Let’s be real—gaming today isn’t just about smooth gameplay, mind-blowing graphics, or killer boss fights. Music matters. A lot. The right soundtrack turns a good game into a masterpiece. Whether you’re blasting these soundtracks on a Samsung QLED with a full home theater setup, or zoned in with over-ear headphones (btw, here’s my take on the best gaming headphones), this list is all about that next-level immersion.
Here’s my personal top list of best music from video games—based on games I’ve actually played—plus a few honorable mentions that deserve a listen.

1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Composer: Lorien Testard

I know, I know—this one’s an obvious first pick if you’ve played it. But Lorien Testard absolutely delivered here. Every fight, every cutscene, every emotional scene had the perfect score behind it. Boss fights feel intense not just because of the gameplay, but because the violins, piano, and orchestra hit right in the soul.
Even the vibe of each character feels scored uniquely. It’s cinematic, powerful, and honestly? Worth adding to your Spotify playlist. This isn’t just music—it’s an emotional rollercoaster in orchestral form. Read full game review here

2. Lies of P

Composer: Yeakun Yoo

This soulslike gem doesn’t just win for its gameplay—it’s the soundtrack that elevates it. Simon Chylinski blends gothic, haunting melodies with dramatic strings and piano to match the twisted world of Krat.
The music in boss fights like Laxasia and the Nameless Puppet hits different. That mix of Victorian darkness and raw emotion just works. You feel the tension. You become the tension. Read full game review here

3. God of War (2018)

Composer: Bear McCreary

You can’t talk video game music without shouting out Bear McCreary. That deep, thunderous main theme? Iconic. From the moment Kratos grunts and that low bass kicks in, you know you’re in for a god-tier journey.
This soundtrack bleeds Norse mythology. Choirs, drums, strings—it’s pure cinematic power that makes you feel like you’re walking with gods. Read full game review here

4. Super Mario Bros. (Franchise)

Composer: Koji Kondo

Old-school vibes, but forever timeless. Koji Kondo created one of the most recognizable themes in video game history. Even today, that bouncy beat still puts a smile on your face. It’s not just nostalgic—it’s foundational.
Whether you’re speed-running or casually platforming, this music is the heart of the Mario universe.

5. Final Fantasy Series

Main Composer: Nobuo Uematsu (classic titles), Masashi Hamauzu & Others (recent titles)

The Final Fantasy franchise is known for its deep lore and emotional storytelling, but let’s not forget the epic soundtracks. From battle anthems to tearjerking piano pieces, these games have some of the most dynamic scores ever.
Boss fights hit harder when the music swells, and those emotional story beats? Chef’s kiss.

Honorable Mentions

• Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 
• Uncharted series
• Journey
  
• Black Myth: Wukong – This one I have played, and the use of traditional Chinese instruments is insane. Every boss theme feels like it’s ripped straight from folklore. It’s cultural. It’s mystical. It slaps.
  

Great music can turn a game into a memory. It pulls you in, sets the tone, and keeps you coming back. Whether it’s violin-heavy boss fights or nostalgic platforming beats, these soundtracks prove that gaming is an audio-visual experience—on par with movies and beyond.

Let me know what your favorite gaming soundtrack is. And if you haven’t played Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 yet, I highly recommend it. That game changed the way I experience in-game music forever.

SPOILER WARNING for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

After finally defeating Renoir in Expedition 33, I thought the hardest part was over—until I had to make the choice. Maelle or Verso. Two characters I grew deeply attached to throughout the journey. And now I had to pick one?

The Moment That Hit Hard

As Verso steps into the canvas and meets the spirit of the young painter, he quietly asks, “Are you tired of painting?” That hit different. You could feel the weight in his voice. Then Maelle arrives—desperate to stop him. Two souls, both lost in their own pain, fighting for two completely different visions of what’s right.

It wasn’t just about saving one of them. It was about choosing between reality and illusion… between healing and holding on.

Why I Chose Verso

I sat with that choice for a while. I even looked it up on Reddit because I didn’t want to make the “wrong” decision. But the truth? There is no right choice—only what felt right for me.

Maelle had one of the strongest backstories in the game. I felt for her deeply. But I couldn’t fully understand her final decision. Choosing her path meant staying in a painted fantasy, living in denial, no matter how beautiful it looked. She even admits she’s addicted to it—she knows it’s not healthy, but still chooses to stay.

In contrast, Verso’s ending felt like closure. Painful, yes—but honest. With his choice, Maelle learns to let go. She confronts grief and starts to heal. She faces the real world, and somehow… finds peace. That felt more powerful to me than preserving a fantasy.

A Powerful Narrative Choice

This decision will stay with me for a long time. Expedition 33 doesn’t force a “good” or “bad” ending on you—it forces you to reflect on what kind of person you are.

• Do you choose comfort, beauty, and illusion?
• Or do you face the harsh truth, even if it hurts?

I chose reality. I chose Verso.
And even though it hurt, I believe Maelle would thank me for it—one day.

If you’re struggling with this choice too, I get it. It’s not just about game mechanics—it’s about you. Your values. Your emotional journey. That’s what makes Expedition 33 such a masterpiece.

NG+ Here I Come…

But I’m not done yet.

