The PlayStation 5 has firmly established itself as a next-gen gaming titan, delivering stunning visuals, near-instant load times, and immersive features like haptic feedback and 3D audio. Nowhere are these capabilities better showcased than in open world games — titles that reward exploration, player choice, and environmental storytelling. Whether you’re battling gods in fantasy realms or sneaking through neon-lit cyberpunk cities, the PS5 elevates every open world into a fully realized, living experience.
But with so many options on the market, narrowing down the best open world experiences for PS5 can be overwhelming. Some games prioritize narrative, others focus on gameplay systems like stealth, combat, or crafting, and many offer a blend of everything. What they all share, however, is the power to immerse you for dozens — sometimes hundreds — of hours in detailed, explorable worlds.
Here’s a breakdown of the best open world games for PlayStation 5, ranked based on storytelling, gameplay mechanics, technical performance, and world-building — complete with links to check current pricing on Amazon.
Top-Ranked PS5 Open World Games
| Rank | Game Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Elden Ring |
| 2 | Horizon Forbidden West |
| 3 | Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 |
| 4 | The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt |
| 5 | Red Dead Redemption 2 |
| 6 | Star Wars Outlaws |
| 7 | Assassin’s Creed Valhalla |
| 8 | Ghost of Tsushima |
| 9 | Cyberpunk 2077 |
| 10 | Death Stranding Director’s Cut |
Why These Games Stand Out
1. Elden Ring – FromSoftware’s genre-defining action RPG reimagines open world exploration. With minimal hand-holding, players are encouraged to find their own path through a richly detailed fantasy world. The “Shadow of the Erdtree” DLC expands the universe further in 2025.
2. Horizon Forbidden West – A visual showcase for the PS5, this sequel improves on every aspect of Zero Dawn. With deep lore, biome-diverse environments, and mechanical creatures to hunt, it’s one of the most compelling sci-fi narratives on the platform.
3. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 – Insomniac’s sequel lets players control both Peter Parker and Miles Morales. The web-swinging is smoother than ever, and the storytelling weaves in high-stakes drama with satisfying combat and exploration across a bigger, more vibrant New York.
4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Though it originally launched in 2015, the PS5 upgrade breathes new life into this RPG classic. With upgraded textures, ray tracing, and all expansions included, Geralt’s monster-hunting journey remains one of the richest in gaming.
5. Red Dead Redemption 2 – Rockstar’s Western masterpiece thrives on PS5 hardware even without a native port. The American frontier feels alive thanks to meticulous attention to detail, emergent gameplay systems, and a story that rivals cinema in emotional impact.
6. Star Wars Outlaws – As the first open world Star Wars game, it gives players a galaxy to explore from a scoundrel’s perspective. Developed by Ubisoft, it promises planetary exploration, spaceship dogfights, and a morally grey narrative reminiscent of Han Solo’s early days.
7. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla – One of the biggest maps in the series, Valhalla lets you raid, conquer, and settle as a Viking warrior in England. The PS5 version boasts enhanced visuals, fast loading, and all major expansions bundled in the “Complete Edition.”
8. Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut – With dynamic swordplay, stealth mechanics, and jaw-dropping environments, this samurai epic blends style with substance. The PS5 version includes the Iki Island expansion and DualSense features for immersive combat.
9. Cyberpunk 2077 – After a rocky launch, CD Projekt Red has transformed the game into a top-tier open world experience. The “Phantom Liberty” expansion adds espionage storytelling and new districts. Ray tracing and fast travel benefit greatly from PS5’s architecture.
10. Death Stranding Director’s Cut – Kojima’s post-apocalyptic delivery simulator remains one of the most polarizing but unique open world titles. The PS5 enhancements bring smoother terrain traversal, added missions, and even a racetrack, blending zen-like gameplay with cinematic storytelling.
What Makes Open World Games Perfect for PS5
The PS5’s power allows developers to create seamless, immersive worlds without loading screens or graphical compromises. SSD technology enables instant fast travel, while the DualSense controller adds nuanced feedback — whether it’s galloping through a storm in RDR2 or slashing through bamboo in Tsushima.
