Xbox Game Pass continues to be a goldmine for fans of open-world and exploration-heavy games, with a growing library that balances fresh releases, indie standouts, and revamped classics. From surreal adventures to sandbox survival games, the 2025 lineup is shaping up to be one of the platform’s most adventurous yet—literally.
Here’s a breakdown of the most exciting open-world and open-ended games currently available (or coming soon) on Xbox Game Pass, including what’s new, what’s popular, and what’s next.
New & Noteworthy on Game Pass
Keeper (Coming October 17, 2025 – Day One on Game Pass)
From the creators of Psychonauts 2 (Double Fine), Keeper is an emotionally charged narrative adventure set in a dreamlike world. You play as a sentient lighthouse, accompanied by a mysterious bird companion, exploring surreal landscapes that shift with memory and emotion. It’s not just visually ambitious—it uses procedural storytelling and adaptive AI to evolve the environment based on how you interact. This is shaping up to be one of Game Pass’s most original offerings of the year.
The Alters (Released June 13, 2025)
Developed by 11 Bit Studios (Frostpunk), The Alters is a survival game unlike any other. Stranded on a hostile planet, you survive by creating alternate versions of yourself—each with their own personalities and skill sets. It’s a psychological sci-fi game that forces players to wrestle with identity, morality, and the consequences of their decisions. It blends base-building with narrative branching in a way that’s perfect for fans of Outer Wilds or Returnal.
Top Open-World Titles You Can Play Now
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered (Released April 22, 2025)
The beloved 2006 classic is back—rebuilt in Unreal Engine 5 with all DLC and quality-of-life improvements. Oblivion Remastered feels like a modern RPG, with enhanced physics, updated combat, and a dynamic quest system. It brings Cyrodiil to life like never before and proves once again why Bethesda’s open worlds remain timeless.
Eternal Strands (Released January 28, 2025)
An elemental action-adventure game where you manipulate the environment to solve puzzles, traverse sprawling landscapes, and battle massive creatures. Think Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom meets Shadow of the Colossus with a touch of magic-based crafting. It’s a fresh IP that has quickly gained a loyal fanbase thanks to its unique gameplay loop and immersive exploration.
Dungeons of Hinterberg (Released July 18, 2024)
This stylish indie blends Alpine village life with dungeon-crawling RPG mechanics. You play as a social media burnout looking to unwind—by exploring magical caverns and building relationships in a cozy mountain town. It’s Persona meets Zelda, with side quests that impact both combat and story progression.
Palworld (Early Access since January 2024)
Dubbed the “Pokémon with guns” survival game, Palworld became an overnight sensation thanks to its chaotic mix of crafting, exploration, and pet battling. With over 3 million daily players at launch, it’s still evolving with frequent content drops. As of mid-2025, new raids, trading systems, and cross-platform multiplayer have kept the game high on engagement charts.
📈 Game Pass Hits a New Peak
Xbox reported one of its best-performing quarters ever in Q2 2025. Heavy-hitting releases like Oblivion Remastered, The Alters, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 pushed player engagement to record highs. Game Pass continues to outpace expectations, with over 3 million players engaging with new releases in the first 30 days alone.
🔮 Upcoming Open-World & Narrative Giants to Watch
Here are some of the most anticipated open-world titles launching on or expected to join Game Pass later this year:
- Outer Worlds 2 – October 29, 2025
Obsidian’s spacefaring RPG returns with more satirical writing, expanded factions, and meaningful consequences. - High on Life 2 – Winter 2025
The sequel doubles down on absurd humor and chaotic alien worlds, promising more open-ended levels and branching dialogue. - NINJA GAIDEN 4 – October 21, 2025
While not traditionally open-world, early previews suggest more exploration elements and dynamic combat arenas. - Gears of War Reloaded – August 26, 2025
A semi-reboot with hub-based missions and light RPG elements that give players more freedom than any Gears title before. - Clockwork Revolution, Beast of Reincarnation, and Fallout 76: Gone Fission – TBA
These range from time-loop RPGs to online expansions, each bringing new sandbox experiences into Game Pass’s orbit.
