The best new 2026 open-world games you must play (yet)

The first few months of 2026 have already been extremely strong for fans of the open-world genre, with some exceptional and very different titles taking their own unique approach to the formula. Needless to say, the genre continues to thrive. The open world games below represent some of the most played and popular titles released this year, gathering millions of players and fueling constant heated discussions online. Visually gorgeous and bursting with freedom and flexibility, they're just as fun to play as they are to discover what others think of them and what they're doing in their worlds.

While some of the most anticipated open world games for 2026 are still ahead – including GTA 6, Fable, Assassin's Creed Black Flag re-syncedand Dawnwalker bloodto name a few – some already released open world titles may already be prime candidates for GOTY. Below is a look at some of the best open-world games of the year so far, highlighting their unique strengths and key achievements.

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What kind of weapon is that?

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Subnautica 2

A worthy successor to one of the best games in its subgenre

After several delays and publishing issues Subnautica 2 finally launched in early access to a staggering peak player count and rave reviews from fans. Fans of the original can now put their fears to rest as the sequel definitely lives up to the high bar set by the first game. It features a vast underwater open world filled with alien aquatic life, powerful adventure and exploration, diverse biomes, deep base-building mechanics, and an equal layer of oceanic terror.

With different creature designs and new building options, Subnautica 2 it feels familiar and fresh. It offers just enough changes to its world and development to make the gameplay loop different from its predecessor, not to mention the long-awaited inclusion of an optional co-op game mode for playing alongside friends. Even in the current state, Subnautica 2 is a technically very solid title, with gorgeous visuals and lighting, and only very minor issues. While the current version is somewhat light on content, being an Early Access title, it's a confident first step for a sequel that may ultimately surpass the acclaimed first game in every way.

Crimson Desert

For gamers who want to rediscover their love of open world exploration

Crimson desert It looks to be the biggest open world release of 2026 to date, not by player count or map size, but by the sheer level of online presence since release, with constant discussions, debates and fun player discoveries. This is worth noting Crimson Desert it ended up being quite divisive among players due to being very uneven, which brought moments of sheer wonder in Pywel alongside some not-so-great missions and bosses in almost equal measure. Still, this is undoubtedly one of the most ambitious and unique efforts in the open-world genre in quite some time, coupled with exemplary post-launch support from Pearl Abyss based on player feedback, which could push it closer to perfection in the coming months.

Crimson Desert has often been compared Skyrim and Red Dead Redemption 2of all things. While it remains to be seen how well it will be remembered over time, it has already shown strong player retention and a huge surge in popularity after launch as word of mouth spread. Players praise its sense of freedom and discovery, its beautiful world, and countless features and mechanics. Given his apparent success and dedication to his studies, Crimson desert may become one of the long-running open-world titles of this generation.

LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight

Almost as good as the best Batman: Arkham Entries

The latest version in the open world of 2026, LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight is almost universally described as a love letter to all things Batman. Some fans even call it one of the best Batman titles ever made, and it deserves to stand alongside the acclaimed Batman: Arkham series. From great fights and gimmicks, iconic bosses, a fun story and clever yet accessible puzzles to gags, nods and a clear respect to the legacy of one of the most popular comic book characters ever, Legacy of the Dark Knight it may even appeal to more mature Batman fans and audiences who typically assume that LEGO titles are only for younger gamers.

As is traditional with LEGO games, Legacy of the Dark Knight not a 100 hour experience like most other titles here. Instead, it offers a packed, cinematic 12-hour story along with optional missions and challenges to complete around Gotham. Given how satisfying the game mechanics are, few would pass up the opportunity to do absolutely everything LEGO Batman. Even if you don't always appreciate the comedic elements of LEGO titles, the game is still worth your attention as a lighthearted and enjoyable diversion between the more serious and immersive titles.

NTE: Neverness to Everness

The new rising star of Open-World F2P Gacha games with an enticing environment

NTE: Neverness to Everness joins the pantheon of ambitious free-to-play open-world action titles available this generation. The ever-evolving game already offers dozens of hours of gameplay in its distinctive urban world full of supernatural things, asking for nothing but your free time in return, and promises countless updates and expansions in the future. Of course, certain characters or items won't be available to players for free, like in many similar gacha games, but that's not really a big deal. Most of the experience is just as fun and exciting as in premium open-world titles.

Neverness to Everness's the biggest ace is definitely Hethereau's sprawling city, especially given how rarely we see open-world urban titles on this scale these days. Players are free to roam using their abilities or vehicles as they wish. Often compared to GTA games when it comes to freedom, there are plenty of things to do, from buying and customizing properties and vehicles to watching game shows or riding ferris wheels around town. NTE the paranormal focus is another feature that sets it apart from the crowd, brimming with mystery, anomalies, strange creatures, twisted locations with breathtaking visuals, and unique supernatural-focused activities.

Forza Horizon 6

The new undisputed king of open world riding games

Due to its long-awaited setting in Japan, Forza Horizon 6 It was expected to make a bigger splash than its predecessor. Still, it seems that even the creators did not expect that the open-world driving game would take off with such a triumph. Glowing reviews from critics, record-breaking player and sales numbers, and countless clips and discussions online extolling every aspect; so far everyone seems to be loving it FH6. And it's well-deserved, to be honest, because the game is a pure joy to experience.

Forza Horizon 6 is a near-perfect open-world exploration game with a stunning multi-season map of Japan (perhaps the best in the series so far) and countless paths and biomes to explore, complete with meaningful rewards and fun collectibles around every corner. It's also a spectacular racing experience with a rich roster of cars, deeply adjustable difficulty, and tons of events, side quests, stories, game modes, stunts, and challenges to try. Complete with excellent technical performance in terms of image, sound and music, Forza Horizon 6 easily ranks among the best open-world games of the year, whether you're an avid car enthusiast or just want to drive through Japan in all its glory.