Epic Gaming Marathons: Longest Games To Beat

by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Hey gaming fanatics! Ever wondered just how much time you've sunk into your favorite virtual worlds? Well, you're not alone! Many of us are always on the hunt for the next epic adventure, the kind that swallows hours and leaves us craving more. But sometimes, you just want to know: how long will this beast take to conquer? That's where we come in. We're diving deep into the world of ridiculously long games – those titles that redefine the term 'commitment'. Buckle up, because we're about to explore the longest games out there, and give you the lowdown on how long to beat them.

The Allure of the Ultra-Long Game

So, what's the deal with these behemoth games? Why do we, as gamers, find ourselves drawn to titles that can easily consume weeks, if not months, of our lives? Well, the answer is multi-faceted, guys. First off, longer games often mean deeper experiences. Think about it: a shorter game might give you a taste, but a sprawling epic allows for character development, intricate storylines, and a sense of true immersion. You get to live in the game world, to really feel like you're part of something bigger than yourself.

Secondly, these games offer a sense of accomplishment like no other. Imagine finally rolling credits on a game you've poured countless hours into. The feeling of pure, unadulterated satisfaction is hard to beat. It's like summiting a mountain, guys – the journey is tough, but the view from the top is absolutely worth it. This can also include the experience of a long game providing a form of escapism. Being able to get lost in a world that you can explore, and not feel as though you need to go back to the real world. A perfect way to relieve stress and live as a different person for a time. Games such as the Elder Scrolls series are perfect for this, the expansive open world and numerous quests, allow you to be who you want and make the decisions that you want.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, these long games offer incredible value for your money. You're not just buying a game; you're investing in an experience. You're getting a whole lot of entertainment for your buck, which is a win-win in anyone's book. The longer a game, the more fun you can get out of it, and the less regret you have about spending the money on it. You can see your money be put to work as you sink more and more time into the game, making the experience more and more valuable.

Methodology: How We Measure 'Long'

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. How do we actually measure the 'length' of a game? We're not just guessing here, people! We use a combination of factors to give you a reliable estimate. The primary source we rely on is the awesome website HowLongToBeat (HLTB). This site is a treasure trove of information, crowdsourced from gamers like you and me, providing average playtime estimates for various game completion styles. HLTB offers a variety of metrics, including:

  • Main Story: This is the bare minimum, the time it takes to see the credits roll if you stick strictly to the main quest. This is perfect if you just want to experience the core story and don't care about side quests or exploration.
  • Main + Extras: This includes the main story plus some side content, like optional quests or a few extra activities. It's a good balance if you want a more rounded experience but don't want to get bogged down in every nook and cranny.
  • Completionist: This is the big one! This estimates the time it takes to do absolutely everything in the game – every side quest, every collectible, every achievement. If you're a completionist, this is the metric for you.

We also cross-reference HLTB with other sources, such as game reviews, player testimonials, and our own personal experiences. This helps us ensure that our estimates are as accurate as possible. It is important to know that game length is highly subjective, and can change based on the player's skill, playstyle, and whether or not they want to use a guide. We will try our best to take all of this information into account.

The Champions: Games That Will Take You Forever

Now for the main event! Here are some of the titans of gaming, those games that will keep you glued to your screen for weeks on end. Remember, these are estimates, and your mileage may vary. Let's start with some of the truly epic games and how long to beat them, shall we?

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Skyrim is an open-world RPG from Bethesda, and it's a game that could easily take over your life, guys. The main story clocks in at around 30-40 hours, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. If you want to dive into side quests, explore every cave, and become the ultimate Dragonborn, you're looking at 100+ hours. Completionists? Prepare for a 200+ hour journey. This game is a time sink and it is beloved by many.

  • Main Story: 30-40 hours
  • Main + Extras: 100+ hours
  • Completionist: 200+ hours

Grand Theft Auto V

GTA V, an open-world action-adventure game developed by Rockstar Games. This is a great game for the casual and serious gamers alike. This game will have you cruising around a massive city. The main story is around 30-35 hours. Adding side missions and activities, you're looking at 70+ hours. If you’re aiming for 100% completion, be prepared to spend 100+ hours. It is a great game with a lot to do, and a compelling story that will keep you engaged.

