Over the years, Grand Theft Auto (GTA) has become the gold standard for open-world games, to the point where many other games in the genre are often dismissed as mere “GTA clones.” This label can overshadow the unique qualities of other open-world titles that have also contributed to the evolution of the genre. Rockstar Games took a risk by moving the series into a 3D world with GTA 3, and that bold decision not only changed the trajectory of the franchise but also set new expectations for open-world games as a whole.
We’ve compiled a list of underrated open-world games that, despite their innovations, have been overshadowed by the GTA juggernaut. These games deserve a second look, as they each bring something unique to the table. Here are five titles that contributed to the genre but didn’t get the recognition they deserved.
5. Mad Max
Based on George Miller’s iconic films, Mad Max transports players to a bleak post-apocalyptic world where survival hinges on one thing: your vehicle. This game’s open-world gameplay is fluid, allowing players the freedom to roam the desolate wastelands, scavenging for supplies and upgrading their car, the Magnum Opus. The focus on vehicular combat is what sets Mad Max apart—your car isn’t just a tool; it’s your lifeline. The game does an incredible job of immersing players in its brutal, barren world. Yet, despite its engaging mechanics and visually stunning world, it never quite escaped the shadow of larger franchises like GTA, making it a hidden gem in the genre.
4. Scarface: The World Is Yours
During a time when every developer wanted to create their own “GTA-style” game, Scarface: The World Is Yours stood out by doing things better than some GTA entries. Set in an alternate universe where Tony Montana survives the mansion shootout from the 1983 film, players must rebuild his fallen empire from scratch. The game introduced systems like managing illegal businesses and expanding your criminal empire, something GTA would later implement in future installments. Scarface lets you fully embrace the role of a crime lord, offering a deeper sense of progression and empire-building than its contemporaries. Yet, it didn’t receive the credit it deserved, remaining underappreciated despite its depth and solid gameplay.
3. The Saboteur
Developed by the now-defunct Pandemic Studios and published by EA, The Saboteur blends GTA-style open-world mechanics with elements from other genres to create something fresh. Set in Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II, players take on the role of Sean Devlin, an Irish mechanic-turned-resistance fighter. What makes The Saboteur unique is its noir aesthetic—portions of the game world begin in black and white, but color is gradually restored as you liberate areas from Nazi control. The parkour-style climbing mechanics and stealth elements borrowed from games like Assassin’s Creed add layers to the traditional open-world gameplay, making The Saboteur more than just another GTA clone. Unfortunately, this ambitious game never quite reached mainstream popularity, but it’s a must-play for open-world fans.
2. Mafia II
As a follow-up to the critically acclaimed Mafia, Mafia II continues the story of organized crime in America, putting players in the shoes of Vito Scaletta, a young man from an immigrant family who becomes entangled in the Italian mob. Set in the fictional city of Empire Bay, the game offers a beautifully rendered world that captures the essence of the U.S. in the mid-20th century. What makes Mafia II stand out is its rich narrative and character development, which rival the storytelling of even the best GTA games. The themes of loyalty, family, and betrayal are deeply woven into the story, making this more than just a crime game—it’s a heartfelt drama about the consequences of the mob life. However, like many on this list, Mafia II was overshadowed by bigger names in the genre.
1. Sleeping Dogs
Recently getting a resurgence in popularity thanks to internet content creators, Sleeping Dogs is one of the most underrated open-world games of all time. Set in Hong Kong, the game follows Wei Shen, an undercover cop infiltrating one of the city’s most dangerous triads. The combat system, which blends martial arts with more traditional gunplay, is where Sleeping Dogs truly shines. It strikes a perfect balance between the realism of GTA and the over-the-top action sequences found in classic Hong Kong action films. The plot explores themes of duality and morality, keeping players on the edge as Wei struggles with his identity as both a cop and a triad member. Despite its excellence, Sleeping Dogs didn’t achieve the commercial success it deserved, but it’s one of those games that any fan of the genre should experience.
While each of these games brought something fresh to the table, they were often overlooked in favor of the massive success of the GTA series. If you’re a fan of open-world games, don’t miss out on these underrated gems—they deserve your time and attention just as much as any Rockstar title.