Open-world games have become a cornerstone of modern gaming, offering players the freedom to explore vast, immersive environments, engage in dynamic storytelling, and create their own unique experiences. As we step into 2024, the genre continues to evolve, with developers pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of scale, interactivity, and narrative depth. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the world of open-world adventures, this guide will introduce you to the top 10 open-world games you need to play in 2024, along with tips on how to make the most of your experience.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Release Date: May 12, 2023 (still a must-play in 2024)
Building on the groundbreaking success of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom takes players back to the expansive world of Hyrule, but with even more depth and creativity. The game introduces new mechanics, such as the ability to manipulate time and build custom vehicles, allowing for unparalleled freedom in exploration and problem-solving.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Experiment with the game’s crafting system to create unique tools and vehicles.
Take your time to explore every nook and cranny—Hyrule is filled with hidden secrets.
Use the new time-manipulation abilities to solve puzzles in creative ways.
- Starfield
Platform: Xbox Series X/S, PC
Release Date: September 6, 2023
Bethesda’s highly anticipated space epic, Starfield, offers a universe of over 1,000 planets to explore. With a mix of hand-crafted content and procedurally generated worlds, the game combines the studio’s signature RPG elements with a vast, open-world (or open-galaxy) experience.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Focus on the main story initially to unlock key abilities and ships.
Customize your spacecraft to suit your playstyle, whether it’s combat, exploration, or trading.
Don’t rush—take time to immerse yourself in the lore and side quests.
- Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Release Date: September 26, 2023
After a rocky launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has been revitalized with the Phantom Liberty expansion and numerous updates. The game now delivers the immersive, dystopian open-world experience it initially promised, complete with a gripping story, improved gameplay, and stunning visuals.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Invest in hacking skills to gain an edge in combat and exploration.
Explore Night City’s verticality—many secrets are hidden above and below street level.
Take on side gigs to build your reputation and unlock new opportunities.
- Assassin’s Creed Mirage
Platform: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X/S, PC
Release Date: October 5, 2023
Returning to its roots, Assassin’s Creed Mirage focuses on stealth, parkour, and a tightly woven narrative set in 9th-century Baghdad. The game offers a smaller but more detailed open world, emphasizing quality over quantity.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Master the stealth mechanics to avoid unnecessary combat.
Use the environment to your advantage—blend into crowds and climb structures for better vantage points.
Complete side missions to uncover the rich history and culture of Baghdad.
- Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Release Date: December 7, 2023
Based on James Cameron’s Avatar universe, this game immerses players in the lush, alien world of Pandora. As a Na’vi, you’ll explore the open world, bond with nature, and fight against human invaders.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Use your Na’vi abilities to traverse the environment quickly and efficiently.
Pay attention to the ecosystem—hunting and gathering are key to survival.
Engage in aerial combat using your Ikran (flying mount) for a unique experience.
- Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Platform: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X/S, PC
Release Date: Early 2024
The critically acclaimed Elden Ring is set to receive a massive expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, which promises to expand the already vast Lands Between with new areas, bosses, and lore.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Prepare thoroughly before venturing into new areas—the expansion is expected to be even more challenging.
Experiment with new weapons and abilities introduced in the DLC.
Cooperate with other players to tackle tough bosses and explore hidden secrets.
- Hogwarts Legacy: The Forgotten Forest
Platform: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X/S, PC
Release Date: Mid-2024
Following the success of Hogwarts Legacy, this expansion introduces a new open-world area, the Forgotten Forest, filled with magical creatures, ancient secrets, and dangerous foes.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Master new spells and potions to overcome challenges in the forest.
Tame and ride magical creatures to explore hard-to-reach areas.
Pay attention to environmental clues to uncover hidden treasures.
- Grand Theft Auto VI
Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Release Date: Late 2024 (Expected)
One of the most anticipated games of all time, GTA VI is rumored to feature a massive open world set in a modernized Vice City and its surrounding areas. With Rockstar’s reputation for detail and storytelling, this game is poised to redefine the genre.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Take part in side activities to build your character’s skills and resources.
Explore the world at your own pace—there’s no rush to complete the main story.
Engage with the game’s dynamic world by interacting with NPCs and causing chaos.
- Fable
Platform: Xbox Series X/S, PC
Release Date: 2024
The reboot of the beloved Fable series promises a whimsical yet expansive open world filled with moral choices, quirky characters, and fantastical creatures.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Make choices that align with your desired playstyle—good, evil, or somewhere in between.
Experiment with different weapons and magic to find your preferred combat style.
Explore every corner of the world to uncover hidden quests and treasures.
- The Witcher 4: A New Saga
Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Release Date: Late 2024 (Expected)
While details are scarce, The Witcher 4 is expected to continue the series’ tradition of rich storytelling, complex characters, and a vast open world filled with monsters and mysteries.
Tips for Enjoyment:
Take time to learn the game’s lore and backstory to fully appreciate the narrative.
Use alchemy and crafting to prepare for tough battles.
Explore the world thoroughly—many quests and secrets are off the beaten path.
How to Fully Enjoy Open-World Games in 2024
Take Your Time: Open-world games are designed to be savored. Don’t rush through the main story—take time to explore, complete side quests, and immerse yourself in the world.
Experiment with Playstyles: Many open-world games offer multiple ways to approach challenges. Whether it’s stealth, combat, or diplomacy, try different strategies to keep the experience fresh.
Engage with the World: Talk to NPCs, read in-game books, and pay attention to environmental storytelling. These elements add depth and make the world feel alive.
Use Fast Travel Wisely: While fast travel is convenient, walking or riding through the world can lead to unexpected discoveries.
Customize Your Experience: Many games offer extensive customization options for characters, vehicles, and gear. Tailor your experience to suit your preferences.
Play with Friends: If the game supports multiplayer or co-op, teaming up with friends can enhance the experience and make exploration even more enjoyable.
Stay Updated: Developers often release patches, updates, and expansions that improve the game or add new content. Keep an eye out for these updates to get the most out of your experience.
Conclusion
Open-world games in 2024 are more ambitious and immersive than ever, offering players endless opportunities for exploration, creativity, and storytelling. Whether you’re soaring through the skies of Pandora, navigating the neon-lit streets of Night City, or uncovering the secrets of Hyrule, these games promise unforgettable experiences. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to dive into these vast worlds and make the most of your adventures. Happy gaming!