Ubisoft Open-World Games With The Best Stories

For over a decade, Ubisoft has been behind some of the industry’s most expansive and popular open-world titles, eventually honing its formula so well that other companies have followed suit, imitating many elements of Ubisoft’s games. Typically, Ubisoft titles are built around immersive settings and an engaging gameplay loop, while the plot often plays a secondary role.

However, that doesn’t mean every Ubisoft open-world game has a forgettable story. These immersive games offer more than just gorgeous graphics, sometimes delivering a truly cinematic and captivating experience with memorable story beats and plenty of cutscenes. Players encounter a wide range of fascinating characters, uncover mysteries, explore humanity’s history and mythology, and live through engaging stories that address important social issues.

1 Far Cry 3

Reinventing The Series With The Addition Of An Iconic Villain

Far Cry 3 stands as one of Ubisoft’s most beloved open-world games, featuring a wild and riveting narrative steeped in dark secrets and brutal violence. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rook Islands, this title immerses players in a lawless jungle where danger lurks at every turn. The story centers around Jason Brody, whose descent into madness unfolds as he navigates a treacherous landscape ruled by merciless pirates in an attempt to rescue his kidnapped friends.

The game masterfully balances themes of survival, revenge, and the psychological impact of violence, drawing players deeper into its gripping tale. What truly makes Far Cry 3 special is its unforgettable villain, Vaas Montenegro, who set the trend for building the series’ narrative around memorable antagonists. With his unpredictable demeanor and philosophical musings on insanity, Vaas not only serves as a formidable foe but also embodies the game’s exploration of chaos and morality.

2 Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag

The Alluring Romance Of Pirate Adventures

Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag delivers one of the most compelling stories of self-discovery, power, and rebellion in the franchise, blending an intricate narrative with a captivating pirate setting and well-rounded character arcs. The game transports players to 1715, offering a vivid glimpse into the Golden Age of Piracy, a time brimming with both brutal realities and the rebellious allure of life on the high seas.

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In Black Flag, players can explore a vibrant, open-world Caribbean landscape that sets the stage for a journey where lawlessness reigns and corruption is woven into daily life. As Edward Kenway, a young, ambitious pirate, players embark on a quest not only for wealth and glory but also for freedom and purpose, all while crossing paths with historical figures and becoming entangled in the long-standing conflict between Assassins and Templars.

3 Immortals Fenyx Rising

A Non-Traditional Joyful Narrative With A Unique Perspective

Immortals Fenyx Rising invites players into a vibrant, whimsical world inspired by Greek mythology, offering a refreshing and lighthearted take on the open-world genre. This colorful adventure is perfect for those who enjoy exploring historical settings while delving into the rich tapestry of Greek myths and their most iconic figures.

Players step into the shoes of Fenyx, a mortal hero chosen to rescue the gods from the clutches of the malevolent Titan, Typhon. What sets Immortals Fenyx Rising apart is its unique storytelling approach. The narrative unfolds with a delightful blend of humor and charm, as the gods themselves narrate the story, often interjecting their comedic insights and perspectives. This playful dynamic makes the adventure feel both epic and entertaining.

4 Watch Dogs 2

A Rare Modern-Day Open World With A Lighthearted Yet Engaging Narrative

Watch Dogs 2 takes players to the vibrant, tech-driven streets of modern-day San Francisco, weaving action, humor, and social commentary into a memorable open-world experience. This entry in the Watch Dogs series follows Marcus Holloway, a young, skilled hacker who joins forces with DedSec, an activist hacker group, to challenge corporate surveillance and execute the ultimate hack against a data-hungry establishment.

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With its more lighthearted take on hacking and rebellion, Watch Dogs 2 strikes a refreshing balance between high-stakes missions and a playful tone. Marcus and his friends make DedSec feel like a family on a mission to expose the hidden forces manipulating society. The game delves into themes of data privacy, government overreach, and the ethics of surveillance in a way that is both thought-provoking and engaging, keeping the stakes high without sacrificing its fun, adventurous vibe.

5 Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Unique Sibling Dynamics With Debuting Dialogue Choices

Set in Ancient Greece, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey offers a rich, choice-driven narrative centered around family, betrayal, and heroism. One of its standout features is the unique sibling dynamic, allowing players to choose between Cassandra or Alexios as the protagonist, with the other sibling taking on the role of the main antagonist.

For the first time in the series, players can shape the story through dialogue choices, leading to multiple possible endings. The main storyline and side quests dive into Greek mythology, politics, and personal rivalries, all while immersing players among renowned philosophers, warriors, artists, and politicians of the era. Odyssey delivers an epic journey that masterfully blends a lighthearted tone with gut-wrenching tragedy and the darker sides of human nature.

6 Far Cry 5

Difficult Themes And Questions Explored Thoroughly, Yet Still Fun

Far Cry 5 stands out as one of Ubisoft’s most notable open-world games to date, weaving a disturbing yet deeply engaging story that feels increasingly relevant over time. Set in the fictional Hope County, Montana, the game places players amid a rural community overtaken by Project at Eden’s Gate, a doomsday cult led by the charismatic and terrifying Joseph Seed.

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As players rise against Joseph and his twisted vision of salvation, they embark on a journey to uncover their own truths, confronting the cult’s grip on the community and the madness that threatens to consume it. Far Cry 5 uses its dark narrative to explore complex themes like faith, freedom, and control, offering commentary on the psychological dynamics of cults. With multiple endings that hinge on player choices, the game doesn’t shy away from examining the consequences of conviction and the nature of liberation.

7 Star Wars Outlaws

Much More Story-Driven Than Expected

Star Wars Outlaws, the latest in Ubisoft’s lineup of visually stunning open-world games, faced a rocky launch due to technical issues that were quickly patched. Now, just months later, it’s easier to recommend it for both Star Wars fans and open-world enthusiasts. The game offers expansive, intricately detailed planets to explore, all while centering a gripping narrative.

Unlike many Ubisoft titles, Outlaws is a more streamlined, story-focused adventure, with the main story clocking in at around 18 hours. This tighter, more narrative-driven structure avoids excessive filler, delivering a suspenseful adventure without dragging. The leading duo, Kay Vess and her companion Nix, are among Ubisoft’s most charming characters in recent years, and the story’s grounded, criminal-focused angle brings a fresh perspective to the Star Wars universe, highlighting themes rarely explored so prominently.

8 Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Engaging As Both A Deep Dive Into Historical Events And An Exploration Of Mythological Themes

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla presents one of the most captivating narratives in the long-running series. Set during the Viking era, the game follows Eivor, a fierce Norse warrior, as they seek a new home in England. With a complex narrative woven through political alliances, mythological journeys, and Eivor’s ambitions, Valhalla immerses players in the triumphs and struggles of a conqueror’s life, introducing them to a cast of memorable and complex characters.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Viking expansion into the British Isles, featuring intense battles and poignant moments that resonate deeply. Throughout the game, players experience Eivor’s epic journey from early childhood, witnessing the trials and triumphs that shape their destiny. One of the most impressive aspects of Valhalla is its ability to cater to a wide range of players. Those focused on the historical elements will find a wealth of detail that brings the Viking Age to life, while longtime fans of the series will appreciate how it complements the rich lore that has been built over the years.

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