Open world games give Xbox players freedom to explore vast digital playgrounds. These games let you roam wherever you want and tackle quests in your own order. The best open world games on Xbox combine engaging storylines with beautiful landscapes and plenty of activities to keep players entertained for dozens of hours.
From racing across Mexico in Forza Horizon 5 to exploring the wild west in Red Dead Redemption 2, Xbox has many great options. Popular choices include The Witcher 3, Elden Ring, and newer titles like Starfield. Many of these games are even available on Xbox Game Pass, making them easy to try without buying them outright.
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the best open-world games available on Xbox. Released in 2015, this action role-playing game continues to impress players with its vast landscapes and compelling storytelling.
The game offers a massive world to explore. Players can travel from one side of a region to another without seeing a single loading screen, making it a semi-open world experience that feels seamless and immersive.
Combat in The Witcher 3 shines as one of its strongest features. The game provides excellent combat opportunities throughout its wild, open fantasy setting. Players can use swords, magic signs, and potions to defeat monsters and human enemies alike.
What makes The Witcher 3 special is its attention to detail. Every side quest feels meaningful, and the choices players make have real consequences in the game world. Characters remember your actions and respond accordingly.
The game’s main storyline follows Geralt of Rivia as he searches for his adopted daughter, Ciri. Along the way, players encounter morally complex situations without clear right or wrong answers.
Some critics consider The Witcher 3 to be the best open-world RPG ever created. Its combination of storytelling, combat, and exploration sets a high standard for other games in the genre.
Xbox players can enjoy the complete experience with all downloadable content included in the Game of the Year Edition. This version adds two major expansions that provide dozens of additional hours of gameplay.
The visual design of the game still holds up years after its release. From the swamps of Velen to the islands of Skellige, each region has its own distinct look and atmosphere.
Even in March 2025, The Witcher 3 remains one of the finest open-world games of this console generation. Its blend of action, role-playing, and storytelling continues to attract new players while keeping veterans coming back for more.
2. Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands out as one of the most impressive open world games available on Xbox. The game takes players to the American frontier in 1899, putting them in the boots of outlaw Arthur Morgan.
What makes this game special is its amazingly detailed world. The forests, mountains, and towns feel alive in ways other games can’t match. Animals behave naturally, and people go about their daily routines whether you’re watching or not.
Rockstar Games built this world backwards compared to other games, focusing on creating a living environment first rather than just a playground for missions. This approach makes the game feel more real.
The game lets you rob, steal, and fight across a huge map. But you can also just explore, hunt, fish, or play poker. There’s always something new to discover around each bend in the trail.
Many players consider RDR2 the greatest open world game ever made. It sits alongside other top games like The Witcher 3, Breath of the Wild, and Elden Ring, but its attention to detail gives it a special place in gaming history.
Travel in the game is intentionally slow, which might annoy some players. However, this choice helps with immersion. Riding your horse across the countryside lets you appreciate the stunning landscapes and often leads to unexpected adventures.
The story is just as strong as the open world. Arthur Morgan’s journey with the Van der Linde gang offers emotional depth rarely seen in video games. Side missions feel meaningful rather than like filler content.
Weather effects and day-night cycles change how the world looks and feels. A foggy morning in the swamps creates a completely different experience than a clear night under the stars on the plains.
With its mix of action, exploration, and storytelling, Red Dead Redemption 2 proves that open world games can be both vast and detailed. Xbox players looking for a rich, immersive experience will find few games that match its quality.
3. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla stands as one of the most impressive open-world games available on Xbox. Players step into the boots of Eivor, a Viking raider who leads their clan from Norway to settle in England during the Dark Ages.
The game’s world is massive and filled with activities. From raiding monasteries with your longship crew to building up your settlement, there’s always something to do. The English countryside looks stunning with its rolling hills, dense forests, and ancient ruins.
Combat feels weighty and satisfying. You can dual-wield weapons, throw axes, and use a variety of special abilities during fights. The skill tree is huge, letting players customize Eivor to fit their playstyle.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla ranks high among recent titles in the series. The story blends historical events with the ongoing Assassin-Templar conflict that fans love.
The game includes several large regions to explore. Each area has its own challenges, side quests, and mysteries to uncover. Hidden treasures and legendary animals provide rewards for thorough explorers.
Seasonal festivals and free content updates have added even more to do since launch. The game received major expansion DLCs that add new lands, stories, and gear.
River raids let you travel to new locations for resources and treasures. Your settlement serves as a home base where you can build structures that provide gameplay benefits.
