Skip to main content

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us?

The best open-world games for PS5

Even though the PlayStation 5 is less than two years old, there are still a ton of great games available for it spanning numerous genres. The PS5 has everything from shooters to sports games, RPGs, and platformers, along with a wide variety of open-world adventures. While “open world” isn’t necessarily a genre in and of itself, it’s a style that millions of players have fallen in love with over the years. These days, open-world games are quite common, meaning the competition to grab your attention is much stiffer. And with the likes of God of War Ragnarok down the pipeline, there will be plenty more to play in the future.

Despite this, there are so many fantastic open-world games available on the PS5. Some lean into horror, others send you to historical periods, while one, in particular, lets you explore the entire galaxy. There is no shortage of open-world games to play on PS5, and here, we’ll go through all of the best ones to choose from.

Recommended reading:

Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West
90 %
4/5
T
Platforms PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer Guerrilla Games
Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release February 18, 2022
When it comes to open-world adventures, few games are on the same level as Horizon Forbidden West. This is the sequel to 2017’s Horizon Zero Dawn, taking place in a post-apocalyptic world full of machines. Forbidden West feels very much like a sequel, featuring gameplay enhancements and improvements to the overall story and experience while introducing new mechanics to keep things fresh. In this game, you have access to a glider that allows you to get around much easier and even have the ability to swim underwater. The open world is absolutely littered with things to do, from main quests to side missions and lots of other activities to keep you busy. Aside from its excellent design, Forbidden West is one of the most beautiful games we’ve ever seen, with stunning character models and an equally impressive-looking world. This is easily one of the best PS5 games to date, and we highly recommend trying it out.
Elden Ring
Elden Ring
88 %
4/5
M
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre Role-playing (RPG)
Developer FromSoftware
Publisher Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release February 25, 2022

Elden Ring is an incredible example of redefining a familiar formula for the better. The tried-and-true Souls games haven’t strayed much from their core mechanics over the years, and while we love those games, Elden Ring is a nice change of pace, due in part to its open world. After spending dozens of hours with this game, it’s clear just how impactful this game’s open world is. For instance, it introduces a meaningful sense of exploration, doubling down on some of the ideas from previous Souls games but raising the stakes a substantial amount. Elden Ring is absolutely massive and gives players the freedom to complete areas in any order, leading to different experiences across the board. This is also a game that is littered with little moments or experiences that are easy to miss, making it fun to discuss with other players. It brings us back to the days of being on the playground, talking about our favorite games, and learning about their secrets from others. This isn’t just one of the best open-world games on PS5, it’s one of the best games ever made.

