The evolution of open world games 4w523j

Over the past 20 years, open-world games have increasingly transformed the video game landscape, offering players immersive experiences and the freedom to explore vast, detail-rich environments. From the first titles that paved the way with this innovative feature to the more recent releases that continue to redefine the limits of what is possible in of game design, the evolution of open world games is a fascinating journey that reflects technological advances, narrative and design in the games industry. 2sk5

In this text, we will explore this evolution, highlighting the most important open-world games that helped shape and define what video games are today.

What is an open world game? 4x3i49

Classifying a particular work or aspect is crucial because of the message such a label conveys to the potential buyer of a game. When we identify a game as horror, we automatically create the expectation of a scary experience. Likewise, when a game has roguelike elements, we expect repetition of actions combined with character progression to overcome challenges that previously seemed insurmountable. Because of this, it is important to come to a conclusion about what the term “open world games” refers to.

Although it may seem common in the world of video games, the definition of “open world games” is often found in situations that are not so clear about what this feature could be. This characteristic is commonly found in many games and does not necessarily define a specific genre, but it represents a crucial aspect in the way the work presents its narrative and experience to the player.

An open world game can be defined by a world that offers players the freedom to explore an expansive and detailed virtual environment in a non-linear fashion. In this type of game, players have the freedom to choose how and when to explore the game world, deciding which areas to visit, missions to complete and characters to interact with. Unlike linear games, where progression follows a defined sequence, open world games allow players to advance the story in different ways, with multiple possible paths and outcomes.

Some of the most important points for its definition are:

• Expansive environment;
• Freedom of exploration;
• Nonlinearity;
• Interactivity.

The classification is not always clear and can generate debate. Games like the series Yakuza present a neighborhood with several streets where the player can carry out different activities and advance in the story. However, due to its size being restricted to a small region, some players may question whether it truly falls into the open world category.

Another title that raises doubts is Pokemon Legends: Arceus. Many consider it the first open-world Pokémon game. However, the game consists of large areas connected by loading screens, which may cause some to not view it as a genuine open world. Similar situations occur in other games, such as Super Mario Odyssey, Monster hunter rise e Starfield, which are popularly called semi-open worlds by the community.

Given that there is room for debate and different opinions on the subject, in this text, we will consider open-world games to be those that present the previously mentioned characteristics. These games stand out for their focus on freedom and the non-linearity of the player's actions.

The origin of open world games 4u5aq

Open world games have their roots in a constant search for freedom and exploration within the world of video games. While it may be difficult to pinpoint the “first” open-world game, a few pioneering titles helped pave the way for the genre we know today.

the pioneers 1f6h1n

An early example of a game that incorporated open world elements is Elite, released in 1984. This space simulation game allowed players to freely explore a procedurally generated galaxy, performing various activities such as trading, combat, and mining. The non-linear approach and sense of freedom provided by the game set a precedent for future open-world games. Like this Elite, many games sought to provide the player with the sensation of an open world with freedom of exploration, such as Arrogant 1980. However, it was not always feasible to achieve this experience due to hardware limitations at the time.

Another important milestone was The Legend of Zelda, launched in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Although it is not an open world in the modern sense of the term, The Legend of Zelda introduced the idea of ​​an interconnected and explorable world, where players had the freedom to decide the order in which they would face challenges and explore the environment, which would later be the main foundations of what an open world game is.

As technology advanced and game design evolved, open-world elements began to become more prominent and sophisticated. Games like The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (2002) e Grand Theft Auto III (2003) expanded the boundaries of the genre, offering vast and detailed worlds full of activities and possibilities, which began to be shaped mainly during the generation PlayStation 2, Xbox e GameCube.

These games not only demonstrated the commercial potential of open worlds, but also influenced a generation of developers and designers to explore new ways of creating immersive gaming experiences.

What makes good open world design? 4f403y

Open world design is a complex art that involves balancing a series of elements to create an engaging, immersive and, above all, fun experience for the player. While the freedom to explore vast environments and the depth of interactions are fundamental characteristics of open world games, what really sets exceptional open world design apart from the rest?

