The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is often the first game people think of when they consider open-world RPGs. It served as many players’ entry point to the genre and is widely considered one of the most important and impactful games of its type ever created.
Skyrim was hugely influential in shaping open-world RPGs, but calling it the best is probably an overstatement. It definitely left its mark on the genre, but many other games, both older and newer, have resonated with players even more strongly.
This ranking showcases the best open-world role-playing games, judged by player ratings on Metacritic. To be included, a game needed a Metacritic User Score higher than Skyrim’s excellent 8.6. The games are listed from lowest to highest User Score, and when scores are tied, we used the overall Metascore to determine the order.
7. Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
User Score: 8.7
This RPG truly delivers on its promise of a realistic medieval experience, vividly recreating life in Bohemia in 1403. It features incredibly immersive realism, extending to challenging, skill-based combat, armor that provides actual protection, and even a ‘filth’ system – meaning you’ll need to bathe if you want to make a good impression after a long ride!
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is considered one of the best open-world RPGs ever made, though its dedication to realism can be quite challenging. Despite having a User Score of 8.7, like two other games on this list, its Metascore of 88 places it at number seven.
6. Fallout
User Score: 8.7
As a huge fan, I can tell you the original Fallout from 1997 is still considered the best in the series – and for good reason! It’s one of the most critically acclaimed open-world RPGs ever made. Honestly, this post-apocalyptic game completely shaped the entire Fallout world we know and love, and it was actually the first RPG I ever played – it really got me hooked on the genre!
Even though it’s quite unlike the more recent Fallout games made by Bethesda, the original Fallout remains a beloved role-playing game. Modern fans should enjoy it, as long as they’re prepared for its darker atmosphere and old-school, overhead perspective.
5. Red Dead Redemption
User Score: 8.9
Red Dead Redemption was Rockstar Games’ initial dive into the harsh and criminal world of the Wild West. It deeply affected players with its realistic violence and emotionally powerful story. Even now, I still remember being incredibly moved by the game’s ending when I first played it as a child.
Okay, so this game’s map was HUGE when it came out, and honestly, it still feels massive even now. The level of detail they packed in is incredible. To give you an idea, it’s almost twice as big as Skyrim’s map – we’re talking around 29 square miles of land to explore, compared to Skyrim’s 14. Seriously, it’s a world you can get lost in!
4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
User Score: 8.9
Link’s return in Breath of the Wild (2017) marked a turning point for the Zelda series, often considered its first truly open-world game. While previous games offered some freedom, Breath of the Wild was the first to feature a completely open map, allowing players to explore wherever they pleased.
The Legend of Zelda is a hugely popular fantasy series, and for good reason. Breath of the Wild, in particular, offered a revitalizing new approach to the games, and its characters – both new and reimagined – have quickly become fan favorites.
3. Red Dead Redemption 2
User Score: 8.9
When Red Dead Redemption 2 came out, it was instantly a hit with almost everyone. Even people who didn’t usually play the game were amazed by how incredibly detailed and expansive the world was.
It established an incredibly high standard for creating realistic and engaging game worlds. Although its Metascore is slightly lower than Breath of the Wild, I’m making an exception and ranking it higher to recognize this remarkable accomplishment.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
User Score: 9.1
Man, “The Witcher 3” is seriously one of the best open-world RPGs ever made, hands down. You play as Geralt of Rivia, and let me tell you, it’s a wild ride. You’re dealing with a huge war, constantly fighting monsters, and trying to prevent the end of the world – all while desperately trying to protect his adopted daughter, Ciri, because these crazy interdimensional ghosts are after her the whole time. It’s intense!
Compared to Skyrim, The Witcher 3 feels more like a true roleplaying experience, where your choices genuinely matter. It’s a noticeable difference – Skyrim is often remembered for minor annoyances like stolen pastries, while The Witcher 3 focuses on meaningful decisions.
1. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
User Score: 9.1
was a defining game for the PlayStation 2 and Xbox 360, much like has been for the past three console generations. Though, many players feel the story in San Andreas was even more compelling.
Rockstar consistently delivers compelling narratives in their games, but San Andreas is particularly impactful. It tackles difficult subjects like gang violence, widespread corruption, and racism, while also emphasizing the value of family and offering a critique of 1990s culture and the traditional idea of the American Dream. Released long before Skyrim, it rightfully deserves its high ranking among the best open-world RPGs.
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2025-11-03 23:40