Exploring the Best Games like GTA before GTA 6 Drops

GTA games are essentially the birthright of millennials and Gen Z, colouring a significant part of our childhood and evoking nostalgia. The upcoming release of GTA 6 has fans eagerly anticipating another masterpiece from Rockstar. With the hype building and social media abuzz with “we got *insert something* before GTA 6″ comments, the excitement is palpable.  

In the meantime, we’ve curated a list of games like GTA that offer similar open-world experiences. These titles capture the immersive gameplay characteristic of the GTA series, while also introducing their unique features and technological advancements. As we dive into these “games like GTA,” we’ll explore the cutting-edge game engines, innovative mechanics, and immersive settings that set them apart 

Games like GTA: 

1. Red Dead Redemption 2 

Developer: Rockstar Games

Game Engine: RAGE (Rockstar Advanced Game Engine) 

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC 

Special Features: 

• Dynamic Weather and Day-Night Cycle: The game offers a highly realistic weather system and day-night cycle that affects gameplay. 

• Advanced AI and Physics: NPCs in the game behave realistically, with advanced physics making interactions and combat highly immersive. 

• Expansive Open World: The vast, detailed world is filled with diverse landscapes and wildlife, offering endless exploration opportunities. 

2. Sleeping Dogs 

Developer: United Front Games 

Game Engine: Havok 

Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC 

Special Features: 

• Martial Arts Combat: Sleeping Dogs focuses on hand-to-hand combat with a robust martial arts system. 

• Undercover Cop Storyline: The unique narrative of an undercover cop in Hong Kong provides a fresh perspective on the open-world genre. 

• Interactive Environment: Players can use the environment creatively during combat, adding a layer of strategy to encounters. 

3. Watch Dogs: Legion 

Developer: Ubisoft Toronto 

Game Engine: Disrupt 

Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC 

Special Features: 

• Play as anyone: A unique feature where players can recruit and play as any NPC in the game, each with exceptional skills and backgrounds. 

• Hacking Mechanic: Central to the gameplay, hacking allows players to manipulate the environment and technology to their advantage. 

• Dystopian London Setting: The detailed, futuristic depiction of London offers a rich and varied playground for players. 

4. Mafia III 

Developer: Hangar 13 

Game Engine: Illusion Engine 

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC 

Special Features: 

• Rich Storytelling: Set in 1968, the game features a deep, narrative-driven experience centred around revenge and power. 

• Authentic Atmosphere: Recreating 1960s New Orleans is meticulous, with era-specific details enhancing immersion capacities. 

• Character Development: The protagonist, Lincoln Clay, undergoes significant character development, making the storyline compelling. 

5. Just Cause 4 

Developer: Avalanche Studios 

Game Engine: Apex 

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC 

Special Features: 

• Extreme Weather Effects: Tornadoes, thunderstorms, and blizzards dynamically alter gameplay and environment. 

• High-Octane Action: The game emphasizes over-the-top action with a variety of vehicles, weapons, and gadgets. 

• Expansive World: The large open-world map offers diverse terrains, from deserts to rainforests. 

6. Saints Row IV 

Developer: Volition 

Game Engine: Havok 

Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PC 

Special Features: 

• Superpowers: Unique abilities like super speed and telekinesis distinguish it from typical open-world games. 

• Humorous Narrative: The game’s comedic tone and outlandish scenarios provide a light-hearted alternative to GTA. 

• Customization: Extensive character and vehicle customization options allow for personalized gameplay. 

7. Yakuza 0 

Developer: Sega 

Game Engine: Dragon Engine 

Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC 

Special Features: 

• Dual Protagonists: Players experience the story through the perspectives of two characters, adding depth to the narrative. 

• Japanese Setting: The detailed recreation of 1980s Japan provides a unique cultural backdrop. 

• Mini-Games and Side Activities: Numerous side activities, from karaoke to managing a cabaret club, add variety to the game.  

8. The Saboteur 

Developer: Pandemic Studios 

Game Engine: Odin Engine 

Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC 

Special Features: 

• World War II Setting: The game’s historical context and Parisian setting provide a unique take on the open-world genre. 

• Stealth Mechanics: Emphasis on sabotage and stealth tactics differentiates it from more action-oriented games. 

• Black and White Art Style: The distinct visual style changes as players liberate areas from Nazi control. 

9. Far Cry 5 

Developer: Ubisoft Montreal 

Game Engine: Dunia Engine 

Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC 

Special Features: 

• Open-World Exploration: The vast, open-world environment of rural Montana is filled with diverse activities. 

• Co-Op Gameplay: Players can experience the entire campaign in cooperative multiplayer mode. 

• Dynamic Combat: A wide array of weapons and vehicles, along with recruitable NPC allies, enhance combat dynamics. 

10. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla 

Developer: Ubisoft Montreal 

Game Engine: AnvilNext 2.0 

Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC 

Special Features: 

• Viking Era Setting: The rich, historical setting of the Viking era provides a unique backdrop for exploration and combat. 

• Settlement Building: Players can build and upgrade their own Viking settlement. 

• RPG Elements: Extensive character progression and customization options add depth to gameplay. 

Conclusion 

From the cinematic storytelling of “Red Dead Redemption 2” to the hacking-centric gameplay of “Watch Dogs: Legion,” these “games like GTA” offer gamers the much-needed exploration, action sequences, and immersive experiences that have made the GTA series so iconic. If you’re eager to explore the world of game development and create your own “games like GTA,” Monolith Academy‘s comprehensive range of courses in game development and creative media technology can help you kickstart a rewarding career in the game development industry.  

Dive into the intricacies of game engines, master the art of programming, and learn to craft captivating games like GTA. Monolith Academy’s expert staff will guide you through the entire process, from conceptualization to deployment, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to bring your open-world dreams to life.