Open-world games have come far over the years, with advancements in graphics and technology making them more immersive than ever before. From stunning visuals to intricate details and rich lore, some game worlds have become mandatory experiences for gamers.
In this article, allow me to take you through five gorgeous game worlds that every gamer should experience at least once.
Western United States – Horizon Forbidden West
The Horizon series by Sony Interactive Entertainment is known for its unique blend of science fiction and post-apocalyptic genres. In Horizon Forbidden West, developer Guerrilla Games takes immersion to the next level with a vast, open world around Nevada, Las Vegas, and Lake Mead.
The game’s world is artistically recreated to serve the game’s intriguing storyline, with dozens of secrets hidden on land, in towering structures, and even underwater. From lush forests to barren deserts and underwater ruins, Horizon Forbidden West’s game world is a visual masterpiece that begs to be explored and discovered.
Players can expect to find Metal Flowers, data points, & more as they put more playtime into the iconic American locations. Plus, gamers will encounter dozens of interesting collectibles and many Cauldrons, providing an additional incentive to explore.
Horizon Forbidden West’s world is beautiful because of Guerrilla Games’ proprietary game tech, Decima. Their engine simulates water and foliage realistically, making it an immersive and unforgettable experience for gamers.
The Five Fictitious U.S. States – Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar Games is extremely popular for pushing the boundaries of realism in its open-world games, and Red Dead Redemption 2 is easily the most gorgeous feather in its cap. The game offers a stunningly detailed and vibrant world set around five fictional states in the United States, including New Hanover, Ambarino, Lemoyne, New Austin, and West Elizabeth.
With a functioning ecosystem of flora, fauna, and weather, players can immerse themselves in the game world like never before. From dense forests to vast plains and towering mountains, each state offers unique landscapes, wildlife, and challenges, making Red Dead Redemption 2’s game world a true masterpiece of virtual realism.
Red Dead Redemption 2 works on Rockstar Advance Game Engine (also known as RAGE). The engine is popular for its in-game ragdoll physics, NPC tech, and other simulation effects, bringing many Rockstar Games titles to life. In the developer’s latest western, players can feel every snowflake falling on Mount Hagen and hear the dusty winds while walking the barren lands of New Austin.
Despite releasing in 2018, Red Dead Redemption 2 is still one of the most immersive and realistic games ever. Moreover, its unique Western setting and relatable yet vintage storyline make it a beautiful experience to explore.
The Lands Between – Elden Ring
Elden Ring, developed by FromSoftware, quickly became one of the most staggering releases of 2022. Known for their majestic worlds and rich lore in games like Dark Souls and Bloodborne, FromSoft takes its game worlds to new heights in Elden Ring. Players are treated to a massive open world, The Lands Between, filled with hidden paths, secrets, and dozens of challenging boss fights.
The surreal architecture and unique concepts set The Lands Between apart, including floating islands, shifting landscapes, and otherworldly creatures. Exploring The Lands Between is a journey of discovery and wonder, making it a must-play game world for any avid gamer.
Some of the most notable locations in Elden Ring include Nokron, Ainsel River, Mountaintops Of The Giants, and more, as they showcase the most variety. These regions also show the strength of FromSoftware’s concept arts, which are extremely poetic in their essence.
One of the first and most stunning locations players come across in Elden Ring is the Stormveil Castle. The area is popular for its memorable traps, enemies, and bosses like Godrick the Grafted. Long after players finish Elden Ring, they may forget their journeys and massive death counter. However, they’ll forever remember the beauty of Elden Ring and its eye-opening lore.
Tsushima – Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima is a visually breathtaking game set in a historical version of Tsushima, Japan’s northern Kyushu. From sweeping fields of vibrant flowers to serene bamboo forests and mist-covered mountains, Tsushima’s game world is a painting come to life. The game captivates players with its rewarding combat and compelling story and transports them to tranquility and serenity. Exploring Tsushima is akin to meditation, with its peaceful landscapes and attention to detail drawing players into its immersive world.
The visual style of Ghost of Tsushima is inspired by traditional Japanese art, particularly the ukiyo-e woodblock prints. The game’s developers took great care to recreate the aesthetics of feudal Japan, paying meticulous attention to details such as architecture, costumes, and landscapes. This is evident in every aspect of the game world, from the intricately designed temples and shrines to the authentic samurai armor and weapons.
The beauty of Ghost of Tsushima’s game world is essential for players to truly appreciate the game’s storytelling. The game’s world serves as a character, with its history, culture, and atmosphere that shape the narrative. As players journey through the game world, they will encounter memorable characters, engage in thought-provoking conversations, and uncover Tsushima Island’s rich lore and history.
Continent – The Witcher 3
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has remained a benchmark for open-world RPGs since its release almost eight years ago. The game’s fictional Continent setting is a sprawling and diverse landmass that offers players an unforgettable experience. From the bustling streets of Novigrad to the eerie swamps of Velen, filled with dark creatures and haunted ruins, the Continent is rich with life-like NPCs, engaging side-quests, and jaw-dropping landscapes.
One of the game’s highlights is its DLC expansion, which features cities inspired by the medieval architecture of France’s Loire Valley. The sun-kissed vineyards, colorful gardens, and magnificent castles alongside hidden treasures, mysterious ruins, and challenging monsters make The Witcher 3’s Continent a world worth exploring.
Furthermore, The Witcher 3’s game world is filled with lore and history. The game is based on the book series by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski and takes place in a fantasy world with hints of Slavic myth. The game’s narrative is deeply rooted in this lore, with a complex web of political intrigue, ancient prophecies, and magical beings. Not to forget, it has a world that feels alive, with its vibrant ecosystems, memorable characters, and engaging storylines that keep players hooked for hours.
