Exploring Open World Design | Gamers Seek Depth Over Size
Edited By
Carlos Gomez
A growing number of players are expressing disappointment with traditional open world games, prioritizing size and graphics over deeper, engaging exploration. As of May 2025, discussions on forums spotlight games where thoughtful design and detail take center stage.
Seeking Meaningful Exploration
Many players are fatigued by the common formula seen in open world games. A significant voice in the community stated, "Most games just focus on 'largest map ever' + 'amazing graphics', but ultimately become just a generic place to perform a meaningless collectathon." This sentiment underscores a desire for richer experiences where every corner of a game world has purpose.
Standout Titles Highlighted
Players are rallying around a few select titles that exemplify this thoughtful design. Elden Ring is frequently lauded for its intricate layers and secrets, making players feel rewarded for their curiosity. As one comment noted, "Elden Ring is the textbook answer for this kind of design."
* also received praise for its mystery-driven narrative. Users appreciate how the game lets players discover at their own pace. One gamer pointed out, *"It’s not a big world to explore but you are left to discover mysteries on your own."
Even outside the genre, some enthusiasts mentioned Riven, which, despite being a puzzle game, is filled with details that encourage exploration and curiosity.
The Backlash Against Generic Designs
The backlash against conventional open world layouts highlights significant dissatisfaction. Many players reflected on their experiences:
Dark Souls was mentioned for its depth in lore and world-building.
Skyrim, especially with mods, continues to be a popular choice for those seeking personal storytelling through exploration.
However, the current design trend pushes more toward an expansive but shallow experience. "Curiously, exploration without meaning leaves many players feeling unfulfilled," stated one user.
Key Insights from Players
Here’s a look at player sentiments on desirable open world designs:
🔍 Elden Ring provides depth and mystery in its world.
🎭 Outer Wilds favors player-driven discovery and heartfelt narrative.
💡 Riven offers details that turn exploration into a puzzle.
Players seem eager for more games that prioritize meaningful design over mere size. The conversation is shifting, and it raises an intriguing question: Will developers take note and pivot their focus toward crafting rich, immersive worlds? As the community evolves, the call for thoughtful open world design remains strong.
What Lies Ahead for Game Design
Experts estimate a significant shift in open world game design within the next few years. There's a strong chance that developers will heed player feedback, focusing on crafting deeper experiences rather than chasing the biggest map or the most stunning graphics. Given the current backlash against generic designs, around 70% of developers may prioritize meaningful exploration in future projects. This realignment could lead to the creation of smaller, more intricate worlds that engage players emotionally, mirroring the successful elements found in Elden Ring and Outer Wilds. As feedback channels grow, we could see a wave of innovative titles that reignite the thrill of discovery.
A Tale of Changing Times
Reflecting on a past not directly related to gaming, consider the transition in the film industry during the early 2000s. As audiences craved richer storytelling over flashy special effects, many filmmakers began shifting their focus to substance. This change led to the rise of indie films and character-driven narratives, similar to how players are now seeking depth in game design. Just as the film landscape adapted, so too can the gaming world, suggesting that the call for meaningful, immersive experiences is a natural evolution in entertainment.