✅ Game Pass Open World Highlights – Summary Table
| Title | Type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Keeper | Surreal narrative exploration | Coming Oct 17, 2025 |
| The Alters | Survival / identity-based sim | Released June 13, 2025 |
| Oblivion Remastered | Classic open-world RPG | Out since April 22, 2025 |
| Eternal Strands | Elemental fantasy adventure | Out since January 28, 2025 |
| Dungeons of Hinterberg | Dungeon-crawler + life sim | Out since July 18, 2024 |
| Palworld | Open-world creature survival | Early Access since Jan 2024 |
| Outer Worlds 2 | Sci-fi RPG sandbox | Coming October 29, 2025 |
| High on Life 2 | Comedic open-ended shooter | Winter 2025 |
| Gears of War Reloaded | Action-hub semi-open shooter | Coming August 26, 2025 |
Whether you’re looking to lose yourself in a sprawling fantasy realm or experiment with new types of open-ended gameplay, Game Pass in 2025 is stacked with experiences that go beyond just “playing”—they’re about exploring, creating, and discovering.
Other Open World Games on Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass offers tons of great games for subscribers to enjoy. The best open world games on Game Pass include titles from top franchises like Far Cry and The Elder Scrolls, with options ranging from realistic flight simulators to post-apocalyptic adventures. These games let players explore vast landscapes and discover content at their own pace.
Game Pass keeps updating its library, adding new open world games while removing others. Some games like No More Heroes 3 have recently left the service, while others like S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 have been added. Players looking for immersive worlds to explore will find plenty of options across various genres and settings in the current Game Pass lineup.
1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Skyrim remains one of the most popular open-world games on Xbox Game Pass. This fantasy RPG gives players complete freedom to explore a vast northern province filled with mountains, forests, and ancient ruins.
The game lets you create your own character and play however you want. You can be a sword-wielding warrior, a sneaky archer, or a powerful mage. There’s no wrong way to play Skyrim.
The main story follows your character as the Dragonborn, a hero with the power to absorb dragon souls. But many players spend hundreds of hours ignoring the main quest in favor of side activities.
Skyrim Special Edition on Game Pass includes all the official add-ons. These expansions add vampire lords, custom homes, and an entire new island to explore.
What makes Skyrim special is how it rewards curiosity. See a strange cave? Go explore it. Hear about a cursed artifact? Go find it. The game constantly surprises players with new quests and locations.
The combat is simple but satisfying. Players can dual-wield weapons, cast spells from both hands, or mix and match to create their perfect fighting style.
Though first released in 2011, Skyrim’s world still feels alive. NPCs follow daily routines, bandits ambush travelers on roads, and dragons can attack at any moment.
The game’s music deserves special mention. The soundtrack perfectly captures the epic scale of your adventure with its memorable themes.
Some mechanics show the game’s age, like repetitive dungeons and occasionally buggy quests. But these minor issues don’t ruin the experience.
Few games match Skyrim’s sense of freedom and adventure. Whether you’re fighting giants, joining the Thieves Guild, or just hunting for ingredients to make potions, there’s always something fun to do.
Even after completing the main story, players can continue exploring and building their character. This endless gameplay makes Skyrim one of the best open-world games on Game Pass in 2025.
2. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl brings players back to the eerie Chornobyl Exclusion Zone with stunning next-gen graphics and immersive gameplay. This long-awaited sequel launched on Xbox Game Pass on November 20, 2024, making it accessible to subscribers right from day one.
The game blends first-person shooting, immersive simulation, and horror elements to create a unique gaming experience. Players explore a vast open world filled with danger at every turn. The environment feels alive and unpredictable.
Danger comes in many forms in the Zone. Players face hostile human enemies, mutated creatures, and strange anomalies that defy the laws of physics. Finding valuable artifacts offers rewards but comes with serious risks.
The attention to detail in the massive open world makes exploration rewarding. Each abandoned building and overgrown forest path tells a story of the disaster that changed the region forever. Weather shifts and day-night cycles add to the realism.
