Best Open World Games Of 2022 You Missed

Hey gaming fanatics! 2022 was an absolute banger of a year for open-world games, right? We saw some seriously epic releases that let us loose in sprawling landscapes, filled with endless possibilities. Whether you're into slaying dragons, cruising through neon-drenched cities, or just chilling and fishing, there was something for everyone. And let's be real, with so many games dropping, it's easy to miss a few gems. So, I'm here to give you the lowdown on some of the best open-world experiences that might have slipped under your radar last year. Get ready to update that backlog, folks!

The Titans of 2022: Games That Stole the Show

2022 brought us some absolute behemoths in the open-world genre. These games not only delivered incredible gameplay but also pushed the boundaries of what's possible in terms of size, detail, and player freedom. Let's dive into a few of the biggest names, the ones that probably dominated your gaming feeds, and why they deserve all the hype.

First up, we have Elden Ring. Seriously, guys, if you haven't played this one yet, you're missing out on a gaming masterpiece. FromSoftware, the creators of the Dark Souls series, outdid themselves with this one. Elden Ring throws you into the Lands Between, a vast and mysterious world ripe for exploration. You'll face off against colossal bosses, discover hidden dungeons, and unravel a captivating story filled with cryptic lore. The freedom to explore is unparalleled; you can go wherever you want, whenever you want. The combat is challenging but rewarding, demanding skill and strategy. The art direction and world design are breathtaking, creating an immersive experience that will keep you hooked for dozens, if not hundreds, of hours. Whether you're a seasoned Souls veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Elden Ring offers something truly special. It's a game that will stay with you long after you've put down the controller. This game is a must-play for any open-world enthusiast. It is known for its difficulty, but the game is also renowned for its vast open world. With a strong emphasis on exploration, Elden Ring offers players the freedom to traverse a sprawling landscape filled with secrets, challenges, and awe-inspiring vistas. The game's intricate world design, coupled with its engaging combat system and rich lore, creates a truly immersive and unforgettable gaming experience. The game's success is a testament to its quality and enduring appeal within the gaming community.

Next, let's talk about Horizon Forbidden West. Guerrilla Games crafted a stunning sequel that expands on the already impressive world of Horizon Zero Dawn. The Forbidden West takes you to a post-apocalyptic version of the American West, where you play as Aloy, a skilled hunter who must save the world from a mysterious threat. The graphics are jaw-dropping, the environments are diverse and vibrant, and the gameplay is even more refined than its predecessor. You'll get to explore underwater ruins, climb towering mountains, and battle awe-inspiring robotic creatures. The story is gripping, and the characters are well-developed, drawing you into the world and making you care about Aloy's journey. The open-world aspects are enhanced with improved traversal mechanics and a richer variety of side quests and activities. Forbidden West provides a fantastic balance of exploration, combat, and storytelling, making it a truly memorable open-world adventure. Horizon Forbidden West is a testament to the power of open-world gaming. The game offers players an immersive experience filled with exploration, combat, and a compelling narrative. The game's open world is beautifully realized, with diverse environments and stunning visuals. Players are free to explore the world at their own pace, uncovering secrets, engaging in thrilling battles, and interacting with a rich cast of characters.

Then, of course, we had Dying Light 2: Stay Human. Techland delivered a massive open-world zombie parkour experience. Set in a decaying European city, you must scavenge for resources, fight off hordes of infected, and navigate the treacherous rooftops. The parkour mechanics are incredibly satisfying, allowing you to fluidly leap across buildings and evade danger. The game's open world is dense and vertical, with secrets and challenges hidden around every corner. The story offers choices that impact the narrative and the world around you. Dying Light 2 builds upon the first game's strengths, adding even more depth to the gameplay and world-building. The dynamic day-night cycle, where the infected become more dangerous at night, adds an extra layer of tension and excitement. If you're looking for a thrilling open-world experience with a focus on movement and combat, Dying Light 2 is a solid choice. Dying Light 2: Stay Human showcases the potential of open-world zombie games. The game provides players with a vast and detailed world to explore, filled with hordes of zombies and challenging missions. The open world is designed to encourage exploration, with hidden locations, resources, and secrets waiting to be discovered. The game's parkour mechanics are a highlight, allowing players to navigate the environment with speed and agility.

Hidden Gems: Open World Games You Might Have Missed

Alright, let's move on to some of the lesser-known, but equally amazing, open-world games that came out in 2022. These are the titles that might have flown under the radar, but definitely deserve your attention. These games offer unique experiences, interesting gameplay mechanics, and captivating worlds that are worth exploring. So, get ready to add these to your must-play list!

Firstly, we have Tunic. This isometric action-adventure game, that draws inspiration from classic Zelda games. It features a beautifully designed world, a challenging combat system, and a mysterious story that unfolds through cryptic hints and clues. The gameplay encourages exploration and experimentation, with a focus on uncovering secrets and understanding the game's mechanics. The art style is charming and unique, and the gameplay is both engaging and rewarding. Tunic is a perfect example of a hidden gem, offering a fresh and innovative take on the open-world genre. Tunic offers a fresh perspective on the open-world genre. The game encourages players to explore and uncover its many secrets. The isometric perspective provides a unique view of the world, and the combat system is both challenging and rewarding. The game's atmosphere is engaging, and its puzzle elements add another layer of depth to the experience. The game is known for its challenging combat and a world that encourages exploration.