Dynamic lighting, ray tracing, and real-time weather systems also contribute to immersion. Titles like Horizon Forbidden West and Spider-Man 2 offer fidelity and performance modes, giving players a choice between cinematic visuals or high-frame-rate gameplay. Meanwhile, sound design on the PS5 makes use of Tempest 3D AudioTech to envelop players in the world’s atmosphere, from bustling cities to eerie forests.
Final Recommendation
If you’re looking to invest time in games that truly showcase the power of the PlayStation 5, these open world experiences are essential. They not only look and play better than ever — they give players the freedom to explore, experiment, and lose themselves in some of the richest virtual worlds gaming has ever seen.
1. Elden Ring
Elden Ring stands out as one of the most impressive open-world games available on PS5. Created by FromSoftware, this game combines challenging combat with an expansive world that players can explore freely.
The game offers a unique approach to open-world design. Unlike traditional open-world games, Elden Ring doesn’t overwhelm players with quest markers or checklists. Instead, it encourages genuine exploration and discovery.
Combat in Elden Ring is precise and rewarding. Each enemy encounter feels meaningful, and boss battles test both skill and patience. Players can choose from various fighting styles and character builds to match their preferred approach.
The world of the Lands Between is stunning and diverse. From sprawling fields to underground caverns, each area has its own atmosphere and secrets to uncover. The environmental storytelling adds depth to the experience.
Critics have praised Elden Ring extensively. Forbes called it the Game of the Generation, comparing it favorably to Skyrim but noting that it surpasses it in many ways.
The game recently expanded with the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. This addition brings new territories, characters, and enemies for players to experience, extending the already massive adventure.
Players on PS5 report spending 75+ hours exploring the game. This makes it perfect for those seeking an immersive experience that offers substantial content and replay value.
The PS5 version takes advantage of the console’s capabilities with quick loading times and smooth performance. These technical improvements enhance the already excellent gameplay and world design.
For newcomers to FromSoftware games, Elden Ring is more accessible than previous titles. The open-world format allows players to avoid difficult challenges temporarily and return when they feel ready.
2. Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West stands out as one of the best open-world games available on PlayStation platforms. This sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn expands on what made the original great while adding new features and improvements.
The game takes players on an adventure through a post-apocalyptic America filled with robot dinosaurs and lush environments. The world feels alive with its diverse biomes ranging from snowy mountains to sandy deserts.
Combat remains a highlight with various weapons and tactics available to take down mechanical beasts. Players can shoot off specific parts of machines to collect resources or disable dangerous attacks, making each encounter strategic.
Many gamers praise Horizon Forbidden West for doing open-world gaming right. The map isn’t just big for the sake of it – each area has purpose and things to discover.
The visual presentation on PS5 is stunning. Mountains, ruins, and mechanical creatures all look incredibly detailed. Weather effects and lighting add to the immersion, making exploration feel rewarding just for the sights alone.
Aloy, the main character, returns with more depth as she faces new challenges and meets interesting allies and enemies. Her story continues to be compelling as she tries to save the world from another extinction-level threat.
The sequel improves on almost every aspect of the original, from combat to traversal options. New tools like the Pullcaster and Shieldwing give players more freedom in how they navigate the terrain.
Even if the main story doesn’t grab you, the game is worth playing just for its rich open world. Side quests feel meaningful rather than repetitive tasks, and there’s always something interesting just over the next hill.
3. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 stands as one of the best open-world games for PS5 released in recent years. The game expands on its predecessors with a larger version of Marvel’s New York to explore.
Players can switch between Peter Parker and Miles Morales at will, giving the game a fresh dynamic. Each Spider-Man has unique abilities and fighting styles that add variety to gameplay.
The combat system has been refined since the previous games. New villains join the roster, providing challenging encounters throughout the story. Spectacular boss fights punctuate the narrative at key moments.
Web-swinging mechanics feel smoother than ever. The PS5’s power allows for instant switching between areas without loading screens. This seamless travel makes exploring the city more enjoyable.
