The Highest-Rated Open World Games of the 2020s (So Far)

Are you a fan of open world games? If your answer is yes, we have great news for you. Namely, the popularity of this type of video game is constantly increasing, leading to an increasing number of such titles in this growing market.

In other words, modern players have many opportunities to try good games of this type. Those who want to do their own research to find the best options should be prepared to spend hours of their precious time.

That’s why we made a short list of the highest-rated open world games of the 2020s. This way, you will ensure that you have chosen a modern video game that suits your requirements. Let’s get started!

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

The first title on this list is the Nintendo exclusive – The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. This incredible adventure was released in 2023, six years after the success of its predecessor, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The quest for Princess Zelda continues in this edition. Additionally, the protagonist tries to protect the kingdom from a powerful villain.

One of the most striking things in Tears of the Kingdom is the Ultrahand. This is a new mechanic that lets you create and combine objects in a non-linear way. As a result, you can develop innovative puzzle-solving options, combat techniques, and exploration. Of course, the beautiful graphics that portray the impressive landscapes at Hyrule are another thing that makes this game fun.

In terms of the best features of this game, we will also mention the possibility of replaying this title. This makes sense, given that this huge world offers various outcomes based on your decisions.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon

We have the Yakuza: Like a Dragon video game in the following position. This is another title in the well-known game series. Although the open world in this title is not as large as in some of the other options we are looking at here, Yakuza: Like a Dragon is still full of content that makes it attractive.

Unlike previous titles, you can expect an unusual combat system that is turn-based. However, this does not make the gameplay any less exciting.

Another crucial thing in this regard is the presence of fun mini-games. One such example is playing casino games like poker. For example, if you head to the casino in Yokohama, you can play a variant of Texas Hold ‘Em. Depending on the bets, you can expect different prizes to improve your game position.

Those who have used this mini-game agree that it is very realistic. In fact, it is so lifelike that it has helped some users achieve success playing genuine poker games such as Ignition Crypto Poker.  The game’s accurate representation of poker mathematics, from pot odds to expected value, gives players a solid foundation in the numerical aspects of poker strategy. That is, all the strategies obtained from this mini-game is suitable when playing real money poker online, available in fiat or cryptocurrency payments. 

In the iGaming industry, as cryptocurrency adoption grows, the community has found an unexpected gateway through beloved titles like Yakuza. Ultimately, the game’s mature themes and realistic approach to its casino mini-games have created a unique pipeline: from casual players to informed crypto poker enthusiasts. 

Elden Ring

Let’s be clear – Elden Ring is not an easy game at all. Progress in this title, created in collaboration with the famous American author George RR Martin, is a real challenge.

Elden Ring was released in 2022 and became an instant hit. This open-world adventure from FromSoftware reveals a mysterious land where players must fight all kinds of enemies and challenges to become the Elden Lord.

Hidden secrets, ancient ruins, and impressive landscapes are some things you will see on this journey. What makes the game challenging is the intense combat sessions, during which even the slightest mistake can cost you dearly.

Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the game became popular due to the possibility to personalize your character by choosing various weapons, shields, spells, and more.

It’s also good that you can get into multiplayer gameplay. In addition to playing against other players, you can cooperate with your friends, raising this single-player experience to a higher level. The Elden Ring allows you to call for help against bosses or when invading other worlds.

Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla

In 2020, fans of the Assassin’s Creed series from Ubisoft got to try a new title inspired by Vikings and Norse mythology. This open-world title met the expectations of players, although some complained that the game deviated from the usual mechanics.

This is one of the games on this list with the largest world. It is not only big but also filled with lush forests, snowy mountains, developed cities, and many other exciting things that are presented beautifully.

The combat system in Valhalla is fun but far from easy. Players can choose different weapons and upgrade them. They can also use various abilities to overwhelm opponents.

Of course, the numerous side activities make Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla a great game. Fishing, hunting, playing games, completing chores, and exploring ruins are some things you can do here. Successful completion provides weapons and other items.