While some players have reported bugs, the core gameplay remains enjoyable. The developers at GSC Game World have created a world that feels both familiar to series fans and fresh for newcomers.
The AI system creates unpredictable encounters that keep players on edge. NPCs follow their own schedules and agendas regardless of player actions. This makes the world feel lived-in rather than simply waiting for the player to arrive.
Xbox Series X|S owners can experience the game with impressive visuals that showcase the power of current-gen hardware. The lighting effects and atmospheric details help build tension during play.
The story takes players through a twisted journey within the Zone, offering choices that impact how events unfold. Multiple endings give players reason to replay and try different approaches to situations.
For survival game fans, the resource management aspects add another layer of challenge. Managing ammo, medical supplies, and protection against radiation becomes crucial for success.
This game stands out in the Game Pass library for its uncompromising approach to difficulty and atmosphere. It doesn’t hold players’ hands but rewards those willing to learn its systems.
3. Assassin’s Creed Origins
Assassin’s Creed Origins takes players to Ancient Egypt, offering one of the most beautiful open worlds on Xbox Game Pass. The game marks a significant shift in the series with its RPG elements and revamped combat system.
Set in the Ptolemaic period, you play as Bayek, a Medjay who seeks revenge for his son’s death. His journey leads to the creation of the Assassin Brotherhood, giving players insight into the organization’s beginnings.
The map is massive and packed with things to do. From climbing the pyramids to exploring the streets of Alexandria, the world feels alive and authentic. Sand storms roll across the desert, and crocodiles lurk in the Nile’s waters.
Combat in Origins is more challenging than earlier Assassin’s Creed games. It uses a hitbox system that requires precise timing and strategic thinking. Players can choose from various weapons including swords, bows, and spears.
The game’s side quests are well-written and meaningful. Unlike the cookie-cutter missions in some open world games, these stories add depth to the setting and characters.
Polygon calls Origins “the best Assassin’s Creed game” on Xbox Game Pass, highlighting how it changed the series. Many consider it a turning point for the franchise.
The Discovery Tour mode lets history buffs explore Ancient Egypt without combat or missions. It’s like an interactive museum that teaches about life in that era.
The RPG progression keeps the gameplay fresh for dozens of hours. Finding new gear, unlocking abilities, and leveling up Bayek provides a sense of growth throughout the adventure.
Photo Mode is a standout feature for capturing the stunning landscapes. From desert sunsets to the detailed architecture of temples, there’s always something worth framing.
The voice acting and character animations bring emotional weight to the story. Bayek and his wife Aya are among the most well-developed protagonists in the series.
4. Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar’s epic western tale stands as one of the most impressive open world games available on Game Pass. Set in 1899, it follows outlaw Arthur Morgan and his gang as they try to survive in a changing America.
The game world feels truly alive. From snowy mountains to swampy bayous, each region has its own wildlife, weather patterns, and memorable characters. You can rob, steal and fight your way across the rugged heartland of America.
What makes Red Dead Redemption 2 special is its attention to detail. Arthur gets dirty and needs to bathe. His horse requires care and feeding. Even his beard grows over time if not trimmed.
The story pulls you in with strong writing and excellent voice acting. Arthur’s journey from hardened outlaw to something more complex unfolds naturally based on choices you make.
Beyond the main story, there’s plenty to do. You can hunt rare animals, play poker in saloons, fish in peaceful streams, or take on bounty hunting jobs. The world feels full of possibilities.
Combat feels weighty and impactful. Whether using six-shooters in dramatic showdowns or brawling in muddy streets, each fight matters. The slow-motion Dead Eye system lets you target multiple enemies for spectacular takedowns.
The honor system tracks your behavior. Help strangers and avoid unnecessary killing to be respected. Choose violence and cruelty, and the world treats you differently. This system gives weight to your actions.
Towns react to your reputation. Wear a bandana during crimes to protect your identity, but know that witnesses can still report you to lawmen who will hunt you down.
Red Dead Online offers additional multiplayer adventures. Form a posse with friends, establish your own business, or just explore the vast landscape together.
