As PlayStation enthusiasts, we have always yearned for the ultimate gaming experience—a captivating world where we can explore, roleplay, and unleash our creativity within an expansive sandbox tailored to our dreams. It’s a fantasy that has gradually come to fruition across multiple console generations, resulting in a diverse landscape of open-world games.
With the genre flourishing, it has naturally attracted a plethora of contenders hoping to stake their claim in this lucrative arena. However, the discerning gaming community can easily distinguish between exceptional open worlds and those that fall flat. Here, we reflect on the standout titles that have set benchmarks in the open-world genre on each PlayStation console.
We have meticulously ranked these titles based on their OpenCritic scores within the open-world category. To maintain diversity, only one game per franchise will be included in the list, and we will apply some leniency regarding the ‘open world’ label for earlier and handheld consoles. Personal preference will guide our final rankings.
7 Midnight Club LA Remix
Best of the PSP
Finding a true open-world game on the PSP can be challenging due to its hardware limitations and the relatively nascent state of the genre on the PS2. However, Midnight Club LA Remix stands out as the premier choice. This title brings all the hallmark features of its console counterpart to a portable format, allowing players to navigate various cities with seamless free-roaming, high-speed racing, and extensive car customization—all without loading screens.
While it may not rival its PS2 predecessor, this game transcends the boundaries of handheld gaming, delivering exhilarating police chases and thrilling racing escapades. Though it may rank lower on our list, it remains a noteworthy achievement and an impressive racing title.
6 Driver
Best of the PS1
Much like the PSP, the PS1 doesn’t boast a wealth of open-world games, making it difficult to curate a list. However, the Driver series emerges as a standout contender—if you can overcome its infamous tutorial. Once you’ve navigated through this challenging introduction, you’re free to explore expansive environments across major cities like Miami, LA, New York, and San Francisco.
Whether you decide to meander through the locales or hone your skills as a getaway driver tackling various missions, the experience is gratifying. While the tutorial remains a frustrating hurdle, Driver laid the groundwork for the open-world racing genre and merits recognition for its contributions.
5 Gravity Rush
Best of the PS Vita
Despite its untimely end, the PS Vita presented considerable potential for exhilarating open-world experiences. Among its offerings, Gravity Rush stands out as a uniquely innovative title. Set in a visually stunning steampunk universe, players control gravity to navigate their environment, offering a gameplay style that is simply unparalleled.
While the story may not be groundbreaking and combat mechanics can feel somewhat imprecise, the game’s imaginative approach provides a captivating experience that solidifies its status as a top-tier title on the PS Vita. It remains a high point in the brief yet impactful legacy of this handheld console.
4 Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Best of the PS5
As we navigate the evolving landscape of the PS5, one title commands attention: Death Stranding 2: On The Beach. While its predecessor polarized audiences, this sequel intensifies the original’s unique mechanics and introduces new features to keep players captivated.
Fans of the first game will appreciate the enhanced combat systems, innovative traversal methods, and an expanded narrative filled with unforeseen twists. The introduction of asynchronous multiplayer further enriches the experience, contributing to a vibrant, interactive world. Although the PS5 has yet to reveal all its potential, Hideo Kojima’s latest work currently reigns supreme in the open-world category.
3 Red Dead Redemption
The Best of the PS3
The PS3 may not have birthed the open-world genre, but it undoubtedly amplified its presence in the industry, with Red Dead Redemption standing out as a definitive title. Reinventing the classic Rockstar formula, this game transports players to the Wild West, where the challenges are rugged and the landscape is expansive.
Offering an engaging narrative and immersive exploration that features horseback riding and iconic weaponry, Red Dead Redemption excels in providing players with meaningful experiences. Its compelling story, intertwined with unforgettable character arcs, solidified Rockstar’s reputation as more than just creators of crime dramas, and it remains an exemplary standard for open-world games.
2 Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Best of the PS2
Choosing a single title from the Grand Theft Auto series to represent the PS2 is a formidable task, given the franchise’s monumental influence. Nevertheless, GTA: San Andreas rightfully earns the spot for its groundbreaking approach to open-world gameplay, establishing a vibrant sandbox that felt alive.
This expansive game redefined the genre with its comprehensive world-building and narrative depth. The freedom to navigate a richly detailed environment and engage in an engaging story made it a landmark game in the early 2000s. While the game does include some frustrating mission mechanics, its overall impact and legacy remain unchallenged.
1 Ring of Fire
Best of the PS4
Prepare to be amazed as Elden Ring easily trumps previous benchmarks set by games like San Andreas. Initially thought of as an impossible dream, a truly open-world Souls game has now been realized, flawlessly merging intricate, challenging gameplay with expansive exploration.
This title encourages players to discover their paths and face formidable foes, all while mastering intricate mechanics. With richly designed environments and unforgettable bosses, Elden Ring represents the culmination of FromSoftware’s innovations, setting a new standard in gaming. Its resonance within the industry makes it a strong contender for the title of greatest game of all time, leaving us eager for whatever ambitious project Miyazaki may undertake next.
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