46 Best Upcoming Open-world RPGs For New And Epic Adventures

The best new games are building worlds that feel real and alive, reacting to what you do. This is happening because of better technology and a real focus on what players want from these big fantasy adventures.

Here's what's coming soon in open-world RPGs, the biggest upcoming games, including long-awaited sequels, exciting new series, confirmed releases and the most interesting games in development

1. The Elder Scrolls 6

After more than a decade since Skyrim's release, Bethesda's next Elder Scrolls entry remains shrouded in mystery. The studio has confirmed active development but released virtually no concrete details about setting, mechanics, or even a tentative release window.

Given Bethesda's recent track record with Starfield, there's justified skepticism about whether the studio can recapture the magic that made Skyrim a cultural phenomenon. The extended development time could indicate either meticulous polish or troubled production; without transparency from the studio, it's impossible to know which.

2. The Witcher 4

The Witcher 4 - Official Cinematic Trailer | State Of Unreal 2025

CD Projekt Red's transition to Unreal Engine 5 represents a significant technical pivot for the studio. While this should theoretically improve visual fidelity and reduce the custom engine bugs that plagued Cyberpunk 2077's launch, it also means the team is working with unfamiliar tools.

The Witcher 3 set extraordinarily high standards for narrative depth and world-building; matching that quality while learning a new engine presents real challenges. The studio has promised to maintain the series' trademark moral ambiguity and political complexity, but early promotional materials show only technical capabilities, not narrative substance.

3. Fable

Playground Games, known primarily for the Forza Horizon racing series, faces the challenging task of reviving a beloved but dormant franchise. The studio's expertise in creating beautiful, dynamic environments is evident, but open-world RPG design demands different skills.

The collaboration with Eidos-Montréal (Deus Ex: Human Revolution, Guardians of the Galaxy) adds experienced RPG developers to the team, which should help. However, balancing Fable's signature humor with modern expectations for depth and player agency is no small feat.

4. Kingdom Come - Deliverance II

Warhorse Studios built a devoted following with their commitment to historical authenticity and realistic medieval combat. The sequel promises an expanded world while maintaining that dedication to realism.

The first game's rigid save system and deliberate pacing polarized players. Early information suggests the sequel will refine rather than reinvent these systems. For fans of the original's uncompromising approach, this is likely good news. For newcomers hoping for more accessibility, the jury's still out.

5. Avowed

AVOWED Gameplay Demo 34 Minutes 4K

Obsidian Entertainment has a strong pedigree in RPG development (Fallout: New Vegas, The Outer Worlds), but Avowed represents their first major first-person action RPG since being acquired by Microsoft. Set in the Pillars of Eternity universe, it benefits from established lore but needs to translate that primarily text-based world into visceral first-person gameplay. Obsidian has emphasized focusing on a densely packed, reactive world rather than sheer size.

6. The Witcher Remake - Project Canis Majoris

Rebuilding the 2007 original as a modern open-world game is ambitious. The first Witcher was janky even at launch, with awkward combat and disjointed area design. Fool's Theory, the studio handling the remake, includes veterans from CD Projekt Red, which should help maintain tonal consistency.

However, transforming a game originally designed around separate zones into a seamless open world requires significant redesign. The question isn't just technical, it's whether the original's story and quests hold up when players can approach them non-linearly.

7. Dragon Quest XII - The Flames Of Fate

Dragon Quest XII The Flames of Fate Announced | Platforms to be Announced

Square Enix's decision to move away from turn-based combat represents a seismic shift for the traditionally conservative Dragon Quest series. While this modernization may attract new players, it risks alienating longtime fans who appreciate the series' deliberate, strategic battles.

The developer's track record with action combat (Kingdom Hearts) is strong, but Dragon Quest's identity is deeply tied to its traditional gameplay. This could be an evolution that revitalizes the series or a misstep that loses what made it special.

8. Lords Of The Fallen II

The 2023 Lords of the Fallen reboot received mixed reviews; praised for its dual-world mechanic but criticized for technical performance issues and derivative design. The sequel's success depends heavily on whether Hexworks can address these technical problems while differentiating itself more clearly from the Souls games it emulates.

