Highlights:
* Action is sometimes overrated as it takes the fun out of in-game exploration.
* Yonder, A Short Hike, and Summer in Mara are among some of the best exploration video games that focus more on adventure than action.
Many narrative-driven titles use exploration as a plot device. However, it usually takes a backseat whenever a boss fight happens suddenly. The combat usually makes exploration a secondary feature in action-adventure, where players are often worried about the progression. Still, there are plenty of exploration video games where players can focus on knowing about the intriguing world without worrying about sudden fights. In the following section, check out five such exploration video games that focus on adventures rather than action:
Best Exploration Video Games That Are More Adventure-Focused
Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles
| Developer(s) | Prideful Sloth |
The first title on this list is Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles, which is inarguably one of the most relaxing exploration video games out there. Offering a fascinating island world of Gemea, players can explore as many as eight distinct environments that range from tropical beaches to dense forests to snow-capped summits.
The game is much more focused on exploration, but fans can also spend their time farming, fishing, crafting, and other leisure activities. One can also explore the world to befriend different creatures in Gemea. There are plenty of quests to complete, multiple professions to pick, plenty of character customization options, and more.
A Short Hike
| Developer(s) | adamgryu |
After exploring the ever-changing Gemea, one can head to Hawk Peak Provincial Park in A Short Hike, one of the great exploration video games out there. Like Yonder, A Short Hike doesn’t require much effort, as players can hike at their own pace. They can collect various hidden treasures during their journey to the summit.
A Short Hike also lets players meet other hikers who can help them during their trip. The game also features pixel graphics and a soothing soundtrack that makes the best combination for an adventure game. Players who don’t want to hike can also explore the mountainside without any hassle.
- Also Read: 10 Games That Should Be Made Into Films
Wytchwood
| Developer(s) | Alientrap |
Wytchwood is meant for sorcery fans, as the exploration video game offers an in-universe setting of a magical world. One can explore the ‘expressive land of gothic fables and fairytales’ as a mysterious old witch to collect various magical ingredients, craft spells, and do much more.
The graphics in Wychwood have been inspired by storybook-like art. At the same time, the game also offers a storyline that will keep the players engaged. Apart from exploring and collecting ingredients, players can also converse with other characters and solve various puzzles.
Summer in Mara
| Developer(s) | Chibig |
With its visually pleasant graphics, Summer in Mara is one of the most beautiful exploration video games one should experience. With its solid narrative, Summer in Mara has as many as 20 islands to explore, with over 25 characters whom one can befriend. Players can also customize their island with buildings. They can also grow crops and farm animals.
The farm sim adventure game also has over 300 quests, while players can day & night cycles and changing climates. Summer in Mara has visual novel-like hand-drawn graphics, which make it a game out of a Studio Ghibli movie. The wholesome storyline makes up for an ideal cozy game, which doesn’t require much effort like action titles.
Journey
| Developer(s) | thatgamecompany |
With its otherworldly appeal, Journey is an ideal addition to the list of the best exploration video games. Journey has single-player gameplay, but one can also explore the massive open world with friends in the online co-op mode. While exploring the mysterious world, players can also listen to the Grammy-nominated soundtrack, which makes this indie exploration game immersive.
Besides the titles mentioned above, here are some more exploration video games which players can check out:
- Magical Delicacy
- Sable
- Cozy Grove
- Palia
- Outer Wilds
That concludes our list of best exploration video games that focus more on adventure, but fans can also check out the 5 Horror Games That Listen to Your Mic.
