Open-world games take a hell of a lot of time. We therefore reveal which open worlds you should keep your calendar clear for in 2021 and 2022.
In 2021, the list of postponed games gets longer and longer: what were we PC gamers rubbing our hands in anticipation of the year’s big releases at the beginning of 2020. Open worlds, role-playing games, MMOs and strategy games from the biggest developers were on the agenda – at least until the first big wave of postponements pushed them further and further back.
These are not as clear-cut as one might think. While many studios were affected by the pandemic and the difficult working conditions, there is often more to a release postponement than that – because such a gaming year is a complex machinery.
These open-world games will be released in 2021/2022
Meanwhile, the really big fish won’t be released until sometime in 2021 or 2022. Some others have even been postponed indefinitely. That’s why we’ve compiled all the postponed 2020 and 2021 releases for you – including their new release dates and reasons for postponement.
Elex 2
How does the Open World work? The way we already know it from Gothic 2: In Elex 2, the map of the predecessor is part of the new map, much like the Minental on Khorinis. Little will change in the familiar formula, we will once again roam the sci-fi world as the fighter Jax, discover treasures and join one of several factions. However, there is a new way of exploring – for the first time we get to fly with a jetpack and even wield swords.
Suitable for whom? You should not expect highly polished high-end graphics from Elex 2. Besides, Piranha Bytes’ games are usually pretty crunchy, so a certain frustration tolerance won’t hurt. On the other hand, the combat and morality systems are to be deepened and improved this time.
When is it coming? Elex 2 does not yet have a release date, but it has already caused some confusion. We assume that the role-playing game will be released sometime in 2022, as it seems to be quite far developed already – and will also still be released on LastGen consoles.
Ark 2
How does the open world work? Ark 2 was announced at the 2020 Game Awards, and since then there hasn’t been much new info on the dino-survival game. What we do know already in any case: Vin Diesel is in the game. The first tidbits about the story are also known: Ark 2 picks up where Ark Genesis Part 2 left off and takes place on an alien planet. It will once again be a survival sandbox with dinos and other prehistoric animals that we can tame.
Suitable for whom? Dino fans and survival enthusiasts should put Ark 2 on their watch list. The first part has become a cult game by now and the sequel will surely bring some new ideas and improvements.
When is coming? There’s no concrete release date yet, but in the video description below the first trailer, the developers reveal that Ark 2 is planned for 2022. It will be released exclusively for PC and Xbox
Diablo 4
How does the Open World work? With Diablo 4, the action role-playing game series is taking a big step towards open world play. A decision that fans see with mixed feelings and colleague Micha also asks himself in his preview what the open world in Diablo 4 is good for. The elimination of the loading screens brings another innovation, however, because for the first time we travel the world on the back of mounts. Through the Shared World system, we meet other players from time to time – but this is only supposed to happen outside of dungeons and story missions.
Suitable for whom? Diablo 4 relies on many innovations, but also wants to tie back to the old days in many points and borrow a lot from Diablo 2, which was just revived with Diablo 2: Resurrected. Above all, the character and item system from the classic was the model for Diablo 4.
When is it coming? There is no release date for Diablo 4 yet. All we know is that it will no longer be released in 2021. But even 2022 is still in the stars.
Sons of the Forest
How does the Open World work? Sons of the Forest is currently the most eagerly anticipated survival game in the global esports community, according to a survey. This is probably mainly due to the success of its predecessor The Forest, because not too much is known about the second part. We do know, however, that the open world is once again equipped with hostile events and enemies with a learning AI. This means that the enemies study our behaviour, follow us through the forest and recognise our patterns. New features include the seasons, which will have an impact on our food sources and life in the world.
Suitable for whom? Sons of the Forest aims to excite single players and co-op teams. Unlike many other survival games, it also relies on its story, which you gradually uncover as you fight your battle for survival. In terms of combat, the focus is on close combat, because there is extremely little ammunition for firearms, and that needs to be well invested.
