The gaming industry has always thrived on innovation and the continuous pursuit of more immersive experiences. Open world games are the pinnacle of this, offering vast landscapes and unlimited adventure. 2023 brought some remarkable open world games to the forefront, especially on the PS5 and PS4 platforms. This year's Game of the Year coverage zeroes in on these games, highlighting the best virtual worlds that gamers could inhabit and explore.
Starting with the Bronze Trophy recipient, we find "Tchia." This unique game takes players on a laidback tropical adventure inspired by New Caledonia. It features a novel gameplay element called Soul Jumping, which permits players to inhabit a variety of animals, from pigs to dolphins, as they traverse diverse biomes and uncover the island’s secrets. "Tchia" stands out not for its apparent objectives but for its journey-focused gameplay, which is as endearing as it is beautiful.
The Silver Trophy holder takes us to a world many have dreamed of: "Hogwarts Legacy." Harry Potter enthusiasts were bewitched with the opportunity to join the iconic school of magic, Hogwarts, and explore its grounds and adjacent areas like Hogsmeade. Although some of its novel regions may not carry the same charm, Hogwarts' meticulous recreation was enchanting enough to cast a spell on the hearts of gamers, securing its place on the podium.
Dominating in the Gold Trophy position is "Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora." Entering the race late but with undeniable impact, this game presents a stunning recreation of The Western Frontier, embellished with the capabilities of the PS5's graphics. It refines the classic Ubisoft open world formula, integrating the environment and crafting systems into the gameplay. As players liberate territories, they also rejuvenate the surrounding flora, making the world of Pandora an integral part of the experience, not just a backdrop.
But the ultimate honor, the Platinum Trophy, goes to "Marvel’s Spider-Man 2." Insomniac Games returned with the original New York map from the previous installment, now expanded to include Brooklyn and Queens. While riding on the sails of familiarity, the developers infused new life with faster swing mechanics and more compelling side quests. In a subtle nod to the exploratory nature of games like "Elden Ring," discovery is key, as certain activities must be stumbled upon before they are illuminated on the map, forging a more organic connection with the environment.
Despite the sprint through New York’s skyscrapers and the magic weaving within Hogwarts, two titles also received honorable mentions: "Assassin’s Creed Mirage" and "Forspoken," both of which crafted their own distinct open worlds that captivated many players.
With these open world behemoths laid out, the question turns to the players: Which among these is your favorite? Vote in the poll and dive into the comments to share your personal gaming escapades from the best PS5 and PS4 open world games of 2023. Each game invited players into expansive realms that offered escape, adventure, and above all, a sense of freedom that only the best open world adventures can deliver.
As the virtual landscapes of these games grow increasingly diverse and rich with every passing year, one can only imagine how developers will continue to push the boundaries of open world gaming in the future. Whether high above an alien world or deep within an ancient school of magic, these games have proven that an open world can be more than just space—it can be the heart of the gaming experience itself.
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