Player freedom and agency 4572c

One of the most important pillars of good open world design is the freedom and agency given to the player. The world should be an interactive playground where players feel encouraged to experiment, discover and create their own stories – within the limitations imposed by the intention of the experience the game wants to provide. This means offering multiple paths to achieving objectives, allowing players to decide how, when and where they want to explore and interact with the environment and characters.

Games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom e The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt are exemplary examples of how to provide this feeling of freedom. In Tears of the Kingdom, for example, players can choose to tackle the game's challenges in any order they wish, using a variety of skills and strategies. Already in The Witcher 3, decisions made throughout the story have significant consequences in the world, giving players a palpable sense of agency and impact on the environment around them.

Depth and detail 6a4921

A truly memorable open world is not only grand in scale, but also rich in detail and depth. Every corner of the world must tell a story, whether through settings, characters, secondary missions or dynamic events. Attention to detail is crucial to creating a sense of immersion and verisimilitude that makes the world feel alive and cohesive.

Games like Red Dead Redemption 2 e Horizon Zero Dawn were marked by their meticulous attention to detail. In Red Dead 2, for example, the world is filled with wild animals, flora and fauna, day and night cycles, and a variety of random activities and events that make the environment incredibly immersive. Already in Horizon, the post-apocalyptic world is richly detailed, with a deep history, varied ecosystems, and a variety of cultures and factions that inhabit the world. This characteristic directly helps with the narrative that you want to tell about the human impacts that led to the planet being in that state in which it appears to the player.

It is crucial that an open world game has a clear purpose that justifies this characteristic. We often observe creative decisions influenced by market trends, which are not always aligned with the original intention of the work.

Emerging narrative 65j5e

While freedom and exploration are fundamental aspects of open-world games, an emergent and dynamic narrative also plays an important role in creating a memorable experience. Instead of following a linear script, players are encouraged to create their own stories and experiences through interactions with the world and its inhabitants.

Games like Minecraft e The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim are perfect examples of how an emergent narrative can enrich the open world experience. In Minecraft, players have the freedom to build, explore and interact with the environment in infinite ways, creating their own adventures and stories in the process. In Skyrim, players' choices, their actions and the way they interact with the characters and factions in the world can result in a variety of outcomes and stories, making each game unique and personalized.

Navigating from point A to point B in an open world game should be an enjoyable experience for the player, as it is an action frequently repeated during gameplay. Incorporating events in this path that provide the feeling of a living world and that generate a narrative that is not pre-determined by the developers is a significant success. This contributes positively to the feeling of exploration and increases the player's satisfaction in being rewarded for their actions.

In short, successful open world design is a skillful combination of freedom, depth, and player agency. By balancing these elements harmoniously, developers can create gaming experiences that not only dazzle players with their stunning visuals and innovative mechanics, but also immerse them in the experience and encourage them to explore, discover, and get lost in rich, immersive worlds. imaginative.

The best open world games of all time 5x6c6r

Grand Theft Auto III (2001) 4b241v

Grand Theft Auto III, launched in 2001 by Rockstar Games, revolutionized open-world gaming and set a new standard for third-person action games. Set in the fictional Liberty City, the game follows the story of Claude, a protagonist who seeks revenge after being betrayed by his girlfriend and criminal partners. Players have the freedom to explore a city very large by the standards of its time, complete main and secondary missions, and interact with a variety of characters, from mobsters to corrupt police officers.

With a diverse soundtrack, impressive graphics for the time and a lively and dynamic world, Grand Theft Auto III has established itself as a landmark in the video game industry, influencing generations of open-world games and setting the standard for future iterations of the GTA series.

Shadow of the Colossus (2005) 6t2d4j

Shadow of the Colossus, released in 2005 by the developer Team Ico protocols for PlayStation 2, is an action adventure game that stands out for its unique atmosphere, minimalist narrative and innovative game design. The game follows the lonely journey of Wander, a young man who embarks on a desperate mission to resurrect a young girl named Mono. To achieve his goal, Wander is tasked with defeating sixteen towering colossi spread across a vast, desolate landscape.

Unlike other action games, Shadow of the Colossus focuses exclusively on battles against these giant colossi, each presenting unique challenges and requiring specific strategies to defeat. By challenging gameplay conventions and telling an emotionally impactful story through minimal interactions and stunning visuals, the game is often considered a masterpiece and a milestone in the video game industry, influencing game design and storytelling in subsequent years.

