Steam boasts the largest PC gaming library out of every platform available, and among all the iconic titles and classic hits, lies a large list of open-world games. Some have revolutionized the genre, others continue decade-long franchises, and in some cases, they are completely free-to-play.
Best Open-World Games On Xbox Game Pass
Looking for an open-world adventure to crack into on Xbox Game Pass? These are the best open-world games currently available on Microsoft's service.
Despite the open-world genre being as expansive and competitive as it is, that hasn't stopped plenty of great games from finding success, without ever demanding a penny of their players. There are MMOs and intense survival adventures, and plenty of other options for players who would prefer to spend their money elsewhere.
Destiny 2
Sci-Fi Adventures For Years To Come
Destiny 2
- Released
- August 28, 2017
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T For TEEN for Blood, Language, and Violence
- Developer(s)
- Bungie
- Genre(s)
- FPS
- Platform(s)
- PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PC, Stadia
- OpenCritic Rating
- Mighty
Destiny 2 remains one of the largest and most polished open-world experiences on Steam, and despite a growing list of expansions, the core game remains entirely free-to-play. The game perfectly combines first-person shooting with MMO-style progression and exploration across multiple planets, offering large open areas to explore both alone and with other players.
Players can freely move between these stunning cosmic destinations, growing in power with every mission completed. While expansions add even more depth, the base experience offers an immense amount of free content, and the game retains a dedicated fanbase nearly a decade on with no signs of slowing down any time soon.
Once Human
An Entire Mutated World Waiting To Be Conquered
Once Human
- Released
- July 9, 2024
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- t
- Developer(s)
- Starry Studio
- Genre(s)
- Survival, Shooter, Open-World
- OpenCritic Rating
- Fair
Set in a twisted future where humanity battles corruption itself, Once Human offers an eerie, atmospheric open-world experience that truly knows no contemporary. The game blends survival mechanics with deep crafting, base building, and cooperative exploration, all within a large landscape full of other players.
Players must scavenge resources, fight off bizarre creatures, and survive in an environment constantly warped by supernatural contamination. With multiplayer elements and ongoing updates, the game manages to deliver an ambitious free experience that combines everything from exploration to horror to social survival.
Trove
Infinite Creation Possibilities
Trove
- Released
- July 9, 2015
WHERE TO PLAY
Trove brings a lighthearted approach to the open-world formula, blending voxel building with RPG systems to allow players to create entire worlds full of their own imagination. When it comes to the RPG side of things, players are given plenty of dungeons to explore, all procedurally generated for maximum replay value.
Its endless customization options and creative freedom make it a perfect choice for players who enjoy constructing and adventuring in equal measure. The cooperative gameplay and ever-expanding worlds ensure that Trove remains fresh for players both new and old, on top of being completely free.
Wuthering Waves
A Truly Unforgettable RPG
Wuthering Waves
- Released
- May 22, 2024
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T For Teen // Suggestive Themes, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Kuro Games
- Genre(s)
- Action RPG, Open-World
- Platform(s)
- Android, iOS, PC, PlayStation 5
- OpenCritic Rating
- Strong
Wuthering Waves offers a breathtaking open world filled with high-speed combat, cinematic storytelling, and striking anime-inspired visuals. It’s a free-to-play action RPG that rivals premium titles in scope and polish, with a stream of content that seems to know no end.
Players can climb, glide, and traverse vast landscapes while mastering an intricate combat system that rewards timing and skill. Frequent updates and story events keep its world alive and evolving, and its emotional narrative allows it to stand among the most ambitious titles available on Steam.
Unturned
Surviving A Chaotic, Blocky World
Unturned
- Released
- July 7, 2014
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T For Teen due to Blood, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Smartly Dressed Games
- Genre(s)
- Survival
- Platform(s)
- PC, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S
Unturned proves that looks can be deceiving, as beneath its simple, blocky visuals lies one of the deepest and most engaging survival games on Steam. Players scavenge, craft, and build shelters while fending off hordes of zombies and other survivors, all within an environment that is both inviting and engaging.
Best Co-Op Open-World Games
Here are a variety of options for the best co-op games that can be experienced in an open world setting.
Its open-world design emphasizes freedom and creativity. Players can team up with friends, build bases, or wage wars across massive maps, and with support from community mods and frequent updates, the game offers a survival experience that’s both challenging and endlessly replayable.
Palia
Sharing The Cozy Lifestyle
Palia
- Released
- August 10, 2023
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- E10+ For Everyone 10+ Due To Alcohol Reference, Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, Mild Suggestive Themes, Use of Tobacco
- Developer(s)
- Singularity 6, Inc.
- Genre(s)
- Simulation, MMO
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch, PC
- OpenCritic Rating
- Strong
Palia offers a gentler take on the open-world genre, emphasizing community and relaxation over aggression and fighting. Set in a tranquil fantasy world, players can build homes, farm crops, fish, cook, and make friends with both NPCs and other players, all within the comfort of a charming village.
Best Free Survival Games On Steam
Fans of survival games can check out these titles for free on Steam.
Rather than combat, the game focuses on personal growth and collaboration. Its social systems, beautiful art direction, and relaxed pacing make it a standout choice for players seeking a calm, connected experience that delivers something peaceful as opposed to stressful.
Runescape
The Classic MMO That Never Stops Growing
RuneScape
- Released
- January 4, 2001
WHERE TO PLAY
Few games have stood the test of time like RuneScape. Available in both its modern and old-school versions on Steam, it offers a sprawling open world filled with quests and adventures for players to enjoy for literally years to come.
Players can forge their own paths, whether battling powerful bosses, trading on the market, or simply exploring the land of Gielinor. Regular updates and community-driven content keep it evolving decades after launch, allowing it to remain a living example of how a free, player-driven world can thrive on Steam.
Babbdi
More Of An Experience Than A Game
Babbdi
- Released
- December 22, 2022
WHERE TO PLAY
Babbdi takes a minimalist approach to the open-world genre, offering a surreal, dystopian city to explore rather than conquer. There’s no combat, only an invitation to wander through haunting architecture and meet the strange inhabitants who call it home.
Its quiet, dreamlike tone and striking design set it apart from traditional open-world games, whilst also being playable for no cost at all. Each alleyway and structure tells a story of decay and melancholy, demonstrating that exploration alone can be just as enjoyable as fighting.
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