Top 10 best games with small open worlds

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

10. Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeros

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

As a seasoned gamer with decades under my belt, I can confidently say that these games have left indelible marks on my gaming journey. Each one offers a unique slice of immersive world-building that stands out from the crowd.


In brief, the prelude to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain functions as a mini-game, boasting a compact play area but leaving an indelible impact. The Cuban military base you infiltrate is a veritable paradise for Metal Gear enthusiasts. Initially, we’re equipped with scant resources, compelled to acquire the majority of our gear independently. Fortunately, due to the map’s diminutive size, it becomes relatively easy to memorize an abundance of helpful items.

9. Assassin’s Creed II

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

Initially, before Ubisoft expanded their maps excessively to a point where they seemed less pertinent, Assassin’s Creed II boasted an ideal scale. Cities such as Florence offered the optimal blend between expansive maps offering numerous exploration opportunities and distinctive locations that guided us effectively as we traversed from rooftop to rooftop.

8. Mafia II

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

Empire Bay serves as an excellent substitute for New York City. Although we wished for a touch more immersion, we’re smitten by the urban charm, complete with cars, fashion, and vintage architecture that instantly transport us to the ’40s and ’50s.

7. The Simpsons Hit & Run

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

Absolutely, it’s not entirely accurate. The Simpsons Hit & Run game makes every Simpsons enthusiast’s dream a reality, allowing us to roam, swing, and drive through Springfield as Homer. It’s filled with plenty of nods to fans, which is why character after character from The Simpsons can be found in the game.

6. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the past

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

In this rendition of Hyrule, the 2D games are known for their many captivating smaller maps. However, what sets this one apart is its composition of not one but two distinct maps. As the story unfolds, Zelda ventures into the Dark World, allowing us to traverse a darker reflection of Hyrule that mirrors the original in layout. The ability to transition between these two maps significantly contributes to the gameplay, enriching our dual-world adventure.

5. Shenmue

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

Today, Shenmue continues to stand out by presenting a unique depiction of a Japanese urban setting. Based in Yokosuka, Japan, it masterfully constructs an engaging small-scale open world. Abundant with mini-games and characters following realistic daily routines within a day-night cycle, the map maintains a lively and dynamic feel that remains compelling even when compared to contemporary games.

4. South Park: Stick of Truth

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

This rendition of South Park left us hardcore fans thrilled to the core, brimming with nods to the original series. From the enchanted forest inhabited by cute woodland creatures to Jesus gracing the church, every cherished location from the show was meticulously recreated – and each one hides a hidden treasure within it!

3. Batman: Arkham City

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

In the transformed metropolis once known as Arkham Prison, a city now serves as an ideal arena for a wealthy, caped vigilante – Batman. This urban jungle teems with his most formidable adversaries, including the Joker and Two-Face, providing ample motivation for him to enter and face tough challenges. However, it was the lesser-known tales, involving characters such as Calendar Man and Mad Hatter, that truly set Arkham City apart.

2. Yakuza Series

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

Among many game series, none are as well-known for their diverse map iterations as the Yakuza series. The district of Kamurocho stands out among fans due to its bustling entertainment hub, filled with activities such as karaoke, dancing, and fights. Opinions on which map version is superior differ greatly, so we’ll rank the entire franchise second in terms of popularity.

1. Gothic

Top 10 best games with small open worlds

seldom has a mining settlement gained as much notoriety as the one found in Gothic; an intricate penal institution enclosed by an enchanting barrier to prevent any attempted escapes. The meticulous craftsmanship evident in this realm is striking, adding depth and charm to this captivating environment. Characters within the world showcase such rich personalities that it seems as if we’ve stepped into a quaint, lively village.

Can you think of any other open-world games that let you explore an unforgettable place?

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2024-10-15 15:41