driven choices. The game’s rich world, immersive characters, and intricate questlines set a new standard for RPGs.
Starfield is currently the biggest open-world RPG out there. With a vast universe filled with thousands of explorable planets, space stations, and deep RPG mechanics, it offers an unparalleled scale for exploration and adventure.
RPGs focus on character progression, stats, and narrative choices, while open-world means non-linear exploration in a vast, interactive environment. It’s important to note that not all RPGs are open-world (e.g., Final Fantasy), and not all open-world games are RPGs (e.g., Grand Theft Auto). Some, like Elden Ring, blend both.
