Top open-world games that can be finished quickly

When you think of open-world games, do you picture sprawling landscapes and epic quests that can swallow up hours of your time? While that’s often the case, there are some hidden gems that break the mold. Imagine diving into vast environments where you can breeze through main quests in just a few hours. For gamers racing against the clock, these titles offer a satisfying sense of achievement without demanding a hefty time investment.

Two Worlds 2: A Comical Challenge

Let’s kick things off with Two Worlds 2, a standout in the open-world genre. While it may not be a gaming masterpiece, it earns a spot on our list for its surprisingly easy completion—almost laughably so. Right from the get-go, players can lure the final boss into a village, where a mob of villagers takes care of business. This cheeky twist means you can trigger the final cutscene in mere minutes, feeling like a hero of a grand saga without spending your entire weekend gaming.

Despite its quirks, Two Worlds 2 brings a lighthearted vibe to the open-world experience, making it a perfect pick for those looking for fun without a lengthy commitment.

Shelter 2: A Mother’s Journey

Next up is Shelter 2, where you step into the paws of a mother lynx on a mission to protect her cubs in a stunningly crafted world. The premise is straightforward yet engaging, as you navigate various challenges while ensuring your young ones are safe. With breathtaking visuals and captivating landscapes, Shelter 2 wraps up its gameplay in around two hours. It strikes a balance between exploration and a concise narrative, reminiscent of titles like The Last of Us but with a refreshing simplicity.

Grow Home: An Adventurous Robot

In Grow Home, you’ll join a charming robot named BUD on a quest to save its planet. The open world may not be the largest, but it makes up for it with delightful exploration. Ubisoft Reflections has created a vibrant environment filled with interactive elements, making every moment spent in this world enjoyable. Plus, you can complete the game quickly while reveling in its unique mechanics and whimsical storyline.

Pupperazzi: A Cute Photo Adventure

Who can resist the allure of Pupperazzi? This game presents a simple yet irresistible concept: explore a colorful world snapping photos of adorable dogs. With its lighthearted vibe and cozy atmosphere, it proves that you don’t need a complex narrative to have fun. Focused on exploration and photography, Pupperazzi gives players a chance to unwind while discovering charming locales and capturing heartwarming moments.

Proteus: A Serene Exploration

If you’re after a different experience, Proteus offers a serene take on open-world gaming, often dubbed a walking simulator. Here, you wander through a beautifully rendered environment that changes with the seasons. There are no enemies or complex quests—just pure exploration and a chance to soak in the tranquil beauty around you. Perfect for a brief escape, Proteus provides roughly an hour of peaceful gameplay, ideal for those seeking relaxation.

The Outer Wilds: A Cosmic Journey

Now let’s talk about The Outer Wilds, a game that shines with its unique solar system-shaped world, brimming with mysteries. While it invites exploration, you can complete the main quest in less than a day, with speedrunners achieving jaw-dropping times. The design encourages players to visit various planets without feeling overwhelmed, offering a compact yet expansive experience.

Sable: Chill Vibes and Exploration

In Sable, players ride a futuristic jet bike through a breathtaking landscape filled with secrets. Although its world is vast, you can wrap up the game in under seven hours, making it perfect for those who enjoy exploration without a hefty time commitment. With stunning visuals and an immersive atmosphere, Sable delivers a unique and relaxing gaming experience.

Oblivion: Time-Traveling Remaster

Even as a remaster of a classic, Oblivion continues to be one of the hottest titles of 2025. Thanks to a new fast travel mechanic, players can navigate its expansive world and finish the main quest in about four hours. This flexibility caters to both casual gamers and those looking to dive deep into its vast universe or jump straight into the action.

The Forgotten City: Philosophical Exploration

Last but not least, The Forgotten City draws players into a captivating narrative set in a city reminiscent of ancient Rome, where strict rules govern life and death. As you navigate this intriguing environment, you’ll uncover philosophical questions and secrets that make for an engaging experience. While fully exploring the game might take over seven hours, you can grasp the essentials and make your escape in significantly less time, ensuring a thrilling adventure.

In a gaming world often dominated by lengthy campaigns, these open-world titles shine for their ability to deliver satisfying experiences in shorter timeframes. Whether you’re a busy gamer or just in search of something quick yet enjoyable, these games might be just what you need.