10 Unique Open-World Games With Awesome Mechanics

7. Subnautica

Subnautica Game
Unknown Worlds Entertainment

So far on this list, the conversation has mostly been about the unique ways games have let you kill - or at the very least, be violent towards - people.

Subnautica is a totally different kettle of fish though. It throws you into an oceanic alien planet, as you're encouraged to spend your time exploring, surviving, and getting familiar with the ecosystem in the depths of this huge open world.

The crafting system is at the heart of the game, as you collect resources in order to build bases as you explore, giving each one a personalised touch.

There are alien threats waiting for you on your travels as well of course, and you'll no doubt become lunch for at least a couple of beasties before you finish up your time.

Still, the emphasis is very much on exploring and building, and the sense of awe and adventure that open worlds are built for.

Contributor

Josh has over 11 years of experience as a published writer, having worked nine of those years as a full-time content producer at WhatCulture. In that period he has created hundreds of articles, videos and podcast episodes for multiple WhatCulture channels, specialising in gaming, horror and film & TV. He now primarily works as a senior content producer and presenter on WhatCulture Gaming where he co-hosts the WhatCulture Gaming Podcast, a top 3 UK most listened to gaming podcast that he co-created in 2018. Over the years he has reviewed several high-profile gaming releases, covered industry events with on-site reporting, opined on breaking news, and even kicked off his interviewing career by chatting to childhood hero, Tommy Wiseau.