Open-world games come in two major forms. There are fantasy open-world games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, involving swordplay and magic. Then there are more realistic open-world games, or sci-fi games, with gunplay like Red Dead Redemption 2. These two examples are among the finest games ever made, open-world or otherwise, but they don’t have wildly unique gameplay compared to other titles in the genre.
The following open-world games took some bold chances with their gameplay to create something more interesting. While the risks aren't always worth it, it’s great to see developers still trying to come up with new gameplay hooks to keep things fresh and interesting. These are some of the best examples.
Donkey Kong Bananza
The First Smash And Sing
Destroying the environment in any game, open-world or otherwise, isn't that common. This makes Donkey Kong Bananza unique, as the titular DK can use his fists to break up the land. He can even use terrain to surf on land or water. In co-op, the second player can use Pauline to sing and damage the environment and enemies, too.
On top of all this, DK has Bananza forms in Donkey Kong Bananza, like an elephant that can suck up terrain. It is useful, but it's a bit unsettling to see an ape become an elephant.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom
Rod Or Die
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdomput Zelda in the hot seat for her own open-world adventure, albeit from a top-down perspective. Instead of a sword, she gets a magical staff to copy objects and living beings. With enough energy, she can summon creatures to attack others or even hitch a ride to glide. Mattresses can be stacked in the world to be used like ladders, which is not a normal puzzle-solving mechanic in a Zelda game, but that’s what made it so much fun to experiment with.
Death Stranding 2: On The Beach
Amazon, Pay Attention
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach can be played like the first game, wherein players can load up Sam’s backpack with packages for delivery on foot. But in the sequel, players get more interesting ways to be the best apocalyptic courier they can be the further they get in the game.
There are various vehicles, including a rideable coffin. There are cannons to launch packages, and a railway system complete with giant shipping containers. The world is brimming with creative ways to get around Mexico and Australia, and players are free to choose whatever the best option is for them.
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This article originally appeared on GameRant and is republished here with permission.
