Evolution of Open World Games (1984–2023)

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Open world games have made remarkable progress from 1984 until today. Below the famous games from different eras are described in point form.

Early Era (1984–1999)

.Elite
The beginning of open world the concept of freedom in a space world

.Mercenary
The start of exploration in a 3D environment

Turbo Esprit
First-ever open world driving experience

Sid Meier's Pirates
Adventure with freedom on the seas

The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall
A massive and detailed world

Era of Revolution (2000–2009)

Grand Theft Auto III
The revolution of 3D open-city games

Mafia
A crime story close to reality

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
Vast city, freedom and missions

World of Warcraft
A new experience of online open world

Grand Theft Auto IV
Realistic physics and story

Golden Era (2010–2016)

Red Dead Redemption
The beautiful world of the Wild West

Minecraft
Freedom of creativity and building

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Fantasy world and exploration

Grand Theft Auto V
The most famous open-world experience

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Excellent story and quests

Modern Era (2017–2023)

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Complete freedom and exploration

Red Dead Redemption 2
A world close to reality

Ghost of Tsushima
Beautiful Japanese environment

Cyberpunk 2077
Futuristic open city

Forza Horizon 5
The best open-world racing experience

These games are not just games but entire worlds where players explore at their own will live through stories and become part of a new reality. From 1984 to 2023 this journey has been the most exciting journey in gaming history.