Open-world games have become synonymous with the pinnacle of gaming experiences, allowing players to immerse themselves in expansive, intricate realms where they hold the reins. These games foster an unparalleled degree of player agency, creating virtual universes that often feel like second lives. As a result, many of the most notable titles in gaming are set in open-world environments, and for Xbox Game Pass subscribers, a treasure trove of these experiences is readily available. So, which titles should players consider adding to their playlist? What are the top open-world games on Xbox Game Pass?
Updated on January 9, 2025 by Mark Sammut: To welcome the new year, we’ve introduced a section that highlights upcoming open-world titles on Game Pass.
While overall quality influences a game’s ranking, currency on Xbox Game Pass also plays a crucial role; newly added titles are often showcased at the top to highlight their availability.
1 S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Welcome To The Zone
After a lengthy development process, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has finally arrived on Game Pass, reflecting GSC Game World’s commitment to delivering this ambitious project. The game excels in creating immersive, atmospheric gameplay set in a perilous environment brimming with survival challenges. While the open-world game is notorious for its difficulty, the latest chapter is notably more accessible, although newcomers should brace for challenges.
Set against the backdrop of The Zone, a dystopian landscape of greed and survival, players encounter a variety of dangers, including mutants and rare artifacts. Thanks to Unreal Engine 5, the expansive world is stunning, with environments that bring the settings to life. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 merges survival elements with intricate inventory management and environmental hazards. New players can dive into the game confidently, but a willingness to tackle bugs is advisable.
2 Minecraft
The Ultimate Sandbox
Few gaming experiences provide the limitless creativity found in Minecraft. Upon entering its world, players face no restrictions—whether they wish to construct elaborate structures, delve into its vast caverns, or create imaginative amusement parks, the choices are endless.
The absence of structured quests emphasizes the game’s core appeal: boundless freedom. Minecraft stands as a monumental title in gaming history, widely recognized by players of all ages, and remains an iconic representation of open-world gameplay on Game Pass.
3 Skyrim
Timeless Open-World RPG
Since its release in 2011, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has remained a cornerstone of the open-world genre, attracting players into its snowy landscapes and ancient dungeons. The enduring appeal of Skyrim ensures that it continues to thrive, offering a rich narrative and diverse character experiences.
For newcomers, now is the ideal time to explore the realm of the Dragonborn. Veteran players can reinvigorate their experience with an array of mods available on Xbox, enhancing the gameplay as they revisit familiar territories.
4 Palworld
A Blend Of Concepts That Works Surprisingly Well
Palworld has quickly captured attention as a unique entry in the Game Pass catalog. Despite being in Game Preview, its engaging gameplay melds elements of survival, crafting, and monster collection seamlessly. Players can build bases, gather resources, and fumble into combat while managing their adorable companions, or “Pals.”
Set in a visually appealing open-world environment, the game engages players in both survival tactics and creature-catching mechanics. Players will need to feed and care for their Pals, offering layers of gameplay that appeal to different audiences, whether they’re fans of monster collection or survival games.
5 Forza Horizon 5
Drive Through Mexico
The Forza Horizon 5 series from Playground Games continues to redefine open-world racing. Set against the backdrop of Mexico, this latest installment features diverse biomes and beautifully rendered landscapes, delivering a thrilling driving experience.
The combination of stunning visuals, realistic physics, and arcade-like gameplay creates an enthralling playground for racing enthusiasts. Forza Horizon 5 excels in providing a robust multiplayer and single-player experience, enticing players to explore its vast offerings.
6 Diablo 4
Flawed Modern Take On A Classic RPG Formula
Diablo 4 has generated its share of controversies since launch. Although initially well-received, the RPG’s narrative and mechanics have sparked discussions among its community. Nevertheless, the game offers a solid hack-and-slash experience set in a vast open world full of adventure.
With an engaging campaign spanning nearly 30 hours, players can explore Sanctuary, filled with procedurally generated dungeons and challenging enemies. While the endgame may have room for improvement, Diablo 4 stands as a noteworthy addition to Game Pass.
7 Microsoft Flight Simulator
Travel Across Earth’s Skies
Microsoft Flight Simulator is a technical marvel that replicates global aviation like no other. Finally breaking into the Xbox console space after its successful PC launch, Asobo Studio’s flight sim offers players an authentic flying experience.
While the gameplay primarily revolves around following flight plans, players have the freedom to explore the entire globe at their own pace. With the upcoming Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 also on Game Pass, the horizons continue to expand for aviation enthusiasts.
8 Terraria
Indie Sandbox Darling
Since its 2011 debut, Terraria has cemented its status as a beloved indie title, encouraging exploration and creativity within its procedurally generated worlds. Combining elements of combat, survival, and crafting, it offers a rich gameplay experience packed with depth.
The game boasts a passionate community and diverse modes, ensuring that players can always find a unique adventure tailor-made for their preferences.