Yakuza (2006) 1v6kf

Yakuza, launched in 2006 by SEGA protocols for PlayStation 2 and which would later receive a remake called Yakuza Kiwami, is the first title in a series of action-adventure games set in the Japanese organized crime underworld known as Like a Dragon. The game introduces players to protagonist Kazuma Kiryu, a former member of the Yakuza who is wrongly accused of a crime and seeks to clear his name while becoming involved in an intricate web of betrayals, conspiracies and gang conflicts.

the world of Yakuza is set in the Kamurocho district, a detailed recreation of an entertainment area in Tokyo, where players can freely explore, participate in a variety of side activities, and interact with a wide range of characters. With a mix of combat, fun mini-games and an engaging narrative full of twists and turns in both its main campaign and side stories, Yakuza offers a rich and immersive gaming experience that takes the player deep into the underworld of Tokyo.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (2006) 3cxc

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, launched in 2006 by Bethesda Game Studios, is an open-world action RPG set in the province of Cyrodiil, within the vast continent of Tamriel. As the fourth main title in the renowned series The Elder Scrolls, the game transports players to an epic fantasy world filled with magic, dragons, mystical creatures and a story rich in lore. Despite the revolutionary Morrowind, launched in 2002, in Oblivion we saw the realization of many of the concepts presented in its predecessor, which proved to be one of the causes of its success.

Em Oblivion, players take on the role of a customizable protagonist known as the Hero of Kvatch, who is tasked with stopping the invasion of demons from the Oblivion dimension, led by the Daedra prince, Mehrunes Dagon. The game offers unprecedented freedom for its time to explore the vast world of Cyrodiil, complete main and secondary quests, develop skills and spells, and interact with a multitude of characters, factions and guilds.

Fallout: New Vegas (2010) 1ri32

Soon, the Bethesda specialized in open world games and, in 2010, launched Fallout: New Vegas. The game is an open-world action RPG set in the series' post-apocalyptic universe. Fallout . Set in the decaying desert landscape of Nevada, the game combines elements of science fiction, politics and dark humor into an engaging narrative full of complex moral choices.

In the game, players take on the role of a messenger known as the Courier, who is left to die in the desert after being robbed and shot by a mysterious villain. The quest for revenge and the search for whoever is responsible for the attack leads the player to become involved in a conflict between several powerful factions vying for control of the region. The game was highly acclaimed for its narrative and the way it used its world to tell this story in an immersive way.

Batman: Arkham City (2011) 1f3i1f

Batman: Arkham City, launched in 2011 by Rocksteady Studios, is the acclaimed sequel to Batman: Arkham Asylum, continues the saga of the Dark Knight in the video game universe and was responsible for bringing the open world element to the series. This action-adventure title puts players in the role of the iconic superhero Batman as he faces off against a rogue's gallery of famous villains from the Gotham City universe in an open, yet contained, not-so-large and dangerous space known as Arkham. City.

Set in a makeshift open-air prison in Gotham City, Arkham City is a quarantine zone where criminals and supervillains are incarcerated. The game presents a complex and engaging narrative, where Batman must discover the plans of the mysterious Hugo Strange, while dealing with threats from enemies such as the Joker, Penguin, Two-Face and many others.

Minecraft (2011) 334pq

There's no way to talk about an open world game without mentioning Minecraft. Released in 2011 by the developer Mojang, the game is a cultural phenomenon and one of the most influential and popular in history. Created by designer Markus Notch Persson and later acquired by Microsoft in 2014, Minecraft is a separate category of open world games known as sandbox. This type of game allows players to explore, build and create a world as they see fit, providing an added layer of freedom compared to open world games.

In the game, players start in a limitless open world where they can collect natural resources, craft tools, build structures, grow food, face enemies, and interact with a variety of unique biomes and habitats. Minecraft offers different game modes, including Survival mode, where players must manage resources and face threats to survive, and Creative mode, which gives players unlimited access to resources to build and explore freely.

