Open World
Ongoing coverage on Open World.
Latest coverage
Dev rewrites GTA 3 source code to reveal what Rockstar was hiding and show how Liberty City fit on a PS2
Game journalist and developer Mark Brown has rewritten sections of Grand Theft Auto 3's source code to demonstrate how Rockstar Games (then DMA Design) managed to fit the expansive Liberty City within the PlayStation 2's limited 32MB of memory. The analysis highlights techniques like asset streaming and the use of lower-detail models for distant objects, which are still relevant in modern game development.
Crimson Desert soars past 150,000 Steam reviews with Very Positive rating despite story criticism
Crimson Desert has achieved a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam with over 150,000 reviews, despite player criticism regarding its story. Developer Pearl Abyss acknowledges the narrative's shortcomings but prioritized gameplay polish. The game's open-world exploration and diverse mechanics have captivated players, leading to a generally positive reception.
PlayStation Plus Game Catalog for May: Star Wars Outlaws, Red Dead Redemption 2, Bramble: The Mountain King, The Thaumaturge and more
Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced the May lineup for the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog, featuring titles like Star Wars Outlaws, Red Dead Redemption 2, Bramble: The Mountain King, and The Thaumaturge. The new additions will be available starting May 19, with Time Crisis also coming to PlayStation Plus Premium. The catalog includes a variety of genres, from open-world adventures to folklore-inspired journeys and tactical combat.
RoadOut Review - Highway to the cyber zone
RoadOut is an action RPG that successfully captures the essence of larger open-world games on a smaller scale, despite some internal combat design tensions. Developed by Rastrolabs Game Studio and published by DANGEN Entertainment, the game features a post-apocalyptic cyberpunk world with engaging driving mechanics and intuitive puzzle design, though its dungeons and breadth of activities can feel repetitive.
Outbound is an excellent idea but fails to pin down what people love about co-op crafting
Outbound is a co-op crafting game with a compelling concept of building a portable empire in a camper van, but it falters in execution by lacking player freedom and feeling too linear. The game's world is described as monotonous, and the constant need to exit the van to gather resources significantly breaks the pace, ultimately making the experience feel boring rather than cosy.
Pokémon Winds and Waves’ Theme Song Performance Showcased in New Behind-the-Scenes Video
A new behind-the-scenes video showcases the recording of the main theme song for the upcoming games Pokémon Winds and Waves, performed by the NHK Symphony Orchestra. These titles, set to release on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027, will introduce a new region, new Pokémon, and feature an open-world design. The article also references the recent success of Pokémon Pokopia, which significantly impacted Nintendo's and Koei Tecmo's financial forecasts.
Star Wars Outlaws, Red Dead Redemption 2 and More Join PS Plus Extra/Premium on May 19th
PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium subscribers will receive several new games on May 19th, including Star Wars Outlaws and Red Dead Redemption 2. The latter will include Red Dead Online. Additional titles like Bramble: The Mountain King and Broken Sword – Shadows of the Templar: Reforged will be available for both PS4 and PS5 players, with PS5 owners also getting Enotria: The Last Song, Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn, and The Thaumaturge. Premium subscribers can also access the arcade classic Time Crisis.
NTE: Neverness to Everness Review – Paranormal GTA
NTE: Neverness to Everness offers a unique urban fantasy setting with engaging paranormal activities and a surprisingly intriguing story premise. While the combat is solid and the world is visually appealing, some characters and dialogue can be grating, and the open-world elements lack the depth of titles like Grand Theft Auto. The game's use of potential AI-generated art and inconsistent lip-syncing are noted drawbacks, but its unique activities and solid combat make it worth considering.
Here are the Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight system requirements so you can save Gotham without stutters
The system requirements for Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight have been revealed, detailing minimum, recommended, and 4K configurations for PC players. The game targets 1080p at 30 FPS on minimum settings, 1440p at 60 FPS recommended, and 2160p at 60 FPS for 4K, with an emphasis on utilizing upscaling technologies like DLSS, FSR, or XeSS for optimal performance.
