Open-world games are highly favored by players due to the freedom they provide to explore at will, shaping their unique experiences. While most of these games incorporate combat, some go beyond mere entertainment, striving for immersive realism. These games delve into historical sources, like medieval treatises, to create authentic combat mechanics. Whether set in medieval times or the modern era with realistic shooting, there is a wide array of open-world games that offer players lifelike combat experiences.
1. Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Kingdom Come: Deliverance stands out as one of the finest medieval games ever created. Focused on historical accuracy, the game offers a combat system rooted in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). Unlike many depictions in media where medieval knights effortlessly defeat opponents, this game requires players to exercise patience, waiting for strategic openings. Even as the protagonist, Henry, hones his martial skills in the later stages, players discover that facing more than two opponents is challenging unless they are fully armed and their adversaries lack armor. In KCD, combat revolves around precise stances and guard positions, emphasizing tactical engagement over mindless slashing.
Playing as an inexperienced teenage son of a blacksmith, unable to handle a sword, lacking literacy and social grace, provides a compelling starting point in the game. Witnessing and guiding Henry as he gradually rebuilds his life, enhancing his skills and capabilities, proves incredibly satisfying. Although this empowerment may become a tad excessive in the later stages, initially, it presents a fascinating challenge.
Moreover, the game boasts breathtaking vistas and landscapes, reminiscent of the awe inspired by Far Cry 2. Navigating the terrain is far from tedious, offering a sense of magic when spotting distant towns on the horizon. Traveling the roads becomes an immersive experience, making it easy to disregard fast travel and savor the scenery.
2. S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl
Few experiences rival the immersive, gritty, and atmospheric intensity offered by STALKER. It stands apart with its unparalleled level of tension, horror, and dynamic gameplay, where moments of calm can swiftly transform into chaos. As night falls and the sun's last rays desperately peek over the horizon, eerie silhouettes of radio towers adorn the deep red sky, reminiscent of impending bloodshed. The crackle of radiation threatens swift demise if not handled promptly. In the distance, ravens caw, trees rustle in the wind, and an unsettling soundtrack quietly echoes in your ears. An approaching bloodsucker, its presence revealed only by ripples in the water, hunts you relentlessly. Cornered, you reload your shotgun, each action laden with urgency, and brace yourself against a tree, eyes focused through the sights, waiting in breathless anticipation.
The outcome lies solely in your hands. There are no magical skills, scripted scenes, or heroic main character clichés to rescue you. You're merely another stalker fighting for survival in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Your fate hinges on your reaction time, planning, weapon proficiency, and composure. The absence of a predetermined hero status, the absence of artificial skill progressions, makes these games enduring favorites among a dedicated fanbase.
In the zone, you're as mortal as any other being, often more so, with deadly mutations capable of ending you in seconds. Despite sounding paradoxical, STALKER embodies the Dark Souls essence in FPS games. Your vulnerability magnifies the satisfaction in your organic progression. There are no level-ups, skill trees, or artificial barriers; this is genuine survival horror. Comfort is fleeting, found only when gathered around a fire with fellow stalkers, sharing mournful tunes on a guitar. Once rested, you gear up, checking your supplies, and venture back into the darkness. Night vision goggles plunge the world into shades of grainy green, but whether you live or die, the Zone remains indifferent. Its inhabitants persist, oblivious to your presence. Through binoculars, you watch wildlife hunt or factions clash, gunfire reverberating in the vast, empty sky. In these moments, you plan your entry, aiming to eliminate survivors and scavenge vital resources, but the world remains uncaring. That indifference is the enchantment of these games.
3. Arma 3
Arma 3 stands out as a top-tier war game, offering highly realistic combat within a vast strategic military sandbox. It is renowned for its immersive modern warfare experience, allowing players to craft their own narratives using the game's extensive tools.
In this military simulation, players have access to more than 20 authentic vehicles and over 40 real-life weapons, all functioning as they would in reality. While the shooting mechanics are impressive, it's the game's tactical depth that truly captivates players, making it a favorite among fans.
4. The Hunter: Call of the Wild
The Hunter: Call of the Wild stands out as the premier hunting game in the market. As a simulator, it offers highly authentic combat experiences, featuring guns that replicate real-life power and impact. Players are required to factor in wind direction and comprehend their prey's behavior before taking a shot.
The game's stunning graphics and sound effects further enhance the immersive hunting experience, allowing players to fully engage in realistic hunting scenarios. Yet, it's the lifelike movement and behavior of the animals themselves that truly contribute to the game's realism in combat.
5. Dying Light 2
In the open-world zombie game Dying Light 2, the combat has been significantly enhanced through multiple updates. The game now boasts incredibly realistic combat mechanics, including lifelike physics and reactions from zombies. Despite the inclusion of sci-fi weapons and abilities, these elements feel authentic and deeply engaging. One notable feature is the iconic drop-kick, although not the prime example of realism, it adds immense enjoyment to the gameplay.
Additionally, encounters with human enemies, like bandits, offer a genuine and challenging experience. Unlike opponents in other games, these enemies demonstrate respect for the player, employing dodging tactics instead of mindlessly rushing towards certain defeat.
6. Ghost of Tsushima
Even though Ghost of Tsushima's combat isn't entirely realistic and has its imperfections, it outperforms many other samurai games by incorporating authentic historical fighting stances. Set in Japan, the game portrays players defending Tsushima against the powerful Mongol invaders.
Ghost of Tsushima stands out as one of the most visually stunning games, offering combat that is not only visually appealing but also emphasizes patience and strategic thinking. Players guide Jin in studying his enemies' stances, enabling him to execute quick and decisive strikes, showcasing the game's focus on intelligent combat.
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