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The Best PS5 Open World Games, From Elden Ring to Dragon’s Dogma 2
Open world games defined as being non-linear with challenges that can be completed in varying ways.
It wasn't that long ago that “open world” was a unique distinction that only certain games qualified for, but these days the concept of exploring a vast space with minimal constraints has become commonplace for developers to feature in their games. That leads to the best PS5 open world games being ranked here, which includes PlayStation exclusive entries like the various Spider-Man titles and Ghosts of Tsushima, as well as a glut of other titles you can spend literally thousands of hours getting lost in.
One of the newest open world games for PlayStation 5 is Dragon’s Dogma 2, which is a Ranker GOTY contender. The follow up to the cult classic that is the original Dragon's Dogma, DD2 allows players to now hire pawns that act as in-game companions, with developer Capcom toting that these pawns will feel almost like you're playing with other real-world players. Another PS5 open world game is Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and what are you even doing as a PlayStation owner if you haven't touched this yet?
These openworld games on PlayStation 5 can be considered the best since they were curated with a criteria of being very favorably reviewed, but the order of this ranking is actually determined by your votes.
Metacritic Score: 97
Why Red Dead Redemption II is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: There really should be no explanation as to why Red Dead Redemption II is going on a list of the best open world games, regardless of year or system. Rockstar's revolutionary and visionary design of the Wild West is more finely crafted, perfected, and throught out than nearly any other game of this era. The game’s rich narrative, combined with its nuanced character interactions and complex moral choices, elevates it beyond a mere cowboy adventure, it is a once in a generation experience that needs to be played to be believed. The wild west is ready for the taking, with the world at your fingers, what kind of man will you become?Buy at
Metacritic Score: 87
Why Ghost of Tsushima is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Sucker Punch Productions’ Ghost of Tsushima invited players into a beautifully stylized rendition of feudal Japan, combining lush landscapes with compelling samurai combat. Its a game that came relatively out of nowhere, and it took the gaming world by storm. With guiding wind mechanics making exploration seamless and immersive, hours will pass as you traverse feudal Japan in the blink of an eye, as Jin Sakai’s journey against the Mongol invasion becomes all the more visceral and visually stunning.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 85
Why Death Stranding is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Legendary game creator Hideo Kojima crafted arguably his weirdest world ever in Death Stranding, a glorified package delivery simulator that just sinks its teeth into gamers and never lets them go. Set in a hauntingly beautiful post-apocalyptic America, a unique local that has never been brought to life in this way before, players take on the role of Sam Porter Bridges, tasked with reconnecting the fractured world through intricate delivery missions. While it may be slow and strange, for those willing to let the weirdness wash over them, Death Stranding is all but guaranteed to deliver an experience unlike anything many have ever seen.Buy at
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Hogwarts Legacy
Metacritic Score: 84
Why Hogwarts Legacy is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Who hasn't dreamt of entering the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, getting your very own wand, and entering Hogwarts to become an all powerful Wizard? Hogwarts Legacy transforms that dream into an expansive, interactive RPG that will make you truly believe you are a wizard. Set in the 1800s, the game captures the essence of the Harry Potter universe with intricate spell mechanics, magical creatures, and a richly detailed open world, all while seamlessly blending combat and exploration. Every moment inside and outside of the Hogwarts ground enchanting and engaging, providing a magical experience that fans have long yearned for.
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Metacritic Score: 97
Why Grand Theft Auto V is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: It may have released well over a decade now, but Grand Theft Auto V still manages to be one of the biggest, best, and most popular video games of the modern era. With the ability to travel around Los Santos and do virtually everything from high-octane heists to golf with NPCs, the game blends a thrilling narrative with seemingly endless amounts of side activities to create a world many never want to leave. Whether you want to drive around town listening to tunes or get into those classic GTA style hijinx and get a five-star pursuit on, the beauty of GTA 5 is its limitless posibilities.
