Grand Theft Auto V

If you want more: Open-world shenanigans, solid storytelling and narrative pacing
Notable differences: No RPG mechanics, default third-person view, no science fiction, no customizable protagonist
Availability: Windows (Steam Deck YMMV), Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, PS3, PS4, PS5

Cyberpunk 2077 has a beautiful, large world to romp around in with a number of standard open-world conventions…many of which were established by Grand Theft Auto and perfected with Grand Theft Auto V. A form copied to death, GTA V’s open-world experience is rarely matched in quality.

There’s no epic science fiction story here. And while Los Santos can be a pretty sight, it’s far from the allure that is Night City. It’s also very straightforward and linear in scope, the narrative focused on three individuals who get swept up into a reasonably entertaining crime story with…memorable character performances. Where it might most appeal to a Cyberpunk fan, however, is in the use of its open world and its achievements as an action game set in such a place.

If Cyberpunk left you longing for more open-world action, and you’re tired of keeping track of RPG stats, GTA V might be a nice departure that offers more of the direct fun that 2077 sometimes aimed to achieve with its open-world and sandbox encounters. GTA V is filled with many engaging and memorable missions that feel very tightly written. It’s a trip of an action game with the freedom to see the sights and find weird shit throughout its twisted, though somewhat empty, parody of early 21st century America.

Recent releases of GTA V also feature a first-person mode which feels a little unusual, but makes for a satisfying experience nonetheless. So you can, theoretically and practically, enjoy this as another epic first-person game.

Oh, and it actually lets you customize your damn cars!