The Best Open-World Games That Are Easy To Beat And Enjoy

While some open-world games are known for their punishing difficulty and unforgiving mechanics, a different type of experience exists for players who want to explore a vast world without the constant threat of failure. These games prioritize a relaxing and accessible journey, offering a rewarding experience for beginners and seasoned gamers alike. They are perfect for players who want to get lost in a world at their own pace, focusing on exploration, storytelling, or simply having fun without the frustration of a steep learning curve.

Here is a selection of the best open-world games that are easy to pick up, play, and complete.

1. Marvel’s Spider-Man

Marvel’s Spider-Man and its sequel, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, are a masterclass in accessible open-world design. The core gameplay loop of web-swinging through a meticulously crafted New York City is incredibly intuitive and satisfying. The combat, while stylish and fluid, is also forgiving, with a built-in “dodge” button and a clear sense of enemy attack patterns. The main story is a cinematic joy, and the game’s optional side activities are never overwhelming. The entire experience is a celebration of the superhero power fantasy, allowing you to feel like the web-slinger without the need for a high level of skill.

2. Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn is a fantastic entry point for anyone new to the open-world RPG genre. While its world is filled with massive, intimidating robotic dinosaurs, the game’s combat is highly approachable. The game’s robust crafting system and a wide array of tools and weapons give you plenty of options to take down even the largest foes. The game’s world is a visual masterpiece, and the main story is easy to follow and incredibly compelling. Even if you choose to stick to the main questline, you’ll still have a complete and rewarding experience without feeling forced to explore every corner of the map.

3. Ghost of Tsushima

Ghost of Tsushima is an open-world adventure that prioritizes a cinematic and immersive experience. The game is known for its beautiful art style and engaging narrative, which are both easy to get lost in. The combat system, while deep, is also very forgiving. The game’s “standoff” mechanic is a perfect example of a high-risk, high-reward system that, while challenging, is not overly punishing. Furthermore, the game’s guiding wind mechanic makes navigation a breeze, eliminating the need for a cluttered UI and allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning world around you.

4. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Despite its age, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim remains a benchmark for open-world games. The game’s main story is easy to follow, and the world is filled with thousands of side quests and locations to explore at your own pace. On its default difficulty, the game is incredibly forgiving, and you can easily become an overpowered hero by focusing on your favorite skills. The game’s sheer amount of content, from joining the Thieves Guild to becoming a master alchemist, means that you can always find something new to do without ever feeling overwhelmed.

5. LEGO Games (e.g., LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga)

The various LEGO games, particularly recent titles like LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, are the ultimate in accessible open-world fun. These games are designed for all ages, with simple controls, forgiving combat, and a hilarious narrative that can be enjoyed by everyone. The “open-world” sections of these games are dense with collectibles and secrets, but there is no pressure to find everything. The games are a pure joy to explore, and with the ability to play with a friend in local co-op, they are a perfect entry point for younger players or anyone looking for a stress-free adventure.