When is it coming? The release of Sons of the Forest has been quiet. According to the current status, the game should still be released on Steam in 2021. The developers have not yet revealed whether it will be in Early Access or directly as a full version.
The Settlers
Why was it postponed? The Settlers has always been fairly tight-lipped about its exact release date since it was announced, but was pushed back to an unspecified 2020 date at gamescom 2019. Finally, the developers announced that they would not be able to keep to this year either and did not name a new release date this time.
The reason, they said, was feedback from early testers: “As we conducted playtests and diary studies, one thing became clear: while we’re on track to deliver a great game, we want to create a truly exceptional gaming experience. ”
Crimson Desert
Why has it been postponed? Sad news for all fans of extensive role-playing games: The spiritual successor of the MMO Black Desert Online was originally supposed to be released in 2022, but now the release has been postponed indefinitely.
In a statement, the developers write that the fans’ approval of the gameplay reveal was a great motivational boost for the team and that they are working hard on Crimson Desert. The game is also making good progress, but they have decided to invest even more time in new ideas to make the game experience even better.
Unsurprisingly, the ongoing pandemic and the associated work-from-home environment may have played a part in this decision.
Warhammer 40K: Darktide
Why has it been delayed? The co-op shooter in the popular Warhammer 40,000 universe joins the long list of games that were supposed to be released in 2021. Now friends of action-packed multiplayer games will not be able to reach for their chainsword and power hammer until 2022. As is so often the case, the reason given for the postponement is the Corona pandemic and the associated protection of employees.
Fatshark CEO Marin Wahlund emphasises: “We have a responsibility to deliver the best game possible, and we need more time to achieve this goal. It is no secret that it is a challenge to develop a video game during the pandemic. We will use the extra time to bring the game to market in even better quality and maintain it in the years to come. ”
RE:Verse
Why was it postponed? Originally, RE:Verse was supposed to be released as a multiplayer preorder game for Resident Evil: Village – in May 2021. However, sobering feedback from beta players ensured that RE:Verse would not be released until July. Now there is the next postponement: The multiplayer spin-off will be released at an as yet unknown date in 2022.
Stray
Why was it postponed? Unfortunately, cat lovers will have to be patient longer before they can slip into the skin of the roaming four-legged friend. The release, originally planned for 2021, has been postponed to the beginning of 2022.
As is often the case, the reason given via Twitter is the well-known promise of quality: Stray is to be published in the best possible quality and no compromises are to be made. The well-being of the team members is also in focus.
As a cat, you got into quite a mess in Stray. You have been separated from your family and find yourself alone in an unknown yet mysterious city. It’s up to you to unravel the mystery of this place and find your way back home.
Kena: Bridge of Spirits
Why was it postponed? Originally, Kena: Bridge of Spirits was supposed to be released as early as spring 2021. In February, however, the developers at Ember Labs confirmed that the action adventure about young Kena and the cuddly spirits would not be launched until 24 August 2021 after all.
But just a few weeks before the hoped-for release, the developers on Twitter have come up with bad news for all waiting fans: they have decided to postpone the game again in order to further optimise the game on all platforms. As a team, they feel that this extra time is important to provide the best possible gameplay experience.
This time, however, the postponement is fortunately only about a month. So instead of 24 August 2021, we can now launch into the breathtakingly beautiful world of Kena from 21 September 2021.
New World
How does open world work? Amazon wants to change how open worlds work in the genre with its first MMO. New World is meant to feel less like a theme park. Less like a conglomerate of different dungeons. Less like, well…like WoW! But that’s what makes New World so exciting. The development of a proper open-world MMO that very consistently wants to give the feeling of really taking place on an existing and cohesive world.
Suitable for whom? Although the game was originally intended as a pure PvP MMO with survival elements, it has since turned away from this path, thrown the survival aspect overboard and is now also interesting for single players and PvE lovers.
When is it coming? The release of New World has already been postponed several times. The new date is 31 August 2021. Currently, the start of a closed beta is around the corner.
