Open-World Game
Ongoing coverage on Open-World Game.
Latest coverage
The Witcher 3 Remastered: Still the Open-World Game to Beat?
This article compares The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered to other top open-world games like Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, Red Dead Redemption 2, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. While The Witcher 3 excels in storytelling and characters, it falls short in combat compared to some titles but remains a must-play experience.
Why GTA Studio Co-Founder Is Avoiding GTA 6–And All Open-World Games
Rockstar Games co-founder Dan Houser revealed he is actively avoiding Grand Theft Auto 6 and other open-world games to maintain creative focus for his new company, Absurd Ventures. He explained that consuming other open-world titles would be too distracting and lead to unwanted comparisons, impacting his own creative process.
There is “No Greater Compliment” Than Comparisons With Grand Theft Auto, Says Dan Houser
Former Rockstar Games co-founder Dan Houser stated that comparisons to Grand Theft Auto are a significant compliment, though he hopes his new company, Absurd Ventures, will succeed on its own merits. Houser discussed the pressures of developing GTA titles and his focus on creating impactful and fresh experiences with integrity, regardless of market success. Absurd Ventures is working on various projects across different mediums, including a game with Ascendant Studios.
Rockstar co-founder Dan Houser is avoiding GTA 6 so it doesn't "distract or disrupt" his new games, including another open-world comedy
Rockstar Games co-founder Dan Houser stated he is actively avoiding Grand Theft Auto 6 to prevent creative distractions from his own projects at Absurd Ventures, which include a new open-world comedy game. Houser explained his philosophy of not comparing his work to others, especially given his deep involvement in the Grand Theft Auto franchise's history.
Ex-Rockstar Boss Dan Houser Doesn't Play a Lot of Open-World Games – and Doesn't Plan to Play GTA 6
Former Rockstar Games co-boss Dan Houser revealed he does not play many open-world games and intends to avoid Grand Theft Auto 6. This creative decision is to prevent external influences on his new game projects at Absurd Ventures.
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor and Shadow of War Coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on September 30th
Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor and Middle-earth: Shadow of War are being released as a combined bundle for the Nintendo Switch 2 on September 30th. This Shadow Bundle includes all expansions for both games, offering a unique open-world experience.
Final Fantasy 7 Revelation has more "on-screen guidance" to stop players feeling lost, but Square Enix is already "considering options" for those who hate hand-holding, lead says
Square Enix is considering options to allow players to customize guidance features in Final Fantasy 7 Revelation, following feedback that some players prefer less hand-holding. Director Naoki Hamaguchi stated that the game will include more on-screen guidance than previous titles to help players navigate the open world, but acknowledges that not all players may want this level of assistance.
Assassin's Creed Brotherhood is still basically the DNA of all Ubisoft open-world games
Assassin's Creed Brotherhood is presented as the foundational game for Ubisoft's open-world design, establishing many mechanics that continue to influence their titles. While the game itself is hard to revisit due to the over-saturation of its elements, its design choices, particularly the integration of world-building and player progression, are argued to have rarely been bettered.
Metroidvania Games Were The Original Open-World Games
This article argues that Metroidvania games were the original open-world experiences, predating modern open-world titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2. It highlights how the exploration, gated progression, and sense of discovery in classic Metroid and Castlevania games laid the groundwork for the genre.
How Xbox Games Continue to Take Inspiration From Casino Games
Xbox games frequently incorporate casino-style games and themes due to their familiarity and adaptability as mini-games within open-world environments. Titles like Grand Theft Auto Online, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Star Wars Outlaws leverage casino mechanics for atmosphere, player engagement, and world-building, demonstrating their flexible application from direct gameplay to thematic inspiration.
Rockstar had to fight to get people to care about GTA 3 at E3, former lead recalls, and now GTA 6 is the most…
A former Rockstar Games developer, Obbe Vermeij, recalled that Grand Theft Auto 3's success was uncertain at its E3 2001 debut, with many attendees more interested in State of Emergency and finding GTA 3 too violent. Despite initial lukewarm reception and GTA 2 being a disappointment, Grand Theft Auto 3 went on to define the open-world genre and become a massive industry-changer.
The Blood of Dawnwalker will add Performance Mode in a Day 1 patch
Rebel Wolves has announced that The Blood of Dawnwalker will receive a Day 1 patch adding a Performance Mode that targets 60 frames per second on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The game will also feature Quality and Balance modes targeting 30 and 40 FPS respectively, with Xbox Series S targeting 30 FPS. The open-world vampire game is set to launch on September 3 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Rockstar Co-Founder Dan Houser Says There’s No Right Way to Play an Open-World Game
Absurd Ventures co-founders Dan Houser and Lazlow discussed the creation of open-world video games during a panel at the 2026 Tribeca Festival. Houser shared his perspective that there is no single correct method for playing an open-world title.
GTA 6 Release Countdown Hits 209 Days as Gaming's Biggest Launch Looms - HappyGamer
With 209 days remaining until its launch, Grand Theft Auto VI is generating immense anticipation, with dedicated fan accounts tracking the countdown. This release is poised to be a monumental event in the gaming industry, potentially becoming the biggest entertainment launch in history. Rockstar Games' commitment to quality and innovation, as seen in previous titles like Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption 2, suggests that Grand Theft Auto VI will set new standards for open-world gaming.
Players Rediscover Why Far Cry 3 Defined Open-World Gaming
Players are rediscovering Far Cry 3 and its enduring appeal in open-world game design. The article highlights how the game's focus on core mechanics, meaningful activities, and immersive details, exemplified by characters like Vaas Montenegro, created a timeless experience that many modern titles struggle to match. It suggests the industry can learn from Far Cry 3's success by prioritizing solid design over chasing trends.
Crimson Desert is 'not a copy of other AAA games' according to The Witcher 3 director — and after my 175 hours of playtime and five million copies sold, it all makes sense
The Witcher 3 director Konrad Tomaszkiewicz praised Crimson Desert for its fresh approach to AAA game design, noting it doesn't copy other titles. Pearl Abyss also announced the game has sold five million copies, with the author adding their own positive experience after 175 hours of playtime. The game's open-world exploration and consistent player count on Steam are highlighted as successes.
Assassin's Creed Shadows lead is simply "proud" the game launched because "shipping a game nowadays…
Assassin's Creed Shadows art director Thierry Dansereau expressed pride in the game's launch, acknowledging the challenges of shipping a title in the current industry. He stated that the team is happy the game was released despite any accompanying baggage.
