For whatever reason, most open world games tend to be RPGs with deep customization options, epic stories, loot and quests. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is a classic example, while something like Cyberpunk 2077 is a more recent example. Then there are open world games that have RPG elements without so many intricately interwoven systems.
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While they may not be classified as RPGs, they can feel just as rich in other ways. So for open-world RPG fans who've exhausted all the best games, they might want to check out these games that might scratch a similar itch. Whether they're RPGs or not, they're just great open-world games or sandbox games set in sprawling cities.
The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild
Solve puzzles, increase stats
The Zelda the series has been alongside RPGs since its first release on the NES. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild it has dozens of trials that players can go through and once they solve them they will get Spirit Orbs.
For statues, players can turn in fours to increase health or stamina, a stat-based progression. Players can also buy and upgrade armor sets with accompanying bonuses and weapons, which also rely on stats, though they break easily.
God Of War (2018)
There's Loot, Boy!
The God of War the series also has RPG elements from the start, thanks to Kratos consuming orbs to power up various weapons. In the 2018 reboot, this is more noticeable as players can find armor with different stat bonuses that can then be upgraded.
Kratos can also purchase skills that unlock different combat maneuvers to give players more ways to take out enemies. The journey is also far beyond the lands of Norse mythology, and of course the best RPGs bring a sense of wonder to campaigns.
Ghost Of Tsushima
Become a samurai / ninja legend
Ghost of Tsushima has one of the most fascinating worlds that realistically depicts the Japanese lifestyle in the 1200s. As a disgraced samurai seeking revenge on his people, Jin can acquire different sets of armor and tools to stick to his noble samurai instincts, or he can adapt to his new ninja way of attacking from the shadows.
Armor sets have stat bonuses and players can learn skills to make Jin wilder with a katana or deadlier from behind. Additionally, the game is full of quests and collectibles for players to fill their time.
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
Skinning is a game
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
- Released
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October 29, 2013
Assassin's Creedas a series, it would eventually transition to a full RPG with a standard leveling system in 2017 Assassin's Creed Origins. Before that, he was one of the most famous entrances Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag in 2013, which boasted several RPG elements.
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The biggest way players could increase the potential of Edward Kenway, the protagonist, was to hunt animals. Using specific skins, players could upgrade their armor or the amount of ammo they could carry with a very basic crafting system. Sailing to new islands and constantly finding new animals was a big part of the pirate/assassin adventure.
Marvel's Spider-Man 2
Gadgets And Skills
Insomniac Games tend to add some sort of RPG element to their games and Marvel's Spider-Man 2 there is no other. By completing tasks and fighting villains, both Peter and Miles can earn skill points to unlock new combat maneuvers.
Each character can also get a set of tools to use in battle that can be upgraded with the right materials. Along with that, there are plenty of quests and collectibles to be found in New York, most of which can contribute to skill points and gadget upgrades.
the infamous second son
A shard-based economy
the infamous second son is another superhero game, although this one was developed by Sucker Punch, who also produced Ghost of Tsushima. Set in Seattle, players are the gifted protagonist Delsin, who can gain different superpowers depending on who he comes into contact with throughout the campaign.
It starts with a smoky fire ability, but later gains a faster-than-light potential. By exploring Seattle, players can increase the potential of their superpowers through shards, the game's main upgrade system.
Far Cry 3
The definition of insanity
Far Cry 3 is the game that changed everything Far Cry series that offers players more freedom than ever before. As players explore the island they are trapped on, they can gain EXP, which in turn unlocks skill points. There are plenty of side activities to conquer on the island, such as taking over bases that serve as main quests.
As a chaotic energy shooter, it might not feel like an RPG at first, but the tropical setting is amazing and the rewarding feeling of unlocking each new skill point will satiate those RPG cravings.
Network equalization
Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain has an interesting gameplay loop as Venom Snake, the new codename for Big Boss, can go to multiple biomes for missions. In these open environments, players can stick to mission objectives or explore soldiers and materials to send back to Mother Base.
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With materials and soldiers, players can use them to build parts of the Mother Base or craft new equipment. The more soldiers and materials players harvest, the larger the mother base becomes. So in a way, it's a stealth game where players need to level up their base more than their characters, which in turn helps Snake in the long run.
Star Wars Outlaws
Bold Choices In A Galaxy Far, Far Away
One of the greatest RPGs of all time is also a Star Wars game, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. While Star Wars Outlaws not a full RPG, it has enough elements to allow players to live out their days in the criminal underworld Star Wars universe.
As the villain, Kay, players will try to curry favor with various factions around the core planets they can explore. For example, on the first planet of Toshara, players can gain favor with the Pyke Syndicate. By siding with one faction, players can unlock new missions and even get discounts at certain merchants that can be used to unlock new gear and parts.
Dishonored
Whale oil makes a man
Dishonored takes place in a dystopian steampunk city where everything runs on whale oil. It is a valuable currency within the lore, but players will use standard coins to unlock upgrades for their protagonist Corva.
In addition to his weapons, players can also unlock new supernatural abilities for Corvo after completing the main quests. The more powers they have, the easier it will be to carry out assassinations without being noticed around the compounds. For example, Blink can transport players across small gaps like a teleportation glitch.
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