The attention to historical detail is impressive. Though not perfectly accurate, the game captures the feel of 9th century England and the clash between Saxon and Norse cultures.
Xbox players benefit from enhanced visuals and performance on newer consoles. The Series X version runs smoothly with faster loading times and better graphics than previous-gen consoles.
For those who enjoy exploration, the game rewards curiosity. Hidden caves, ancient Roman ruins, and mysterious standing stones all contain secrets for patient players to discover.
4. Elden Ring
Elden Ring stands out as one of the best open world games available on Xbox today. Created through a collaboration between game director Hidetaka Miyazaki and fantasy author George R.R. Martin, the game offers players a unique fantasy adventure.
The world of Elden Ring is vast and filled with secrets. Unlike many other open world games, it doesn’t hold your hand or fill the map with countless quest markers. Instead, it encourages exploration and discovery on your own terms.
Combat in Elden Ring is challenging but fair. Players can choose from many different weapons and magic styles to create a character that fits their play style. The game allows for incredible freedom in how you approach its challenges.
What makes Elden Ring special is how it handles its open world design. The game uses a clever scaling trick that most players miss, making the world feel natural and properly sized. This helps create a more immersive experience.
The game has been praised for setting a new gold standard for open world gaming. While it’s not perfect and has some flaws, its approach to world design has changed how many players view open world games.
For Xbox Series X|S owners, Elden Ring offers stunning visuals and smooth performance. The game takes full advantage of the console’s power to bring its dark fantasy world to life with impressive detail.
Boss fights are a highlight of the Elden Ring experience. These challenging encounters test your skills and often require multiple attempts to overcome. The feeling of finally defeating a boss that’s been giving you trouble is incredibly satisfying.
The story of Elden Ring is told in an unconventional way. Rather than long cutscenes, the game reveals its lore through environmental details, item descriptions, and conversations with the strange characters you meet during your journey.
While some might find Elden Ring’s approach challenging at first, the game rewards patience and persistence. Its dark fantasy adventure offers dozens of hours of gameplay for those willing to embrace its unique approach to open world design.
5. Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West is one of 2022’s best open world games, offering players an incredible post-apocalyptic adventure. While primarily a PlayStation exclusive, Xbox players often wonder about similar experiences available on their platform.
The game features a massive, beautifully crafted world where nature has reclaimed civilization. Players explore diverse landscapes from lush jungles to barren deserts, all while hunting robotic creatures and uncovering the mysteries of a fallen world.
Combat in Horizon Forbidden West focuses on tactical approaches to fighting mechanical beasts. Xbox players looking for similar combat experiences might enjoy Elden Ring, which also emphasizes thoughtful combat and character building.
What makes Horizon stand out is its blend of action, storytelling, and exploration. The main character Aloy’s journey through this dangerous yet stunning world keeps players engaged for dozens of hours. The game lets you discover secrets and side quests at your own pace.
The visual quality of Horizon Forbidden West sets a high bar for open world games. Its attention to detail creates a living, breathing environment that reacts to the player. Xbox gamers seeking similar visual splendor have several options that capture this same sense of wonder and discovery.
Though Xbox players can’t experience Horizon directly, understanding what makes it special helps identify alternatives. Games with strong female protagonists, robot enemies, or post-apocalyptic settings provide similar themes on the Xbox platform.
Horizon’s climbing mechanics, crafting systems, and tribal societies create a unique gameplay loop. Players gather resources, craft better equipment, and slowly become more powerful to take on bigger challenges. This progression system keeps the exploration fresh throughout the adventure.
Critics have praised Horizon Forbidden West as one of the greatest open worlds of all time. Its careful balance of guided story and free exploration represents open-world gaming done right, as noted in Tom’s Guide’s Editor’s Choice review.
6. Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 stands out as one of the best open-world racing games available on Xbox. Set in Mexico, the game features stunning landscapes that players can freely explore while driving hundreds of different cars.
The open world of Forza Horizon 5 is vibrant and ever-changing. Players can race through deserts, jungles, historic cities, and beaches in what many consider the best execution of a racing open world to date.
What makes this game special is its focus on fun rather than strict simulation. You can drift through dirt roads or speed down highways without worrying too much about perfect racing lines.
Vehicle selection is impressive with hundreds of cars to collect. From classic muscle cars to modern hypercars, the variety keeps gameplay fresh and exciting.
The weather system adds another layer to the experience. Dust storms, tropical rain, and seasonal changes affect driving conditions and transform the landscape.
Multiplayer options let you race against friends or join random events with other players. The community aspect brings the world alive, with other drivers always around.