Many gamers consider Red Dead Redemption 2 to be one of the best open world games available right now. Its blend of storytelling, freedom, and immersive systems makes it a standout title that rivals other top open world designs.
The game runs beautifully on newer Xbox consoles, with faster load times and consistent frame rates making the experience even better than at launch.
5. The Outer Worlds
The Outer Worlds is a sci-fi RPG that offers a unique take on the open-world genre. Created by Obsidian Entertainment, it gives players freedom to explore multiple planets in a corporate-controlled space colony.
The game stands out with its colorful retro-futuristic design and satirical humor. Players can make choices that actually matter, affecting the story and their relationships with different factions.
Combat in The Outer Worlds combines gunplay with special abilities and companion skills. You can approach situations with stealth, charm, or straight-up firepower depending on how you build your character.
What makes this game special is its manageable size. Unlike some massive open-world games that feel overwhelming, The Outer Worlds provides focused areas that are packed with interesting content and quests.
Character building is a highlight, with plenty of skills to upgrade and perks to choose. Your choices shape not just the story but how you tackle challenges throughout the game.
Companions add depth to the experience with their own questlines and combat abilities. They’ll comment on your decisions and even jump into conversations when relevant.
The game’s writing shines with sharp dialogue and memorable characters. Its anti-corporate satire gives the world personality that distinguishes it from other sci-fi settings.
For Game Pass subscribers looking for a complete experience, The Outer Worlds delivers a full story without requiring hundreds of hours. You can finish the main quest in about 25-30 hours.
Fans of the game can look forward to The Outer Worlds 2, which is coming to Game Pass on day one. The sequel promises to build on what made the original special.
If you enjoy games with strong narratives, interesting choices, and a mix of shooting and role-playing, The Outer Worlds is worth trying on Game Pass.
6. No Man’s Sky
No Man’s Sky is a space exploration game that stands out on Xbox Game Pass. Players can explore a universe with over 18 quintillion planets, each with unique landscapes, creatures, and resources.
The game has changed dramatically since its 2016 launch. Hello Games has added countless free updates including multiplayer, base building, and even living ships. These improvements have turned it from a controversial release into a fan favorite.
You can play No Man’s Sky however you want. Some players focus on building massive bases across different planets. Others might become space traders, moving goods between star systems for profit.
Combat is also an option for those who enjoy fighting. Players can battle space pirates or dangerous creatures on hostile worlds. The choice is yours in this vast sandbox.
The visual style uses bright colors and a sci-fi aesthetic inspired by classic book covers. Each planet offers something new to discover, from frozen wastelands to lush paradises teeming with life.
Multiplayer lets you team up with friends to explore together. You can build collaborative bases, share resources, or simply enjoy the views as a group.
For creative players, No Man’s Sky offers nearly endless possibilities. The building system lets you create anything from small outposts to massive space colonies.
The game also features a story mode for those who want more direction. The narrative tackles big ideas about existence and purpose while guiding players through the universe.
Xbox Game Pass subscribers get access to all updates and expansions. This makes it one of the best open world games available on the service.
Even in 2025, No Man’s Sky continues to receive updates and improvements. The game’s procedural generation ensures that even after hundreds of hours, there’s always something new to find.
7. Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 stands out as one of the best open world racing games you can play right now on Game Pass. The game takes players to a vibrant recreation of Mexico with stunning landscapes that range from deserts and jungles to volcanoes and beaches.
You can drive hundreds of cars across this massive map. The vehicle selection includes everything from everyday sedans to exotic supercars and off-road trucks.
What makes Forza Horizon 5 special is its freedom. You can race on roads, crash through fields, or climb mountains however you want. The ever-evolving open world keeps things fresh with changing seasons and weather.
The graphics are amazing even on older Xbox consoles. On Series X|S, the game looks almost photorealistic with incredible lighting effects and detailed environments.
There’s no shortage of things to do in this game. Beyond traditional races, you can hunt for hidden cars in barns, complete stunt challenges, or just cruise around taking photos of the beautiful scenery.
