Longest Video Games: How Much Time To Beat?
Hey gamers! Ever wondered which video games offer the most bang for your buck, or rather, the most hours for your gameplay? We're diving deep into the world of sprawling narratives, endless side quests, and meticulously crafted open worlds to uncover some of the longest video games to beat. Get ready to clear your calendars, because these titles are not for the faint of heart! We’re talking about games that can take dozens, sometimes hundreds, of hours to complete. So, if you're looking for a truly immersive experience that will keep you hooked for weeks or months, you've come to the right place.
Why Length Matters (Sometimes)
Okay, let’s be real. Length isn't everything, right? A game could be 500 hours long, but if those hours are filled with repetitive tasks, boring storylines, or just plain bad gameplay, then what’s the point? However, for many of us, a long game represents a fantastic value proposition. Think about it: you're investing your time and money into a digital world, and you want to feel like you're getting a substantial return. A longer game often means a more developed world, richer characters, and more intricate storylines. It allows you to truly become immersed in the game, build meaningful connections with the characters, and explore every nook and cranny of the environment.
Moreover, some of us just love the feeling of having a massive game to sink our teeth into. It's like settling in for a long, captivating book series or a sprawling TV show. There's a certain comfort in knowing that you have a vast digital world to escape to whenever you need a break from reality. Plus, let’s not forget the bragging rights! Being able to say you've conquered a game that took hundreds of hours is definitely something to be proud of.
But here's the kicker: it’s all about quality length. We're not just looking for games that are long for the sake of being long. We want games that are engaging, challenging, and rewarding throughout their entire duration. Games that respect your time and offer a compelling reason to keep playing, even when you're dozens (or hundreds!) of hours in.
The Titans of Time: Games That Demand Dedication
So, without further ado, let's get into some of the longest video games you can sink your teeth into. These games aren't just long; they're also generally considered to be good, offering compelling gameplay and engaging stories that will keep you hooked for the long haul. Remember, playtimes can vary wildly depending on your playstyle, how much side content you engage with, and your overall skill level. These are just estimates, but they should give you a good idea of the commitment required.
1. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Ah, Skyrim. What more can be said about this behemoth of a game? Even years after its release, players are still discovering new secrets and embarking on epic adventures in the frozen north of Tamriel. The main storyline itself can take a decent chunk of time, but the real draw of Skyrim is its open world and the sheer amount of side content available. From joining guilds and completing their questlines to exploring ancient ruins and hunting down dragons, there's always something to do in Skyrim. And with countless mods available on PC, the possibilities are truly endless. To complete the main story, expect to spend around 30-40 hours. But if you're a completionist, you could easily sink 100+ hours into exploring everything Skyrim has to offer. Some dedicated players have even logged thousands of hours in this game, creating their own unique stories and experiences.
Skyrim's appeal lies in its freedom. You can be whoever you want to be, do whatever you want to do, and explore at your own pace. This freedom, combined with the game's rich lore, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, makes it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to the world of The Elder Scrolls, Skyrim is a game that deserves a spot on your list.
2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Prepare to be swept away by the dark and gritty world of The Witcher 3. This game is a masterpiece of storytelling, character development, and world-building. As Geralt of Rivia, a professional monster hunter, you'll travel across a vast and war-torn continent, completing contracts, investigating mysteries, and battling terrifying creatures. But beyond the monster hunting, The Witcher 3 is a game about choices and consequences. The decisions you make will have a profound impact on the world around you and the characters you encounter. The main story of The Witcher 3 is substantial, but the side quests are where the game truly shines. These quests are often as well-written and engaging as the main story, and they offer a glimpse into the lives of the ordinary people who inhabit this world.
To complete the main story, expect to spend around 50-60 hours. But if you want to experience everything the game has to offer, including the two excellent expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, you're looking at 100+ hours. The Witcher 3 is a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing. Its compelling story, memorable characters, and stunning world make it a true masterpiece of the RPG genre.
3. Red Dead Redemption 2
Saddle up, partners, because Red Dead Redemption 2 is a wild ride. This game is a sprawling epic set in the final years of the Wild West. As Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, you'll travel across a vast and beautifully realized open world, robbing trains, hunting animals, and trying to survive in a world that's rapidly changing. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a game about loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle to find your place in a world that's leaving you behind. The main story is long and winding, but the open world is where the game truly comes alive.
You can spend hours simply exploring the landscape, hunting animals, fishing, or interacting with the colorful characters you encounter along the way. To complete the main story, expect to spend around 40-50 hours. But if you want to experience everything the game has to offer, including the side quests, challenges, and online mode, you're looking at 80+ hours. Red Dead Redemption 2 is a game that's both beautiful and brutal, and it's a must-play for anyone who loves open-world games.
4. Persona 5 Royal
Alright, let's switch gears from sprawling open worlds to something a bit more stylish and focused. Persona 5 Royal is a JRPG that's as captivating as it is lengthy. You play as a high school student who leads a double life as a Phantom Thief, fighting against corrupt adults and societal injustices. The game blends dungeon crawling with social simulation, allowing you to build relationships with your teammates and other characters, which in turn strengthens your abilities in combat.
Persona 5 Royal is known for its intricate story, memorable characters, and stylish presentation. It's a game that will keep you hooked from beginning to end, even if that end is dozens of hours away. To complete the main story, expect to spend around 100+ hours. This is due to the game's heavy focus on story and character development. If you're a fan of JRPGs, or if you're just looking for a game with a compelling story and memorable characters, Persona 5 Royal is a must-play.
5. Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Vikings, raiding, and open-world exploration – Assassin's Creed Valhalla has it all. In this installment of the Assassin's Creed franchise, you play as Eivor, a Viking raider leading their clan across the seas to settle in England. The game features a massive open world, filled with quests, collectibles, and historical landmarks to discover. While the Assassin's Creed games have always been known for their length, Valhalla takes it to a whole new level. The main story is substantial, but the sheer amount of side content available is staggering.
You can spend hours raiding monasteries, hunting animals, playing dice games, or simply exploring the English countryside. To complete the main story, expect to spend around 50-60 hours. But if you want to conquer every territory, complete every side quest, and collect every item, you're looking at 100+ hours. Assassin's Creed Valhalla is a game that will keep you busy for a very long time, and it's a great choice for anyone who loves open-world games and Viking lore.
Honorable Mentions: Games That Deserve Your Time
Of course, there are many other games that could have made this list. Here are a few honorable mentions that are definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a long and engaging experience:
- Divinity: Original Sin 2
- Xenoblade Chronicles series
- Monster Hunter: World
- Final Fantasy XIV (especially if you get into the endgame content)
- Elite Dangerous
So, Are You Ready for the Long Haul?
So there you have it, folks! A list of some of the longest video games to beat. These games offer countless hours of gameplay, compelling stories, and unforgettable experiences. But remember, length isn't everything. Choose a game that appeals to your interests and playstyle, and most importantly, have fun! Happy gaming, and may your playtime never end (or at least, not for a very long time)!