Random encounters pop up across New York, keeping the world feeling alive. These events range from stopping robberies to helping citizens in need. The open-world free roam offers plenty to discover beyond the main storyline.
Side missions provide depth to the game world. Many feature familiar characters from Spider-Man lore. These missions often tell meaningful stories rather than feeling like simple checkboxes.
Visually, the game takes full advantage of PS5 hardware. Ray-traced reflections make the city’s glass buildings and wet streets look remarkably realistic. The 60fps performance mode ensures smooth gameplay even during hectic action sequences.
The game has earned high marks from critics. Reviews praise its improved mechanics and engaging storyline. Players appreciate the expanded world and dual-protagonist approach.
For those with access to PlayStation Plus, Spider-Man 2 ranks among the top open-world experiences available on the service. The game successfully builds on what worked in previous entries while adding enough new elements to feel fresh.
4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
The Witcher 3 stands as one of the best open-world games available on PlayStation. This fantasy epic blends intense combat with magic abilities and strong storytelling that keeps players engaged for hours.
What makes this game special is how it uses every part of its massive world. Unlike other open-world games where large areas feel empty, The Witcher 3 fills its landscapes with meaningful content and activities.
The side quests deserve special mention. They aren’t simple fetch tasks but mini-stories with real consequences and moral choices. Each quest connects to the world in ways that make sense and add depth to the experience.
Combat in The Witcher 3 combines sword fighting with magical “signs” that let players develop their own fighting style. Players can approach challenges through stealth, direct combat, or clever use of potions and abilities.
The game’s world feels alive with distinct regions from war-torn villages to monster-filled swamps. Each area has its own problems and stories waiting to be discovered.
Many players consider it possibly the best open-world game ever created because of how well it integrates gameplay mechanics with exploration. Nothing feels wasted or tacked on.
The PS5 version offers improved graphics and faster loading times compared to earlier versions. The complete edition includes the main game and two massive expansions: Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine.
Critics have praised The Witcher 3 highly, with many considering it a Game of the Year contender when it was released. Its mix of compelling characters, moral complexity, and vast world continues to impress players years after its initial launch.
5. Red Dead Redemption 2
Rockstar’s western epic stands as one of the most immersive open-world experiences available on PlayStation 5. While not built specifically for the PS5, the game runs beautifully on the newer hardware with improved load times and stable performance.
The vast, detailed American frontier of 1899 offers players an incredibly rich environment to explore. From snowy mountains to swampy bayous, each region feels distinct and alive with wildlife, weather systems, and random encounters that make every journey memorable.
As outlaw Arthur Morgan, players experience a touching story about loyalty, redemption, and the end of the Wild West era. The narrative strikes a perfect balance between epic moments and quiet character development that rivals the best films in the genre.
Red Dead Redemption 2’s gameplay on PS5 Pro showcases the ultimate western experience with improved frame rates and resolution. The game’s systems all work together seamlessly – hunting, fishing, robbery, bounty hunting, and even simple conversations with NPCs feel natural and rewarding.
The attention to detail is unmatched in the gaming world. Mud sticks to your clothes, hair grows over time, and horses respond realistically to your care or neglect. These small touches build a world that feels genuine rather than artificial.
Many players consider RDR2 to be in a league of its own when it comes to open-world games. In fact, some fans note that there is no real comparison to its depth and quality, making it difficult to recommend similar titles.
The online component, Red Dead Online, adds further value with cooperative missions, competitive modes, and the ability to build your own frontier story alongside friends. Though not as extensive as GTA Online, it provides dozens of additional hours of gameplay.
For players seeking an open world that prioritizes realism and storytelling over fantasy elements, Red Dead Redemption 2 remains one of the top choices available on PlayStation platforms.
6. Star Wars Outlaws
Star Wars Outlaws marks a significant milestone as the first-ever open world Star Wars game. Players can explore various planets across the galaxy, including both familiar and new locations in the Star Wars universe.
Developed by Ubisoft, the game puts players in the role of Kay, a scoundrel trying to make her way through the dangerous underworld. The gameplay centers around completing jobs and deals to survive in this rough environment.