Then, there's Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga. This game is a massive undertaking, covering all nine mainline Star Wars films. The open-world gameplay allows you to explore iconic locations from the Star Wars universe, such as Tatooine, Hoth, and Coruscant. The game offers a wide variety of characters to play as, each with unique abilities. The gameplay is fun and accessible, making it enjoyable for players of all ages. The Skywalker Saga is a love letter to the Star Wars franchise, offering a unique and engaging open-world experience for fans of all backgrounds. This game is a standout among open-world games. The game's charm and humor make it a joy to play. Players can explore a vast galaxy, completing missions, and engaging in lightsaber battles. The game's extensive content and attention to detail make it a worthwhile experience for both Star Wars fans and open-world gamers alike. Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga offers a unique and engaging open-world experience. The game's expansive content and attention to detail make it a worthwhile experience for both Star Wars fans and open-world gamers alike. The game offers a diverse range of characters to play, each with unique abilities and playstyles. The Skywalker Saga also includes a comprehensive open world that encourages exploration and discovery.

Another great one is Nobody Saves the World. Developed by Drinkbox Studios, the creators of Guacamelee, this action RPG is all about transformations. You can change into a wide variety of forms, from a rat to a knight, each with its own unique abilities. The open world is packed with dungeons, challenges, and secrets to discover. The gameplay is fast-paced and engaging, and the character customization is extensive. Nobody Saves the World is a unique and creative take on the open-world genre, offering a fun and rewarding experience for players who enjoy experimentation and exploration. Nobody Saves the World is an innovative open-world experience that allows players to transform into various creatures. The game's open world is filled with challenges and secrets to discover. The gameplay is fast-paced and engaging, and the character customization is extensive. Nobody Saves the World offers a fun and rewarding experience for players who enjoy experimentation and exploration. The game’s design makes it stand out, combining action RPG elements with a unique transformation mechanic.

The Open World Landscape: More Than Just Size

So, what makes an open-world game truly special? It's not just about having a massive map, although that's certainly part of the appeal. It's about the feeling of freedom, the sense of discovery, and the ability to forge your own path. It's about getting lost in a world that feels alive, where every corner holds a new surprise. It's about engaging with the story and the characters, feeling immersed in the world.

Great open-world games excel in several key areas: First, world design is vital. The environments should be detailed, visually appealing, and filled with interesting locations to explore. Second, gameplay variety is key. The game should offer a diverse range of activities, from combat and exploration to side quests and crafting. Third, a compelling story and well-developed characters help draw players into the world, making them care about their journey. Finally, the open-world game should have a sense of purpose and direction, whether it is given by the main narrative or by the player's personal goals and desires.

The best open-world games create a sense of wonder and excitement, making you want to keep playing, keep exploring, and keep discovering new things. They are not just games; they are immersive experiences that stay with you long after the credits roll. The best open-world games are known for their intricate world design, engaging gameplay, and immersive storytelling, making them a cornerstone of the gaming industry.

Diving Deeper: Exploring What Makes These Games Great

Let's delve a bit deeper into what makes these open-world games stand out. These games offer various ways to immerse yourself in the experience. Let's look at the variety of factors that combine to make these games a blast. These games often use their massive open worlds as playgrounds for the players.

The depth of these games is found in these key areas: The first is the world design, making an immersive environment that is interesting to explore. Next, is the gameplay, which needs to be varied and engaging. Side quests, activities, and secrets are critical. Finally, a compelling narrative and well-developed characters are important. These games provide a high level of engagement and provide a strong sense of immersion. They're not just games; they're experiences that will resonate long after you've set down the controller. The success of these games lies in the combination of these factors, making each game a memorable and enjoyable experience for the player.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Open World

The open-world genre is always evolving. Developers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible, creating bigger, more detailed, and more interactive worlds. Expect to see even more immersive experiences in the years to come, with innovations in graphics, AI, and gameplay mechanics. Virtual Reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) also have the potential to revolutionize open-world gaming, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in these virtual environments. The future is bright for open-world gaming, and we can't wait to see what amazing experiences developers have in store for us. The future of open-world games looks bright. It will be exciting to see how developers take this genre and build upon it to create even more immersive and engaging gaming experiences. The advancement of technology will continue to enhance the player experience. Expect innovative open-world games in the coming years.

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits!

So, there you have it, guys! A look back at some of the best open-world games of 2022. From epic fantasy adventures to zombie-infested cities, there was something for everyone. Hopefully, this list has given you some inspiration for your next gaming adventure. So, dust off your controllers, clear some space in your schedule, and get ready to explore these incredible worlds. Happy gaming!