8 Open-World Games Almost As Good As Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is one of the greatest video games ever made, which shows Rockstar at its very best. Even with the focus on realistic mechanics taking away from some of the title’s enjoyment as a video game, the rest of the package is so solid that fans can’t help but be spellbound by this experience.

This is why any opportunity to jump into a game that’s almost as good as Red Dead Redemption 2 would be welcomed by fans. Sure, they may miss the mark in some form or another, but there’s a case for these games to be made that places them on the same level as RDR2, which is hefty praise.

Grand Theft Auto 5

An Obvious Game To Bring Up When Talking About RDR2

It’s only a given that a game made by Rockstar would be an easy recommendation for fans of Red Dead Redemption 2. Grand Theft Auto 5‘s narrative and immersion may not hold a candle to Rockstar’s magnum opus, but various other elements of this game more than make up for it.

The amazing driving mechanics, incredible production values, and a beautiful take on Los Santos make Grand Theft Auto 5 an absolute joy for fans to get into. Rockstar’s patented open-world design feels fresh and engaging, which is the biggest reason why it didn’t take long for GTA Online to become a major phenomenon.

Cyberpunk 2077

Took A While To Turn Its Reputation Around And Become One Of The Best Open-World RPGs Around

Cyberpunk 2077 launched in a broken state, which angered the GTA crowd that were enticed by this title’s trappings. However, CD Projekt Red kept its head down in the months following this game’s launch, launching update after update that addressed fan complaints while ironing out the bugs.

In its current state, Cyberpunk 2077 is comfortably one of the greatest video games ever made, taking players on a riveting journey in Night City. The latest update even added an AutoDrive mode that will feel right at home for fans of the cinematic camera in Red Dead Redemption 2, letting them take in the sights without manually steering their horse.

Red Dead Redemption

The First Game Is A Must-Play For Players Who Want Closure When It Comes To John Marston’s Tale

Red Dead Redemption 2 ends with John avenging Arthur’s death but attracting the attention of the Pinkertons along the way. This is what led them to Beecher’s Hope, where they kidnapped Marston’s family and forced him to follow their instructions.

Fans who want some closure regarding John’s narrative will find the first game to be an easy title to get into. Sure, the game is nowhere near as feature-rich and ahead of its time as Red Dead Redemption 2, but the core formula is consistent and ensures that Red Dead Redemption will be just as riveting to play, if not more.

Far Cry 5

The Chaos Of This Open-World Game Is Off The Charts

Far Cry 5 was a much-needed step forward for this series. The previous entry had stagnated in some way, which is why the minor changes made to the formula felt so impactful in the player’s adventures across Hope County.

Exploration feels better than ever before, especially since players don’t have to climb those infernal towers to reveal the map. The action is incredible, action-packed, and cinematic, making it perfect for fans of RDR2‘s gunfights who wanted the chaos of these moments to be ramped up to the max.

Saints Row: The Third

A Goofy GTA-Adjacent Game That’s Legendary For All The Right Reasons

Saints Row was labeled as a GTA clone when the first game came out, and it took a few entries before it found its identity. By leaning into a hilarious and over-the-top tone, Saints Row: The Third transformed into something magical.

The Playa’s adventure as the leader of the 3rd Street Saints is great and doesn’t take itself too seriously. If some people felt that RDR2‘s focus on realism took away from the game’s fun factor, then Saints Row: The Third will address this complaint and then some.

Mafia 2

Perfect For Fans Looking For A Story-Driven Experience In The Mafia Universe

Mafia 2 is an excellent story-driven open-world game perfect for fans who loved Red Dead Redemption 2‘s narrative. Vito’s rise in the Mafia is fascinating, although it’s not without some burned bridges.

While the open world may not be too immersive, players who just want to enjoy a great story in a beautiful sandbox will love what Mafia 2 has to offer. It’s considered to be the best game in the series for many, which speaks volumes when it comes to the game’s excellent storytelling.

Sleeping Dogs

It’s A Shame That This Game Didn’t Get The Sequel It Deserved

Sleeping Dogs arose from the ashes of the True Crime franchise and positioned itself as a loving homage to Hong Kong action flicks. Wei Shen’s journey as an undercover cop gets him way closer to the Triad than he, or anyone else for that matter, would’ve expected.

Action Hijacks, pulse-pounding melee combat, and the game’s stylish presentation make it one of the most underrated open-world games set in an urban environment. It may not reach the same level as Red Dead Redemption 2, but it comes pretty close.

L.A. Noire

A Fun Open-World Adventure Focused On The Trials And Tribulations Of A Detective

Team Bondi had their work cut out for them when trying to live up to the lofty standards of the GTA games. Thankfully, Rockstar was there to help them out, leading to a beautiful rendition of 1947 Los Angeles that serves as the backdrop for a string of investigations.

The open world itself doesn’t have too many distractions, barring a few side quests, which makes it quite similar to the Mafia series. If players want to witness a great story unfurl as they solve crimes, then L.A. Noire will be right up their alley.