The expanded dual-world system sounds promising on paper, but the execution will determine whether this becomes a standout or remains a competent but forgettable entry in an oversaturated genre.

9. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Released on PlayStation 5 in February 2024, Rebirth represents the second act of Square Enix's ambitious Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy. The game successfully opened up the world after Remake's confined Midgar setting, though some critics noted uneven pacing in the expanded open areas.

While technically already released, potential future releases on Xbox or Nintendo's next console remain unconfirmed speculation. The game demonstrates both the promise and challenges of translating a beloved linear RPG into a modern open-world format.

10. Gothic 1 Remake

THQ Nordic's remake using Unreal Engine 5 faces high expectations from fans of the cult classic original. Gothic's appeal lay in its oppressive atmosphere and consequence-heavy world, where nearly every NPC could become hostile based on your actions.

Modern open-world design has moved toward more forgiving, accessible systems; the challenge for this remake is modernizing outdated mechanics without diluting what made the original compelling. The 2026 release date suggests a lengthy development cycle, which could indicate either thoroughness or development challenges.

11. Nioh 3

Team Ninja's Nioh series occupies an interesting middle ground that is more structured than true open-world games but with interconnected areas that allow exploration. The series has carved out an identity distinct from Dark Souls through its stance-based combat system and emphasis on build diversity through loot.

Early 2026 release window suggests the game is well into production. The addition of expanded open areas represents a natural evolution, though whether Team Ninja can maintain the series' tight, challenging combat in a more sprawling format remains to be seen.

12. Black Myth - Zhong Kui

Game Science's follow-up to Black Myth: Wukong benefits from that game's enormous commercial success, but also inherits heightened expectations. Wukong impressed with its visual fidelity and boss design but received criticism for repetitive level design between major encounters.

Zhong Kui's interconnected areas rather than true open world suggests a similar structure. The 2026 release window means it's likely in mid-to-late development, though without gameplay footage, it's difficult to assess whether Game Science has addressed Wukong's weaker elements.

13. The Blood Of Dawnwalker

THE BLOOD OF DAWNWALKER Insane Trailer and Gameplay | New DARK OPEN WORLD RPG

Developed by Rebel Wolves, a studio founded by former CD Projekt Red developers, including The Witcher 3's director Konrad Tomaszkiewicz. This pedigree generates interest, but it also invites comparisons to The Witcher that may be difficult to meet.

The isometric perspective and emphasis on tactical combat suggests something closer to Diablo than Skyrim, which may disappoint players expecting a traditional third-person open-world experience. The 2026 release window for a new studio's debut project is ambitious.

14. Beast Of Reincarnation

Game Freak venturing into dark action RPG territory is genuinely unexpected. Best known for Pokémon, the studio has rarely attempted mature, challenging gameplay. The Sekiro/Black Myth comparison sets extremely high expectations for combat depth and difficulty balancing.

The post-apocalyptic Japan setting in 4026 offers creative freedom, but without gameplay demonstrations, it's unclear whether Game Freak can deliver on these influences. This could be a surprising reinvention or an ambitious overreach.

15. Ghost Of Yōtei

Sucker Punch's follow-up to the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima moves forward in time to 1600s Japan with a new protagonist, Atsu, who is designed to be an inspirational role modelfor the next generation of players. The original game's gorgeous visuals and satisfying combat were somewhat undermined by repetitive open-world busywork.

The addition of grappling hook traversal suggests more vertical level design, which could address some of the original's flat terrain. The shift toward a story of healing rather than revenge is narratively interesting but requires strong writing to avoid feeling underdeveloped compared to the original's focused vengeance tale.

16. Thorgal

Based on the Belgian comic series, this action RPG faces the challenge of translating a visual storytelling medium into interactive gameplay. Licensed games have an inconsistent track record, and without significant gameplay footage or developer pedigree information, it's difficult to assess quality. The Viking mythology setting is increasingly crowded (Assassin's Creed Valhalla, God of War Ragnarök), so Thorgal needs strong differentiation beyond its source material to stand out.