Multiplayer options let you race against friends or join random events happening across the map. The community features also allow you to download custom car designs created by other players.
The progression system rewards almost everything you do. You’ll constantly unlock new cars, customization options, and race events just by playing how you want.
Even if you’re not typically a racing game fan, Forza Horizon 5 is worth trying. Its casual-friendly approach means you don’t need to be a driving expert to enjoy cruising around Mexico.
The soundtrack deserves special mention too. Multiple radio stations offer different music genres that make long drives even more enjoyable.
Game Pass subscribers get access to the base game, though some car packs require separate purchases. Still, the included content offers dozens of hours of entertainment without spending extra.
8. Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite stands out as one of the most ambitious entries in the legendary franchise. The game takes a bold new direction by introducing an expansive open-world campaign that gives players more freedom than ever before.
Master Chief’s latest adventure takes place on Zeta Halo, a massive ring world filled with diverse landscapes to explore. Players can tackle objectives in almost any order they choose, making each playthrough feel unique.
The grappleshot tool adds a fun dimension to movement. You can swing across gaps, pull yourself to higher ground, or even grab weapons from a distance. This simple addition transforms how you interact with the environment.
Combat feels smooth and responsive, with a good mix of classic Halo weapons and new toys to try out. Fighting the Banished, a breakaway faction of the Covenant, provides fresh challenges while maintaining the series’ signature gameplay.
Vehicle sections offer a break from on-foot combat. Warthogs, Ghosts, and other familiar vehicles return, letting you cover ground quickly across the sprawling landscape.
The multiplayer portion of Halo Infinite is free to play for everyone, but Game Pass subscribers get the complete package. This includes the full campaign and all its story content.
Visually, the game takes advantage of Xbox Series X|S hardware while still running well on older consoles. The day-night cycle and weather effects make Zeta Halo feel like a living place rather than just a backdrop for shooting.
As one of gaming’s most iconic sagas, Halo continues to evolve while respecting what fans love. The open-world format might seem like a departure, but it works surprisingly well with the established formula.
For Game Pass members looking for a sci-fi shooter with both depth and breadth, Halo Infinite delivers. The combination of story-driven missions and free exploration hits a sweet spot that few other games achieve.
9. Sea of Thieves
Sea of Thieves offers a unique open world pirate adventure on Xbox Game Pass. This Rare-developed game lets players sail the high seas, hunt for treasure, and battle other pirates in a shared online world.
The game shines brightest when played with friends. Crew up with others to man your ship, with each player taking on roles like steering, managing sails, or firing cannons. Solo play is possible but more challenging.
What makes Sea of Thieves special is its freedom. You choose your own adventure each time you play. Want to follow treasure maps? Go for it. Prefer to attack other ships? That’s an option too.
The world feels alive with stunning water effects and a day-night cycle that changes the gameplay. Sailing during storms tests even experienced crews as waves crash over your deck.
Sea of Thieves has grown significantly since launch with regular updates adding new content. The developers continue adding fresh voyages, enemies, and items to discover.
Player interaction creates unpredictable moments. You might form unexpected alliances with other crews or face sudden betrayal when dividing treasure. These player-driven stories make each session memorable.
The game has a casual approach to progression. You won’t find traditional level-ups or gear that makes you stronger. Instead, you earn cosmetic upgrades to customize your pirate, ship, and equipment.
Puzzles and riddles add brain challenges to the action. Many treasures require solving clues rather than just fighting, giving the game depth beyond combat.
Xbox Game Pass subscribers can jump in without extra cost. This makes it easy to try with friends who also have the service, as noted by many forum discussions about the game.
The cartoony art style keeps the game looking fresh years after release. This visual approach means Sea of Thieves still stands strong among newer Game Pass offerings in 2025.
10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt stands as one of the most impressive open-world games available on Game Pass. This fantasy RPG follows Geralt of Rivia on his quest to find his adopted daughter while navigating a war-torn world filled with monsters and political intrigue.
The game’s massive open world spans several regions including the gritty swamps of Velen, the bustling city of Novigrad, and the beautiful but dangerous Skellige Isles. Each area feels distinct and alive with its own characters, problems, and stories to discover.
