In the realm of video gaming, open-world games are renowned for their vast environments that can captivate players for hundreds, if not thousands, of hours. While the genre can boast an impressive time investment, not every lengthy title guarantees a superior experience. However, when developers create a compelling narrative and immersive setting, the extended gameplay can be truly remarkable.
Although some titles in the open-world genre are concise, like Shadow of the Colossus and Mafia, many demand a significant commitment from players. This extensive engagement often leads to substantial content and immersive gameplay, making these games a favorite among dedicated gamers. Below, we explore some of the longest open-world games that have made their mark on the industry.
Criteria for Selection
The following information, sourced from HowLongToBeat, details both the time required to complete the main story of each game and the duration for completionist runs. The primary focus is on the main story time, with completionist times considered only in cases of ties. Additionally, only one game from each franchise is included, although related titles will be noted. To qualify for this list, a game must have a minimum of four input times.
Latest Updates
Updated on January 28, 2025 by Mark Sammut: With no significant new long open-world games released this year yet, we’ve added a section dedicated to upcoming titles that are anticipated to be extensive. You can click below to view this new section.
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1. No Man’s Sky
31–144 Hours
Upon its release in 2016, No Man’s Sky faced considerable backlash due to unmet expectations and perceived lack of content. Fortunately, the developers responded to feedback, continuously enhancing the game with substantial updates and expansions. Today, the title is rich in content, offering players a plethora of exploration opportunities beyond the main storyline, which alone can take upwards of 100 hours to complete.
2. Dysmantle
32–75 Hours
Set in a post-apocalyptic world filled with zombies, Dysmantle is an indie survival game that keeps players hooked through constant progression and a rewarding combat system. Players engage in destruction to earn experience points, which can be reinvested into crafting stronger tools, creating an addictive gameplay loop that elevates the experience.
3. Grand Theft Auto V
32–84 Hours
Rockstar’s monumental release, Grand Theft Auto V, has captivated gamers worldwide. With three distinct protagonists and a sprawling open world, players embark on a criminal journey filled with missions, side quests, and dynamic online content.GTA Online extends the experience almost indefinitely, offering around-the-clock action and stories for countless hours of entertainment.
4. Divine Divinity
32–70 Hours
Although somewhat dated, Divine Divinity successfully combines hack-and-slash combat with classic RPG mechanics. Players can explore its world freely, engaging in side quests at their own pace, delivering a nostalgic yet charming experience characteristic of early 2000s RPGs.
5. Space Rangers HD: A War Apart
32–173 Hours
The expansive universe of Space Rangers HD: A War Apart allows players to partake in various gameplay styles, from space trading to combat missions. The game’s open-ended nature contributes to high replayability, even as some aspects show signs of age.
6. Skull And Bones
33–40 Hours
The anticipated title Skull and Bones, birthed from the success of Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag, faced a turbulent development journey. Upon release in 2024, the game attracted mixed reviews due to its restrictive gameplay expression. Yet its live-service model promises prolonged player engagement.
7. Fade To Silence
34–40 Hours
In 2019, Fade to Silence emerged as a survival title set in a frozen wasteland, challenging players to gather resources, build a base, and fend off deadly foes. While it may evoke frustrations in combat, its immersive world appeals to fans of the survival genre.
8. Outward
33–98 Hours
Outward invites players into a fantasy world where they start as everyday adventurers rather than mighty heroes. The open-world design encourages exploration, allowing players to uncover hidden challenges and stories within its vast landscape.
9. Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
34–87 Hours
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet marked a significant evolution in the long-standing franchise by introducing a full open-world format, though they were met with mixed reviews for technical issues. Nonetheless, they retain the core mechanics that define Pokemon, ensuring a captivating experience for fans.
10. S.T. A.L. K.E. R.2: Heart of Chornobyl
35–104 Hours
Emerging from a prolonged development saga, S. T.A. L.K. E.R.2: Heart of Chornobyl successfully delivers a blend of survival horror and tactical gameplay. Expanding on its predecessors, this title presents a sprawling world rich in details, challenges, and exploration opportunities.
11. Fallout: New Vegas – Ultimate Edition
35–145 Hours
As one of the crown jewels of the Fallout franchise, Fallout: New Vegas is distinguished by its rich narrative choices and diverse gameplay mechanics. Its expansive content, amplified by the modding community, keeps players engaged long after completing the main story.
12. Don’t Starve Together
35–254 Hours
As a multiplayer sequel to the original survival title, Don’t Starve Together allows friends to band together in a harsh world. Players can find themselves deeply immersed in its procedural environments, with cooperative mechanics enhancing the gameplay experience significantly.
13. Starpoint Gemini 2
36–52 Hours
Starpoint Gemini 2 offers players the unique opportunity to explore the vast cosmos within their customizable ship. With multiple gameplay styles and an enticing multiplayer component, it stands out as an engaging title for space exploration enthusiasts.
14. Days Gone
37–65 Hours
Despite receiving mixed reviews, Days Gone captivates with its open-world setting as players follow Deacon St. John on his quest amidst a zombie apocalypse. The game’s stunning environments and intricate storytelling contribute to an engaging, albeit occasionally uneven, experience.
15. Elex 2
37–78 Hours
From Piranha Bytes comes Elex 2, which continues to build upon the momentum of its predecessor with an expanded world ripe for exploration. Balancing fantasy and sci-fi elements, it allows players to traverse a richly woven narrative filled with unique gameplay possibilities.
16. Dragon’s Dogma
37–102 Hours
Launched in 2012, Dragon’s Dogma successfully melds action and RPG mechanics. Players engage in thrilling combat across a beautifully crafted world, where they can tackle quests at their discretion, making it appealing to those who enjoy a robust, open-ended experience.
17. Enshrouded
38–60 Hours
Currently in early access, Enshrouded presents a unique twist in the survival RPG genre. The game emphasizes gameplay over narrative, encouraging players to immerse themselves in exploration and crafting within a dynamically evolving world.
18. Conan Exiles
38–119 Hours
Conan Exiles offers an expansive survival experience where players build, explore, and engage in multiplayer interactions. With a steep learning curve, the game challenges players to adapt while offering rewarding exploration opportunities amidst its vast landscapes.
19. Palworld
39–83 Hours
In development, Palworld allows players to capture various creatures while pursuing survival in its open-world environment. A blend of crafting, farming, and shared mechanics enriches gameplay, making it a title to watch as it evolves through early access.
20. Death Stranding
41–113 Hours
Offering a unique take on the open-world concept, Death Stranding immerses players in a desolate landscape where the primary objective revolves around connection. Although its slow-paced narrative may not appeal to everyone, the world of Death Stranding presents its own beauty and challenges.
As players continue to explore these vast, open worlds, the combinations of immersive storytelling, expansive environments, and engaging gameplay mechanics keep the genre thriving. For those seeking lengthy adventures, these titles represent the pinnacle of what open-world gaming can offer.
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