Riders Republic
How does the Open World work? In Rider’s Republic you can show what extreme sports ace you are. In the sequel to Steep, you go into the open game world with wingsuit, skis, snowboards or, most recently, bicycles, which is reminiscent of nature parks in the USA. You can take part in countless races, prove yourself in trick competitions or throw yourself into the career.
Suitable for whom? For fans of extreme sports who are deliberately not looking for a simulation. Instead, the focus is on arcade fun, like in the Tony Hawk series. Those who already liked Steep will also get their money’s worth with Riders Republic.
When is it coming? Riders Republic will be released for PC and consoles on 2 September 2021.
Life is Strange: True Colors
How does the Open World work? Instead of providing smaller level areas like in the predecessors, there is a real Open World in Life Strange: True Colors. You can freely explore the small town of Haven Springs, complete optional side quests and listen to one or two exciting stories. The game world should thus become more believable and interactive, while there is even more for you to discover.
Suitable for whom? Those who place a lot of value on the plot and dialogue in games will get their money’s worth with Life is Strange: True Colors. The third part of the series tells a personal story of the protagonist Alex, who is blessed with supernatural powers. Alex can perceive the feelings of her fellow human beings as an aura and thus experience their thoughts.
When is it coming? The release of Life is Strange: True Colors is practically just around the corner. On 10 September, the adventure game will be released for almost every current platform.
Sable
How does the open world work? The open desert world of Sable is not only unique in a visual way, but also offers something that games do less and less these days. It doesn’t take the player by the hand, instead giving only vague instructions and otherwise leaving you to your own urge to explore. With the help of a glider, you set off on a journey and discover the world and its secrets at your own pace.
Suitable for whom? Sable focuses strongly on exploration aspects and is aimed at players who want to discover a world that is completely foreign to them. There is no fighting here and dying is also not possible. Instead, Sable draws its gameplay fascination from its great freedom of movement and smaller puzzles that you encounter in the course of the game.
When is it coming? Sable will be released on 23 September 2021 for the PC and Xbox Series X/S.
Far Cry 6
How does the Open World work? In Far Cry 6 we travel to the fictional South American city of Yara, which strongly resembles Cuba. We slip into the role of a guerrilla fighter who wants to overthrow the new villain and dictator Castillo and his tyrannical rule. As is typical for Far Cry, we achieve this through crisp shootouts in the open world – in which we sometimes improvise our own weapons. We also have the option of moving around in vehicles and hiring NPC companions.
Suitable for whom? Open-world fans who prefer to use a machine gun instead of a sword can expect an exciting candidate in Far Cry 6. Those who already liked the predecessors should keep an eye on the upcoming part with its Caribbean island flair and Breaking Bad references.
When is it coming? The release of Far Cry 6 was already postponed three months after its official announcement – and now has a fixed date. On 7 October 2021 it will be released on the PC and consoles.
Forza Horizon 5
How does the Open World work? After hitting the streets of the UK in Forza Horizon 4, the next destination on the list is Mexico. In Forza Horizon 5, you can once again expect a freely drivable open world, which is full of racing activities, festival feeling and dozens of cars. The developers promise visual variety: lively deserts, dense jungle, historic cities, beautiful beaches and a snow-covered volcano should offer plenty of pleasure for the eye.
Suitable for whom? Forza Horizon 5 is of course primarily aimed at racing gamers who like to get into fast cars and are less concerned about simulation aspects and fixed track limits. If you have already played one of the predecessors, it’s best to keep an eye on the upcoming part.
When is it coming? The fifth part of the Forza Horizon series was only announced at E3 2021. But you won’t have to wait too much longer for the release: the engines are due to start on 9 November.
Dying Light 2: Stay Human
How does the open world work? If everything in Dying Light 2 works the way the developers envisioned, we can expect one of the most innovative open world concepts in recent years. We are promised a huge urban area that offers much more than just a backdrop for our zombie hunt. We have the power to influence the cityscape of the still nameless metropolis with our decisions. Depending on which faction we prefer or where we place ourselves morally, our actions can make entire city districts impassable or reveal new areas.
