Longest Video Games To Complete: How Much Time Do You Need?

by Jhon Lennon 60 views

Hey gamers! Ever wondered which video games require the most time to complete? If you're looking for a massive, immersive adventure that will keep you hooked for hundreds of hours, you've come to the right place. This article dives into some of the longest video games to complete, exploring what makes them so time-consuming and why players love them. Get ready to clear your schedule!

Why Do Some Games Take So Long to Finish?

Before we get into the specific titles, let's talk about why some games are such marathons rather than sprints. Several factors contribute to the extended playtime of certain video games, and understanding these elements can help you appreciate the scope and depth of these virtual worlds. Understanding why some games can take a significant amount of time can also influence what games you would like to play and what would suit your lifestyle. You may be a student who may only have limited time on your hands or you may be retired and have a lot of time to play video games.

Open-World Exploration

One of the primary reasons games take so long is the inclusion of vast, open-world environments. These games encourage players to explore every nook and cranny, uncovering secrets, completing side quests, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. Think of games like "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" or "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt." The sheer size of these worlds, coupled with the freedom to roam wherever you please, naturally extends the playtime. The developers often put in many hidden secrets or "Easter eggs" that dedicated players can search for in order to get the most out of the game. This also extends the life and popularity of the game. If the game includes multiplayer features, players may be able to team up and help each other find rare weapons or defeat powerful enemies. The possibilities are endless which leads to high replayability of these types of games.

Extensive Storylines and Side Quests

Another factor is the depth and breadth of the game's narrative. Games with intricate storylines, multiple character arcs, and a plethora of side quests can easily add dozens, if not hundreds, of hours to your playtime. "Persona 5 Royal," for example, is renowned for its compelling story and numerous social links, each requiring significant time investment. Side quests may add some color and flavor to the game allowing the player to immerse themselves in the world. This allows the player to get a feel for the world and understand the lore of the game. There are many instances where some side quests are as compelling and entertaining as the main story. These are all reasons why players may invest hundreds of hours into a single game.

Grinding and Resource Management

Many RPGs and MMOs incorporate grinding mechanics, where players must repeatedly perform tasks to level up their characters, acquire rare items, or gather resources. Games like "Black Desert Online" and "Final Fantasy XIV" are notorious for their grind-heavy gameplay, which can significantly increase the time required to reach the endgame content. Some players may not mind this type of gameplay as they find it to be calming. However, others may find this to be a chore and may get burnt out from playing after a certain amount of time. There are pros and cons for each type of gameplay and it comes down to preferences.

Difficulty and Learning Curves

Some games are simply challenging, requiring players to spend considerable time mastering the mechanics and overcoming difficult encounters. "Dark Souls" is a prime example, known for its unforgiving difficulty and intricate combat system. Players often need to replay sections multiple times, learning enemy patterns and honing their skills, which can add significantly to the overall playtime. Some players may not mind dying repeatedly in the game while others may find it frustrating. Dying repeatedly may also be a function of how much time players have. For players who have limited time, they may find it too difficult to play these types of games. However, beating a difficult game is a very rewarding experience and players feel that they have accomplished something great.

Top Video Games That Take the Longest to Complete

Alright, let's get to the main event! Here are some of the longest video games out there, guaranteed to offer countless hours of entertainment:

1. Monster Hunter: World

Monster Hunter: World is an action RPG developed and published by Capcom. Released in 2018, it quickly became one of the most popular games in the series, praised for its stunning graphics, engaging gameplay, and vast amount of content. In Monster Hunter: World, players take on the role of a hunter tasked with tracking down and slaying various monsters in a diverse and dynamic ecosystem. The game features a sprawling open world filled with lush forests, arid deserts, and icy landscapes, each teeming with unique creatures and challenges. Players can team up with friends or other hunters online to tackle difficult quests and take down formidable foes. With its deep customization options, intricate crafting system, and endless replayability, Monster Hunter: World offers hundreds of hours of gameplay for those willing to dive in. To truly "complete" Monster Hunter: World, you're looking at upwards of 300 hours. This includes finishing the main story, completing optional quests, and mastering different weapon types. The endgame content is extensive, with challenging monsters and events that will keep you engaged for a long time.

2. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an action RPG developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. Released in 2011, Skyrim is set in the province of Skyrim, 200 years after the events of Oblivion, and sees players taking on the role of the Dragonborn on their quest to defeat Alduin the World-Eater, a dragon prophesied to destroy the world. The game is renowned for its immersive open-world environment, rich lore, and unparalleled freedom. Players can explore vast landscapes, complete countless quests, and develop their characters in a variety of ways. Whether you want to be a stealthy assassin, a powerful mage, or a noble warrior, Skyrim offers endless possibilities. Skyrim is a classic for a reason. The main questline alone can take around 30-40 hours, but the real draw is the massive open world and countless side quests. A completionist run, exploring every dungeon and uncovering every secret, can easily exceed 200 hours. Plus, with the modding community, the possibilities are truly endless.

3. Fallout 4

Fallout 4 is an action RPG developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. Set in a post-apocalyptic Boston, players emerge from Vault 111 to search for their kidnapped son. The game offers a vast open world, a compelling storyline, and deep character customization options. Players can explore the wasteland, build settlements, and engage in intense combat with a variety of enemies. Whether you want to join the Brotherhood of Steel, side with the Railroad, or forge your own path, Fallout 4 offers a rich and immersive experience. Fallout 4, another Bethesda masterpiece, offers a similar experience to Skyrim but in a post-apocalyptic setting. The main story takes around 30 hours, but the side quests, settlement building, and exploration can easily push the playtime over 200 hours. There's always something new to discover in the Commonwealth.

4. Red Dead Redemption 2

Red Dead Redemption 2 is an action adventure game developed and published by Rockstar Games. Released in 2018, the game is a prequel to the 2010 game Red Dead Redemption, and is the third entry in the Red Dead series. Set in 1899, the game follows the story of outlaw Arthur Morgan, a member of the Van der Linde gang, as he navigates the end of the Wild West era. Red Dead Redemption 2 is set in a vast open world that includes the states of New Hanover, West Elizabeth, and Lemoyne. Players can explore the world, complete quests, and hunt animals. They can also participate in activities such as gambling, horse racing, and fishing. Red Dead Redemption 2 has a single-player story mode and a multiplayer mode called Red Dead Online. The story of Arthur Morgan is both epic and emotionally resonant. While the main story can be completed in around 50 hours, exploring the open world, hunting, fishing, and completing all the side content can easily take over 150 hours. The attention to detail in this game is astounding.

5. Assassin's Creed Valhalla

Assassin's Creed Valhalla is an action RPG developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft. Released in 2020, it is the twelfth major installment in the Assassin's Creed series, and a successor to the 2018 game Assassin's Creed Odyssey. Set in the years 872–878 AD, the game recounts a fictional story during the Viking invasion of Britain. The player controls Eivor Varinsdottir, a Viking raider who becomes embroiled in the centuries-old conflict between the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templar Order. Assassin's Creed Valhalla offers a massive open world to explore, filled with historical landmarks, hidden treasures, and challenging enemies. Players can build and customize their own Viking settlement, engage in epic raids, and forge alliances with other clans. With its deep combat system, compelling storyline, and stunning visuals, Assassin's Creed Valhalla offers a truly immersive Viking experience. Assassin's Creed Valhalla is the most recent entry in the Assassin's Creed franchise, and it's a massive game. The main story alone can take upwards of 60 hours, but completing all the territories, side quests, and collectibles can easily push the playtime to over 150 hours. Get ready to explore Norway and England as a Viking raider!

Tips for Tackling Long Video Games

So, you're ready to dive into a massive game? Here are a few tips to help you stay sane and enjoy the journey:

  • Pace Yourself: Don't feel pressured to complete the game as quickly as possible. Enjoy the journey and take breaks when needed.
  • Focus on What You Enjoy: Don't feel obligated to do every single side quest or collect every item if it's not fun for you. Focus on the aspects of the game that you find most engaging.
  • Use Guides Wisely: If you're stuck or need help finding something, don't be afraid to consult a guide. However, try to avoid spoilers that could ruin the experience.
  • Join a Community: Discussing the game with other players can enhance your enjoyment and provide valuable tips and insights.

Conclusion

The longest video games to complete offer incredible value for gamers seeking immersive and expansive experiences. From open-world RPGs to grind-heavy MMOs, these games provide hundreds of hours of entertainment. So, grab your controller, clear your schedule, and get ready for an epic adventure! Happy gaming, folks!