17. Tides Of Annihilation

Londoner Reacts to TIDES OF ANNIHILATION First Trailer | Reaction & Analysis

Step into crumbling modern London where Arthurian legends come alive. The Arthurian legend resurgence continues with this action RPG featuring supernatural summoning mechanics. The ghost knight system suggests tactical depth beyond simple hack-and-slash combat, which could distinguish it in a crowded market.

However, with minimal information available and no clear release window, this remains firmly in the "wait and see" category. The concept is promising, but execution determines everything.

18. Fangs & Forges

This NEW High Fantasy Tactical RPG Is BEAUTIFUL, Rich With LORE & NEW UPDATES! | Fangs & Forges

Alpenwolf Studio's board game-inspired combat system represents a genuinely distinct approach to RPG battles. With over 120 hand-drawn character portraits and an emphasis on narrative encounters, this indie project clearly prioritizes story and character over graphical fidelity.

The question is whether the dice-rolling, card-playing combat remains engaging over a full playthrough or becomes repetitive. Small studio passion projects can surprise, but they're also prone to scope challenges and extended development times.

19. Lost Hellden

Artisan Studios' hand-painted aesthetic immediately sets this JRPG apart visually. The split-phase combat system aims for dynamic moment-to-moment gameplay rather than traditional turn-based or pure action combat.

This middle-ground approach could feel fresh or awkwardly positioned between established systems. JRPGs with unique art styles often struggle to find audiences outside dedicated genre fans, making this a risky but potentially rewarding project.

20. Edge Of Memories

Midgar Studio's (Cris Tales) follow-up introduces the Corrosion, a world-altering force that changes environments dynamically. This is technically ambitious; real-time world transformation requires significant development resources. If executed well, it could create genuinely emergent narrative moments.

If poorly implemented, it might feel gimmicky. The studio's previous work showed creative ambition but also rough edges; whether they've grown into their technical aspirations with this project remains uncertain.

21. Phantom Blade Zero

Phantom Blade Zero - Exclusive 10 Minutes of Gameplay

S-Game's action RPG aims for martial arts authenticity with weighty, realistic combat. The fusion of traditional Chinese aesthetics with cyberpunk elements creates visual distinctiveness. Built on current-generation technology, it should deliver on visual promises.

However, the game has been in development for several years with limited gameplay shown, which can indicate either meticulous polish or development difficulties. The combat's success hinges entirely on "feel," whether strikes and dodges have the responsiveness and feedback that makes action games satisfying.

22. The Hidden Ones

Promised as a "living, breathing world" for PC, this indie RPG emphasizes handcrafted environments and reactive systems. These are grand promises for what appears to be a smaller-scale production.

The most successful indie RPGs (Disco Elysium, Hades) typically focus on one or two core mechanics executed brilliantly rather than trying to match AAA scope. Without clearer information about scope, team size, and specific design philosophy, it's difficult to assess whether this is realistic ambition or overreach.

23. Fatekeeper

Offering early access on PC next winter, Fatekeeper takes the increasingly common approach of iterative public development. This can work brilliantly or result in permanently "unfinished" feeling games.

The desert, mountain, and ruin exploration suggests traditional fantasy geography; differentiation will come from execution rather than setting. Early access transparency can build community, but it also exposes every development misstep to public scrutiny.

24. Mass Effect 4

BioWare's reputation has suffered significantly since the original Mass Effect trilogy concluded. Mass Effect: Andromeda disappointed, and Anthem was a commercial and critical failure. The studio has promised a return to what made the trilogy special, but they've said similar things before.

The challenge is whether BioWare can recapture the chemistry between gameplay, narrative, and character development that defined Shepard's story. Without concrete gameplay or story details, this remains a case of cautious optimism grounded in past excellence but tempered by recent struggles.

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25. The Outer Worlds 2

Obsidian's sequel to their 2019 corporate satire RPG faces interesting challenges. The original was well-reviewed but criticized for limited scope and relatively shallow player choice consequences. The Arcadia star system setting and corporate intrigue premise suggest thematic continuity.

Microsoft's acquisition of Obsidian provides significantly more resources than the first game had, which could address scope concerns. Whether the writing remains as sharp while expanding scale is the key question. Obsidian's strength has traditionally been narrative depth rather than vast open worlds.