Read our full Elden Ring review
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
82 %
T
Platforms PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer Insomniac Games
Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release November 12, 2020
Following in the footsteps of one of the greatest (if not the greatest) superhero games of all time was likely no easy task. But Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales delivered, and in many ways is even better than the original Marvel’s Spider-Man. Whichever you prefer, there’s no denying just how fantastic this stand-alone game is. Everything from the story, writing, performances, and the way it portrays people of color is top-notch, raising the bar for how all of those things should be handled in the future. But the glue that holds this game together is its gameplay, which is just as fast-paced and fun as the original. Swinging around New York City never felt better, and thanks to Miles’ different powers, playing this game is a unique, yet familiar experience. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is also a shorter game, clocking in at around eight hours to complete, making it a digestible, yet full experience that never feels too long or short.
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales - Gameplay Demo | PS5
Demon's Souls
Demon's Souls
88 %
M
Platforms PlayStation 5
Genre Role-playing (RPG)
Developer Bluepoint Games
Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release November 12, 2020
Although 2009’s Demon’s Souls is excellent and influential, it doesn’t hold up as well over a decade later. But that’s precisely why Bluepoint Games’ 2020 remake is so important, as it somehow preserves the integrity (and soul) of the original, while improving upon nearly every aspect of it, from visuals to gameplay. What’s fascinating is that the remake is nearly a one-to-one recreation of the original, which is particularly exciting if you know your way around the 2009 game. When it comes to its design, it’s certainly more linear than a lot of the games on this list, but its labyrinthian structure makes it feel open-ended. It’s debatable whether it truly falls into the open world category, but an argument can certainly be made since each of the stages are so massive. Either way, this is one of the best games on the platform. Of course, Demon’s Souls is notorious for its unrelenting difficulty, though the remake does address some of the frustrations, making it easier to play. It still feels very much like Demon’s Souls, but without many of the limitations from the PS3 edition. It’s not for everyone, but to the fans of the Souls games (or action RPGs in general), this PS5 launch title is a must-play.
Demon's Souls - Announcement Trailer | PS5
No Man's Sky
No Man's Sky
69 %
3/5
T
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, SteamVR, PlayStation VR, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Meta Rift
Genre Shooter, Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Adventure, Indie
Developer Hello Games
Publisher Hello Games, 505 Games, Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release August 09, 2016
Calling No Man’s Sky an “open-world” game is a bit of an understatement. That’s because this game is an open universe. It consists of 18 quintillion planets, all of which are fully explorable. While some planets might have some similarities, no two are alike. No Man’s Sky is fascinating because it started as one of the most disappointing games of the previous generation. But since its launch in 2016, developer Hello Games has made good on its promises and then some. In fact, looking at the vanilla version of No Man’s Sky compared to the current edition is a sight to behold. Nearly everything has been revamped, from the visuals to its multiplayer component, base-building, and exploration. Best of all is that every update is free, along with the PS5 upgrade, so long as you already owned the game on PS4. From a design standpoint, it’s impressive this game even exists.
Read our full No Man's Sky review
No Man's Sky - Paris Games Week 2015 Trailer (Official)
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
76 %
4/5
M
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre Adventure
Developer Ubisoft Montreal
Publisher Ubisoft Entertainment
Release November 10, 2020
Set during 872 AD, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla builds upon the fantastic foundation introduced in Odyssey but instead focuses on Vikings and Norse mythology. With an incredibly beautiful and vibrant world, excellent combat, and a story that feels epic, Valhalla has a lot to love. Most impressively, the game completely doubles down on its RPG mechanics, giving you plenty of agency with how you build your character. This makes each playthrough feel varied and unique, throwing linearity out the door. While this might be a turnoff to longtime Assassin’s Creed fans, RPG lovers will likely fall in love with this installment. Valhalla sure has its flaws, but developer Ubisoft has made substantial improvements to it since its launch, so right now is a great time to dive in.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Official Teaser with Boss Logic – Timelapse
Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut
Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut
98 %
4.5/5
M
Platforms PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
Genre Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer Sucker Punch Productions
Publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment
Release August 20, 2021
Sony’s first-party studios set the bar high with open-world games, from the likes of Marvel’s Spider-Man, Horizon Zero Dawn, and even God of War to a lesser extent. But it somehow managed to surpass the expectations of open-world design in Ghost of Tsushima. One of the things we love about this game is how it doesn’t feel too big. There’s plenty to do, with lots of collectibles and places to explore, but you can get through the mainline story in a reasonable amount of time, which is refreshing. The combat is deep and satisfying, the characters are likable, and it’s downright one of the most stunning games ever made. The Director’s Cut on PS5 is even more beautiful and features additional content and quality of life improvements. Ghost of Tsushima isn’t just one of the great open-world games, it’s one of the best PlayStation games. Period.
Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut - Announcement Trailer | PS5, PS4
Borderlands 3
Borderlands 3
78 %
M
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre Shooter
Developer Gearbox Software
Publisher 2K Games
Release September 13, 2019