Customization goes beyond just cars. Players can design liveries, create custom races, and even build their own challenge events to share with others.
Graphics on Xbox Series X are exceptional. The game takes full advantage of the console’s power to deliver lifelike environments and vehicle details.
According to Xbox players, nothing comes close to Forza Horizon in the open-world driving category. The game consistently ranks among top racing titles.
For those with Xbox Game Pass, Forza Horizon 5 is included in the subscription. This makes it an easy choice for members looking to try a premium racing game without additional cost.
When compared to other racing titles like The Crew Motorfest and Need for Speed Unbound, Forza Horizon 5 still holds its own even in 2025, making it a worthwhile addition to any Xbox player’s library.
7. Starfield
Starfield is Bethesda Game Studios’ newest and most ambitious open-world game. It takes the exploration we love from their other titles and moves it to space. Players join Constellation, a group of space explorers looking for rare artifacts across the galaxy.
The game offers a huge universe to explore with over 1,000 planets. Each planet has its own environment, creatures, and challenges. You can land your ship anywhere and start exploring what’s around you.
Customization is a big part of Starfield. You can create your own character, build and modify spaceships, and even establish outposts on different planets. Your choices affect how the story unfolds.
Combat happens both on foot and in space. You’ll fight with guns against humans and aliens, and pilot your ship in space battles. The weapons and ships can be upgraded as you progress.
Starfield joined Xbox Game Pass on its release day. This makes it easy for subscribers to try without buying it separately. The game works on Xbox Series X|S and PC.
The main story follows your character as they discover strange artifacts that give special powers. Along the way, you’ll meet different factions and companions who can join your crew.
Like other Bethesda games, side quests offer interesting stories apart from the main mission. Some involve exploring ruins, others have you helping settlers or hunting bounties.
Ship management adds another layer to gameplay. You need to consider fuel, cargo space, and crew when traveling between star systems. Your ship serves as a mobile base throughout your journey.
The game’s visuals create a realistic space environment with detailed planets, space stations, and ships. Music and sound effects add to the feeling of exploring the unknown.
For fans of open-world RPGs who enjoyed games like The Witcher 3 or Red Dead Redemption 2, Starfield offers a similar freedom but in a science fiction setting. It’s one of the best open-world games available on Xbox right now.
8. Grand Theft Auto V
Grand Theft Auto V stands as one of the most popular open world games on Xbox. Released by Rockstar Games, it offers players a massive playground in the fictional state of San Andreas, centered around the city of Los Santos.
The game follows three main characters – Michael, Franklin, and Trevor. Each has their own unique personality and storyline that intertwines throughout the game. This multi-protagonist approach gives players different perspectives on the criminal underworld.
Los Santos and Blaine County create a stunning world with incredible attention to detail. From busy city streets to vast countryside and mountains, the map offers diverse environments to explore.
What makes GTA V special is how alive the world feels. The NPCs seem to have their own lives and agendas, creating a believable atmosphere as you travel through the game.
Players can participate in main story missions or freely roam the world. Side activities include tennis, golf, racing, skydiving, and hunting. You can also buy properties, customize vehicles, and even play the stock market.
The Xbox version delivers smooth gameplay and impressive graphics. The Xbox One version significantly improved visuals compared to the Xbox 360 release.
GTA Online, the multiplayer component, extends the experience with regular updates. Players can team up for heists, race against each other, or simply cause chaos in the shared world.
While some players feel the world can sometimes feel empty despite its size, most agree that the game offers incredible freedom. The sandbox nature lets you approach situations your way.
GTA V consistently ranks among the best open-world games on Xbox, competing with titles like The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2. Its longevity is remarkable, staying relevant years after release.
The mature themes and satirical take on American culture give the game its distinctive personality. From radio stations to in-game TV shows, the world is packed with humor and commentary.
9. Fallout 4
Fallout 4 stands as one of the most expansive open-world games available on Xbox. The post-apocalyptic wasteland of Boston offers countless hours of exploration and adventure.
Players can wander through destroyed cities, eerie forests, and radioactive wastelands while discovering hidden bunkers and abandoned buildings. Each location feels unique and often contains interesting stories or valuable loot.
The game shines with its freedom of choice. You can follow the main story about finding your son, or simply ignore it to build settlements and help wasteland communities. This flexibility makes each playthrough feel different.
Combat in Fallout 4 combines shooting with the V.A.T.S system that lets you target specific enemy body parts. This mix of real-time and tactical combat keeps battles fresh and exciting.
Many Xbox players consider Fallout 4 among the best open-world experiences available. Its vast map always seems to hide new surprises, even after hundreds of hours of gameplay.