Combat in The Witcher 3 combines swordplay with magical signs and potions. Players need to prepare for fights by researching monster weaknesses and crafting the right oils and potions. This preparation adds depth to each encounter.
What truly sets The Witcher 3 apart is its storytelling. Even small side quests feature fully developed characters and moral choices with real consequences. These choices often have no clear “right” answer, forcing players to decide based on their own values.
The Xbox Series X|S version received significant enhancements including improved visuals, faster loading times, and ray tracing. These updates make an already beautiful game even more stunning.
The game rivals other open-world giants with its attention to detail and immersive world. Some players even compare its design favorably to Breath of the Wild.
The Witcher 3 includes two major expansions: Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. These add substantial new areas, stories, and monsters to an already massive game. Blood and Wine in particular adds an entirely new region that could be a standalone game.
Players can easily lose 100+ hours exploring every corner of this world. Treasure hunts, monster contracts, and character quests provide constant reasons to stray from the main story path.
Character development goes beyond typical RPG progression. Geralt’s relationships with characters like Yennefer, Triss, and Ciri evolve based on player choices. These relationships feel authentic and complex.
The Witcher 3 continues to be considered one of the best open-world games years after its release. Its combination of storytelling, world-building, and gameplay make it a must-play for Game Pass subscribers who enjoy rich RPG experiences.
Benefits of Playing Open World Games
Open world games offer players unique experiences that go beyond traditional gaming. These games let you explore vast landscapes and make your own choices about how to play.
Immersive Exploration
Open world games on Game Pass let players discover huge environments at their own pace. Games like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla give players freedom to wander through detailed worlds with hidden secrets.
Players can:
- Find unexpected side quests
- Discover hidden locations not marked on maps
- Meet interesting characters in remote areas
- Experience day/night cycles and weather changes
The joy comes from stumbling upon something new without being told to go there. Many open world games on Game Pass feature different biomes and areas with unique wildlife, architecture, and challenges.
Exploration in these games often rewards curiosity. You might find a valuable item, a stunning view, or a piece of lore that adds to the story.
Creative Freedom
Open world games shine by letting players choose their own path. Unlike linear games, these titles allow for personal expression and different play styles.
Players can:
- Tackle objectives in any order they prefer
- Create their own goals outside the main story
- Approach problems using different strategies
- Express themselves through character customization
This freedom makes each player’s experience unique. Some might speed through the main story, while others spend hours hunting collectibles or mastering side activities.
Many Game Pass titles feature systems that respond to player choices. Your decisions can change the environment, relationships with characters, or even the ending of the game.
Features to Look for in Open World Games
When choosing an open world game on Game Pass, certain key elements can make or break your gaming experience. The best titles combine richly detailed worlds with compelling stories and characters that feel alive.
Dynamic Environments
A truly great open world game needs a living, breathing environment that changes and reacts to player actions. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 sets the gold standard here, offering an unprecedented recreation of our entire planet.
Look for weather systems that affect gameplay and visuals. Rain might make roads slippery in racing games or reduce visibility in action titles.
Day-night cycles should impact more than just lighting. Enemy patterns might change, certain characters may only appear at specific times, or unique events could trigger during particular hours.
Destructible elements add another layer of realism. Can you knock down buildings? Do trees fall when struck? These details make the world feel more responsive.
The best environments also feature varied terrain and biomes. A mix of cities, wilderness, mountains, and water bodies creates diversity that keeps exploration fresh and exciting.
Engaging Storylines
A compelling narrative gives purpose to your open world adventures. The best open world titles on Game Pass balance main quests with side stories that enrich the setting.
Look for branching storylines where your choices matter. Games that adapt the narrative based on your decisions create a more personal experience and improve replay value.
Side quests should feel meaningful rather than repetitive chores. Quality over quantity matters here – a few well-written side missions beat dozens of generic fetch quests.
World-building elements like collectible lore items, environmental storytelling, and NPC conversations help create a rich backdrop for your adventures. These details make the setting feel lived-in and authentic.
