Playstation
the 10 best open world ps5 games to explore (updated february 13 2025)
By Lara Croft
Published: 13 Feb 2025
My PS5 Open-World Odyssey: A Personal Quest
Hey adventurers! Lara Croft here, and let me tell you, I've spent countless hours exploring the vast, breathtaking landscapes of open-world PS5 games. From sprawling fantasy realms to futuristic dystopias, I've seen it all (almost!). This isn't just a list; it's a curated collection of worlds that truly captivated me. Think of it as a personal recommendation, a digital travelogue from someone who knows a thing or two about virtual exploration. So grab your controller, settle in, and get ready to discover the ten best open-world PS5 experiences, as of February 13, 2025. Trust me, your thumbs will thank you. 😉
1. Elden Ring: A Soul-Crushing, Breathtaking Journey
Elden Ring. Just the name evokes a sense of epic scale and brutal difficulty. And it delivers on both. Prepare to get your butt kicked repeatedly, but also prepare to be awestruck by the sheer beauty and detail of the Lands Between. Seriously, the landscapes are stunning. Exploring every nook and cranny is a must – discovering hidden caves, crumbling castles and forgotten lore. Don't expect hand-holding; Elden Ring throws you into the deep end and expects you to figure things out. But if you’re up for the challenge, this game is an unforgettable experience.
Elden Ring PS5 gameplay screenshot showing a vast landscape | Image: Supplied
2. Horizon Forbidden West: A Post-Apocalyptic Paradise
Think vibrant, lush landscapes teeming with majestic, mechanical creatures. Horizon Forbidden West offers a visually stunning open world filled with mystery and adventure. Aloy's journey is compelling, the combat is engaging, and the world itself is begging to be explored. I especially loved the underwater sections - a genuinely unique and refreshing take on open-world exploration. Plus, Aloy's outfit choices are pretty cool! What more could you ask for?
Horizon Forbidden West PS5 gameplay screenshot showcasing underwater exploration | Image: Supplied
3. Red Dead Redemption 2: A Wild West Epic
Yeehaw, partners! Red Dead Redemption 2 is a masterpiece of storytelling and world-building. The sheer detail in this game is mind-blowing. From the realistic animal behavior to the engaging characters, every aspect of the game feels authentic. I spent hours just riding my horse across the plains, taking in the scenery, and interacting with the diverse environments. I really enjoyed the hunting aspect, and the way they designed every little detail. A true classic, and a must-play for any PS5 owner.
Red Dead Redemption 2 PS5 gameplay screenshot featuring a vast Western landscape | Image: Supplied
4. Ghost of Tsushima: A Samurai's Tale
Ghost of Tsushima is a visual treat. The wind whispers through the bamboo forests, the sun sets over the rolling hills... it's incredibly atmospheric. Jin Sakai's journey is deeply emotional, and the combat is both satisfying and challenging. The open world is gorgeous, seamlessly blending beauty and danger. A true cinematic experience that will leave you breathless.
Ghost of Tsushima PS5 gameplay screenshot showing a samurai on a horse | Image: Supplied
5. Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales: Web-Slinging Through NYC
Swinging through the vibrant city that never sleeps is pure joy. Miles Morales' story is fresh, engaging, and full of heart. The gameplay is incredibly smooth and responsive, making every web-slinging adventure a thrill. And the visuals? Simply stunning. Explore the iconic landmarks, help out the citizens, and stop some truly epic villains! It's so fun I forgot about everything else in my life!
Marvel's Spider-Man Miles Morales PS5 gameplay screenshot showing Miles Morales web-slinging | Image: Supplied
6. Assassin's Creed Valhalla: A Viking Adventure
Set sail on a Viking longship and explore the vast landscapes of England! The scale of this game is epic – from bustling towns to snow-capped mountains, there's so much to discover. The combat is brutal, the story is engaging, and the world is richly detailed. This is a massive game that will keep you busy for countless hours. It is also great for people who like to collect things. There's no other game quite like it.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla PS5 gameplay screenshot showing a Viking ship sailing | Image: Supplied
7. Cyberpunk 2077: Night City's Neon Glow
Cyberpunk 2077 is a visually stunning game, although it wasn't perfect upon release, the game has improved significantly. Night City is a breathtaking metropolis, filled with neon lights, towering skyscrapers, and a vibrant (if sometimes morally questionable) underworld. The story is complex and thought-provoking, and the choices you make genuinely impact the narrative. If you're into dystopian futures and unforgettable characters, this one's for you. I had my doubts, but I was won over in the end!
Cyberpunk 2077 PS5 gameplay screenshot showing Night City at night | Image: Supplied
8. Immortals Fenyx Rising: A Breath of Fresh Air
Immortals Fenyx Rising is a gorgeous game, inspired by the Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It features a bright, colorful world that's absolutely charming to explore. The puzzles are creative, the combat is fun, and the overall tone is lighthearted and enjoyable. A delightful change of pace from some of the more grim games on this list. This game was such a breath of fresh air after playing some really tough games.
Immortals Fenyx Rising PS5 gameplay screenshot showing a colorful landscape | Image: Supplied
9. Death Stranding: A Unique and Unforgettable Journey
Death Stranding. What even is this game? That was my first thought. It's unlike anything else out there. It's a walking simulator, a delivery service, a post-apocalyptic drama, and a philosophical meditation all rolled into one. I'll be honest, it's not for everyone. But if you're open to something truly different and thought-provoking, this is a game you need to experience. I found the story very meaningful and moving.
Death Stranding PS5 gameplay screenshot showing the desolate landscape | Image: Supplied
10. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (PS5 Enhanced Edition): A Timeless Classic
Geralt's epic journey through the Continent has never looked better. The PS5 enhanced edition breathes new life into this open-world masterpiece, with stunning visuals, improved performance, and all the DLC. Explore the rich lore, battle terrifying monsters, and make tough choices with lasting consequences. A true classic that deserves a spot on any gamer's shelf. If you’ve never played this before you're missing out!
The Witcher 3 Wild Hunt PS5 Enhanced Edition gameplay screenshot showing Geralt | Image: Supplied
So, What's Your Next Adventure?
There you have it – my top ten open-world PS5 games. But this is just a starting point; there are tons of other amazing worlds out there waiting to be explored. What are some of your favorites? Let me know in the comments below! Happy gaming, everyone!