The wacky cooperative shooter series is back with the third installment (not counting the Pre-Sequel), aptly titled Borderlands 3. This entry turns everything up to 11, with a greater emphasis on wild weapons, explosions, and over-the-top characters. Of course, Borderlands has always been a mashup of RPG and first-person shooter action, and this entry is no different. You start off exploring a large open world, but eventually end up on other planets, though don’t expect to be able to travel across the entire galaxy like in No Man’s Sky. The ability to travel to different planets is one of this game’s strengths, as each one feels and looks unique, breaking up some of the monotony of making your way across the same area over and over again. Best of all is that Borderlands 3 prioritizes cooperative play, meaning you don’t have to travel alone.
Borderlands 3 Teaser Trailer - Mask of Mayhem
The Elder Scrolls Online
The Elder Scrolls Online
72 %
4/5
M
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre Role-playing (RPG)
Developer ZeniMax Online Studios
Publisher Bethesda Softworks
Release April 04, 2014
Combining the classic Elder Scrolls gameplay with MMO mechanics is an absolute match made in heaven. The only thing more satisfying than completing quests and exploring the continent of Tamriel is doing it with friends, and that’s exactly what you get in The Elder Scrolls Online. It has all the features you know and love from games like Skyrim, with the ability to create and customize your own character and their attributes and abilities. The kicker is being able to experience what this game has to offer with others, with the option to tackle quests with your friends. Though, you’re able to play this game by yourself, as long as you’re connected to the internet. Thankfully, The Elder Scrolls Online ditched its monthly subscription model in favor of a buy-to-play offering instead, making it easier to justify giving it a try. On PS5, the game supports 4K at 30 frames per second.
The Elder Scrolls Online - PvP Trailer
Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil Village
84 %
3/5
M
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre Shooter, Adventure
Developer Capcom
Publisher Capcom
Release May 07, 2021
Once again, Resident Evil Village is a game that falls just on the line of being open world, featuring large areas to explore that don’t feel massive. The village itself is large and has tons of items hidden throughout every nook and cranny, making it feel very much like an open world. Like its predecessor, Resident Evil 7, Village is presented from a first-person view, upping the ante in the horror and immersion departments, along with a ton of creepy monsters to take out (or run away from). Littered throughout the world and castle is currency you can use to upgrade your weapons, which incentives you to explore. Some players might not be as into the more action-oriented approach in Village, but even if survival horror is your preference, we still recommend giving this one a try. It also has some wild boss fights, along with a slew of fantastic, memorable characters. Resident Evil Village is, in many ways, a modern take on Resident Evil 4, encouraging exploration and action, while still being scary.
Resident Evil Village - Special Developer Message
Immortals Fenyx Rising
Immortals Fenyx Rising
74 %
4/5
T
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre Puzzle, Adventure
Developer Ubisoft Québec
Publisher Ubisoft
Release December 02, 2020
One game that arguably doesn’t get the credit it deserves is Immortals Fenyx Rising (formally known as Gods and Monsters). This was a launch title for PS5 and focuses on Greek mythology, from the perspective of Zeus, Prometheus, and Fenyx. In it, you play as Fenyx and can customize them to a certain degree. Since this is an open-world Ubisoft game, you might already know what to expect from it. There are lots of icons across the map, with various objectives to complete. As you check each one off your list, your character grows stronger, much like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry. Fenyx Rising, however, is far less realistic, with a vibrant art style, and featuring various abilities that make you feel like a god. This game is also wonderfully written, leaning into humor and wit, rather than a serious tone. Overall, it borrows from many games you might already like, such as Breath of the Wild and Ubisoft’s most popular open-world games, but it does enough to stand on its own.
Gods & Monsters: E3 2019 Official World Premiere Cinematic Trailer | Ubisoft [NA]
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
Yakuza: Like a Dragon
87 %
M
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer Ryū Ga Gotoku Studios
Publisher Sega
Release January 16, 2020
Yakuza: Like a Dragon is remarkable in the way it feels very much like a video game, while still immersing you into its world. That’s a fine line to walk because it’s easy to stray too far in one direction or the other. Interestingly, Like a Dragon is a major departure for the series, featuring a turn-based battle system that takes the place of its beat ’em up formula from before. This is arguably a much-needed change that makes it feel like a true JRPG. Beyond the superb gameplay is one of the best cast of characters a video game has ever had. These characters are all wonderfully realized, with backstories you can’t help but get invested into. This also makes the story so much more engaging, with cliffhangers, and twists and turns all over the place. The very end of the game is such an emotional moment that will no doubt lead to tears.
PS4専用ソフト『龍が如く7 光と闇の行方』ティザートレイラー
Far Cry 6
Far Cry 6
74 %
4.5/5
M
Platforms PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Google Stadia
Genre Shooter, Adventure
Developer Ubisoft Toronto
Publisher Ubisoft Entertainment
Release October 07, 2021
Ubisoft has practically perfected the open-world formula by now, creating massive worlds for players to get lost in, with tons of things to do. Far Cry 6 is, in many ways, a greatest hits compilation, full of things you’d expect, from a wild political story, plenty of action, and points of interest littered throughout the map for you to visit. The island of Yara is based on Cuba, with beautiful beaches greenery, and a densely packed city full of characters for you to meet. Far Cry 6 treads a fine line between being serious and silly, which is one of its strengths. In one moment, you’ll encounter a serious scene between the game’s antagonist, dictator “El Presidente” Antón Castillo, then the next, you’ll get to make use of your companion named Chorizo, a deadly Weiner dog with wheels for legs. It doesn’t always nail this dichotomy, but when it does, it’s a blast.
Read our full Far Cry 6 review
Far Cry 6: Cinematic Title Sequence Trailer | Ubisoft Forward

