Open-world games have often been praised for highlighting the best aspects of gaming, inviting players into richly crafted alternative worlds to navigate freely on their own terms. The allure of exploring these expansive universes, combined with the sense of independence they offer, makes open-world games akin to a parallel existence where players can immerse themselves entirely.
It’s no surprise, then, that some of the industry’s standout titles belong to the open-world category. Xbox Game Pass subscribers are particularly fortunate, with a rich selection of such titles readily available. The real question is: where should a player venture next? Which open-world games on Xbox Game Pass deserve your attention?
Mark Sammut updated this list on November 26, 2024, noting Microsoft’s recent favor towards open-world aficionados with the monumental release of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. Despite a less-than-perfect launch, GSC’s survival-based open-world adventure has earned its place in the spotlight.
A game’s presence in Game Pass doesn’t solely hinge on its quality. For newly added major titles, expect them to feature prominently, regardless of initial reviews.
1. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Welcome to The Zone, a brutally unforgiving realm of desperation, greed, and survival. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, which for the longest time seemed like it might never reach gamers, now stands as a testament to GSC’s relentless commitment. The game’s release is a cause for celebration in itself, and thankfully, it’s proven to be a worthwhile addition to the library. Even though its difficulty can be daunting for new players, it remains surprisingly accessible compared to earlier entries in the series.
The game transports players to an expansive open-world setting teeming with mutants, magical artifacts, and a precarious scarcity of ammo. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the game boasts breathtaking visuals that enhance the experience, despite an early array of bugs that have since been addressed through patches.
Rich in ambiance and narrative depth, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 stands out among survival games. Its gameplay, intertwining survival elements like a radiation component and resource management, maintains the intense atmosphere. Even if you’ve never ventured into the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. universe, this latest installment is well worth exploring.
2. Minecraft
No title exemplifies unbounded creativity and exploration quite like Minecraft. Players enter a vast world devoid of constraints, ready to be shaped by their imagination. Whether it’s erecting a grand mansion, delving deep underground for precious resources, or crafting elaborate roller coasters, the possibilities are immense.
Though Minecraft eschews traditional quests, its true charm lies in the freedom it offers. It’s the quintessential sandbox, encouraging players to create, explore, and interact in whatever ways they see fit. It’s such a staple in the gaming industry that recommending it feels redundant—everyone knows Minecraft, and chances are, they know exactly where they stand on it. Among open-world titles on Game Pass, few rival Minecraft in influence and scope.
3. Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim remains an iconic pillar in the realm of open-world gaming, and it will likely hold this status until the next installment of its saga eventually arrives. Players continue to flock to its icy landscapes, verdant forests, and ancient ruins even after more than a decade since its 2011 release.
Those yet to undertake the Dragonborn’s epic journey should seize the opportunity. For returning adventurers, a wealth of mods for Xbox consoles breathes new life into familiar worlds, offering fresh twists to the time-honored classic.
4. Palworld
Palworld burst onto the Game Pass scene with surprising effectiveness, despite being in early access. While it seemingly attempts to cover an overwhelming range of styles—from survival to exploration—Pocket Pair has managed to deliver a game that feels surprisingly cohesive. In early access iterations, bugs are anticipated, but Palworld still runs smoothly, promising a great deal of content with the expectation of further developments to come.
Offering a unique concept where players can catch vibrant creatures called Pals to aid in their survival, exploration, and battles, Palworld presents a distinct charm. As players manage their hunger and maintain their base, these companions serve both in combat roles and in helping navigate the world’s expansive and visually appealing terrains. While the map’s sheer scale isn’t overwhelming, it offers enough intrigue for players who love to explore.
5. Forza Horizon 5
The Forza Horizon series is a haven for open-world racing enthusiasts, and the fifth installment doesn’t disappoint. Set against the stunning and diverse backdrops of Mexico, Forza Horizon 5 takes you on a breathtaking ride over vistas that vary dramatically in visual flavor.
Combining arcade-like gameplay with realistic environments and spectacular visuals, Forza Horizon 5 is an exhilarating driving experience. The expansive map is packed with activities that cater to both single-player and multiplayer drivers, making it a joy to explore for all.
6. Diablo 4
In recent times, Blizzard’s releases often find themselves mired in controversy, and Diablo 4 is no exception. The initial wave of acclaim swiftly gave way to critique, largely due to missteps with post-launch updates. Regardless, upon joining Xbox Game Pass, it remains a noteworthy addition and stands as a testament to the lasting allure of the Diablo franchise.
Despite post-launch challenges, the game offers a gripping primary campaign that players can enjoy on its own, even treating it as a solitary journey with a conclusive ending. The open-world of Sanctuary is vast and diverse, augmented by replayable dungeons thanks to procedural generation.
7. Microsoft Flight Simulator
Not everyone with an Xbox Series X/S might be drawn to a flight simulator, but those who are won’t find anything quite like Microsoft’s offering. After transitioning from PC exclusivity, Flight Simulator made its console debut, showcasing remarkable technical prowess. Aspiring pilots are gifted with the opportunity to soar through a digitally reconstructed world, with intricate mechanics and comprehensive tutorials to guide novices.
Players pilot aircrafts over a faithfully rendered Earth, and while landing isn’t an option, the freedom of flight offers a unique perspective of our planet’s splendor.
