The gaming year of 2023 has been packed with adventurous journeys through intricately crafted worlds, bringing to life vast landscapes ready for exploration. The competition for the best open world game on PS5 and PS4 was fierce, and the editorial team at Push Square has highlighted the top four, each offering players a unique blend of discovery and excitement.
Taking the bronze position is "Tchia," a game that is as vibrant and colorful as it is innovative. The title introduces players to a tropical paradise inspired by New Caledonia. Playing as a young girl who has the remarkable ability to "Soul Jump" into the bodies of various animals, players can explore diverse biomes and uncover secrets scattered across the island. What sets Tchia apart is its laid-back approach, where the journey itself becomes the focal point rather than the destination. Objectives in the game serve as general guides, allowing players to fully immerse themselves and enjoy a truly heartwarming adventure.
Achieving the silver trophy is the much-anticipated "Hogwarts Legacy," a game that fulfills the long-held fantasies of many Harry Potter enthusiasts. Players can don the iconic house robes and delve into the magical curriculum of Hogwarts. The exploration aspect extends beyond the castle walls to the surrounding areas, such as Hogsmeade, with additional new territories that expand the known universe of the franchise. This open world epic captures the magic of the series, and despite some charm lost in the less familiar areas, the meticulous recreation of Hogwarts itself is enough to place it among the year's best.
Capturing the gold is "Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora," a late entry but no less deserving of its accolades. Its open world rendition of The Western Frontier is a graphical marvel, showcasing the powerful capabilities of the PS5. While the game includes familiar Ubisoft open world tropes, it ties progression and the revitalization of the environment to the completion of objectives and camps. The integration of wildlife and crafting systems deepens the engagement with the world, making each action feel impactful and forging a compelling gameplay loop around the open world's splendor.
At the pinnacle, seizing the platinum trophy, is "Marvel's Spider-Man 2" by Insomniac Games. Players are welcomed back to their New York City playground, which has now expanded to include Brooklyn and Queens. While some may experience a sense of déjà vu, the game's enhancements in traversal and side quests instill a fresh sense of adventure. The swift, exhilarating web-slinging of Peter Parker and Miles Morales parallels the quickened pace of the city itself. Additionally, the game takes inspiration from open-ended exploration games like "Elden Ring," making players discover activities before they appear on the map. Efficient fast travel mechanics and a fine-tuned open world experience crown Marvel's Spider-Man 2 as the cream of the crop for 2023.
The year also saw notable mentions such as "Assassin's Creed Mirage" and "Forspoken," both offering uniquely designed open worlds that have left an impression on gamers.
Open world games continue to be a staple in the gaming industry, providing players with immersive and expansive environments. As the year wraps up, gamers debate and deliberate over their favorites, making for a fascinating discussion within the community. These titles represent the pinnacle of virtual exploration and adventure for the year, each providing a distinct experience that allows players to lose themselves in other worlds. Whether you are swinging across skyscrapers, casting spells, or hopping between animal forms, the best open world games of 2023 have crafted unforgettable realms that will resonate with players for years to come.
You must be logged in to post a comment!