26. Dune Awakening

Funcom’s survival MMO set on Arrakis faces the big challenge of turning Dune’s thoughtful and political story into fun multiplayer gameplay. The studio’s work on Conan Exiles shows they know how to handle survival mechanics, but Dune’s appeal goes beyond harsh deserts. It’s also about politics, power struggles, and deep ideas.

The sandworms and spice gathering create clear gameplay goals, but the real question is whether the game will truly capture Dune’s unique atmosphere or just use it as a backdrop for a typical survival experience.

27. The Expanse - Osiris Reborn

Based on The Expanse’s detailed universe, this space RPG starts with strong source material that already focuses on realistic physics and political depth. However, space RPGs have a tough history because they are costly to make and often struggle to make space travel feel exciting instead of dull.

Developer Telltale Publishing’s involvement is interesting, but the studio is best known for story-driven licensed games rather than deep RPG systems. The focus on space battles and planet exploration shows big ambition, but pulling it off in this genre is always a major challenge.

28. State Of Decay 3

State of Decay 3 - Xbox Games Showcase 2024

Undead Labs’ zombie survival series is moving to snowy settings and adding real cooperative multiplayer. The earlier games had strong base-building and resource management systems but became repetitive over time. New survival features like managing the cold and playing with others could make the experience more engaging if done well.

However, the series has often struggled with bugs and rough performance, and adding multiplayer could make those problems worse. With a planned 2026 release, the long development time will hopefully give the team enough room to polish the game and fix these issues.

29. Borderlands 4

Gearbox’s September 12, 2025 release makes this one of the closest confirmed launches. The Gearbox Softwareis bringing back that signature Borderlands fun, wild humor, crazy guns and mountains of loot. The Borderlands formula of loot-filled shooting mixed with irreverent humor has been a commercial hit but is starting to feel creatively tired.

The “bigger and louder” approach has begun to lose its charm, and many players found Borderlands 3 more exhausting than exciting. The main question is whether Gearbox can bring something fresh or simply deliver another familiar Borderlands game. For long-time fans, that might be enough, but others may see it as more of the same.

30. Judas

Ken Levine’s first project since BioShock Infinite comes with huge expectations and some real worries. The game has been in development for years with a small team, and Levine’s perfectionist approach reportedly caused problems during Infinite’s production. The “narrative Legos” system, which lets story pieces change and connect differently in each playthrough, sounds fascinating but is also very complex to pull off.

It could make the game highly replayable or leave the story feeling messy and uneven. The spaceship setting and first-person shooting are familiar for Levine, but whether he can achieve his ambitious vision is still uncertain.

31. DokeV

Pearl Abyss's pivot from MMO to single-player creature-collection game suggests significant development shifts. Originally announced as a massively multiplayer title, this change could indicate either creative evolution or troubled development requiring scope reduction.

The creature-collection genre is dominated by Pokémon; DokeV needs compelling differentiation. The Korean mythology inspiration provides thematic distinctiveness, and the visuals are undeniably vibrant. Whether the gameplay loop maintains engagement and how the open world serves the collection mechanics are unanswered questions.

32. Project Awakening

Project Awakening - Official Trailer (New Action RPG Game 2026)

Cygames' action RPG emphasizes online cooperative dragon battles. The developer's mobile game background (Granblue Fantasy) raises questions about monetization approaches and whether the game is truly designed around cooperative experiences or structured to encourage microtransactions.

The emphasis on "fast-paced combat" and "huge challenges" suggests Monster Hunter-style gameplay, which works well but is also a crowded niche. Without clear information about business model and progression systems, it's difficult to assess how player-friendly this will be.

33. Chrono Odyssey

This South Korean MMORPG from NPIXEL is planned for release in late 2026 and will feature faction battles, world bosses, and both PvP and PvE modes. The promise of a non-pay-to-win system is a good sign, but it will need to be proven after launch since many Korean MMOs have made similar claims that later faded.

The focus on skill-based combat sounds promising, but it still needs to be shown in action, as MMO combat often values flashy effects over real depth. The project is very ambitious, maybe too much for a debut title. Korean MMOs also have a mixed history in Western markets, where their heavy grinding systems often don’t connect well with players.

