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It’s 16 September 2013. I’ve just arrived in Japan to cover the Tokyo Game Show. Before I boarded the plane, my life had been consumed for weeks by Grand Theft Auto V. I’d spent six days playing it for every waking second, written a review, and scripted and recorded a video review for IGN, where I was working at the time. The pressure was immense. I had not thought about anything else for so long that the lines between my real life and my virtual life in San Andreas had started to blur; I remember, on a short snack trip to the Co-op across the road from my old flat, vividly envisioning putting my elbow through the window of the Prius parked outside and driving away in it.

That review was published a few hours after I disembarked on the other side of the world. It’s the most popular thing I will ever write, read by more than 10 million people by the end of that year. In the decade since, no game has come close to capturing that level of fervour. From the second Grand Theft Auto V was announced in 2011 until its release, people ate up every scrap of information that Rockstar flung their way.

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It’s no longer a surprise when big videogame developers take escalating legal action against fan coders. Nintendo, for example, has a long history of stomping on projects on the basis they infringe intellectual property rights.

From Nintendo’s perspective, there’s nothing to discuss. It enjoys the full support of the law when it decides to protect its intellectual property rights, game over. From the side of fans who love Nintendo’s work so much that they spend years of their lives paying tribute to its work, it tends to feel a bit different.

The same is true for people who decide to fix bugs in games like GTA by giving them a major overhaul, completely free of charge. At a moment’s notice, they can find themselves being sued, with much of the gaming community looking on, asking: “Really?”

On a Scale of One to Petty, Things Can Get Worse

Mike Dailly is the designer of Lemmings, a game that appeared in most Commodore Amiga owners’ collections during the early 90s. The game was created by DMA Design, which began as a four-man development team featuring Dailly and former classmates David Jones, Russell Kay, and Steve Hammond.

DMA Design is known today as Rockstar North, a brand synonymous with Grand Theft Auto, one of the most famous game series of all time. GTA’s roots reach all the way back to the game’s first iteration in 1997, which was developed by DMA Design and powered by Mike Dailly’s graphics engine.

A quarter of a century is not only a huge slice of videogame history, it’s a culturally significant period deserving of preservation. Unfathomably, however, it seems that Rockstar has decided that pieces of that history should be erased from Dailly’s YouTube channel, even though it relates directly to his work on the original GTA.

Rockstar Strikes GTA Prototype Videos

Dailly isn’t known for sugarcoating his opinions, so when Rockstar targeted videos on his channel, it was only a matter of time before he made that public. On Sunday he took to Twitter and did just that.

“I see Rockstar are going full fuckers mode again, issuing copyright strikes to any GTA video they can find – including both my prototype videos. So now they’re trying to block all release of anyone’s work on a game – and any old development footage,” he wrote .

Dailly’s YouTube channel is a step back in time with a future twist, perfect for those who love videogame history but want to drive the artform forward. There’s even a video of DMA Design’s 1993 Christmas party and a tour of their offices .

Anyone wanting to see the GTA prototype videos will, of course, be disappointed. The videos are relatively easy to find elsewhere using basic search skills but, those happy to see how Dailly’s uploads used to appear on YouTube, a screenshot should suffice.

Dailly says that Rockstar’s complaints to YouTube carried an explanation for the takedowns. According to them, Dailly did not obtain permission from Rockstar to post development footage. Busted.

Friction Between Rockstar and Coding Veteran

The GTA prototype videos posted by Dailly were part of a series of similar posts related to the early development of GTA. But last evening Dailly decided he must resign history to history, adding that all of his posts had been deleted and he wouldn’t be posting any further information.

“For those asking – yes, I’ve now removed all GTA dev stuff. Only direct examples of my own work are left – work that was never used in GTA, but ‘inspired’ parts of its evolution. You can thank Rocksuck,” he added .

While there’s no reason to think he’ll go back on his word, Dailly isn’t easily silenced. An hour later he tweeted what appears to be the front cover of GTA game design recommendations report, adding that it would never see the light of day.

From: TF , for the latest news on copyright battles, piracy and more.

An open-world environment in video games generally feels like a different universe in which players can do all sorts of activities. And undoubtedly, w hen it comes to open-world games, the Grand Theft Auto franchise is the undisputed king.

GTA 5 , the latest edition in the Grand Theft Auto series, came out in 2013. Of course, millions of players are still enjoying GTA 5 in 2021; but there’s no questioning that the world is desperate for GTA 6. Unfortunately, besides GTA 6 leaks , we have nothing official on the next Grand Theft Auto title. However, there are several other amazing open-world games if you want to take a break from GTA 5. So, in this post, we’ve mentioned the 12 best open-world games like GTA you can play in 2021.

