Longest To Beat Open-World Video Games

The genre of open-world games is known for its extensive gameplay experiences, often encompassing hundreds of hours of content. These titles invite players to immerse themselves in vast, explorable landscapes, offering countless hours of potential adventure. The design philosophy behind open-world games is to engage players over prolonged periods, and when executed effectively, the results can be captivating. However, it’s essential to remember that length doesn’t always equate to quality; some of the best experiences are found in games that achieve the balance between length and meaningful content.

While some open-world titles, such as Shadow of the Colossus and Mafia, offer a more compact experience, many in this genre demand significant time investments. This investment pays off through rich content and deep immersion, allowing players to embark on epic adventures. Below we delve into the longest open-world games available today.

Updated December 29, 2024 by Mark Sammut: Two notable recent additions have been included in this comprehensive overview.

The listed times are sourced from HowLongToBeat. We focus on the hours needed to complete the main storyline, with completionist figures considered for tie situations. Additionally, we limit ourselves to one title per franchise, though other notable games will be referenced. Lastly, only titles boasting at least four input times qualify for this ranking.

49 Once Human

29–200 Hours

Once Human distinguishes itself as a live service title, often feeling incomplete. However, it does present a narrative with a defined conclusion, catering to those interested in a more traditional single-player experience. Players are thrust into a post-apocalyptic realm where they must navigate a landscape rife with mutated creatures and warring factions. Although its single-player mode is enjoyable, the game shines brightest through cooperative play.

48 Subnautica

30–53 Hours

Subnautica offers a unique underwater exploration experience, setting a high standard in this niche. Released in 2018 by Unknown Worlds, it combines compelling survival mechanics with an engaging storyline rich in mystery. The game effectively creates an atmosphere of suspense while requiring players to manage resources like hunger and oxygen. Whether players choose survival mode or other settings, the adventure of exploration remains consistently rewarding.

47 The Planet Crafter

31–48 Hours

This survival game revolves around terraforming an alien landscape. As players work to meet basic survival needs in an oxygen-deprived world, they gradually acquire the materials necessary to build more advanced structures. The Planet Crafter not only encourages crafting but offers exploration of unique biomes, ultimately leading to multiple game endings, providing a satisfying conclusion to players’ efforts.

46 No Man’s Sky

31–144 Hours

No Man’s Sky had a tumultuous launch in 2016, facing criticism for lacking promised features. Despite this rocky start, continuous updates have transformed it into a more robust experience, offering expansive worlds, a plethora of activities, and sufficient content to keep players engaged beyond the main storyline.

45 Dysmantle

32–75 Hours

Dysmantle is an indie survival game set in a post-apocalyptic world teeming with zombies. The core gameplay loop revolves around destruction and progression; players earn experience and upgrade their tools through dismantling their environment. This engaging cycle drives players to explore a large world despite a deceptively simple premise.

44 Grand Theft Auto 5

32–84 Hours

Grand Theft Auto 5 has been a cornerstone of the franchise, receiving consistent updates and re-releases across platforms. With a narrative that intertwines three playable characters, the campaign is packed with side quests and game modes that significantly enhance gameplay longevity, especially in the expansive online environment of GTA Online.

43 Divine Divinity

32–70 Hours

Regarded as a classic RPG, Divine Divinity merges Diablo-esque combat with traditional RPG mechanics, allowing players to explore a richly detailed world at their own pace. Despite its aged visuals, it offers a compelling experience for those looking to engage with a sandbox-style environment rife with side quests.

42 Space Rangers HD: A War Apart

32–173 Hours

Space Rangers HD revitalizes the classic 2004 title Space Rangers 2 with expansions that enhance its gameplay and content. Set in a universe facing robot domination, players engage in various missions while exploring a vast open world that features a diverse range of gameplay styles.

41 Skull And Bones

33–40 Hours

Ubisoft’s Skull and Bones struggled through a protracted development journey before its eventual release in 2024. Despite its efforts to deliver an engaging pirate experience akin to Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, the game’s live service approach led to a mixed reception, focusing on a narrow scope of gameplay that disappointed many fans.

40 Fade To Silence

34–40 Hours

Fade to Silence, a post-apocalyptic survival title, casts players into a wintery wasteland as they gather resources and expand their base. While it bears some friction during combat, the unique setting and survival gameplay deliver enough value for fans of the genre.

39 Outward

33–98 Hours

Outward offers a refreshing shift in the RPG landscape by placing players in the role of an ordinary adventurer rather than a legendary hero. Players are able to explore a sprawling world, though caution is advised; dangers abound as the map quickly reveals its challenges.

38 Pokemon Scarlet and Violet

34–87 Hours

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet mark a pivotal transition for the franchise, venturing into open-world gameplay for the first time. Although these titles received mixed reviews due to performance issues, they successfully incorporate core gameplay mechanics that have established Pokemon as a beloved series for decades.

37 S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl

35–104 Hours

This eagerly anticipated sequel faced production challenges but ultimately delivered a robust experience set in a dangerous environment filled with mutants and radiation. Larger and more engaging than its predecessors, it successfully merges survival and horror elements, offering substantial gameplay longevity.

36 Fallout: New Vegas – Ultimate Edition

35–145 Hours

Celebrated for its depth, Fallout: New Vegas stands out as one of the most compelling entries in the post-apocalyptic series. Known for its impact based on player choices, it invites players into a lengthy experience enriched by modding communities on PC.

35 Don’t Starve Together

35–254 Hours

Don’t Starve Together expands upon the original’s survival mechanics into a multiplayer experience, providing players with numerous gameplay opportunities. Its time to complete varies considerably, ensuring that the experience remains fresh with each session, especially when played with friends.

34 Starpoint Gemini 2

36–52 Hours

Starpoint Gemini 2 invites players into a sandbox environment, emphasizing exploration and freedom in a space setting. Although not devoid of challenges or repetition, it provides a fulfilling experience as players navigate their own paths amidst the stars.

33 Days Gone

37–65 Hours

Days Gone combines narrative depth with an open-world setting as players follow Deacon St. John’s quest across a zombie-infested landscape. While the pacing has drawn mixed feedback, the game showcases the beauty of the environment, providing a vibrant backdrop for survival.

32 Elex 2

37–78 Hours

Piranha Bytes returns to form with Elex 2, casting players into a sci-fi fantasy world abundant with exploration opportunities. Although overshadowed by other titles at release, it offers an expansive environment heightened by an intriguing jetpack mechanic.

31 Dragon’s Dogma

37–102 Hours

Released in 2012, Dragon’s Dogma is distinguished by its dynamic action RPG mechanics and a richly crafted world filled with formidable foes. While the narrative may not be its strongest aspect, the depth of gameplay ensures an experience lasting well over 100 hours.

30 Enshrouded

38–60 Hours

In early access, Enshrouded presents an adventure that prioritizes gameplay over narrative, with a focus on building and exploration. As the game evolves, its ultimate length and content will likely change, offering even more for players as development continues.

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