Terraria (2011) 6g5b5m

Appearing at the same time as Minecraft, Terraria was another open world game and sandbox which popularized this aspect in 2011. Being the only 2D game on our list, Terraria is a game that combines elements of exploration, construction, combat and collecting in an expansive 2D world full of possibilities. The game stood out for offering an accessible experience due to its simple graphics, but which challenges players to explore, create and survive in an environment full of dangers, treasures and challenges.

In the game, players start with basic tools and must explore a procedurally generated world, collecting resources, building shelters, facing powerful enemies and bosses, and discovering secrets hidden in caves, dungeons and other biomes. Terraria offers a game progression with a variety of items, weapons, armor and spells to discover and craft, encouraging players to experiment with different approaches using their creativity.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) f59h

The generation of PlayStation 3 e Xbox 360 played a fundamental role in popularizing the concept of open world games, transforming it into a marketing trend. At that time, many games stood out for their extensive maps, and having an open world became synonymous with sales success. Much of this perception was influenced by the resounding success of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

Em Skyrim, players take on the role of Dragonborn, a hero prophesied with the power to defeat the ancient dragons that have returned to threaten the world. The game offers an immersive and expansive gameplay experience where players can freely explore the vast open world of Skyrim, complete a multitude of main and side quests, develop skills and spells, and interact with a variety of non-playable characters, factions and guilds.

Far Cry 3 (2012) w4d5p

Far Cry 3, launched in 2012 by Ubisoft, is an open-world first-person shooter set on a fictional tropical island in the South Pacific. The game is the third main title in the series and is widely considered one of the best and most influential games in the franchise, scoring a point A turning point in the series and the company's history in of narrative, gameplay and open world design. Since the success of this game, we have seen several Ubisoft games following the same formula and being sales successes.

Em Far Cry 3, players take on the role of Jason Brody, a tourist who finds himself stranded on a mysterious island dominated by pirates, drug dealers and wild creatures. The game's narrative centers on Jason's journey from unprepared tourist to skilled warrior, as he fights for survival, rescues his friends, and confronts the charismatic and psychotic villain, Vaas Montenegro.

Forza Horizon (2012) 5x2p3p

In the 2000s we had already seen racing games using aspects of open world games. Need for Speed ​​Underground 2 allowed the player to explore a city as a racing hub and Burnout Paradise it introduced such concepts even during races, allowing the player the freedom to take whatever path he wanted in an open world. However, we chose the first Forza Horizon de Xbox as a representative of the genre of racing game who embraced open world ideas.

In the game, players participate in the Horizon Festival, a fictional racing event that brings together drivers from around the world to compete in a variety of challenges and events on open roads, circuits off-road and urban locations. The open world of Forza Horizon is packed with activities, events and collectibles, encouraging players to explore freely, discover new routes and unlock vehicles and upgrades.

Grand Theft Auto V (2013) 1g3m5f

Grand Theft Auto V, launched in 2013 by Rockstar Games, is a milestone in the video game industry and one of the most successful and influential titles of all time. As the fifth main title in the acclaimed series GTA, the game raised the standard of open-world, narrative and online multiplayer games to new heights, setting a new benchmark of excellence and ambition for the industry. The game is still used today as a basis for online open-world experiences, such as GTARP.

Set in the fictional city of Los Santos and its expansive surroundings, inspired by the city of Los Angeles and Southern California, Grand Theft Auto V tells the story of three protagonists: Michael De Santa, a former bank robber who lives a middle-aged dilemma; Franklin Clinton, an ambitious young man involved in street crimes; and Trevor Philips, an unpredictable and violent sociopath. The game became one of the best-selling in history and raised the bar for what is possible in games openworld.

Dragon Age: Inquisition (2014) 4y214g

Being one of the first major titles for the PS4 and Xbox One generation, Dragon Age: Inquisition was launched in 2014 by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts and is the third main title in the acclaimed RPG series Dragon Age. Set in an epic fantasy world called Thedas, the game expands and deepens the rich and complex universe introduced in previous titles, Dragon Age: Origins e Dragon Age II, featuring an engaging narrative, memorable characters and refined gameplay.

Em Dragon Age: Inquisition, players take on the role of an Inquisitor, a leader tasked with combating a mysterious demonic force known as Breach that threatens to consume the world. Along the journey, players recruit a diverse team of allies, each with unique abilities and stories, and face complex moral decisions that affect the course of history and the fate of Thedas.