34. Aion 2

NCSoft's sequel to Aion promises second-half 2026 release with flight systems and primarily cosmetic monetization. The original Aion had a devoted following but never achieved mainstream success in Western markets.

Focusing on PvE content with limited PvP is a smart choice given current market preferences, but the game competes in an increasingly crowded space against established giants like Final Fantasy XIV and World of Warcraft. Whether Aion 2 offers sufficient differentiation beyond "fairer monetization" is unclear.

35. ArcheAge Chronicles

ArcheAge Chronicles Gameplay Preview - Upcoming MMO ARPG With Some Serious Potential

XL Games plans to release this title in the first half of 2026, focusing on story-based PvE content instead of the heavy PvP seen in the original ArcheAge. This marks a major change in direction for the series. The first game stood out for its player-driven economy and open-world PvP, but those systems also led to toxic behavior and pay-to-win issues.

The challenge for Chronicles is to keep the original’s sense of freedom and creativity while offering a more structured PvE experience. Limiting PvP areas may disappoint some long-time fans but could attract players who found the original game too aggressive.

36. Lost Soul Aside

Lost Soul Aside - Gameplay Trailer | PS5 & PC Games

China-based Kaser’s action game launched on August 29, 2025, making it one of the closest upcoming releases. It began as a solo developer project that went viral before receiving PlayStation’s support for full production.

The fast, challenging combat and tough boss fights are aimed at fans of Soulslike games, a genre that’s becoming crowded. The story focuses on the hero’s search for his sister, giving it an emotional edge. The game’s success will depend on how well the story matches the intensity and polish of its combat.

37. Blackfrost - The Long Dark 2

Blackfrost: The Long Dark 2 - Official Reveal Trailer | The Game Awards 2024

This game takes everything tough about surviving in the cold and makes it even harder. You're stuck out in a frozen wasteland where the wind bites deep and warmth feels impossible to find.

Food and supplies are almost gone, so every step could mean the difference between living or freezing solid. Just keeping your character alive becomes a daily battle against the ice and snow.

38. Where Winds Meet

Where Winds Meet™ Open-World Game | PS5

Everstone Studio’s Chinese martial arts RPG is aiming for a 2025 release in the US. Comparisons to Ghost of Tsushima are both exciting and challenging, as the game must reach that level of quality while still offering something unique. The wuxia theme helps it stand out since this genre is still uncommon in Western markets.

However, games from China often face problems with translation and localization, which can hurt even strong gameplay and storytelling. Good technical performance will also be key, as the game needs to prove its worth as a current-generation exclusive with impressive visuals and smooth gameplay.

39. Project Jinyiwei

Project Jinyiwei DEMO Gameplay I New Indie Chinese Souls-Like Game I Unreal Engine 5 I PS5 & PC

This Ming Dynasty action RPG focuses on stealth and assassination gameplay. So far, only limited information has been shared, and the developer or publisher has not been clearly identified. The mention of Dark Souls-style difficulty suggests tough, skill-based combat, while the historical setting and stealth elements are similar to Assassin’s Creed. The Chinese Ming Dynasty backdrop offers a fresh and underused setting in Western games, with plenty of room for rich storytelling and cultural depth if handled authentically.

40. Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles

This beloved strategy game is getting a fresh look. The remake updates the menus and makes everything look sharper and smoother. Battles feel more exciting now, and every character has voice acting.

They've changed a few lines in the story too. It's perfect for newcomers while still feeling familiar to fans who know it well.

41. Project The Perceiver

Project: The Perceiver - Exclusive Announcement Trailer

This upcoming PS5 and PC game stands out with its unique art style and challenging combat, but few concrete details are available so far. With no confirmed developer, gameplay footage, or release window, it’s difficult to form clear expectations. The focus on “tough, satisfying fights” points to Soulslike influences, a genre that has become highly competitive and demands strong design to make an impact.

42. Darksiders 4

THQ Nordic’s next entry in the Darksiders series is planned for 2026 and will feature a larger open-world design. The franchise has built a small but loyal fan base over three games, each focusing on a different Horseman of the Apocalypse.

Moving toward a more open-world approach marks a clear evolution for the series, which has traditionally focused on Zelda-style dungeons and puzzle-solving. The challenge will be to expand the world while keeping the core elements that make Darksiders unique.