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Marvel's Spider-Man 2
Metacritic Score: 90
Why Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Insomniac Games' shocked the world when they released Marvel's Spider-Man in 2018, and many didn't think it would be possible to ever top that web-swinging adventure. Fast forward a few years, and while Marvel's Spider-Man 2 may not have been as revolutionary as its predecessor, it damn near perfected it. Swinging through New York has never felt better, and gliding through the sky dressed as one of dozens of Spider-Men just feels right, as many fans are finally able to become their favorite hero.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 86
Why Cyberpunk 2077 is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Despite a horrendous start to its journey, Cyberpunk 2077 managed to muscle through its growing pains and become a stellar futuristic adventure through sheer will. The neon-drenched, dystopian future of Night City, where every corner offers a new story or side quest., oozes with personality and coolness that many players just want to ditch the story and explore this wild world. The game excels in its richly detailed environment and customization options, allowing players to embody their own unique version of V, Night City, and the world of Cyberpunk.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 87
Why Spider-Man is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: A revelation in the superhero subgenre of gaming, Marvel's Spider-Man was quite literally and figuratively a game changer. With a stunningly realistic New York City to swing around, all the pieces were in place for this to quickly become one of the best open world games of the modern era, it just needed to nail the trademarked Spider-Man swinging, and nail it it did. Swinging around Manhattan has never felt so alive, as zipping down the street, fighting baddies, and interacting with characters was as fun as ever. While there may not have been too many side quests, with swinging this good, who even needs them?
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Metacritic Score: 83
Why No Man's Sky is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: When No Man's Sky was first announced, many didn't believe the frankly overwhelming number of features the game was attempting to bring, and to be fair, many people were right in the skepticism. That didn't stop the team at Hello Games from bunkering down, and working as hard as they could to deliver the game they promised, and to this day, they have gotten pretty dang close. Offers an unprecedented level of exploration with its procedurally generated universe that ensures no two planets are ever the same, the game is the ultimate open world simulation, as there are quite literally endless places to explore, build bases, uncover alien civilizations, and get lost in the galaxy.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 96
Why The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim remains one of the most beloved open-world RPGs of all time, and chances are if you have played a single game in the last 10 years, you probably know what it is.The Anniversary Edition, however, breathes new life into this classic, as it is enhanced with improved visuals, faster loading times, and additional content, making Skyrim’s vast and varied landscapes feel more open and exciting than ever. It's Skyrim, you know it, you probably love it, and this is just more of that good fantasy living.
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Metacritic Score: 87
Why Fallout 4 is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Bethesda’s Fallout 4 saw the popularity of its predecessor, and instead of just giving fans more of exactly the same, they decided to expand and experiment, creating a nearly completely new product. Bringing together a post-apocalyptic wasteland filled with countless opportunities for exploration, story-telling, and customization, the deeply intriguing world of the Commonwealth is rife with unexpected encounters, mutant threats, and rich lore waiting to be uncovered. The crafting and settlement-building mechanics add a personal touch, making every playthrough unique and every world feel as through it is truly your own
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Metacritic Score: 95
Why Elden Ring is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Brilliantly combining the intricate world-building and tight gameplay mechanics that FromSoftware is famed for with a massive sandbox to roam around and get absolutely demolished in, Elden Ring reinvigorated the open world genre for a new era of gaming. Given the freedom to explore a vast and darkly beautiful world of The Lands Between filled with hidden secrets, fearsome enemies, and intricate lore, no two playthroughs are the same as what many consider the panicle of modern day gaming allows players to do what they want, when they want, how they want, so long as they are willing to take a few of those trademarked Soulsborne beatings along the way.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 92
Why The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Open world RPG's are the bread and butter of the modern day gaming industry, and none other than CD Projekt Red’s masterpiece, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, combines rich narrative depth, complex characters, and gorgeous landscapes to create a feat unlike most have seen at the time. The game’s intricate quest design ensures that each mission feels meaningful, while its detailed combat mechanics and moral choices impact the world around Geralt of Rivia in profound and exciting ways. Like most open world games, what really shines is the abundance of side quests and rewards for exploration, but what sets it apart from almost every other game is its ability to put time, care, and effort into each and every quest.Buy at