Just Cause 3 (2015) 3x3i5z

Just Cause 3, launched in 2015 by Avalanche Studios e Square Enix, is the third title in the popular action-adventure game series Just Cause. This open-world game is known for its over-the-top and fun approach to gameplay, offering players a vast playground of destruction and chaos where they can unleash their creativity and ingenuity.

In the game, players take on the role of Rico Rodriguez, a skilled and charismatic secret agent, who returns to his homeland, the Mediterranean island of Medici, to overthrow the oppressive regime of a brutal dictator named General Di Ravello. Armed with an arsenal of high-tech weapons, vehicles and gadgets, Rico must explore the expansive open world of Medici, complete missions, liberate settlements and face the military forces of General Di Ravello in intense air, land and sea confrontations.

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015) 2r2x41

Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, launched in 2015 by Kojima Productions and published by Konami, is the fifth and final main title in the iconic action and spy game series created by legendary designer Hideo Kojima. The game is known for its complex narrative, innovative gameplay, and its expansive and detailed open-world design, which has raised the bar for the action game genre. Stealth in his time.

Em Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, players take on the role of Big Boss, a mysterious soldier who awakens from a nine-year coma and seeks revenge against the mysterious organization known as Cipher. Set in diverse locations around the world, including Africa and Afghanistan, the game offers a variety of missions and objectives that players can approach in a variety of ways, using stealth tactics, direct combat, or a combination of both.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015) 4pf1a

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, released in 2015 by the developer CD Project Red, is an open-world action RPG that quickly established itself as one of the most acclaimed and influential titles of the 2010s. Based on the fantasy book series by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, the game continues the saga of protagonist Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a Witcher, in her quest to find her adopted daughter, Ciri, while facing a supernatural threat known as the Wild Hunt.

In this 2015 best game of the year, players are immersed in a rich and detailed fantasy world called the Continent, a vast and diverse environment that encomes mysterious forests, vibrant cities, towering mountains and more. The game offers an epic, branching narrative, with significant moral choices, consequences, and multiple endings, which are influenced by players' decisions throughout the journey.

No Man's Sky (2016) 1j4c62

No Man's Sky, launched in 2016 by Hello Games, is an open-world exploration and survival game that quickly became one of the most talked about and controversial titles of the 2010s. Developed by a small team of developers, the game promised a unique and ambitious experience where players could explore a procedurally generated universe, made up of billions of unique planets, stars and galaxies, but only recently managed to fulfill its promises and become a truly great game.

Em No Man's Sky, players travel through space after waking up on an unknown planet on the edge of the galaxy and embark on an epic journey to explore, discover and survive in a vast and mysterious universe. The game offers a variety of activities and mechanics, including planetary exploration, resource gathering, space combat, trade negotiation, and interaction with diverse alien life forms.

Watch Dogs 2 (2016) 45192w

Watchdogs 2, launched in 2016 by Ubisoft, brought a series of improvements and new features compared to its predecessor, becoming one of the best open worlds of its generation. Set in the city of San Francisco, the game puts players in control of Marcus Holloway, a skilled hacker and member of the hacktivist group DedSec, which fights against the mass surveillance system and corrupt corporations that control the city.

Em Watchdogs 2, players have a vast open world to explore, full of activities, missions and challenges. The main mechanic of the game is hacking, which allows players to control electronic devices, manipulate security systems, vehicles, and even hack into computers and networks to obtain information and complete objectives in a variety of creative ways.

Assassin's Creed Origins (2017) 3j705l

Assassin's Creed Origins, launched in 2017 by Ubisoft, is a milestone in the acclaimed action-adventure game series Assassin's Creed. Set in Ancient Egypt during the Ptolemaic period, the game serves as a prequel to the series, exploring the origins of the ancient rivalry between the Assassins and the Templars, as well as the events that led to the formation of the Assassin Brotherhood and was marked as the transition from Ubisoft's flagship series to the open world game structure.

The story revolves around the personal quest of Bayek, a Medjay, who is a kind of protector and guardian of order in Ancient Egypt. The character's narrative is a quest for revenge against those responsible for his son's death, leading him to become involved in a larger conspiracy that threatens the balance of power in the region and the future of Egypt.