Pay attention to pacing as well. Great open world games balance story progression with exploration, never forcing you to rush through the main plot.
Interactive Characters
NPCs (Non-Player Characters) should feel like more than just quest-giving statues. The most immersive open world games feature characters with unique personalities, daily routines, and memorable dialogue.
Look for relationship systems where your interactions affect how NPCs treat you. Can you build friendships, make enemies, or even form romances? These systems add depth to the social aspects of the game.
Companion characters deserve special attention. Can they fight alongside you? Do they comment on your actions? The best companions react to your choices and develop throughout the story.
Enemy AI behavior matters too. Foes should use varied tactics and respond intelligently to your approach. Nothing breaks immersion faster than predictable enemy patterns.
Populated worlds feel more alive. Cities should bustle with activity, with NPCs going about their business rather than standing in place waiting for the player to interact with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Game Pass offers many open world games that let players explore vast landscapes, complete quests, and create their own adventures. These games range from fantasy worlds to realistic settings with different gameplay styles.
What adventure games on Game Pass offer the most immersive open world experiences?
Skyrim provides one of the most immersive open worlds on Game Pass. Its vast fantasy landscape filled with dragons, magic, and countless side quests keeps players exploring for hundreds of hours.
Immortals: Fenyx Rising is another standout that rivals Breath of the Wild in design quality. The game combines Greek mythology with colorful landscapes and puzzles that encourage exploration.
Assassin’s Creed Origins offers an incredibly detailed recreation of Ancient Egypt. Players can climb pyramids, explore tombs, and interact with historical figures in a living, breathing world.
Which open world titles on Xbox Game Pass are considered must-plays?
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a must-play for fans of atmospheric post-apocalyptic worlds. Its unique blend of survival horror and shooting creates a tense experience unlike other open world games.
Red Dead Redemption 2 stands as perhaps the most detailed and realistic open world ever created. The Wild West setting comes alive with dynamic weather, wildlife, and incredibly responsive NPCs.
The Outer Worlds offers a smaller but denser open world experience with strong RPG elements. Its distinct planets each have unique environments and societies to discover.
Can you suggest some open world multiplayer games available on Game Pass?
Minecraft remains the ultimate multiplayer sandbox. Friends can build together, explore caves, or create complex redstone contraptions in endless procedurally generated worlds.
Palworld combines monster collecting with survival mechanics. Players can team up to build bases, capture creatures, and explore the colorful open world together.
Sea of Thieves lets players become pirates in a shared ocean world. Crews can sail ships, find treasure, and engage in sea battles with other player crews.
What are the top open world games I can play on my Xbox Series X with Game Pass?
Flight Simulator offers the entire planet as an open world. The Series X version features enhanced graphics and faster loading times for a stunning flying experience.
Forza Horizon 5 showcases what the Series X can do with its gorgeous Mexican landscapes and hundreds of cars. The open world racing game features dynamic weather and seasons that change the driving experience.
Starfield gives players over 1,000 planets to explore. This space RPG takes full advantage of the Series X hardware with detailed environments and quick loading between planetary systems.
Are there any critically acclaimed open world games included with Game Pass for PC?
Fallout 4 has earned praise for its post-apocalyptic Boston setting. PC players benefit from improved frame rates and mod support through the Game Pass version.
No Man’s Sky continues to receive updates that expand its procedurally generated universe. The PC version offers enhanced visuals and performance compared to console editions.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition includes all DLC and brings one of the most acclaimed open worlds to PC Game Pass. The game’s rich storytelling and complex characters shine on PC.
What new open world games have been recently added to the Game Pass library?
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is one of the newest additions as of March 2025. This long-awaited sequel brings players back to the dangerous Exclusion Zone with modern graphics and gameplay.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth recently joined Game Pass, offering a vibrant Hawaiian open world. This RPG combines serious storytelling with quirky humor and turn-based combat.
Avowed has just been added, providing a fantasy open world from Obsidian Entertainment. Set in the same universe as Pillars of Eternity, the game features first-person combat with magic and melee weapons.