Some fans consider it Ubisoft’s best game this decade, showing how it stands out even among the company’s other popular titles. The game offers an experience that balances action, adventure, and the unique Star Wars atmosphere.
The PS5 version takes advantage of the console’s capabilities to create immersive environments. Players can engage with the iconic settings that feel authentic to the Star Wars universe while enjoying smooth gameplay.
As with many open world games, Star Wars Outlaws features side quests, exploration opportunities, and character interactions that extend beyond the main storyline. This structure allows players to experience the Star Wars galaxy at their own pace.
The game joins the ranks of top open-world experiences on PS5, offering fans a chance to live out their Star Wars fantasies in a format that encourages free exploration and discovery.
Reviews highlight the quintessential open world elements that make the game engaging. The combination of Star Wars lore with open world mechanics creates a unique gaming experience that stands out in both the Star Wars gaming collection and the broader PS5 library.
7. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla stands as one of the most impressive open-world games on PS5. Players step into the boots of Eivor, a Viking warrior exploring a vast and beautiful world filled with adventures and challenges.
The game offers a massive recreation of Dark Ages England and Norway that feels alive. Towns bustle with activity while the countryside offers peaceful exploration and hidden secrets. The attention to historical detail creates an immersive experience few games match.
Combat in Valhalla delivers satisfying Viking brutality. The dual-wielding system lets players customize their fighting style with various weapons. Raids on monasteries and building your settlement add strategic layers to the gameplay.
The world of Valhalla competes as one of the best in gaming. Its landscapes range from snowy mountains to lush forests and medieval towns. Each region tells its own story and presents unique challenges.
Story-wise, the game weaves Viking mythology with the traditional Assassins versus Order of the Ancients conflict. This narrative balance works well, giving both new players and series veterans something to enjoy.
The PS5 version takes full advantage of the console’s power. Faster loading times, enhanced graphics, and smooth performance make exploration more enjoyable. The DualSense controller features add tactile feedback to activities like archery and sailing.
Ubisoft’s post-launch support has been strong with multiple expansions adding new regions and storylines. The Director’s Cut version packages all this content together for a complete experience.
Side activities provide plenty to do beyond the main quest. Fishing, hunting legendary animals, solving mysteries, and collecting artifacts can easily add dozens of hours to playtime.
For PS5 owners wanting a deep open-world adventure, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla delivers a robust experience that combines history, mythology, and satisfying gameplay.
8. Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima takes open world gaming to spectacular heights on the PS5. Set in feudal Japan during the Mongol invasion, this visually stunning adventure puts you in the role of Jin Sakai, a samurai fighting to protect his homeland.
The game’s combat system strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and depth. Players can switch between stealthy assassinations and honorable face-to-face duels, each approach feeling equally rewarding and fluid.
What truly sets Ghost of Tsushima apart is its breathtaking world. The PS5 version, especially the Director’s Cut, showcases stunning vistas with fields of swaying grass, colorful forests, and dramatic weather effects that make exploration a joy.
Navigation feels natural thanks to the innovative guiding wind system. Instead of cluttering the screen with waypoints, gentle breezes point you toward objectives while encouraging organic discovery.
The side content never feels like filler. From helping villagers to tracking down mythic tales that grant legendary abilities, each activity adds meaningful layers to the world and Jin’s character development.
Many fans consider Ghost of Tsushima one of the best PS5 experiences available today. Its combination of beautiful views and great combat makes it stand out in a crowded field of open world games.
The game’s photo mode deserves special mention. Players can capture the stunning landscapes and dramatic moments with an extensive set of tools, leading to some truly frame-worthy shots.
For those who enjoy story-driven experiences, Ghost of Tsushima delivers an emotional tale about honor, sacrifice, and change. Characters feel authentic, and the narrative hits powerful emotional beats throughout.
9. Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 has made a remarkable comeback since its troubled launch. The game has undergone significant improvements through updates and expansions, now offering PS5 players one of the most engaging open-world experiences available.