Horizon Zero Dawn (2017) 305y1k

Horizon Zero Dawn, released in 2017 by the developer Guerrilla Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, is one of the most acclaimed and influential titles of the 2010s. This open-world action RPG combines elements of post-apocalyptic science fiction with a unique prehistoric setting, resulting in a visually stunning and narratively immersive gaming experience.

Set in a vast open world full of details, Horizon Zero Dawn transports players to a distant future where human civilization has been reduced to tribal communities, while savage, monstrous machines dominate the landscape. Players take on the role of Aloy, a skilled and curious hunter who embarks on a journey to discover her true origin and uncover the mysteries behind the fall of ancient civilization and the rise of mechanical creatures.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017) 5r2ln

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, launched in 2017 by Nintendo protocols for Nintendo Switch e Wii U, is often hailed as one of the best games of all time and a milestone in the video game industry. This title from the renowned series The Legend of Zelda reinvented the franchise's traditional formula, offering players a vast, dynamic, open-world experience full of possibilities, giving players complete freedom to use their creativity.

Em Breath of the Wild, Link awakens after a long sleep to find the kingdom of hyrule in ruins and under threat from the malevolent Calamity ganon. The game encourages players to freely explore the vast open world of hyrule, which is full of diverse landscapes, vibrant ecosystems, villages and places to explore.

NieR Automata (2017) 4t3971

Never: Automata, released in 2017 by the developer PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix, is an action RPG with elements of open world games that quickly gained acclaim and a cult following dedicated to the works of director Yoko Taro. This title is a sequel to the game NieR, which in turn is a spin off from the series Drakengard. Never: Automata combines a deep, philosophical narrative with frenetic action gameplay and an exceptional soundtrack, resulting in a truly memorable gaming experience.

Set in a distant future where humanity is at war with alien machines, Never: Automata puts players in control of combat droids called YoRHa, models 2B, 9S and A2. Each of these characters has unique abilities and different perspectives, which allows players to experience the story in different ways and gain different insights into the game world, which increasingly reveals what that journey is truly about.

Spider-Man (2018) 64645

Marvel's Spider-Man, launched in 2018 by Insomniac Games exclusively for the PlayStation 4, is one of the most iconic and acclaimed superhero games in recent video game history. The title immerses players in the Spider-Man universe, offering a dynamic gaming experience that is faithful to the spirit of the character.

The game tells the story of Peter Parker, the young scientist behind the Spider-Man mask. The story unfolds in Manhattan, where players must fight crime, protect citizens and face some of the most iconic villains from the Spider-Man universe, including Doctor Octopus, Green Goblin, Electro and more, being the highest point in your experience the movement of the character through its open world.

Red Dead Redemption 2 (2018) 4f6j31

We quote again the Rockstar Games on this list and no wonder. Red Dead Redemption 2, released in 2018, is a masterpiece of open-world gaming that stands out not only for its scale and detail, but also for the depth of its narrative and characters. This title is the long-awaited sequel to Red Dead 1 and serves as a prequel to the series, exploring the events that precede the first game.

The game is set in the late 19th century, during the last years of the American Wild West era. Players take control of Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde bandit gang, led by the charismatic Dutch van der Linde. The story follows the gang as they evade authorities and face internal and external challenges in a rapidly changing world.

Death Stranding (2019) p1414

Previously cited here by the production of Metal Gear Solid V, producer Hideo Kojima left Konami at the end of the project to found his own studio, Kojima Productions. His first independent game from the former publisher was Death Stranding. Launched in 2019, the game challenges traditional conventions by offering a unique and innovative experience that divided opinions, but also gained a large number of fans for its different proposal.

Set in a post-apocalyptic dystopian future ravaged by the Death Stranding event, Sam Porter Bridges, played by Norman Reedus, is a deliveryman tasked with connecting humanity's last cities and refuges across desolate and dangerous landscapes filled with supernatural threats known as Beached Things (BTs). Gameplay is centered around traversal and logistics, with an emphasis on exploration, resource management and navigation through difficult terrain, while the narrative is complex and full of symbolism, addressing issues such as isolation, human connection and the impact of modern technologies on society and in nature.