Suitable for whom? Dying Light 2 is a must if you can’t get enough of apocalypses triggered by zombies. Despite the first-person perspective, you move through the open world using the parkour mechanics that were already great in the first part. This makes the zombie chases feel appropriately hectic without ever completely taking control away from us.
When is it coming? Dying Light 2 has been in development since 2018 and should have been released long ago. However, the zombie game was significantly delayed while there was radio silence from the developer side. Now it’s clear: The zombie hunt will be released on 7 December.
Atomic Heart
How does the Open World work? At this point we have to be honest enough to say: not a clue. There are always conflicting statements about whether Atomic Heart really has an open world. There are supposed to be different biomes, but whether they merge seamlessly into each other is still an open question.
Suitable for whom? Imagine Fallout and Bioshock tossing a nuclear bomb back and forth until one of them drops the thing (probably Fallout). The atomic explosion causes the molecules of the two to first shatter, then randomly assemble, and in the end Atomic Heart stands before us. Atomic Heart promises to be an intense and thoroughly creepy first-person shooter, which, like Bioshock once did, will make a name for itself due to its extraordinary visuals.
When will it be released? It remains questionable whether Atomic Heart will make it to 2021. Most recently, there was a gameplay trailer at E3, but a concrete release date is still missing.
Crimson Desert
How does the open world work? At first glance, Crimson Desert offers a fairly classic open world for the genre. Either on foot, on horseback, by canoe or even via grappling hook, you explore a medieval fantasy world in which you complete quests, fight enemies and collect new loot. Along the way, you can stop in villages and towns to sell items or talk to NPCs.
Suitable for whom? Although Crimson Desert actually began as a prequel to the online role-playing game Black Desert Online, it is now an independent game with its own background world – and a single-player experience in which you even have to make decisions. In addition, however, there is to be a multiplayer mode that is independent of the campaign.
When is it coming? According to the developer, the plan is to release Crimson Desert for PC and consoles at the end of 2021. However, it has been a little quiet around the role-playing game for some time, which is why it is unclear whether the schedule will be kept or whether a postponement is still imminent.
Elden Ring
How does the Open World work? Instead of Dark Souls or Sekiro before it, From Software opens the gates in Elden Ring and releases you into a large, connected game world – either on foot or on the back of your trusty horse. Elden Ring is modelled on the PlayStation classic Shadow of the Colossus, which presents a rather empty and sometimes lonely world that scores points with individual, but all the more exciting locations. This is also where the developers want to start and encourage the urge to discover.
Suitable for whom? Those who like tough boss fights, want to explore a gloomy but at the same time fascinating world and enjoy a well thought-out combat system should put Elden Ring on their list. For fans of the Souls series, Elden Ring is already eagerly awaited.
When is it coming? After a long period of silence about Elden Ring, it should not take too much longer. The release date is set for 21 January 2022.
Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl
How does the open world work? Stalker 2: Heart of Chernobyl wants to stay true to the strengths of the series. This means that you will once again explore the open game world of the Chernobyl reactor zone from a first-person perspective. You are not completely alone, as you are regularly drawn into battle with bandits, mutants and other enemies. Not to mention that the dynamic weather events and anomalies can also get to you.
Suitable for whom? Those who like intense and atmospheric first-person shooters with role-playing and survival elements could find their saviour in Stalker 2. However, the developers have not yet shown much gameplay from the upcoming major project.
When is it coming? The team still has a few months to go until the release. As things stand, Stalker 2 will be released on 28 April 2022.
Starfield
How does the open world work? Starfield is the new game from the Elder Scrolls and Fallout makers at Bethesda. That in itself says a lot about the open world, although there is otherwise only sparse information about it. What is clear is that you travel from planet to planet with the help of spaceships, follow a main task and countless side tasks and explore a lot. Similar to Skyrim, the path is the goal and not necessarily the other way around.