Night City stands as a stunning achievement in world design. The neon-lit metropolis feels alive with distinct districts, each with their own atmosphere and dangers. Players can spend hours just walking the streets, taking in the sights, and stumbling upon unexpected side activities.
The game shines in its character-driven storytelling. V’s journey, alongside the digital ghost of Johnny Silverhand, takes players through a complex narrative filled with meaningful choices. These decisions impact not just the main story but also numerous side quests.
Combat options provide great flexibility. Players can approach situations as gun-blazing mercenaries, stealthy netrunners, or cybernetically enhanced brawlers. The variety of weapons and cyberware modifications allows for personalized playstyles.
The PS5 version takes full advantage of the console’s capabilities. Enhanced visuals, faster load times, and haptic feedback through the DualSense controller make Night City more immersive than ever before. The ray-tracing mode particularly showcases the game’s visual prowess.
The Phantom Liberty expansion adds substantial new content to an already massive game. Many fans consider it one of the best open world games created, especially after all its updates. The depth of side content is staggering, with some of the most memorable moments hiding in optional quests.
Cyberpunk’s progression system rewards exploration and experimentation. Discovering new cyberware, vehicles, and weapons gives players constant motivation to venture into unexplored corners of Night City.
10. Death Stranding Director’s Cut
Death Stranding Director’s Cut takes the unique open-world experience created by Hideo Kojima and enhances it for PS5 players. This expanded version adds new combat mechanics, delivery tools, and story missions to the base game.
The PS5 version takes full advantage of the console’s power with improved visuals and performance. Loading times are significantly reduced, and the haptic feedback from the DualSense controller adds a new layer to traversal across the stunning landscapes.
For those unfamiliar with Death Stranding, it places you in a post-apocalyptic America where you connect isolated communities. The Director’s Cut makes this journey more accessible for newcomers while adding depth for returning players.
One of the most unique open-world games available, Death Stranding focuses on the journey rather than the destination. The terrain itself is your main adversary, making each delivery a puzzle to solve.
New additions include a firing range to practice combat skills, a racing mode for some lighthearted fun, and additional structures to build. These features help break up the sometimes grueling late-game deliveries without compromising the core experience.
The competitive ranking system adds replay value for those who enjoy comparing their delivery performances with others. Players can challenge themselves to find more efficient routes and strategies.
Visually, Death Stranding remains one of the best-looking games currently available on PS5. The stark landscapes and weather effects create an atmosphere few games can match.
The Appeal of Open World Games
Open world games offer players freedom to explore vast virtual environments and shape their own adventures. These titles have become increasingly popular on PlayStation 5, where powerful hardware enables more detailed and responsive worlds than ever before.
Immersive Exploration
The joy of discovery stands as a core element in open world games on PS5. Players can wander through meticulously crafted landscapes without following linear paths.
Modern PS5 titles like Horizon Forbidden West showcase stunning environments that range from snow-capped mountains to lush forests. The attention to detail creates a sense of place that feels alive.
These games reward curiosity. Hidden treasures, side quests, and unexpected encounters await players who venture off the beaten path. This creates a personal connection to the world that linear games often can’t match.
The PS5’s improved loading times and graphics capabilities make exploration more seamless. Players can travel across huge maps without jarring interruptions, maintaining immersion throughout their journey.
Dynamic Storytelling
Open world games excel at letting players experience stories on their terms. Instead of pushing through a fixed narrative, gamers can engage with storylines at their own pace.
Games like Red Dead Redemption 2 build complex narratives that respond to player choices. These decisions might alter relationships with characters or unlock entirely different story branches.
Side quests in open worlds often contain compelling mini-stories that add depth to the setting. These smaller tales provide context and emotional connection to the virtual world.
The nonlinear approach allows players to create their own stories through gameplay. Unexpected events during exploration can lead to memorable moments that feel unique to each player’s experience.
Technical Advancements on PS5
The PlayStation 5 brings significant upgrades that transform open world gaming experiences. These improvements make vast digital landscapes more immersive and responsive than ever before.
