Top 24 Open-World Games Available on PlayStation Plus Extra & Premium in January 2025
As the gaming landscape continually evolves, the PlayStation Plus subscription service has opened its doors to a vast array of titles that cater to every kind of gamer. Among these, open-world games—renowned for their expansive environments and immersive storytelling—stand out as a genre that captivates players with limitless exploration and dynamic narratives. As we welcome January 2025, we take a look at the top 24 open-world games available on PlayStation Plus Extra & Premium, each offering unique experiences that promise to engage players for hours on end.
1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
One of the definitive open-world RPGs, "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" allows players to step into the shoes of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a beautifully crafted fantasy world. With its richly layered narrative, complex characters, and engaging quests, this game offers countless hours of gameplay. Players can explore sprawling forests, treacherous mountains, and bustling cities while making choices that affect the game’s outcome.
2. Ghost of Tsushima
Set in feudal Japan, "Ghost of Tsushima" is a visual and emotional masterpiece. Players assume the role of Jin Sakai, a samurai fighting against the invasion of the Mongol Empire. The game features stunning landscapes, thrilling combat mechanics, and a gripping storyline enriched by Japanese culture and mythology. The open world is alive with activities, from mythic tales to bamboo strikes, ensuring endless exploration.
3. Red Dead Redemption 2
"Red Dead Redemption 2" is a landmark achievement in storytelling and world-building. Set in the late 1800s, players take on the role of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw navigating the decline of the Wild West. The game features an impressively detailed open world filled with wildlife, dynamic weather, and a variety of side activities, making it a rich experience for those looking to lose themselves in a meticulously crafted universe.
4. Horizon Forbidden West
As a sequel to the critically acclaimed "Horizon Zero Dawn," "Horizon Forbidden West" expands upon its predecessor’s captivating post-apocalyptic world. Players once again control Aloy, a skilled hunter embarking on a quest to uncover the secrets of a new threat. The game’s stunning visuals, diverse landscapes, and intricate battle mechanics against robotic creatures make for an enthralling adventure.
5. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
In "Assassin’s Creed Valhalla," players step into the role of Eivor, a Viking raider exploring Anglo-Saxon England. This open-world RPG emphasizes exploration, conquest, and decision-making, allowing players to build settlements and engage in fierce battles against enemies. With its rich historical context, engaging missions, and interactive world, this title stands as a highlight in the beloved franchise.
6. Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales
"Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales" allows players to experience the thrilling life of Miles Morales as he juggles his responsibilities as a hero and a teenager. The game showcases a small yet densely-packed open-world version of Harlem filled with challenges, collectibles, and story-driven missions. The smooth traversal mechanics and high-energy combat will keep players engaged as they swing through the vibrant cityscape.
7. Cyberpunk 2077
Despite its rocky launch, "Cyberpunk 2077" has received significant updates that improved gameplay and performance. Set in the sprawling Night City, this open-world RPG invites players to craft their own narratives through intricate character customization and choices that have far-reaching consequences. The dystopian setting and a myriad of side quests offer a uniquely immersive experience.
8. Days Gone
Set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombie-like creatures called "Freakers," "Days Gone" provides an intense and emotional journey. Players control Deacon St. John, a drifter and bounty hunter struggling for survival. The game features a dynamic open world where players can explore diverse environments while confronting both human and non-human threats.
9. Ghost Recon Breakpoint
For those who enjoy tactical gameplay in expansive environments, "Ghost Recon Breakpoint" offers the opportunity to plan and execute missions solo or with friends. Players find themselves in the fictional open-world environment of Aurora, where they must adapt strategies to combat rogue military forces. The game’s rich mechanics encourage exploration and experimentation in its vast landscapes.
10. Far Cry 6
Taking place in the fictional Caribbean island of Yara, "Far Cry 6" introduces players to the struggle against a tyrannical government. As guerilla fighter Dani Rojas, players can explore lush jungles, urban landscapes, and expansive countryside to liberate the country. The open world is teeming with side missions, collectibles, and the freedom to tackle challenges in various ways, ensuring every player’s experience is unique.
11. Elden Ring
"Elden Ring" combines the deep lore and challenging combat mechanics that FromSoftware is known for but in a stunning open world. Players explore the Lands Between, encountering formidable enemies and bosses while unraveling the game’s intricate story. With its richly detailed landscapes and unparalleled exploration, this title has redefined the expectations for open-world games.