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Horizon Forbidden West
Metacritic Score: 89
Why Horizon Forbidden West is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Building upon the exceptional foundation of its predecessor, Horizon Forbidden West offers a stunning and expansive world filled with intricate details, one of a kind creatures and jaw-dropping landscapes. Guerrilla Games has managed to nearly perfect the balance between engaging storytelling and exhilarating gameplay, allowing players to explore deep into various biomes, each teeming with life and dynamic weather changes.Buy at
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Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Metacritic Score: 80
Why Assassin's Creed Valhalla is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Ushering players into the rugged landscape of England as a Viking raider, Assassin's Creed Valhalla blends historical adventures that the series has been known for with a new and intriguing deep RPG style. Ubisoft’s sprawling world is packed with activities, from raids and settlements to mystical artifacts and legendary creatures, and the fluid combat system allows for varied playstyles, whether you prefer brutal melee or stealthy assassinations. A game that revolutionized the Assassin's Creed genre, Valhalla is as epic as it is massive.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 87
Why Subnautica is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Travel to the bottom of the ocean they said, it would be fun they said… Subnautica is one of the best sneak pseudo-horror open world games to ever come out. Focusing on surviving while being stranded in the middle of nowhere with nothing but water around you, the mysterious underwater ecosystems thought the game lull players into a false sense of security before unleashing hell upon poor unsuspecting souls. If you have a fear of the ocean, giant beasts, or just have any sense to you, probably stay away, but for all the sickos who love being scared, isolated, and trapped, there doesn't come a better open world game then this one right here.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 85
Why Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Continues the web-slinging legacy of its predecessor with a fresh perspective, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales focuses on the titular young hero as he uncovers his powers within New York. Set against a snowy New York City this time around, the game introduces new abilities and gadgets unique to Miles, making combat and traversal feel renewed and exciting, while still having that same charm of the original. The coming-of-age story is heartfelt and engaging, complemented by top-tier voice acting and character development, and while it is on the shorter side, the tease of the franchise that is to come is more than worth swinging back into this world one more time.Buy at
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Dragon’s Dogma 2
Metacritic Score: 86
Why Dragon’s Dogma 2 is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Building upon the stellar foundation of its predecessor, Dragon's Dogma 2 elevates the franchise with even more expansive environments, deeper combat mechanics, and an enriched character development system. The game's high-fantasy setting is brought to life through intricate world design and compelling NPC interactions, making every encounter significant and giving players a reason to want to explore and simply live in the world. The pawn, a system that Dragon's Dogma has become synonymous with, adds a unique layer to party dynamics and tactical combat that, while may rub people the wrong way, is sure to get its fair share of attention.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 71
Why Days Gone is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: With a trailer that blew the socks off of everyone who saw it, Days Gone had a mighty uphill battle in terms of hype, and while it may have left some wanting more, for those who stuck it out, they were given a genuinely one of a kind zombie game that was as fun as it was frightening. Offers an expansive and atmospheric post-apocalyptic world filled with the constant threat of Freaker hordes, the game's dynamic weather and day-night cycles significantly impact gameplay, creating a sense of unpredictability and tension within a world that felt real. The motorbike mechanics and survival elements add depth, allowing players to innovate strategies against both human and inhuman threats in a world that, not to sound too cliche, but grew on you the further you explored.Buy at
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Diablo 4
Metacritic Score: 86
Why Diablo 4 is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Diablo 4 manages to do what a lot of fans never though would happen in the franchise, and that is reimagining the iconic action RPG series for the next generation with a sprawling, interconnected world filled with demonic threats and engaging lore. The games transition into an open-world format offers dynamic weather systems, day-night cycles, and public events that influence the environment, on top of traditional open world exploration that have become synonymous with modern day gaming. Blizzard's masterful storytelling and dark, gothic atmosphere ensure that Diablo 4 stands out as a quintessential addition to the open-world catalog, without losing what makes the series so special.Buy at