Suitable for whom? Fans of single-player role-playing games should definitely keep an eye on Starfield. After all, it is also Bethesda’s first new brand in 25 years. How complex the role-playing mechanics and the combat system will be, however, is still unclear.
When will it be released? You will have to wait over a year for Starfield. The role-playing game will not be released until 11 November 2022.
Hogwarts Legacy
How does the Open World work? In the role-playing game set in the Harry Potter universe, we travel to 19th century Hogwarts – many years before the events of the books. Nevertheless, we will meet some familiar figures in Hogwarts Legacy, such as the young Dumbledore, who was himself a student at Hogwarts at the time. But the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is by no means the only thing we can explore – familiar places like the Forbidden Forest or Hogsmeade are also waiting to be discovered by us.
Suitable for whom? Hogwarts Legacy is clearly the role-playing game Harry Potter fans have been waiting for for years. But because it’s a big fantasy open-world with an exciting story, role-playing combat and puzzles, newcomers might also enjoy Hogwarts Legacy.
When is it coming? A release date is not yet known. First, the role-playing game was supposed to be released in 2021, but was then prematurely postponed to 2022. However, it is already certain that Hogwarts Legacy will be released for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S.
Gotham Knights
How does the Open World work? Alone or with a friend, you can put a stop to criminals in Gotham Knights. Through Gotham City you fight, puzzle and sneak your way through a total of five different districts of the comic city. Unlike previous Batman games, the world in Gotham Knights will be animated by NPCs who follow a complex daily routine.
Suitable for whom? While the Arkham series around Batman was previously a feast for single-player players, the co-op aspect comes to the fore in Gotham Knights. Those who would like to beat up villains with someone else and can do without Batman as a playable character should not disregard Gotham Knights.
When is it coming? Actually, Gotham Knights should have been released in 2021. However, due to the restrictions of the worldwide Corona pandemic, the developers need a little more time, which is why it is not due to start until 2022.
Forspoken
How does the open world work? At first glance, the open world of Forspoken seems quite ordinary for a fantasy game, offering dense forests, a desert and ruins guarded by powerful monsters. Only a glance at the protagonist Frey Holland reveals an important detail: she wears modern everyday clothes, i.e. trainers and a white T-shirt. Holland did not land in the world voluntarily, but apparently got there by chance or fate.
Suitable for whom? Forspoken is being developed by Square Enix and Luminous Productions, the makers of Final Fantasy 15. Accordingly, Forspoken will also feature an action-packed battle system in which magic plays a major role. The action adventure is also supposed to offer a strong story aspect.
When is it coming? There is no exact release date for Forspoken yet. It should be released for PC and PlayStation 5 in the course of 2022.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2
How does the open world work? Like its iconic predecessor, the world of Bloodlines 2 will not be a continuous open world, but will be made up of individual hubs. Nevertheless, we can move around freely as far as possible. Not only do we wander through nocturnal Seattle on the streets, but we also explore the roofs of buildings or descend into the sewers. The world offers as many facets as there are vampire clans in it.
Suitable for whom? The first Bloodlines is considered a role-playing game for fans. A title that had many quirks when it was released but nevertheless managed to conquer the hearts of many players and became a cult. Whether the sequel will be just as edgy remains to be seen. But if you are attracted by the allure of evil and welcome vampires or dark fantasy as a setting, Bloodlines 2 should not disappoint you.
When is it coming? Originally, Paradox wanted to release the vampire role-playing game at the beginning of 2020. Then followed a postponement to 2021 – and in the meantime there is no release date at all. The responsible developer was fired at the end of February and the vampire game is now facing an uncertain future.
What is actually going on with Beyond Good & Evil 2?
The time would at least be ripe to learn more about the ambitious project and, above all, to get some impressions of the finished game. At least we already know that Ubisoft plans to generate the universe procedurally. In a similar way to how the vast galaxy of No Man’s Sky was created. The gameplay focus is on multiplayer, because Beyond Good & Evil will be a shared-world role-playing game in which we will meet space pirates, clones and talking pigs with moustaches.
