The Best Games to Play Before GTA 6 Arrives [2025]

Introduction

The anticipation for GTA 6 is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting its release later this year. But while we wait for Rockstar's latest epic, there's no shortage of phenomenal games to dive into. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in rich narratives, explore open worlds, or simply pass the time with engaging gameplay, this list has got you covered. These are the games I'd play before GTA 6 hits the shelves, as noted by Rockstar Games.

TL; DR

Red Dead Redemption 2: A masterpiece in storytelling and open-world exploration.
Cyberpunk 2077: After patches, it's a visual and narrative triumph, as highlighted by Vice.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: A timeless RPG with a legendary story, praised in TechRadar.
Horizon Forbidden West: Stunning visuals and gripping gameplay.
Ghost of Tsushima: A visual feast set in feudal Japan, as reviewed by CBR.
Bottom Line: These games will not only entertain but also set the stage for what to expect in GTA 6.

Red Dead Redemption 2

A Masterpiece of Storytelling

Before diving into the chaos of Los Santos, why not take a detour into the Wild West? Red Dead Redemption 2 is a game that sets its own pace, offering players a chance to explore a meticulously crafted world brimming with life and detail. The narrative, centered around Arthur Morgan and the van der Linde gang, is one of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption, as discussed in GamesRadar.

Key Features

Immersive World: Dynamic weather, wildlife, and NPC interactions.
Narrative Depth: Choices impact the storyline and character relationships.
Open World Exploration: From bustling towns to the serene wilderness.

Real-World Use Case

Playing Red Dead Redemption 2 isn't just about completing missions; it's about living in the world. Take time to fish, hunt, or simply ride your horse into the sunset. These small moments enrich the experience, making you feel like part of the game.

Pricing Context

Available on multiple platforms. Often found on sale for under $40, as noted by Mashable.

Integration/Ecosystem

Compatible with Rockstar's Social Club, allowing for online play and community engagement.

Honest Assessment

While its slow pacing may not appeal to everyone, the game rewards patience with its rich storytelling and incredible attention to detail.

Cyberpunk 2077

The Comeback Story

After a rocky launch, Cyberpunk 2077 has undergone significant improvements. Now, it stands as a testament to what can be achieved in the open-world genre with dedication and updates, as highlighted by Vice.

Key Features

Stunning Visuals: Ray tracing and high-detail environments, supported by NVIDIA.
Deep RPG Elements: Skill trees, character customization, and narrative choices.
Expansive World: Night City is vast and full of life.

Real-World Use Case

Lose yourself in the neon-lit streets of Night City, where every alleyway tells a story. The narrative choices allow you to shape your own path, leading to multiple endings based on your decisions.

Pricing Context

Available for around

30 to

60 depending on sales and platform.

Integration/Ecosystem

Integrates with GOG Galaxy for achievements and cloud saves.

Honest Assessment

Despite its initial flaws, Cyberpunk 2077 has evolved into a visually stunning and engaging narrative experience. However, it still may have bugs and performance issues on older hardware.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

A Timeless RPG

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt remains a gold standard in RPG storytelling. With its richly woven narrative and expansive world, it's a game that demands attention, as noted in TechRadar.

Key Features

Deep Storyline: Complex characters and morally ambiguous quests.
Open World: Diverse environments from swamps to bustling cities.
Gwent: In-game card game that's a hit on its own, as mentioned in Wccftech.

Real-World Use Case

Engage in a world where your choices have consequences. From hunting monsters to unraveling political intrigue, every action impacts the world around you.

Pricing Context

Frequently discounted, often available for under $20.

Integration/Ecosystem

Supports mods on PC, which enhance replayability and add depth.

Honest Assessment

Even years after its release, The Witcher 3 remains a must-play. Its depth and storytelling are unparalleled, though its combat mechanics might feel dated to some.

Horizon Forbidden West

A Visual Masterpiece

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Horizon Forbidden West is a sequel that builds on its predecessor's strengths. The game offers a stunning open world filled with robotic creatures and lush environments.

Key Features

Stunning Graphics: Next-gen visuals with breathtaking landscapes.
Engaging Combat: Tactical battles against robotic foes.
Expansive World: Diverse biomes and hidden secrets.