43. Architect: Land Of Exiles

Architect: Land of Exiles | Gameplay Trailer - G-Star 2024

This indie RPG built with Unreal Engine 5 focuses on player choice, faction systems, and environmental puzzles. A planned 2025 PC release shows that development is well underway. Features like base-building and side activities aim to add more depth beyond the main story.

The project is very ambitious for an indie team, as creating reactive factions, meaningful choices, and engaging combat all at once demands significant skill and resources. Many indie RPGs struggle to balance large goals with limited capacity, making scope management a major challenge for this project.

44. 1348 Ex Voto

This dark historical RPG set during the Black Death focuses on companion relationships and cursed artifacts that grant power at the cost of sanity. The corruption system adds an interesting narrative layer, forcing players to make hard choices between strength and stability.

Its plague-ridden European setting creates a haunting atmosphere but also poses a challenge in maintaining both tension and fun. The planned release on PS5, Xbox, and PC points to a PC-first development process. With its mix of psychological themes and rich setting, it has the potential to stand out among upcoming indie RPGs.

45. The Age Of Bhaarat

The Age of Bhaarat - Official Announcement Trailer

This Indian mythology RPG includes a karma system that influences abilities and access to different parts of the world. Its focus on South Asian mythology is exciting, as this area is still rarely explored in games. The mix of temple puzzles and chariot racing hints at varied and creative gameplay.

However, with limited information about the developers and no real gameplay shown yet, it’s hard to judge how well it will come together. Cultural authenticity will be crucial, as players will expect these myths to be portrayed with knowledge and respect rather than used only for visual style.

46. Ballad Of Antara

This Chinese open-world RPG from Tencent’s Level Infinite features up to three-player co-op and focuses on wuxia-style martial arts gameplay. The multiplayer element helps it stand out from the mostly single-player open-world RPGs on this list. The wuxia genre’s fast, acrobatic combat and mystical powers could make for exciting gameplay if handled well.

However, games developed in China often face problems with translation, localization, and performance in Western markets. The co-op design might also leave solo players with an uneven experience. Tencent’s vast resources point to strong technical capabilities, though their global releases sometimes prioritize profit over creativity.

FAQs About Best Upcoming Open-world RPGs

What's The Real Difference Between Open-world RPGs And Action-adventure Games?

Open-world RPGs focus on your character growing stronger through stats and skills. How well you fight or solve problems depends on your character's level and gear, not just how quick you are with the controller. Action-adventure games are more about your own hand-eye coordination.

Will Any Of These New Games Let Me Play With Friends?

Some exciting games coming soon have multiplayer. Dune Awakening is built for lots of players to play together all the time. Ballad of Antara lets up to three friends team up.

How Much Do My Choices Actually Matter In These Games?

Your decisions shape the world in real ways. These games move past fake choices, things happen even if you’re there or not. Skip saving a village, it gets destroyed. The goal is a world that feels alive, not one just waiting for you to show up.

Are There Any Big Multiplayer RPGs Being Made Right Now?

Ashes of Creation and ArcheAge Chronicles are both huge multiplayer RPGs where thousands play together in one world. You can build or fight alongside others. These show how developers are mixing classic RPG elements with the fun of playing online with real people.

Which New Games Use Unreal Engine 5?

Several big titles use this tech for amazing visuals and smooth worlds. Avowed, Dune Awakening and Clair Obscur Expedition 33 all run on it. We’ve also seen hints that Blizzard’s secret RPG uses the same engine.

How Do I Keep Track Of News For These Games?

Follow the game studios directly on Twitter, Instagram or their websites, they share real updates there. Big events like The Game Awards or Gamescom often drop new trailers. Stick to gaming sites you trust for clear, no-nonsense info as release dates get closer.

Final Thoughts

Get ready for some amazing open-world RPGs in the next few years. These games are doing more than ever before. Worlds won't just be huge, they'll react to your choices, making everything feel alive.

You'll see this in Kingdom Come Deliverance II's realistic past and the playful magic of the new Fable. What matters most is how well these games let you shape your own adventure. They're giving you the best tools yet to truly make the story your own.

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