Crimson Desert Studio is Exploring DLC, Among Other Ways, to “Broaden the Game to The Next Level”
Pearl Abyss has announced that Crimson Desert is exploring the possibility of releasing downloadable content (DLC) to further expand the game. The company reported that Crimson Desert has generated $180 million in revenue as of March 31st, selling over five million copies in less than a month across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. The developer is also focusing on continuous updates to enhance user satisfaction and market presence.
Crazy action game Killer Bean confirmed for launch on June 8
The open-world action game Killer Bean will launch in Early Access on June 8, 2026, for $14.99 USD. The game will feature a single-player campaign, battle arena modes, and procedurally generated islands with various factions and biomes. It is expected to require Proton or Wine for Linux systems.
The Sims 3 review (2009)
This review of The Sims 3, originally published in 2009, highlights its improved simulation aspects and the freedom offered by its open world and Create-A-Style tools. The game allows players to control Sims' lives, fulfilling their wishes and navigating life's dramas, though the core gameplay loop can become rote for some players. The open town of Sunset Valley enhances the sense of scope and exploration compared to previous titles.
The Boss Gangster: Criminal Empire Gets Free From the Streets Update
Tripwire Presents and BEF Games have released the free 'From the Streets' update for The Boss Gangster: Criminal Empire on PC via Steam Early Access. This update expands the open-world action-simulation and management game with new starting scenarios, expanded police systems, side hustles, warehouse management, and vehicle customization. Combat has also been updated, allowing players to carry multiple weapon types, and the game now features 22 new songs across three radio stations.
Why Metroid Prime 4 definitely deserves its bad reputation - Reader's Feature
This reader's feature discusses the perceived flaws of Metroid Prime 4 on the Nintendo Switch, despite acknowledging its strong presentation, soundtrack, and boss design. The author criticizes the game's open-world elements, repetitive backtracking, and tedious crystal harvesting sequences, suggesting these issues stem from a troubled development at Retro Studios.
Review: Outbound (Switch 2) – A Cosy, Crafty, Open-World Driving Sim
Outbound is a relaxing open-world driving and crafting simulator for the Nintendo Switch that offers a compelling yet chill experience. Players collect materials to upgrade their campervan, explore diverse environments, and manage survival needs. Despite some minor visual and control gripes, the game provides a satisfying loop and extensive exploration, making it a joy to play.
Genshin Impact Version Luna VII Launches May 20, Introducing Nicole and a New Crisis in Sumeru
HoYoverse announced that Genshin Impact Version "Luna VII," titled "Truth Amongst the Pages of Purana," will launch on May 20, introducing new playable characters Nicole, Lohen, and Prune. The update features a new Archon Quest in Sumeru, where players will face an escalating crisis and a mysterious new adversary. The game is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox, PC, Android, and iOS.
Night City Awakens in New ‘From the Streets’ Update, Available Now for The Boss Gangster: Criminal Empire on PC via Steam Early Access
Tripwire Presents and BEF Games have released the free 'From the Streets' update for their open-world action-simulation game, The Boss Gangster: Criminal Empire, on PC via Steam Early Access. This update overhauls the game's focus to a sandbox experience with new features including advanced policing, expanded drug production, new side hustles, and combat and vehicle improvements.
Upcoming Batman PS5 Game Looks Fantastic, Out in 2 Weeks
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, developed by Traveller's Tales, is launching on PlayStation 5 on May 22, 2026, earlier than its originally planned May 29 release. The open-world action-adventure game will feature Bruce Wayne's origins and a large cast of villains. Preorders include bonus content, with a deluxe edition offering early access and additional cosmetic packs.
Outbound release countdown: Exact start time and date
The open-world adventure game Outbound will be released on May 11 for PC and Xbox Series X|S, and on May 14 for PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, with all platforms launching at 2pm UTC. Originally slated for an April 23 release, the game was delayed by about three weeks. Outbound features a cozy aesthetic, extensive customization for the player's van, and various interactive elements within its vast world.
LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight Launch Trailer Released
TT Games and WB Games have released the launch trailer for LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, an open-world action-adventure game with an original story inspired by decades of Batman media. The game will launch for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC on May 22, with a Deluxe Edition offering 72-hour early access starting May 19.
