Sometimes, a game comes along that players simply want to lose themselves in for hours. Open-world games can be captivating, or they can be frustrating and monotonous. The sheer scale of an open-world game is both its greatest strength and its potential downfall. On one hand, some games boast massive maps that take a significant amount of time to explore.

However, with focused gameplay, open-world games can offer deeply engaging experiences with incredible replayability. The realism in these game worlds is often breathtaking. Whether you love them or hate them, the following titles rank among the best-selling games ever. Let's explore some of the most immersive open-world experiences available.

Updated January 6, 2025 by Mark Sammut: 2025 is shaping up to be a big year for open-world games, with several major titles slated for release. We'll highlight a few promising contenders for immersive gameplay. Use the link below to jump directly to that section.

Quick Links

• Upcoming 2025 Open-World Games That Are Likely To Be Immersive

49 The Planet Crafter

Transform a Hostile Planet into a Habitable World