12. Gran Turismo 7
While primarily a racing simulator, "Gran Turismo 7" includes open-world elements that allow players to explore a variety of stunning tracks and locations around the globe. Players can enjoy a realistic driving experience, customizing their vehicles and challenging themselves on iconic circuits. The blend of racing mechanics with beautiful environments offers a unique twist on open-world exploration.
13. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Though not directly available on PlayStation consoles, "Breath of the Wild" is often included in discussions about open-world gaming excellence. Players explore the vast kingdom of Hyrule as Link, utilizing a mix of combat and puzzle-solving. The game’s unique mechanics, like cooking and crafting, enhance the exploration and contribute to its lasting popularity. Its influence is evident in many open-world games today.
14. Death Stranding
Hideo Kojima’s "Death Stranding" presents a dystopian open world where players must traverse treacherous landscapes to reconnect isolated cities. With a unique gameplay loop focused on delivering cargo, the game emphasizes exploration and environmental storytelling. The hauntingly beautiful scenery and complex themes make this title admittedly one-of-a-kind in the genre.
15. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Set during the Peloponnesian War in ancient Greece, "Assassin’s Creed Odyssey" offers players a stunningly detailed open world filled with historical landmarks and vibrant cultures. Players can choose between two characters, Alexios or Kassandra, as they embark on a personal journey of discovery amidst the chaos of war. The game’s branching narratives allow for various play styles and outcomes.
16. Watch Dogs: Legion
"Watch Dogs: Legion" dives into a near-future London, exploring themes of surveillance and personal freedom. Players can recruit and control a diverse cast of characters, each with unique abilities and skills, creating a dynamic gameplay experience. The game’s open-world structure supports intricate hacking mechanics and exploration of a digital society, offering a fresh take on the open-world formula.
17. No Man’s Sky
"No Man’s Sky" is a space exploration game that encourages players to discover and explore procedurally generated planets. The game’s open world offers an overwhelming sense of scale, allowing players to build bases, trade, and engage in fighting adversaries. With regular updates, the game has evolved into a rich universe filled with potential for discovery and adventure.
18. Minecraft
An unofficial title in the realm of open-world games, "Minecraft" has captivated millions with its limitless gameplay potential. Players can construct, explore, and survive in an ever-expanding blocky universe. The game’s sandbox nature allows for creativity and exploration, whether players choose to delve into dungeons, build elaborate structures, or simply engage with the environment.
19. The Crew 2
For those who love motorsports, "The Crew 2" provides an extensive open-world experience where players can drive, fly, and sail through a meticulously crafted version of the United States. The game allows players to switch between various vehicle types in real-time, creating exhilarating moments of exploration and competition throughout the vast landscape.
20. Far Cry Primal
"Far Cry Primal" transports players back to the Stone Age, where survival instincts are essential to thrive in a prehistoric open world. Players assume the role of Takkar, a hunter trying to unite his tribe against rival factions. The open world is filled with wildlife, natural hazards, and resource gathering, making for a truly unique experience in the Far Cry series.
21. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Set in the early 15th century Kingdom of Bohemia, "Kingdom Come: Deliverance" offers an immersive historical RPG experience. Players navigate a richly developed open world, engaging in a realistic combat system and deepening their understanding of medieval life. The game focuses on player choice, offering a level of realism rarely seen in open-world titles.
22. Skyrim
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim remains a benchmark for open-world RPGs, even years after its initial release. Players embark on quests across a beautifully rendered fantasy realm filled with dragons, dungeons, and rich lore. The game’s flexibility in character development and choice-driven gameplay continues to influence new titles.
23. Outer Worlds
In "Outer Worlds," players navigate a retro-futuristic universe filled with quirky characters and engaging storylines. The game offers an expansive open world on various planets, allowing players to tailor their character’s journey through choice-based dialogue and player-driven missions. Its witty writing and unique aesthetics provide a breath of fresh air within the genre.
24. State of Decay 2
"State of Decay 2" offers a survival horror experience set in a post-apocalyptic world infested with zombies. Players lead a community of survivors, managing resources, and building their base to endure challenges in an open world. The game emphasizes strategic planning and cooperation, making it a unique blend of survival and open-world exploration.
In conclusion, the PlayStation Plus Extra & Premium offerings for January 2025 present a fantastic array of open-world games that can cater to every player’s taste. From engaging narratives and immersive environments to varied gameplay mechanics, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether it’s exploring the vast wilds of "Red Dead Redemption 2" or navigating the futuristic world of "Cyberpunk 2077," these titles represent the pinnacle of what open-world gaming can offer. Are you ready to dive into these expansive worlds and carve your own path in gaming history?
