The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Elden Ring & More: Top Open World Role-Playing Games for PC Gamers

Open-world role-playing games (RPGs) have become one of the most immersive and beloved genres in the gaming industry. They provide players with expansive worlds, freedom of choice, and the thrill of living through epic adventures. 

For PC gamers, the library of open-world RPGs is vast, featuring legendary titles that push boundaries of storytelling, graphics, and gameplay. Here are some of the best open-world RPGs to dive into.

1. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Often hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, The Witcher 3 offers a massive world filled with monsters, kingdoms, and branching storylines. With its rich narrative, complex characters, and deep combat system, this title is a must-play for anyone who enjoys dark fantasy and player-driven choices.

Highlights:

  • Over 100 hours of main story and side quests
  • Expansions (Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine) with an additional 50+ hours of content
  • Stunning graphics and atmospheric soundtrack

2. Elden Ring

Developed by FromSoftware, Elden Ring blends the challenge of the Souls series with a vast, interconnected open world. Players explore the “Lands Between,” encountering brutal bosses, hidden dungeons, and secrets at every turn. Its flexible combat system and freedom of exploration have made it a modern classic.

Highlights:

  • Massive open world with non-linear progression
  • Deep lore co-written by George R.R. Martin
  • Unique builds and replayability

3. Skyrim (The Elder Scrolls V)

Even after more than a decade, Skyrim remains iconic in the RPG genre. With dragons, magic, guilds, and an endless supply of quests, players can lose hundreds of hours exploring its snowy landscapes. Mods also keep the game fresh, making it one of the most customizable RPG experiences on PC.

Highlights:

  • Immense modding community
  • Non-linear exploration and endless quests
  • Play as any type of character: warrior, thief, mage, or hybrid

4. Cyberpunk 2077 (After Updates)

Initially criticized at launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into a polished open-world RPG. Set in the futuristic Night City, players live out the story of V, making decisions that shape the narrative. With the Phantom Liberty expansion, the game has gained renewed popularity.

Highlights:

  • Stunning futuristic city with vibrant details
  • Rich character customization and branching stories
  • Strong performance after patches and expansions

5. Red Dead Redemption 2

Although often categorized as an action-adventure, Red Dead Redemption 2 offers one of the most immersive open-world RPG experiences. Set in the dying days of the Wild West, players control Arthur Morgan, navigating moral choices that affect the story.

Highlights:

  • Breathtaking visuals and realistic world simulation
  • Rich character development and emotional storytelling
  • Immersive activities like hunting, fishing, and exploration

6. Dragon Age: Inquisition

A fantasy epic that allows players to lead the Inquisition and determine the fate of Thedas. Dragon Age: Inquisition combines tactical combat, political intrigue, and a massive world filled with lore.

Highlights:

  • Strong companion-driven storytelling
  • Player decisions affect entire kingdoms
  • Variety of classes and specializations

7. Horizon Zero Dawn

In this action RPG, players step into the shoes of Aloy, a hunter in a world ruled by robotic creatures. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, engaging combat, and a mystery-filled narrative makes this a standout RPG on PC.

Highlights:

  • Unique combat system against mechanical beasts
  • Engaging protagonist and gripping story
  • Expansive and beautifully designed world

Final Thoughts

Open-world RPGs on PC offer unparalleled freedom, epic adventures, and endless replayability. Whether venturing into the fantasy realms of The Witcher 3 and Skyrim, or exploring futuristic cities like Cyberpunk 2077’s Night City, players have a diverse selection of games to immerse themselves in. Each of these titles brings something unique to the table, ensuring that RPG fans will always find a world worth exploring.