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Open-world games have a unique charm—they essentially represent the pinnacle of what gaming can offer by providing complete alternate worlds for players to dive into and wander around without restraint. This genre often allows gamers unparalleled autonomy, enabling them to choose their path and transform their playthrough into a personal experience. For many, these games can feel like a realm to lose oneself in.
Given their allure, it’s no shock that some of the gaming industry’s heavyweight titles are open-world adventures. Fortunately for Xbox Game Pass subscribers, there’s a wealth of these games readily available. But which one should you explore next? Here’s a rundown of the finest open-world games you can dive into on Xbox Game Pass.
Updated on November 26, 2024, by Mark Sammut: Lately, Microsoft has generously catered to open-world enthusiasts, with one of the year’s highlights being the release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. The game, despite some hiccups at launch, stands out in the open-world survival genre and merits a mention here.
When ranking games, it’s worth noting that factors beyond sheer quality can come into play. A significant addition to Game Pass, for instance, might initially feature prominently simply due to timing.
1. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Welcome to the Zone
At times, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl seemed like it would never see the light of day. Its presence on Game Pass is a testament to GSC’s unwavering commitment. Beyond its existence, the game offers a highly engaging experience. Known for its challenging atmosphere and focus on survival, this entry is arguably the most approachable of the series, although it still presents a formidable challenge, particularly for newcomers.
Set within The Zone, the game immerses players in a hostile environment steeped in survival, packed with mutants, mystical artifacts, and an arsenal that’s often limited by scarce ammunition. The game’s expansive world, enhanced by Unreal Engine 5, is both vast and breathtakingly beautiful, despite its initial buggy launch. Patches have notably improved the gameplay, making it more approachable though not flawless. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 is a distinctive survival game that pairs atmospheric depth with integrated survival elements like radiation management, making it an essential play for fans and newcomers alike.
2. Minecraft
The Ultimate Sandbox
Minecraft is unmatched in offering players a broad canvas for creativity and exploration. Without predefined objectives, players can pursue virtually anything, from erecting skyscrapers to mining the world’s depths or crafting elaborate contraptions.
There are no specific quests, but the freedom to create and explore is limitless, marking Minecraft as the epitome of a sandbox game. An industry titan, it’s a name that nearly every gamer knows. Minecraft’s value on Game Pass is undeniable, and its influence is unparalleled, making it an essential addition to any open-world gaming list.
3. Skyrim
Timeless Open-World RPG
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim has long been a benchmark in the open-world genre, remaining popular even years after its 2011 debut. Its rich world of dragons, deep forests, and snow-capped mountains continues to draw in new explorations.
Skyrim offers a vast array of experiences with a profound storyline about the Dragonborn. For newcomers, this is an opportune moment to explore its world, while returning players can enhance their adventures with a wide range of mods available for consoles, offering new layers to a familiar journey.
4. Palworld
A Blend Of Concepts That Works Surprisingly Well
Despite initially seeming too ambitious, Palworld has rapidly become a standout title on Game Pass. Even in its early access stage, it delivers a coherent and enjoyable experience. While players should keep expectations realistic given its unfinished status, the game boasts ample content, promising ongoing updates as it progresses.
Palworld, dubbed as "Pokemon with guns," is fundamentally an exploration and survival game set in an expansive open world. Players can catch and utilize diverse creatures known as Pals, which play vital roles in both combat and exploration. It caters to a range of audiences, from monster collectors to survival enthusiasts, and offers a vibrant world that’s a delight to traverse.
5. Forza Horizon 5
Drive Through Mexico
The Forza Horizon series has consistently delivered ambitious open-world racing games, and the fifth installment is no exception. Set in the visually diverse regions of Mexico, it surpasses previous iterations with its varied and authentic environments.
Balancing realistic visuals with engaging arcade gameplay, Forza Horizon 5 is a joy to navigate. Its map is packed with content, appealing to both solitary racers and multiplayer aficionados, ensuring there’s never a dull moment on or off the main roads.
6. Diablo 4
Flawed Modern Take On A Classic RPG Formula
Blizzard’s latest offering, Diablo 4, has had its share of ups and downs. While initially embraced, it quickly met criticism post-launch, leading to a lukewarm reception on Game Pass despite its notable stature.
Nonetheless, Diablo 4 remains a solid hack and slash experience, particularly for those who embrace its campaign. The game introduces an open-world aspect to the series, allowing players to explore its vast and varied landscapes. Though its endgame may falter, the campaign provides nearly 30 hours of engaging play, making it a worthwhile endeavor for RPG enthusiasts.
7. Microsoft Flight Simulator
Travel Across Earth’s Skies
Not everyone might be drawn to Microsoft Flight Simulator, yet for some, it’s the sole reason to own an Xbox Series X/S. Asobo Studio’s ambitious project offers an intricately crafted simulation of flying across the globe, providing a stunning visual showcase.
The gameplay might seem linear due to flight plans but affords immense freedom in choosing paths via World Map mode. Essentially, Earth’s skies become the open-world playground for players to explore, a feat few games have ever attempted on this scale.
8. Terraria
Indie Sandbox Darling
Since its 2011 release, Terraria has established itself as a cornerstone of sandbox gaming. With procedurally generated worlds rich in exploration and crafting elements, the game offers an expansive playground for creativity and adventure.
Terraria blends action, survival, and crafting seamlessly, presenting a deeply engaging experience. With several difficulty modes available, each journey feels distinct, backed by a passionate community that keeps the world lively and ever-evolving.