Best Open World Games In 2021

1. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is definitely one of those open-world games you should play in 2021. If you are a Grand Theft Auto fan and haven’t played Red Dead Redemption 2, you’re missing out on a masterpiece. It is a video game that will leave you in awe.

The world of Red Dead Redemption 2 is gigantic; there are many side quests you can do besides following the story mode. The detailing and impressive graphics make Red Dead Redemption 2 one of the legendary video games of all time.

You get lost for hours while exploring the world of Red Dead Redemption 2 set during the early 20th century United States.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia, Microsoft Windows
Download: Red Dead Redemption 2

2. Watch Dogs Legion

Released in 2020, Ubisoft’s Watch Dogs Legion was one of the most anticipated and popular video games of 2020. For the most part, the third edition in the Watch Dogs lived up to the players’ expectations. So, it’s one of the best video game releases from last year, which you can enjoy in 2021 as well.

Of course, the story and graphics of the game are unique. However, other than that, Watch Dogs Legion flaunts amazing gameplay. For instance, in Watch Dogs 3, players can play as almost every NPC by recruiting them in the “Resistance.”

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Google Stadia, Microsoft Windows
Download: Watch Dogs Legion

3. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla was released last year and is one of the best open-world games you can play in 2021. Of course, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’s time and the setting is nowhere close to GTA 5; however, it is still an amazing open-world game.

As the name suggests, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is inspired by Norse mythology. Similar to other Assassin’s Creed Games, stealth is an important element in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. When you explore the beautiful and strange world of AC Valhalla, you’ll realize that everything about this game is astonishing.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft Windows
Download: Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

4. Cyberpunk 2077

CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 was one of the most-awaited games of the last decade. After almost 8 years of wait, the Polish studio released the open-world role-playing-game in 2020.

Of course, initially, Cyberpunk 2077 didn’t live up to players’ expectations. Still, no one can deny that it is one hell of a game with a great story and characters. Besides the main story, you can perform side quests to level up in the game.

Similar to GTA 5, you can make a collection of the best cars in Cyberpunk 2077 . So, despite the glitches and bugs, it is one of the best open-world games like GTA to play in 2021.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Google Stadia, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows
Download: Cyberpunk 2077

5. Mafia Series (Definitive Edition)

Mafia video game series consists of three amazing open-world action-adventure games; the latest one was Mafia III, launched in 2016. No doubt, every edition in the Mafia series is nothing but legendary. That’s why the studio decided to release the Definitive Edition of 2002’s Mafia, 2010’s Mafia II, and 2016’s Mafia III.

Definitive Editions are basically the remake of the Mafia games. The remakes take you on a similar journey, but with better graphics and gameplay mechanics. So, for those who played the old Mafia games, the Definitive editions should be on your priority list.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Download: Mafia Series

6. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Hands down, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is one of the best open-world RPG games ever developed. CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 3 continues the story of Geralt of Rivia in a world full of monsters.

Everything about The Witcher 3 is awe-inspiring, including its story, music, and characters. In short, The Witcher 3 is a world that will surprise you at every moment. That’s the reason why even in 2021, it is considered one of the best open-world titles for PC and consoles.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Download: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

7. Saints Row 4

The fourth title in the Saints Row series is an action-adventure game developed by Volition. If you’re looking for a serious tone like GTA 5, then Saints Row 4 isn’t the game for you. Volition’s brainchild is everything that GTA 5 isn’t, excluding the open-world aspect, of course. Along with the story, the fighting style is entertaining, and what’s the word I am looking for? Oh yes, silly.

The game’s plot goes like this; a gang needs to fight off an alien invasion after receiving superpowers. In addition to that, there’s a constant struggle to become the president of the United States of America.

Yeah! I know things in this game are crazier than your wildest dreams; however, this is also what makes it worth trying, even in 2021.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows, Linux
Download: Saints Row 4 (PC)

8. Sleeping Dogs

Sleeping Dogs mixes the modern-day open-world of GTA with Assassin’s Creed’s combat. Sleeping Dogs has been developed by United Front Games and is published by Square Enix.

The game’s story takes place in Hong Kong, a beloved city in China, with many underground criminal activities. You could walk around the city and discover something interesting at every step.

Moreover, if you want to beat up a random gang, you don’t need a weapon because your fists are more lethal than any firearm.