Editors' Recommendations

Movie images and data from:
Joseph Yaden
Joseph Yaden is a freelance journalist who covers loves Nintendo, shooters, and horror games. He mostly covers game guides…
The best games on PlayStation Plus, Extra, and Premium
A person plays Crash Bandicoot using a PS5 DualSense controller.

0person shooterPlayStation Plus has gone through several iterations and changes since it was first introduced. Originally, the service wasn't required for online play at all and rewarded subscribers with extra discounts and free monthly games. Once the PlayStation 4 generation began, it was required for online play, but still offered those same benefits.

Now, PS Plus is divided into three different tiers of subscriptions. The basic tier, PS Plus Essential, still gets three games per month added, while the Extra and Premium tiers will have a varying number of games added to their catalogs. With hundreds of games already and more coming and going all the time, even the most dedicated gamer won't be able to play everything on offer. To help you get the most bang for your buck, and so that no hidden gems go under your radar, here are all the best games to play on PS Plus Essential, Extra, and Premium right now.

Read more
Where to find Republic Chests in Fortnite
Republic Chest

Star Wars is once again taking over Fortnite with the brand-new Find the Force event, which brings a ton of new quests, items, and cosmetics to the popular battle royale. If you want to complete the full event reward track and earn all of the skins, one of the quests you'll need to knock out is opening a Republic Chest. Of course, you may want to seek these out each game anyways, as opening them will reward you with a new DC-15 Blaster, which is an immensely strong firearm that has infinite ammo and excellent range. Here's where to find Republic Chests.
Where to find Republic Chests and what's in them
Republic Chests can be found at three locations on the Chapter 4 Season 2 map. You'll find some located about halfway between The Citadel and Shattered Slabs, some to the west of Slappy Shores, and some by the road southwest of Frenzy Fields. Land at one of these spots and search the white tent-like buildings there for the chests.

Each Republic Chest contains one of the new DC-15 Blaster firearms alongside a selection of random support or healing items. You'll commonly see Medkits, Small Shield Potions, and Chug Splashes pop out, so you shouldn't have much trouble getting prepared for battle from the items you get from the Republic Chests.

Read more
The best upcoming PS5 games: 2023, 2024, and beyond
Chun-li classic outfit in Street Fighter 6.

The PlayStation 5 has been out for some time now, and its reception has been mostly positive. It includes lots of quality-of-life improvements over its predecessor, the PlayStation 4, such as faster load times, a solid-state drive (SSD) instead of a regular hard disk drive (HDD), and an improved controller in the form of the new DualSense. However, a console is only as good as the games available on it, and thankfully, the PS5 has you covered on that front as well.

While the machine already has a worthy library of great PS5 games, there are even more to look forward to, with some releasing as soon as this month, while others are still years away. In the video game world, it's not uncommon to be aware of games that are still several years out from release. It's also normal for a new game to be revealed and launched within just a couple of months. In this comprehensive list, we'll go through the major PS5 releases scheduled for 2023 and speculate on future games.

Read more