Summary
Most people assume that all open-world games come packed with a combat loop to keep players interested. While this statement is true for the majority of sandbox games, there are some titles with an open world that don’t rely on combat to keep players engaged.
Instead, these games let players focus on puzzles, exploration, or storytelling to keep things engaging. When players get invested in these experiences, they’ll barely notice that these games lack any weapons whatsoever.
Outer Wildsis one of the most underrated video gamesplayers can get their hands on. Knowledge is the resource players gather in this game as they explore an intimate galaxy and its many planets. Based on the information they uncover, players will understand how to make progress in areas that were challenging to explore. This simple gameplay loop is a huge part of what makesOuter Worldsa must-play open-world game.
Players who want a simple, feel-good game where they control a painter willfindEastshadeto be right up their alley. The world is full of anthropomorphic animals that players can help out of the goodness of their heart. This charming and relaxing presentation is a huge part of what makesEastshadesuch a gem of an open-world game. It’s perfect for players who want to explore a beautiful sandbox without being roped into stressful combat situations.
Sable’s simple gameplay lets players explore massive deserts on a hoverbikeas they’re tasked with helping the protagonist complete a ritual. As one would expect, this involves a fair bit of traversal as players try to find the mask that will help the eponymous protagonist prove herself to her clan.
Solving puzzles and engaging in platforming challenges is a huge part of what makes this title so special. The relaxing gameplay will be perfect for players who are tired of the relentless violence present in most open-world games.
While there are weapons to findinDisco Elysium, players can’t exactly use firearms liberally in the series. Rather, these guns serve as a way to propel the narrative of an amazing story-driven game that lets players explore the dense city of Revachol.
The immersive setting rewards players for exploring the game’s world and inspecting everything that catches the detective’s fancy. The city may seem small at first glance, but the depth of content present in this environment makes exploration such an enjoyable part ofDisco Elysium.
Players who want a simple open-world game that will cause them to grin from ear to ear will lovewhatA Short Hikebrings to the table. All players need to do is find golden feathers to improve the protagonist’s ability to climb, fly, and jump. This is a necessity, since players need to acquire cellphone reception at the top of a mountain. The short runtime and cozy setting helpA Short Hikefeel like a warm hug, making it one of the most peaceful open-world games players can get their hands on.
Players who lovedBraidwerehyped forThe Witness, which didn’t disappoint. Players awake on a mysterious island full of puzzles that are deceptively challenging and can make players scratch their heads.
This makesThe Witnessperfect for fans of puzzle games with a sense of exploration. The sandbox is full of unique puzzles that can be downright frustrating at times, only for the solution to arrive out of nowhere and help players enjoy an immense sense of satisfaction.
Alba: A Wildlife Adventureis one of the most interesting open-world games available. The title lets players explore a charming island, only for it to be revealed that the nature reserve in this humble location will be razed to make way for a luxury hotel.
As one would expect, the protagonist takes a pro-environment stance and decides to round up the support of as many residents as possible. This makes for a laid-back and charming experience as players enjoy the game’s warm visuals, interacting with several charming personalities in the process.
After becoming trapped on the island of Gemea, the protagonist ofYonder: The Cloud Catcher Chroniclesfinds it to be covered in a dark substance called the Murk. Thankfully, all they need to do is collect enough Sprites to clear the corruption plaguing this island.
This simple setup sets the stage for a charming adventure as players do everything in their power to save this island from being overwhelmed by the Murk. In a sea of open-world games full of dark settings and brutal combat, Yonder stands out as a charming experience that is perfect for all ages and lacks any form of combat.