  • Main Story: 30-35 hours
  • Main + Extras: 70+ hours
  • Completionist: 100+ hours

Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Rockstar Games. Saddle up, partner, because this is a long one! The main story will take you about 50 hours. Adding in the vast world, you can expect to spend about 100+ hours. And for the ultimate completionist, prepare for a staggering 150+ hours. If you like story driven games, and amazing graphics then this game is a must for you.

  • Main Story: 50 hours
  • Main + Extras: 100+ hours
  • Completionist: 150+ hours

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is an action RPG from CD Projekt Red. Embark on a journey through a world of monsters, magic, and political intrigue. The main story is around 50-60 hours. Adding in the side quests and exploring the massive world, you're looking at 100+ hours. And if you want to experience everything, you could spend 200+ hours. This game is a classic for a reason, the story is amazing and the gameplay is so much fun.

  • Main Story: 50-60 hours
  • Main + Extras: 100+ hours
  • Completionist: 200+ hours

The Grind: Games That Demand Dedication

Some games aren't just long; they're a grind. They require dedication, patience, and a willingness to put in the hours to level up, gather resources, or simply see the story unfold. Here are a few examples of games that will test your endurance.

Monster Hunter: World

Monster Hunter: World is an action RPG from Capcom. Hunt massive monsters and craft amazing gear. This game can take a long time to get through. The main story is around 40-50 hours. Completing the side content, you're looking at 100+ hours. But for a completionist who wants to get all the gear and master every weapon, be prepared to spend 300+ hours. A true time sink that is a lot of fun if you like to hunt monsters.

  • Main Story: 40-50 hours
  • Main + Extras: 100+ hours
  • Completionist: 300+ hours

Destiny 2

Destiny 2, a shared-world shooter from Bungie. If you love looter-shooters, this is the game for you. The main story can be completed in around 30-40 hours. The content is constantly changing, so the game is always evolving. However, to experience all the raids, seasonal content, and to level up, expect to spend upwards of 200+ hours. For the ultimate Destiny 2 completionist, the sky's the limit.

  • Main Story: 30-40 hours
  • Main + Extras: 200+ hours
  • Completionist: The sky's the limit

Assassin's Creed Odyssey

Assassin's Creed Odyssey, an action RPG from Ubisoft. Explore ancient Greece and uncover mysteries in a massive open world. The main story takes around 45-50 hours. If you explore and take on side quests, expect to spend 100+ hours. If you aim for 100% completion, you're looking at 150+ hours. If you like open world games with a lot to do, then this is the game for you.

  • Main Story: 45-50 hours
  • Main + Extras: 100+ hours
  • Completionist: 150+ hours

Tips for Tackling the Long Haul

So, you've chosen to embark on an epic gaming journey. Awesome! But how do you survive the experience without burning out? Here are a few tips to help you stay the course.

  • Pace Yourself: Don't try to cram everything in at once. Take breaks, explore at your own speed, and avoid rushing. Enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
  • Set Realistic Goals: Don't try to complete everything at once. Focus on the main story if you're short on time, and gradually work your way through the side content.
  • Embrace the Side Quests: They often add depth to the story and offer a welcome change of pace from the main quest.
  • Take Breaks: Gaming marathons can lead to fatigue. Make sure to take breaks and rest.
  • Join a Community: Connect with other players online or in forums. Sharing your experiences and getting tips can make the game even more enjoyable.

Conclusion: The Joy of the Long Game

So there you have it, folks! A glimpse into the world of long games and how to conquer them. Whether you're drawn to the immersive world of open-world RPGs, the strategic depth of a strategy game, or the never-ending grind of a looter-shooter, there's a long game out there for everyone. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Embrace the experience, enjoy the ride, and don't be afraid to get lost in the virtual world. Happy gaming!