Open world games let you get lost in a fantasy universe for hours on end. I love the fantasy versions with mystical settings to explore, but there’s a great mix of genres that make use of open world maps. Here are the top 10 open world games releasing in 2024.
10 Most Anticipated Open World Games Expected in 2024
10. Dune: Awakening
Arrakis’ environment makes survival difficult. Now, survive it as an MMO while searching for water in a desert and trying to avoid sandworms. Dune: Awakening puts you in a harsh setting and requires you to survive. Features include building shelters and maintaining your stillsuit, hunting and harvesting Spice, and a landscape that changes as sand shifts. There’s no official release date, but we know this challenging survival game in a beloved world based on the novel becomes available in 2024.
9. Skull and Bones
Who doesn’t want to be a pirate? Skull and Bones releases on February 16, and it lets you explore the high seas as a pirate in the year 1721. Unlike most entries on this list, Skull and Bones isn’t story-focused. While it contains story elements, it focuses on exploration, forming factions, finding treasure, and taking control of the seas. However, I just hope sea shanties are included in the soundtrack.
8. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Elden Ring’s upcoming DLC keeps us anticipating the next step of our journey in the Lands Between. We know little information regarding the content of the DLC, not even having a set release date for it. But it’s certain to have an open world map like the base game. The trailer shows an unknown character riding a mount that looks like Torrent. I agree with the theories that it’s Miquella shown, considering the hair looks the same as his hair in the cinematics. His goal to create a new, better Erdtree might’ve changed with the ending of the base game, so he could be forced to find a new purpose.
7. Dragon Age Dreadwolf
Dragon Age Inquisition’s open world map leads to the belief that Dreadwolf will follow in its footsteps. I love seeing series bring back favorite characters in ways that make sense, and Dreadwolf sets up for that. Varric from Dragon Age 2 narrates the trailer, implying that he returns to adventure alongside Solas. Dreadwolf’s release date remains unknown, but players suspect and hope for a 2024 release.
6. Avowed
Magic, melee weapons, and guns used in combination? Count me in. Avowed’s developers also made The Outer Worlds, so many elements from that game could be included in this one as well. Interact with NPCs and recruit some as companions to join you on quests. Additionally, you’ll have various dialogue options to change the path of your game. Though, how much your choices matter isn’t known yet. Expected to release in Q3 or Q4, I look forward to jumping into this version of Pillar of Eternity’s universe.
5. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Horror games often use semi-open worlds or linear maps, but Stalker 2 uses an open world. Information about the story has been scarce, but trailers show a mix of horror, action, and survival. We also know the release date is set for September 5, 2024. Then, we get to solve mysteries in a world while navigating dangers, surviving a harsh environment, and dealing with a life simulation system. After a rough development, Stalker 2 looks worth the wait.
4. Dragon’s Dogma 2
Dragon’s Dogma 2 takes a unique approach to sequels and includes a map four times larger than the first game’s. Arisen finds himself stuck between kingdoms, but he receives help from pawns that are as customizable as Arisen. Exciting features include a dynamic day and night cycle, world events you react to, fast travel, and camping across the world. Start your adventure on March 22, 2024.
3. Star Wars Outlaws
Ready to pull off the biggest heist in Outer Rim history? Become Kay Vess and explore familiar and new planets with an open world environment in a story set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Features include stealth, open combat, vehicle combat, space combat, and branching dialogue. I love the focus on storytelling and exploration, so I can’t wait to see what Star Wars Outlaws adds to the series’ universe this year.
2. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
The second part of the FF7 Remake releases February 29, 2024. This time, we get to explore the open world after leaving Midgar and see it in its glory. I can’t wait to see the Gold Saucer and what side quests we’ll find in the world. But finally finding out if Aerith’s fate remains the same, how Zack stayed alive, and how this timeline fits with the original will be the true highlight of Rebirth.
1. Rise of the Ronin
Experience the darkest years of Japan in Rise of the Ronin: the Boshin War. You have access to weapons common during that time period, but recruiting help from NPCs or two other players can make combat easier. It looks like Elden Ring set in Edo Japan, and it’s the game I’m most excited for on this list. You make choices at key moments, explore historic cities, and travel through a stunning open world. The adventure begins on March 22, 2024.
Those are the top 10 open world games releasing in 2024. As always, there’s a chance that entries could be delayed and end up releasing in 2025. But this list is made using the release date information and current speculations. From here, check out more topics like the best romances in the Final Fantasy franchise or the best video game villains ever.