The settlement building system adds another layer to exploration. Players can establish and grow communities throughout the Commonwealth, creating unique bases with defenses, farms, and shops.
Companions like Nick Valentine and Piper make journeys through the wasteland feel less lonely. Each has their own personality and backstory that unfolds as you travel together.
Xbox Game Pass subscribers can access Fallout 4 as part of their subscription, making it easy to try this massive open-world RPG without an additional purchase.
The modding community has embraced Fallout 4 on Xbox, creating new locations and open world areas that extend the game far beyond its original content. These mods can completely transform the experience.
Weather systems and day-night cycles make the Commonwealth feel alive. Radiation storms create eerie green skies, while nighttime brings increased danger from creatures and raiders.
Players looking for a deep open-world game with shooting, role-playing, and base-building elements will find plenty to love in Fallout 4’s radiation-soaked landscape.
10. Far Cry 6
Far Cry 6 takes players to Yara, a fictional Caribbean island inspired by Cuba. The island is ruled by dictator Antón Castillo, played by Giancarlo Esposito from Breaking Bad fame.
Yara stands out as one of the best open worlds in the Far Cry franchise. The tropical setting offers diverse landscapes including beaches, jungles, urban areas, and mountains. Players can explore the island using vehicles, horses, or on foot.
The map is huge and packed with activities. You’ll find military bases to overthrow, checkpoints to clear, and hidden treasures to discover. The world feels alive with wildlife roaming freely and civilians going about their daily routines.
Unlike previous Far Cry games, Yara features a proper capital city. This urban environment adds a new dimension to the series’ usual wilderness setting. The contrast between poor rural areas and the more developed city creates an interesting dynamic.
Vehicle options make exploring fun. You can drive classic cars from the 1950s, ride horses through the countryside, or even pilot helicopters for a bird’s-eye view of the island.
The game includes a weather system that affects gameplay. Sudden tropical storms can provide cover during stealth missions or make driving more challenging.
Far Cry 6 also features a day-night cycle that changes how NPCs behave. Some missions are easier at night when fewer guards are on patrol.
Many fans consider Yara one of the most impressive open worlds in the series. The attention to detail in creating a believable Caribbean island is remarkable.
What makes the world special is how it tells the story of Yara’s troubled history. Abandoned buildings, propaganda posters, and resistance graffiti add context without lengthy exposition.
The game also features unique locations like crocodile farms, guerrilla hideouts, and ancient ruins. Each area has its own character and backstory to discover.
Far Cry 6 ranks among the best open world games available for its detailed environment and freedom to approach objectives however you choose. Xbox players can enjoy the stunning visuals and responsive controls that make exploring Yara so satisfying.
Exploring Gameplay Mechanics
Open world games shine through their unique gameplay systems that keep players engaged for dozens of hours. Xbox offers several standout titles with mechanics that balance freedom with structured progression.
Character Progression
The Witcher 3 features one of the most satisfying character growth systems in open world games. Players can build Geralt’s abilities through a mix of combat, alchemy, and sign (magic) skills that genuinely change how you approach encounters.
Skill trees in games like Starfield let players create truly unique characters. You’re not locked into a specific playstyle, allowing for hybrid builds that combine stealth, combat, and dialogue options.
Games with RPG elements typically offer:
- Equipment upgrades
- Skill point allocation
- Stat improvements
- Special abilities
The best progression systems make players feel powerful without removing all challenge. Fallout-style RPGs excel here, giving players meaningful choices that affect both combat and story interactions.
Quest and Mission Structures
The Witcher 3’s side quests are often highlighted for their quality, featuring storylines that rival or exceed the main plot. These quests actually impact the main story and can change the ending, making exploration worthwhile.
Modern open world games have moved beyond basic fetch quests. Top Xbox titles now offer branching narratives where player choices matter.
The best games balance:
- Main story missions (structured)
- Side quests (optional but rewarding)
- Random encounters (unpredictable)
- Environmental storytelling (subtle)
Unique exploration mechanics also enhance quest design. No Man’s Sky encourages discovery through procedurally generated worlds, while Microsoft Flight Simulator rewards careful navigation through realistic landscapes.
Enhancing Your Gaming Experience
Open world games on Xbox can be made even better with a few simple tweaks. Your adventure through vast landscapes can be transformed by adjusting settings and playing with friends.
Graphics and Performance Tips
Playing open world games at their best requires some fine-tuning. Most Xbox Series X|S consoles offer different performance modes to choose between quality and frame rate.