Sleeping Dogs came out in 2021, making it a relatively old game. However, no one can deny that it is one of the best open-world games you could still play in 2021.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows
Download: Sleeping Dogs

9. Just Cause 4

Do you want an open-world game with more guns, explosions, and even wackier physics? If yes, then you’d be delighted to know that Just Cause 4 delivers just that.

You could use a parachute, hook yourself to a place or fly along on the back of a cow. The craziness in this game totally depends on your imagination.

The game came out in 2018 and is considered one of the best open-world games, even in 2021.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Download: Just Cause 4

10. L.A. Noire

An open-world game that focuses on fighting crime rather than killing innocent people on the streets. Well, that’s L.A. Noire for you. L.A. Noire was developed by Team Bondi and published under the umbrella of our very own Rockstar Games.

So, it’s no surprise that this game falls under our list of open-world games like GTA. In the game, you freely roam the city of Los Angeles during the 1940s.

You can follow the main story by completing linear missions or taking side missions to make the city safer. The game makes you think and use your brain to find out shreds of evidence and catch the culprit.

However, that doesn’t mean the game won’t let you fight. You can very well take up firearms during firefights, but you certainly can’t kill people on the streets as you do in other open-world games.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows
Download: L.A. Noire

11. Far Cry 5

Ubisoft’s Far Cry 5 is not much different from the revolutionary Far Cry 3. The game gives you a dark story with unique game mechanics. As usual, you can follow the main story, or you can go for side quests.

Side quests in Far Cry 5 can be unlocked by talking to different people in the game, which is an incredible way of exploring the game’s open-world. Just like in Watch Dogs 2, you can go all guns blazing, or you can follow stealth.

There are more than enough combat choices and lethal weapons in the game. So, the gameplay will be action-packed where you’ll be killing a lot of cult members with creepy faces.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Download: Far Cry 5

12. Watch Dogs 2

Here we are with another Watch Dog title on our list. Let’s be honest; Watch Dogs 1 didn’t land in the right place among gamers. However, Ubisoft took in all the feedback from the first game and improved a lot in Watch Dogs 2 and then in Watch Dogs Legion.

If you love open-world games or have a love for computer hacking, then Watch Dogs 2 is the game for you. It is a typical open-world game like GTA with a slight bit of activities, side-missions, and primary objectives, which is a great thing.

Like other Watch Dogs titles, you can listen to someone’s conversation and see their criminal history in Watch Dogs 2. That way, you can scavenge side missions to take a short break from the main story.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Download: Watch Dogs 2

13. Yakuza 0

Yakuza Zero is the sixth entry in the well-received Yakuza franchise. When compared to games like GTA, Yakuza 0 doesn’t give you that much freedom. You can’t interact and beat up pedestrians on the street like in GTA.

But other than that, it’s almost like GTA, where you can do a lot of different activities besides following the main storyline. To have fun, you can do karaoke, pool, gambling, and witness some vulgarity.

As for combat, well, you can fight with style, and you can fight with rage by performing some exciting moves. In short, you’ll feel like you’re playing Mortal Combat when you start fighting some thugs on the streets. So, it’s safe to say that it is one of the best open-world games you could play in 2021.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows
Download: Yakuza 0 (PC)

14. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain

Kojima Productions’ Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain was released in 2015. Hideo Kojima, a very well-known video game developer, was behind Metal Gear Solid V. So, it’s no surprise that it is one of the best open-world stealth games you could play in 2021.

Besides the action-packed gameplay, Metal Gear Solid V flaunts a great storyline. Sometimes, the cutscenes are so long that you feel like you’re watching a movie. The game provides enough flexibility so you can choose how you want to approach different situations in Metal Gear Solid V. In short, it is one of the best open-world games like GTA you should be playing right now.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows
Download: Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain

15. Payday 2

Payday 2 is an open-world game like GTA that focuses only on heists and robberies. The game gives you full control over the thefts, as you strategize every step of the heist. You have to scan the place you want t o rob and plan accordingly for a successful heist.

The game is a perfect tool to get some idea of how heists take place in the real world. Of course, I would recommend not to use that knowledge to do something illegal. Just kidding, I know you wouldn’t; gamers only do evil acts in the game.

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, Linux
Download: Payday 2 (PC)

Best Open World Games – Wrapping Up

So, these were all incredible GTA like Open world games you can play in 2021. You can try one or maybe all of them before you can get your hands on GTA 6.

The post 15 Best Open World Games To Play In 2021 | Top Games Like GTA appeared first on Fossbytes .