Games That Create Worlds
Some games create worlds that feel alive and worth exploring. Whether it's the vast continents of World of Warcraft, the charming regions of Pokémon Red, or the mystical lands of Final Fantasy X, these games build places that players want to return to.
From sprawling open worlds to carefully crafted linear experiences, these games show how thoughtful world design can create memorable adventures that stick with players long after they finish playing.
Elements of Great World Design
For developers, creating great game worlds means thinking beyond the main story. It's about crafting spaces that feel alive, meaningful, and worth exploring, even when the player is just passing through.
Sense of Place
Each location feels distinct and meaningful. From the bustling cities of Phantasy Star Online to the peaceful villages of A Link to the Past, these places have their own character and purpose in the world.
Living History
The world has a past that shapes its present. Ancient ruins, local legends, and cultural traditions make the world feel like it existed before the player arrived and will continue after they leave.
Consistent Rules
The world operates by clear, consistent rules. Whether it's the elemental types in Pokémon or the magic systems in Final Fantasy, these rules help players understand and engage with the world.
Rewarding Exploration
Every corner of the world offers something interesting to discover. Hidden treasures, secret areas, and environmental storytelling encourage players to look around and learn more about the world.
Types of Game Worlds
From massive open worlds to intimate linear experiences, games create different kinds of spaces for players to explore. Each type offers unique opportunities for world-building and player engagement:
Open Worlds
- Vast, interconnected landscapes
- Multiple storylines and side quests
- Dynamic weather and day/night cycles
- Emergent gameplay opportunities
Linear Worlds
- Carefully crafted story progression
- Set-piece moments and events
- Controlled pacing and atmosphere
- Detailed environmental storytelling
Hub Worlds
- Central location with branching paths
- Recurring NPCs and services
- Progressive world changes
- Safe zones with exploration zones
Procedural Worlds
- Unique playthroughs each time
- Random events and encounters
- Dynamic difficulty scaling
- Replayable exploration
Each world type offers different ways to engage players and tell stories. The key is choosing the right type for your game's goals and ensuring the world supports the experience you want to create.
Building Memorable Worlds
When creating game worlds, consider these principles:
- Make each location serve a purpose in the world
- Use environmental storytelling to show, don't tell
- Create consistent rules that players can learn and master
- Design spaces that encourage exploration and discovery
- Build in details that make the world feel lived-in
Explore the games below to see how different developers have created immersive worlds. Let these examples inspire your own world-building efforts.