Real-World Use Case

Explore the ruins of a fallen civilization and uncover the mysteries of the past. The game's world is both beautiful and dangerous, with plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Pricing Context

Priced around $70 for next-gen consoles.

Integration/Ecosystem

Seamless integration with PlayStation's ecosystem for trophies and cloud saves.

Honest Assessment

While the story may not reach the emotional highs of the first game, the expanded world and improved mechanics make it a worthy successor.

Ghost of Tsushima

A Samurai's Tale

Step into the shoes of Jin Sakai in Ghost of Tsushima, a game that beautifully captures the spirit of feudal Japan. Its open world is both expansive and breathtakingly detailed, as reviewed by CBR.

Key Features

Visuals: Stunning landscapes and authentic Japanese architecture.
Combat: Master the katana with fluid and challenging combat.
Exploration: Discover shrines, hot springs, and hidden locations.

Real-World Use Case

Immerse yourself in a world that feels alive with culture and history. From the meticulously designed landscapes to the dynamic weather system, Ghost of Tsushima is a visual and auditory delight.

Pricing Context

Available for around $60, with frequent discounts.

Integration/Ecosystem

Features a photo mode and online multiplayer through Ghost of Tsushima: Legends.

Honest Assessment

The game offers a satisfying mix of exploration, combat, and narrative. Some may find the story predictable, but the journey is visually and emotionally rewarding.

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

Viking Adventures

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla takes you on a journey through the Viking Age, offering a sprawling world to explore and conquer.

Key Features

Open World: Expansive map with diverse landscapes.
Combat: Brutal and satisfying melee combat.
Settlement Building: Develop and expand your Viking settlement.

Real-World Use Case

Raid, conquer, and build your way across England. The game’s detailed world and engaging combat mechanics make every moment exciting.

Pricing Context

Typically priced around $60, with regular sales.

Integration/Ecosystem

Ubisoft Connect for achievements and cross-platform progression.

Honest Assessment

While it may not revolutionize the series, Valhalla offers a robust and engaging experience. Its length can be daunting, but for fans of the series, it provides countless hours of content.

Far Cry 6

A Chaotic Sandbox

Far Cry 6 returns to the series’ roots with a vibrant open world filled with chaos and opportunities for creative mayhem.

Key Features

Open World: Explore the island of Yara, inspired by Cuba.
Combat: Diverse arsenal with customizable weapons.
Story: Engage in a revolution against a tyrannical regime.

Real-World Use Case

Dive into a world where everything is a weapon. The game's flexible approach to combat and exploration ensures that no two encounters are the same.

Pricing Context

Available for around $60, with frequent discounts.

Integration/Ecosystem

Ubisoft Connect for social features and rewards.

Honest Assessment

Far Cry 6 offers a familiar formula but with enough new elements to keep fans engaged. However, its story may not resonate with everyone, and some may find its approach to political themes lacking depth.

Watch Dogs: Legion

Hack the World

In Watch Dogs: Legion, take control of a legion of operatives in a near-future London, each with unique skills and abilities.

Key Features

Play as Anyone: Recruit and play as any NPC.
Open World: A detailed and dystopian London.
Tech-driven Gameplay: Use gadgets and hacking to complete missions.

Real-World Use Case

The ability to recruit and play as anyone in the city offers unparalleled freedom and creativity in how missions are approached.

Pricing Context

Found for around $40, with regular sales.

Integration/Ecosystem

Cross-play and cross-save features supported via Ubisoft Connect.

Honest Assessment

While its innovative gameplay mechanics offer something new, some players may find the narrative disjointed. However, the game's sandbox nature provides hours of entertainment.

Conclusion

As we eagerly anticipate the release of GTA 6, these games offer diverse worlds to explore and stories to experience. Each brings something unique to the table, whether it's the deep narratives, expansive worlds, or innovative gameplay mechanics. Dive into these worlds and prepare yourself for the next chapter in the Grand Theft Auto series, as suggested by MSN.

FAQ

What makes Red Dead Redemption 2 a must-play before GTA 6?

It's a masterclass in open-world design and storytelling, offering a rich, immersive experience that prepares you for the expansive worlds Rockstar is known for.