8. Terraria
Since its initial release in 2011, Terraria has cemented itself as a standout indie title that champions exploration. Re-Logic’s game grants players the tools to delve into an expansive and procedurally generated sandbox world at their leisure.
With an engaging mix of combat, survival, and crafting elements, Terraria is more than captivating. Its varied modes enrich the overall experience, keeping players engrossed across numerous adventures.
9. Grounded
Obsidian’s Grounded invites players to perceive the world on a micro scale as they navigate a backyard teeming with danger and intrigue after being shrunk to the size of an insect. Amidst towering blades of grass and prowling creatures, players are tasked with adapting to their environment en route to returning home.
It’s a world brought to life through vivid creativity and an imaginative take on survival mechanics, and it stands as testimony to Obsidian’s name for crafting expansive, immersive game worlds.
10. Sea Of Thieves
Rare’s Sea of Thieves provides an open-world pirate adventure designed to be savored best in tandem with friends. Since its challenging launch, the game has blossomed into a dynamic and engaging sandbox. As players band together to undertake trade quests, dig for treasure, and fend off mythical sea creatures, they shape their own maritime tales.
Frequent updates from Rare keep the world fresh, offering new ways to interact with the environment and fellow adventurers.
11. Yakuza 0
The Xbox Game Pass is a gateway into the entire mainline Yakuza saga. Starting with Yakuza 0’s compelling narrative set in two vibrant Japanese cities, players follow Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima in a story filled with conflict and chaos that underpins their involvement in the Yakuza.
Dense in side activities and ranging from the comedic to the heartbreaking, Yakuza 0 is more than a game—it’s a storytelling masterpiece.
If you fancy continuing the journey, Yakuza Kiwami beckons or twist the tale in a new direction with Yakuza: Like a Dragon.
12. Valheim
Joining the Xbox Game Preview program after a successful Steam debut, Valheim immerses players into the Viking era with its unique blend of survival in a procedurally generated land filled with formidable foes.
Despite being a work in progress, Valheim’s robust content library leaves a lasting impression, highlighted by expansive landscapes that beckon exploration and offer exhilarating encounters.
13. Tchia
Originally a PlayStation exclusive, Tchia’s arrival on Xbox Game Pass adds a breath of fresh air with its tropical setting and inventive soul-jumping mechanic. Based on the exotic vistas of New Caledonia, players enjoy adventure and exploration, manipulating the natural inhabitants of the world to navigate obstacles creatively.
Each creature adds to the game’s fluidity, enhancing movement and offering diverse strategies in combat.
14. Batman: Arkham Knight
The epitome of superhero games, Rocksteady’s Arkham series has set a high standard that endures. Although earlier titles are absent from Game Pass, Arkham Knight alone holds its ground, portraying Gotham City in unparalleled detail.
A masterclass in storytelling, environmental design, and combat, Arkham Knight captivates, though opinions vary on its Batmobile-focused segments.
15. South Park: The Fractured But Whole
Perhaps not strictly an open-world game, South Park: The Fractured But Whole still shines as a turn-based RPG that perfectly captures the essence of its source material. It immerses players in its distinctive aesthetic while providing plenty of superhero-themed hijinks.
Set in a hilariously outlandish world, players explore freely as they engage in absurd battles and unravel Cartman’s exaggerated tales.
16. Mafia: Definitive Edition
A true homage to 1930s America, Mafia: Definitive Edition masterfully blends storytelling and authenticity, reproducing a time period filled with intrigue and danger. Its focus remains on narrative, presenting Lost Heaven—a crime-laden city reminiscent of Chicago—as a beautifully rendered backdrop to Tommy Angelo’s tumultuous journey.
While expansive, the open-world primarily serves the story, weaving together the beats of a classic gangster tale.
17. Dungeons of Hinterberg
A delightful blend of exploration and dungeon-crawling set amidst breathtaking Alpine vistas, Dungeons of Hinterberg invites players to explore and unwind. As Luisa, players escape their routine life to conquer Hinterberg’s myriad dungeons, enjoying a relaxed yet engaging escapade through ever-changing biomes.
The game’s flexible and open-ended structure enhances its charm, making it ideal for those who seek an adventure without the pressures of stringent objectives.
18. Expeditions: A MudRunner Game (Or SnowRunner)
Though not strictly open-world, Expeditions: A MudRunner Game and SnowRunner deliver exploration-driven gameplay in challenging environments where the journey matters more than the destination. These games focus on navigating rugged terrain and plotting careful paths, providing players with a gratifying sense of accomplishment as they master each terrain.
For those willing to embrace a slower pace, both titles offer an immersive, contemplative experience.
19. Octopath Traveler 2
Octopath Traveler 2 captures the nostalgia of classic JRPGs while crafting a sprawling, interconnected world that defies linear storytelling. With stunning visuals and strategic combat, it masterfully intertwines the diverging paths of its characters, offering hours of exploration and adventure.
Despite being more of a non-linear RPG, its open-ended quest structure appeals to fans of traditional open-world games.
20. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Three Assassin’s Creed games grace Xbox Game Pass—Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla—each tethered to its distinct historical backdrop. Odyssey refines its mechanics alongside breathtaking visuals, offering an engaging tale set among Ancient Greece’s sprawling landscapes.
Its deep immersion, coupled with a compelling story, renders Odyssey a must-try among the collection, asserting the strength of Ubisoft’s storied franchise.
