Top travel-themed video games to satisfy your wanderlust
Whether rooted in real-world locations or brought to life through the boundless creativity of designers, these video games capture the sense of wonder and curiosity that comes with exploring new places. If you’ve been hit with a case of wanderlust, pick up a controller (or your mouse) and dive into one of these immersive adventures. And if these games inspire you to travel in real life, don’t forget to plan ahead — whether it’s securing Qatar travel insurance, researching local traditions in Japan, or finalizing your itinerary for a trip through Italy, preparation is key to any adventure.
Fallout 4
Fallout 4 invites players into a post-apocalyptic rendition of Boston and its surrounding areas. With more than 150 hours of gameplay, this open-world adventure is packed with familiar landmarks to discover. Can you spot Fenway Park, the Old North Church, Bunker Hill Monument, or Walden Pond? For a darker twist, don’t miss the Nuka-World expansion, where you can explore a chillingly twisted theme park.
Subnautica
Beneath the vibrant, alien oceans of Subnautica lies a breathtaking world teeming with life — and danger. The game’s stunning visuals might leave you in awe, but don’t get too distracted, or you may find yourself running out of oxygen or face-to-face with some menacing sea creatures. With minimal guidance and a pervasive sense of mystery, every element of Subnautica invites exploration and wonder, making it an unforgettable underwater journey.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Few games scratch the travel itch like the Assassin’s Creed series, and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey takes players back in time to Ancient Greece. Wander through lush Forest Islands, visit the Temple of Artemis in Phokis, explore the scenic village of Lalaia, or stroll through the flower-strewn meadows of Erymanthos Peak. This immersive experience offers a stunning glimpse into Greece’s rich history and natural beauty.
Red Dead Redemption 2
Fans of HBO’s Westworld will feel right at home in the sprawling Wild West of Red Dead Redemption 2. Boasting Rockstar’s largest map to date, this game spans from the mining town of Annesburg to the icy peaks of Mount Hagen. With so much ground to cover, every corner of this open world feels alive. Not sure where to start? Someone’s even created reviews of all the in-game saloons, so saddle up and explore the frontier.
The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim
Step into the icy, Nordic-inspired world of Skyrim, the fifth installment in the Elder Scrolls series. This fictional medieval realm features breathtaking landscapes and rich Scandinavian influences. Marvel at the Northern Lights on a clear night, capture screenshots of the castle at Winterhold, or admire the intricate architecture of Markarth. For an otherworldly touch, Skyrim even lets you wander into the ethereal Nordic afterlife.
Uncharted: The Lost Legacy
The Uncharted series by Naughty Dog has always been synonymous with adventure, and The Lost Legacy is no exception. Join treasure hunter Chloe Frazer on her quest to find the legendary tusk of Ganesh. Starting in India, the game takes you through jungles, ancient temples, mountain ranges, and sprawling urban landscapes. Though the gameplay follows a linear path, the environments offer plenty of opportunities to explore and uncover hidden treasures.
Forza Horizon 4
Forza Horizon 4 transforms the driving experience into a stunning virtual road trip through the picturesque landscapes of Great Britain. Speed past iconic landmarks like the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the Lake District, and the Gatehouse in Edinburgh. This open-world driving game delivers breathtaking scenery, letting you explore the UK in style.
Far Cry 5
Set in a fictional region of Montana, Far Cry 5 captures the rugged, natural beauty of the state while immersing players in a gripping first-person shooter experience. As a young sheriff’s deputy, your task is to dismantle a doomsday cult led by its charismatic leader. The game’s stunning locations draw inspiration from real-life landmarks, including the Logan Pass Visitor Center, Our Lady of the Rockies, Lake McDonald Lodge, and the Melville Lutheran Church.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
With Netflix’s adaptation bringing the world of Geralt of Rivia into the spotlight, there’s no better time to dive into The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. The game’s sprawling open world draws inspiration from Poland, France, Scandinavia, and the Netherlands, blending real-world elements with fantastical creatures like elves, basilisks, and wyverns. Explore remarkable locations such as the haunting Isle of Mists, the grand city of Vizima, the Oxford-inspired Oxenfurt, and Freya’s lush garden.
No Man’s Sky
No Man’s Sky offers more than an open-world experience — it delivers an open universe. Embark on an intergalactic adventure where you can hop between procedurally generated planets in an endless sea of exploration. With over 18 quintillion worlds to discover, the possibilities in No Man’s Sky are truly limitless.