For games like Skyrim and Elden Ring, try these settings:
- Performance Mode: Prioritizes 60 FPS for smoother gameplay
- Quality Mode: Enhances visuals at the cost of frame rate
- HDR Settings: Adjust brightness and contrast for better visibility in dark caves or bright deserts
Clear your console’s cache regularly to prevent stuttering in large open worlds. External SSDs can also reduce loading times when fast traveling across maps.
Don’t forget to check if your favorite game has received Xbox Series X|S optimization updates. Games like The Witcher 3 now feature ray tracing and faster load times.
Multiplayer and Co-op Features
Many open world games are better with friends. Minecraft offers split-screen co-op and online multiplayer, letting you build and explore together.
Xbox Game Pass includes several co-op friendly open world titles:
| Game | Co-op Type | Player Count |
|---|---|---|
| Palworld | Online | Up to 4 players |
| Minecraft | Split-screen/Online | Up to 8 players |
| Borderlands 2 | Split-screen/Online | Up to 4 players |
Use Xbox Party Chat to communicate with teammates during exploration. The Xbox mobile app makes inviting friends simple and quick.
Remember that some open world games like S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 offer unique multiplayer modes beyond the standard campaign. Look for special events and seasonal content that bring players together in shared worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open world games offer Xbox players incredible freedom to explore vast virtual landscapes. Let’s answer some common questions about these immersive experiences that continue to captivate gamers.
Which open world games for Xbox Series X or S are must-plays right now?
The must-play open world games for Xbox Series X|S include The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt with its enhanced next-gen update that brings stunning visuals and performance improvements. The game’s rich storytelling and monster-hunting adventures remain unmatched.
Red Dead Redemption 2 continues to be a benchmark for immersive worlds on Xbox Series consoles. Its detailed American frontier setting and engaging storyline make it essential.
Elden Ring offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with its unique take on open world design. The collaboration between FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin created something truly special.
What are the top-rated open world games available on Xbox Game Pass?
Starfield stands out as a premium Xbox Game Pass offering. Bethesda’s space exploration RPG gives players a massive universe to discover with countless planets to visit.
The Forza Horizon series, particularly Forza Horizon 5, provides a gorgeous open world racing experience that’s accessible through Game Pass. Mexico’s diverse landscapes serve as the perfect playground for car enthusiasts.
Sea of Thieves offers a unique multiplayer open world pirate adventure that continues to receive substantial updates. The sailing mechanics and treasure hunting create memorable moments with friends.
Can you recommend any critically acclaimed open world RPGs for Xbox?
The Witcher 3 remains the gold standard for open world RPGs on Xbox. Its rich narrative, memorable characters, and morally complex choices set it apart from competitors.
Skyrim and Fallout 4 continue to attract players years after release. Bethesda’s approach to world-building and freedom of choice resonates with RPG fans.
Dragon Age: Inquisition offers a fantasy world filled with political intrigue and team-based combat. Its companion characters and their personal stories add depth to the experience.
What are the new and exciting open world games released for Xbox in 2025?
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora brings James Cameron’s lush alien world to life with next-gen visuals. The first-person adventure lets players experience Pandora from a Na’vi perspective.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl finally arrived after long delays, offering a gritty post-apocalyptic experience. The atmospheric Ukrainian wasteland features radiation anomalies and tense survival gameplay.
Fable’s reboot has been met with enthusiasm from long-time fans. The British humor and fantasy setting return with modern gameplay improvements and stunning visuals.
Which open world adventures on Xbox offer the best storytelling and immersion?
Red Dead Redemption 2 delivers an emotional story about the end of the Wild West era. Arthur Morgan’s journey features some of gaming’s best character development.
The Witcher 3 excels with its fantasy narrative that doesn’t shy away from mature themes. The main quest and side stories often present difficult moral choices with meaningful consequences.
Cyberpunk 2077 has overcome its rough launch to deliver a compelling story in Night City. The relationships between V and characters like Johnny Silverhand offer emotional depth rarely seen in open world games.
What are the community favorites when it comes to open world games on Xbox, according to online forums?
Red Dead Redemption 2, The Witcher 3, and the Assassin’s Creed series consistently appear in discussions about favorite open world experiences. These games combine great storytelling with detailed environments.
Far Cry 3-6 get frequent mentions for their approachable gameplay loop and exotic settings. The series’ focus on liberating territories and confronting charismatic villains resonates with many players.
Hogwarts Legacy has quickly become a community favorite for Harry Potter fans. The magical open world fulfills the fantasy of attending the famous wizarding school.