Graphics and Performance
The PS5’s GPU delivers 10.28 teraflops of power, enabling stunning visual fidelity in open world games. Many titles offer multiple graphical modes, typically:
- Fidelity Mode: 4K resolution at 30 FPS with ray tracing
- Performance Mode: Dynamic resolution at 60 FPS
- Performance RT: A hybrid offering ray tracing at higher framerates
Games like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 showcase ray-traced reflections in puddles and windows throughout New York City. This adds remarkable realism to urban environments.
The DualSense controller adds tactile feedback unique to PS5. Feel different surfaces as you traverse open worlds – from grassy plains to rocky mountains. This haptic technology creates a more connected experience.
Dynamic weather systems and day/night cycles appear more convincing thanks to improved lighting engines. Titles like Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut utilize these capabilities to create breathtaking scenery.
Loading Times and Storage
The PS5’s custom SSD virtually eliminates loading screens in open world games. Fast travel across massive maps now takes seconds instead of minutes.
This speed improvement fundamentally changes game design. Developers can create seamless transitions between areas without hiding loading behind elevators or narrow passages.
Some recent examples:
- Hogwarts Legacy loads its detailed castle and grounds almost instantly
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla lets players move between England and mythological realms with minimal delay
The PS5’s 825GB SSD uses a compression architecture that reduces game file sizes. This technology helps fit more massive open worlds on the system despite their growing complexity.
Quick Resume functionality allows players to switch between multiple open world games without losing progress. This feature is perfect for those who enjoy exploring different virtual worlds in a single gaming session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players often have specific questions about open world games for the PS5. These questions cover everything from current top games to upcoming releases and how PS5 titles compare to their PS4 predecessors.
What are the top-rated open world games currently available on PS5?
The highest-rated open world games for PS5 include Elden Ring, which has received critical acclaim for its challenging gameplay and expansive world design.
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut continues to be a fan favorite with its stunning Japanese landscapes and refined combat system.
Horizon Forbidden West offers breathtaking visuals and an engaging story that expands on its predecessor. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 has also gained popularity for its fluid traversal mechanics and dual protagonist approach.
Which open world PS5 games offer the best multiplayer experience?
Cyberpunk 2077 has improved significantly through updates and now supports a robust single-player experience, though it lacks true multiplayer features.
No Man’s Sky offers one of the most comprehensive multiplayer experiences in an open world setting, allowing players to explore an entire universe together.
Elden Ring provides unique multiplayer options through its invasion and cooperation systems, creating tense player interactions within its vast world.
What new open world adventures can PS5 players look forward to in 2025?
Monster Hunter Wilds is generating significant excitement, promising expansive hunting grounds and improved monster AI.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will take players to feudal Japan, featuring dual protagonists and a vast open world to explore.
Several independent studios are also developing unique open world experiences that push the boundaries of the PS5’s capabilities, focusing on reactive environments and advanced physics systems.
How do the best PS5 open world games compare to top PS4 titles?
PS5 open world games generally offer significant improvements in loading times, with some titles virtually eliminating load screens when fast traveling.
Graphics have seen substantial upgrades, with games like The Witcher 3’s PS5 upgrade demonstrating improved lighting, textures, and draw distances compared to the PS4 version.
Red Dead Redemption 2, even without a dedicated PS5 version, runs at higher frame rates and resolutions through backward compatibility, enhancing the already impressive open world experience.
Which open world RPGs for PS5 are considered must-play by the gaming community?
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition remains a benchmark for open world RPGs with its mature storytelling and expansive world filled with meaningful quests.
Elden Ring has redefined expectations for open world design by creating a world that rewards exploration without excessive hand-holding or map markers.
Baldur’s Gate 3 has quickly become essential for RPG fans, offering unprecedented player freedom and reactivity within its detailed world.
Are there any upcoming open world games for PS5 that are generating significant buzz?
Metaphor: ReFantazio is building anticipation with its unique fantasy setting and systems from the creators of Persona.
The next installment in the Grand Theft Auto series, while not officially announced for PS5, is already creating massive excitement among the gaming community.
Several major studios have teased open world projects leveraging the PS5’s SSD and processing power to create more dynamic, seamless worlds without the limitations of previous console generations.