9 Grounded
Great Co-Op Survival Open-World Game
Grounded stands out with its imaginative approach and cooperative gameplay. After transitioning from early access, players must survive in a backyard filled with merciless insects, shrinking them down to the size of a bug.
This unique premise lends itself to exploration and resource gathering, creating an engrossing experience that showcases Obsidian’s talent for crafting detailed worlds.
10 Sea Of Thieves
Fun With Friends (Or With A Crew)
Sea of Thieves has evolved tremendously since its launch, transitioning into an engaging multiplayer experience. While solo play offers enjoyment, joining a crew multiplies the fun as teams hunt for treasure and embark on pirate adventures.
The game features regular updates, enhancing interactions within the sandbox, providing fresh content, and keeping the gameplay experience distinct.
11 Yakuza 0
A Gangster Epic (& Just One Of Many Chapters)
Yakuza 0 introduces players to the series’ gripping narrative, emphasizing both storytelling and character development. Available on Xbox Game Pass, it immerses players in the intricacies of Japanese gang culture while navigating the lives of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima.
The detailed environments showcase busy urban life, filled with engaging side missions and activities, making it an essential experience for fans of narrative-driven gameplay.
12 Valheim
A Survival Open-World Game Done Right
Valheim has successfully transitioned from PC to Xbox, encapsulating the survival genre within a beautifully crafted Viking-themed world. Although still in development, it offers considerable content and depth for players willing to explore.
Players will discover various biomes as they craft and build their villages, face numerous challenges, and engage in cooperative play to conquer formidable bosses.
13 Thank you
Gorgeous & Unique Setting, Along With Fun Core Mechanic
Tchia offers a fresh take on the open-world genre. Once a PlayStation-exclusive, it has seamlessly transitioned to the Xbox ecosystem, featuring a stunning tropical landscape reminiscent of New Caledonia.
Players can engage in “soul jumping,” allowing them to take control of animals and objects throughout the world. This unique mechanic creates dynamic gameplay experiences, blending exploration with an engaging story.
14 Batman: Arkham Knight
Gotham Has Never Looked Better
Batman: Arkham Knight sets the standard for superhero games, delivering a visually captivating open-world Gotham City. While the earlier titles in the Arkham saga aren’t available on Game Pass, Arkham Knight showcases Marvel’s atmosphere and storytelling prowess.
Players can navigate a rich, immersive environment filled with thrilling combat dynamics and engaging set-pieces, ensuring an unforgettable superhero experience.
15 South Park: The Fractured But Whole
Free Roam In South Park
South Park: The Fractured But Whole takes players back to the beloved animated series’ universe in a new superhero-themed RPG. Although divisive in terms of humor and story, it masterfully captures the show’s unique aesthetics.
With a vast world to explore and a range of quirky missions, it allows fans of the franchise to immerse themselves in the comical chaos that characterizes South Park.
16 Mafia: Definitive Edition
A Faithful Trip To Another Era
Mafia: Definitive Edition immerses players in a meticulously recreated 1930s environment. Following the story of Tommy Angelo, it showcases the narrative depth of mafia life, presenting an experience filled with moral conflicts and rich storytelling.
While the open-world aspect may not be fully interactive, the authenticity of Lost Heaven provides an atmospheric setting for players to navigate and experience the narrative’s beats.
17 Dungeons of Hinterberg
Relaxing Dungeon Crawler That Is A Proper Escape From Reality
Dungeons of Hinterberg serves as a refreshing take on the action RPG genre, giving players the freedom to explore beautiful settings while tackling dungeons. It transports the protagonist to the beautiful Alps, where players must balance exploration and combat.
Featuring various biomes and flexible gameplay, it allows players to navigate the story at their own pace, encouraging relaxation and exploration rather than rigid structure.
18 Expeditions: A MudRunner Game (Or SnowRunner)
A Slow And Challenging Drive
Both Expeditions and SnowRunner are unique entries that blur the line between open-world exploration and structured gameplay. While their settings may not be fully open-ended, they offer players expansive environments to explore while navigating complex terrains.
Players face environmental challenges as they maneuver large vehicles and manage resources, creating a slow-paced but rewarding experience for those who savor overcoming obstacles.
19 Octopath Traveler 2
Classic JRPG Throwback With Beautiful Visuals
Octopath Traveler 2 may not be strictly open-world, but its nonlinear gameplay embraces exploration in a beautifully crafted RPG reminiscent of classic titles. Filled with 2D-HD visuals, it offers an intricate fantasy world to navigate through.
The game encourages players to forge their paths as they explore various storylines, each with its unique character arc, blending nostalgia with modern game design.
20 Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
An Ancient Greece Epic
With three Assassin’s Creed titles available on Game Pass—Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla—players can dive into immersive historical experiences. Odyssey fine-tunes its predecessor’s mechanics, set against the stunning backdrop of Ancient Greece.
Offering rich content and engaging narratives, this title excels in creating a captivating adventure, inviting players to explore its expansive map brimming with quests and stories.
Leave a Reply