The best upcoming open world games released in May 2026

Some of us love diving into new worlds so much that we forget the real one we live in. I feel the same way, which is probably why I'm one of the world's biggest fans of open world games. Whether completing mundane daily tasks in a virtual world with better views or becoming a brick hero watching over a plastic city, every open world player can appreciate both experiences. Players can move at their own pace; usually interaction with other characters is optional for progression, allowing more time to complete side quests and further exploration.

May is shaping up to be a great month for open world fans with several new releases on the horizon. This list highlights the upcoming open world games will launch in May 2026including sequels to beloved classics and never-before-seen indie titles. Whether you're looking for a relaxing adventure in a cozy village or a more isolated route that requires focus and caution, there's something for every type of player. Let's dive into the amazing new open world releases you'll be able to enjoy this May.

1

Subnautica 2 (May 14)

Reach depths where you can't see the Sun

Starting with a truly beloved franchise, we have Subnautica 2! It now offers a change in gameplay with the addition of multiplayer where players and 3 other friends can delve into the unknown mysteries of the deep blue sea below. Subnautica 2 will be released in early access day May 14, 2026on the Steam Store. The game can also be downloaded via Xbox Game Pass for players who are currently subscribers.

Players can look forward to many new things after the release Subnautica 2. We're talking about new underwater attachments that will help our now much larger dive teams escape treacherous situations, or maybe just transfer more materials from resources. Personally, I would appreciate an alternative escape route rather than relying on my feet. Even scarier, larger leviathans that appear to have… eyes in their mouths to know the perfect time to close their jaws on the naive prey within.

2

Outbound (May 11)

Who will be your designated driver?

If you love cozy adventures as much as I do, Outbound will become your next obsession. You can customize your own RV and go on a road trip with the most magical art style I've ever seen. Outbound lands on Steam and Xbox Game Pass May 11, 2026. The game mixes light puzzle challenges and obstacles (much less stressful than what you'd find in RV There Yet), plus a bit of survival and building. It's the perfect choice for a relaxed game night with up to three friends.

Starting with just an RV, players will travel around the world, lighting campfires, collecting blueprints and installing upgrades as they build their dream home on top of it. Appointing someone to drive while I sat quietly on the roof of the camper tending to my berry bushes was the highlight of my trip haha! And don't forget to pay attention to how much you carry or you will walk slower than a snail and be left behind and die in the dark without food, trust me. And it's not like I know it from experience or anything.

3

LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight (May 22)

An essential addition to everyone's library

If you're like me, eagerly waiting to pick up your controller and feel the ultimate freedom of gliding around Gotham City's massive open world map, then it's safe to guess that there are many other gamers like us waiting for the game's release. LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. With several options available, players can currently pre-order either the base game ($69.99) or the deluxe edition ($89.99) on the Steam Store today. Those who choose the deluxe edition also get access 3 days earlier than others, making it a truly exclusive experience.

LEGO® Batman™: Legacy of the Dark Knight follows the iconic Bruce Wayne on his journey to become Batman. There will be a new combat system to explore and crimes will be actively detected as you traverse the map. Familiar locations such as Arkham Asylum may contain missing information needed to complete the quest. Something else LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight features fewer characters, bringing a greater focus on building unique relationships, discovering more lore, and having meaningful conversations that flow with the gameplay.

4

Paralives (May 25)

What story have you always dreamed of living?

As a lover The Sims, Paralyzes is the only game I've actually been waiting years for. As I'm sure many colleagues The Sims Players can agree, a life-sim game that offers open world exploration is very interesting and also scary. Is this a game that will make me quit? The Sims? Releasing on Steam May 25, 2026 as an Early Access experience, Paralyzes can finally leave the wish list and join the library.

For those of us who like to do simple tasks and take risks we could only dream of in the real world, Paralyzes is an amazing game to consider. Find a job to support your growing family and build your personality as you grow. Being able to interact with almost every shop and item is one of the main reasons I want to play. It just adds a whole new level of immersion to the game. There's nothing more precious than seeing a cute market stall and when you click on it, you realize it's just for display.

5

Spacecraft (May 20)

Calling all galactic pioneers

Turn Your Gaze to the Stars If you've ever found yourself staring up at the night sky wondering what could be out there, yet so afraid of the unknown, now you can put your curiosity to rest. With SpaceCraft's scheduled Steam Store release date of May 20, 2026, an Early Access version of the game will be available. Super eager players can check out the playtest demo right now.

In this narrative exploration adventure, players will need to craft, mine resources, and successfully complete flights to stay alive. There are many star systems full of planets to explore where you can move your own base if you find somewhere better. Personally, I would go anywhere with cute creatures. Upgrading your ship is vital to successfully defending against space pirate attacks. If you are looking for a realistic space exploration game with galactic governments and corporations, Spacecraft is perfect for you.