9. Grounded
Great Co-Op Survival Open-World Game
Grounded stands out for its imaginative take on a backyard turned into a survival battlefield. Players must navigate a world where a blade of grass can loom overhead, facing the threats of nature at a miniature level.
Offering a rich cooperative experience, this immersive game draws on the charm of childhood adventures while challenging players to craft, survive, and ultimately, thrive in a once-familiar setting.
10. Sea Of Thieves
Fun With Friends (Or With A Crew)
Rare’s Sea of Thieves has blossomed into a vibrant open-world adventure from its rocky beginnings. While solo play is an option, the full treasure is unearthed alongside a crew, where camaraderie and creativity fuel the most memorable journeys.
This pirate adventure invites unending exploration, trading missions, and epic sea battles. Regular updates ensure there’s always new content to engage with, making it a dynamic and enduring staple of Xbox Game Pass.
11. Yakuza 0
A Gangster Epic (& Just One Of Many Chapters)
Xbox Game Pass offers the entire Yakuza saga, making it a prime time to journey through this engrossing series. Yakuza 0 serves as a perfect entry point, set in vibrant Japanese cities ablaze with life and personality.
With intricate storytelling and engaging characters, the game delivers a riveting narrative while providing ample side activities. It stands as one of the franchise’s pinnacle entries, blending humor, drama, and action in one captivating package.
12. Valheim
A Survival Open-World Game Done Right
After making waves on Steam, Valheim found a home on Game Pass, bringing its Viking-themed survival experience to a broader audience. Despite being in early access, it offers a deeply engaging world filled with discovery and challenge.
Utilizing procedural generation and robust crafting systems, Valheim excels in providing a sandbox ripe for exploration and conquest. Its balance of building, combat, and exploration makes it a rewarding endeavor whether played solo or with friends.
13. Tchia
Gorgeous & Unique Setting, Along With Fun Core Mechanic
Previously exclusive to PlayStation, Tchia’s arrival on Xbox Game Pass adds a refreshing and visually stunning journey to its library. Set against tropical backdrops, the game is infused with creativity, courtesy of its soul-jumping mechanics.
This adventurous platformer lets players explore a vibrant world by inhabiting various creatures, enhancing exploration and combat in equal measure. Its charm and innovation make it a standout title for open-world enthusiasts seeking something novel.
14. Batman: Arkham Knight
Gotham Has Never Looked Better
Completing Rocksteady’s acclaimed Arkham trilogy, Arkham Knight offers a vibrant open-world experience set in Gotham City. Despite divisive batmobile sequences, the game captures the essence of Batman’s universe with finesse.
From its compelling storyline to finely tuned combat, the game is a testament to superhero gaming done right. Exploring Gotham remains as thrilling as ever, offering a deep dive into the dark world of the Caped Crusader.
15. South Park: The Fractured But Whole
Free Roam In South Park
While not a massive open-world, South Park: The Fractured But Whole provides an entertaining sandbox for fans of the series. With its turn-based RPG mechanics and faithful recreation of the show’s humor and style, it stands as a strong sequel.
As players engage in a civil war of superpowers, the game provides numerous laughs and strategic battles, capturing the essence of South Park’s quirky charm.
16. Mafia: Definitive Edition
A Faithful Trip To Another Era
Mafia: Definitive Edition revisits the classic gangster saga with meticulous attention to its 1930s setting. While its open-world serves as a backdrop to narrative beats, the game is an immersive historical journey through a bygone era.
With a gripping storyline and detailed environments, it offers a faithful retelling of Tommy Angelo’s rise in the criminal underworld, preserving the essence of its predecessor while revitalizing it for modern audiences.
17. Dungeons of Hinterberg
Relaxing Dungeon Crawler That Is A Proper Escape From Reality
Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a more laid-back action RPG experience set amidst the scenic beauty of the Alps. Players take on dungeons at their leisure, embracing a game that values exploration and self-discovery over rigid progression.
With a relaxing atmosphere and engaging world, it invites players to uncover secrets at their own pace, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a captivating escape within Xbox Game Pass.
18. Expeditions: A MudRunner Game (Or SnowRunner)
A Slow And Challenging Drive
While not traditionally open-world, both Expeditions and SnowRunner provide expansive landscapes requiring methodical traversal. These games challenge players to navigate rugged terrains, fostering patience and strategy.
Despite their slower pace, these titles offer a unique thrill to those who enjoy logistical challenges and overcoming nature’s obstacles, making them suitable for players seeking a different flavor of open-world gaming.
19. Octopath Traveler 2
Classic JRPG Throwback With Beautiful Visuals
Octopath Traveler 2 enhances its predecessor’s formula with improved inter-character connections in its non-linear RPG environment. Offering stunning visuals and a robust turn-based combat system, the game is a love letter to classic JRPG fans.
With its free-form exploration and intertwining storylines, it stands as a beacon for those who appreciate traditional RPG elements with a modern twist.
20. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
An Ancient Egypt Epic
Among Xbox Game Pass’s offerings, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey shines as a Greek saga that refines its predecessor’s mechanics. Its sweeping vistas and rich narrative tapestry craft an immersive experience unparalleled in the series landscape.
Balancing exploration with combat and storytelling, Odyssey stands out from its contemporaries, offering a journey through Greece that is as visually captivating as it is compellingly deep. Whether new to the series or a returning fan, its epic scale ensures a satisfying adventure.