Cyberpunk 2077 (2020) 3o5944

Cyberpunk 2077, launched in 2020 by CD Project Red, is an action RPG set in Night City, a dark futuristic metropolis full of advanced technology, but also corruption and violence. Based on the RPG universe Cyberpunk, the title allowed players to dive into an immersive world, full of neon, cyborgs, hackers and powerful corporations.

Players take on the role of V, a customizable mercenary seeking to rise through Night City society. With the freedom to choose their appearance, abilities and backstory, players navigate missions, facing moral dilemmas and choices that influence the development of the narrative and V's fate.

Genshin Impact (2020) 204s5y

Genshin impact, released in 2020 by the developer myHoYo, is an open-world action RPG that quickly gained popularity and acclaim from both critics and players, becoming one of the biggest commercial successes of the year and establishing itself as a reference among games free-to-play. The game stands out for its beautiful anime-inspired art, dynamic combat mechanics and a vast open world full of exploration and adventure.

in the world of Genshin impact, players arrive in the world of Teyvat in search of their lost brother. Along your journey, you can encounter and unlock a variety of unique characters, each with distinct abilities and combat styles, which you can freely switch between during real-time battles. In addition to combat mechanics, the game also offers a rich and diverse exploration experience, with environmental puzzles, challenging dungeons and a progression and customization system that encourage players to experiment and improve their skills throughout the game.

Ghost of Tsushima (2020) 1y4o4j

Ghost of Tsushima, released in 2020 by the developer Sucker Punch Productions, is an action-adventure game set in feudal Japan during the Mongol invasion of the island of Tsushima. This critically acclaimed title offers players an immersive experience in a stunning open world filled with stunning natural landscapes, ancient temples and traditional villages, all while telling a story of honor, sacrifice and revenge.

In the game, Jin Sakai is a samurai who is forced to abandon traditional principles of honor and transform into a ghost warrior to fight the Mongol invaders and save his homeland. The gameplay of Ghost of Tsushima combines tactical combat elements with swords, bows and stealth tactics, allowing players to approach challenges and confrontations in a variety of strategic ways.

Elden Ring (2022) 2a1c21

Elden Ring, released in 2022 and developed in collaboration between Hidetaka Miyazaki of FromSoftware and George RR Martin, the renowned author behind Song of Ice and Fire, is an action RPG that has quickly become one of the most anticipated and celebrated games in the industry. Set in a dark and mysterious fantasy world known as The Lands Between, the game combines the game design expertise of FromSoftware with Martin's rich storytelling and imagination creating a truly unique experience.

Em Elden Ring, tarnished or Tainted is an exiled and cursed being in search of the Elden Ring, a mythical and powerful entity that plays a central role in the game's story and world. The game features a vast open world full of varied landscapes, dungeons, enemies and hidden secrets waiting to be discovered. Gameplay is challenging and rewarding, with tactical combat, magic, exploration skills, and a progression system that allows players to customize their characters to their preferred play style.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023) 3t2o33

Being the sequence of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom took the foundations of its predecessor and raised it to a new level. Developed by Nintendo and published in 2023, the game was voted game of the year and, currently, it is a real lesson on how to make an open world game that manages to bring together the main characteristics that make this type of world design structure so unique and fascinating.

The game's story unfolds after the events of its predecessor, when the villain Ganondorf resurfaces with the aim of plunging the entire kingdom of Hyrule into darkness, sending Princess Zelda to the distant past. It is then up to protagonist Link to gather the greatest warriors in the kingdom to face the villain and restore peace definitively.

Dragon's Dogma 2 (2024) 5l2t2a

Lastly, Dragon's Dogma 2 is the latest action RPG developed and published by Capcom. The game quickly became popularly known for its intense and dynamic combat, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a vast open world for the player to explore however they wish. In the world of Dragon's Dogma 2, players take on the role of a Arisen, a character that can be created from scratch by you.

In a journey that will utilize the best possible resources that an open world game can offer, the protagonist embarks on an epic journey, while discovering secrets about the world and his own destiny. During the adventure, players find and recruit allies called pawns, which are characters controlled by artificial intelligence or other players, and who help the Arisen in battle and provide strategic insights while exploring the game world.

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Source: Gameopedia, Ars Technica, Game Rant.

Text proofread by: Pedro Bomfim