Metacritic Score: 76
Why Dying Light 2 Stay Human is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Dying Light 2 Stay Human elevates the open-world zombie experience with its day-night cycle, parkour mechanics, and branching narrative. The city of Villedor is a sprawling playground filled with danger and opportunity, where choices genuinely matter and can shape the game's outcome, and Techland’s attention to detail in creating a living, breathing world combined with intense combat and exploration ensures that every mission feels urgent and meaningful.Buy at
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Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
Metacritic Score: 85
Why Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: A galaxy far, far away has never felt bigger or better thanks to Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. Expanding the beloved universe with an open-world experience that meshes deep exploration with spectacular lightsaber combat players have the ability to navigate through diverse planets, each filled with secrets and challenges. The ultimate Jedi simulation, players are able to finally fullfil their fantasy of become one with the force and exploring the galaxy that George Lucas made special.Buy at
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Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Metacritic Score: 92
Why Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth reinvents the beloved classic RPG with state-of-the-art graphics, dynamic combat systems, and expanded narrative depth that is simultaneously rewarding for old fans and welcoming to newcomers. Its open-world design invites players to explore Midgar and beyond. By amplifying the emotional and thematic elements of the original, while adding fresh layers to the story, Rebirth allows players to explore deeper, become even more connected with their favorite characters, and lose themselves in the world of one of the most acclaimed games of all time like never before.
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Rise of the Ronin
Metacritic Score: 76
Why Rise of the Ronin is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Rise of the Ronin offers players a mesmerizing open-world adventure set during a pivotal period in Japan's history. As a wandering samurai, a fantasy many-a gamer has had, the game provides a mix of intense combat, stealth mechanics, and narrative-driven quests that make the world feel real and lived in. Team Ninja's commitment to authenticity is apparent in the beautifully recreated environments and the complex moral choices that influence the story's outcome, creating an experience that honors the samurai ethos unlike any other.Buy at
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Immortals Fenyx Rising
Metacritic Score: 81
Why Immortals Fenyx Rising is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Immortals Fenyx Rising shines with its vibrant, mythological world and engaging gameplay mechanics. Inspired by Greek mythology, the game combines light-hearted humor with challenging puzzles, dynamic combat, and an open-world filled with secrets, vaults, and side-quests that encourages exploration and creativity. While it may be a relatively unknown and far more obscure game than other on this list, Immortals Fenyx Rising is a world worth getting lost in.Buy at
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Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Metacritic Score: 89
Why Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Set against the vibrant backdrop of modern-day Hawaii. Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth stands out as a unique blend of turn-based RPG mechanics, open-world exploration, and wacky out of this world comedy. Like so many in the Yakuza franchise, the game shines in its bizarre and out of left field mini games, traversal, and combat, along with the myriad of other side activities and detailed enviromnents that make exploration constantly rewarding. While the game isn't going to be for everyone, those who can put the silliness aside and just enjoy what they have are going to have an unforgettable time.Buy at
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Ghostwire: Tokyo
Metacritic Score: 75
Why Ghostwire: Tokyo is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Set within a beautifully eerie rendition of Tokyo, where the city’s population has mysteriously vanished, Ghostwire Tokyo invites players to explore a world filled with spirits and folklore-inspired enemies as a man with supernatural abilities. The game's innovative combat mechanics, blending traditional martial arts with spell-casting, provide an engaging and varied experience that makes many want to stay in this world and uncover all the secrets it has lying underneath.Buy at
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Genshin Impact
Metacritic Score: 81
Why Genshin Impact is one of the Best PS5 Open World Games: Genshin Impact breaks new ground in the open-world action RPG genre with its expansive landscapes, rich lore, and anime roots that have quickly established amongst the most popular games for anime fans around the globe. The elemental combat system adds a layer of strategy, allowing players to experiment with various character abilities and combinations and its massive open world allows for all kinds of hijinks and fun to be had.Buy at