I’m jumping into New Game+ soon to explore Maelle’s ending. I want to see it through her eyes. I want to understand what peace means to her, even if it’s a different path than mine. I feel like this story deserves both perspectives.

Still deciding between Maelle and Verso?
Check out my full Expedition 33 review here: Read the full breakdown

Let’s get one thing out of the way: the Nintendo Switch 2 is a beast.
It’s bigger, smoother, and way more powerful than the OG Switch. The bigger screen, sharper visuals, and smarter Joy-Con controllers really give you that next-gen handheld feel. Yeah, the battery life is a bit shorter—but honestly, I’m not putting it down long enough to care.

If you don’t have the Switch 2 yet, definitely grab the Mario Kart World bundle via the Nintendo store—worth it, especially if you’re into racing and want a solid start.

So besides Mario Kart World, here are some other Switch titles I think you should definitely check out. Whether you’re into platformers, fighting games, or just straight-up vibes, these all hit different on Switch 2.

Kirby Air Riders

Float, fly, and fight in this chaotic racer starring everyone’s favorite pink vacuum. Kirby Air Riders feels like Mario Kart’s dreamier, weirder cousin—and on the bigger Switch 2 screen? The speed hits harder and cuteness overload is real.

Donkey Kong Bonanza

The king is back! Classic jungle chaos meets new-gen action. Bonanza brings fast-paced side-scrolling, wild boss fights, and pure DK nostalgia with upgraded visuals. Bananas were collected. Barrels were thrown. Vibes were unmatched.

Street Fighter 6

Big fights. Bigger characters. Street Fighter 6 plays surprisingly smooth on Switch 2—fluid combos, tight parries, and a visual style that pops hard in handheld. Whether you’re casual or sweaty, this one’s a must for fighting game fans.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – S2 Edition

Let’s be real—Tears of the Kingdom already felt like a next-gen title. But the Switch 2 edition? On another level. Crisper graphics, better draw distance, and smooth performance in Hyrule’s wildest sandbox yet. Endless exploration. Endless creativity.

Drag x Drive

If you like futuristic racers, Drag x Drive is a hidden gem. Slick tracks, crazy custom cars, and gameplay that’s all about drift timing and insane speed. This game makes full use of the Switch 2’s improved motion and haptics.

Legends Pokémon: Z-A – S2 Edition

Return to Lumiose City with the Legends Z-A rework. A darker, futuristic take on Pokémon with a more mature vibe. New Pokémon, new region mechanics, and that storytelling we always wanted. On the Switch 2? It’s wild. Even the lighting feels cinematic.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re into platformers, fighters, or open-world epics, the Nintendo Switch 2 has the power to elevate your experience. These are just a few games that really show what the new hardware can do. And trust me—you’ll feel the upgrade right away.

If you’re rocking a Switch 2 and playing something else that slaps, drop a comment or DM me on Insta—always down to discover new favorites

Looking for something fun to play when you’re offline? Whether you’re stuck on a flight, commuting, or just want to escape from constant notifications — the right offline mobile game can turn boredom into something epic.

In 2025, mobile gaming keeps surprising us with titles that deliver console-level graphics, emotional storytelling, and deep replay value — all inside your pocket. From action RPGs and deck-building roguelikes to stylish hack-and-slash games, here are ten mobile games you can dive into anytime, anywhere — no Wi-Fi required (well, for most of them).

Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact remains one of the most visually stunning open-world RPGs on mobile. You explore Teyvat — a massive, anime-inspired world filled with secrets, elemental powers, and beautifully crafted regions. The combat feels smooth and dynamic, with elemental combinations that make every character unique. It’s almost shocking this level of visual and narrative quality runs on a phone.
Online / Offline: Online only. You need an internet connection to play.
Where to play: Android, iOS, PC, PlayStation.
Verdict: Gorgeous and immersive — but you’ll need Wi-Fi or mobile data to experience it.

PUBG Mobile

PUBG Mobile is still the king of battle royale on mobile. You drop onto a massive map with 99 others, loot gear, and try to survive until the end. Over the years, it’s received huge updates — better visuals, smoother performance, and new maps. It’s intense, competitive, and rewards strategy just as much as reflexes.
Online / Offline: Online only.
Where to play: Android and iOS.
Verdict: The ultimate survival shooter on mobile, but not one for offline play.

Among Us

This little indie phenomenon turned into a cultural hit. Among Us is a social deduction game where you and your crew complete spaceship tasks — while one or more impostors secretly try to sabotage everything. It’s light, funny, and chaotic in the best way. Perfect for small group sessions, especially if you’re on a trip with friends.
Online / Offline: Mostly online, but has local Wi-Fi and solo modes.
Where to play: Android, iOS, PC, and consoles.
Verdict: Hilarious with friends, but limited for solo offline gaming.

Call of Duty: Mobile

CoD Mobile brings everything you’d expect from the franchise — tight gunplay, smooth controls, and several game modes including multiplayer, battle royale, and zombies. The visuals push the limits of what mobile hardware can do, and the performance on modern phones is impressive.
Online / Offline: Online only.
Where to play: Android and iOS.
Verdict: One of the most polished shooters on mobile, but definitely needs an internet connection.

Balatro

A clever and addictive mix between poker and roguelike deck-building. You build poker hands, unlock special jokers that change the rules, and try to reach higher and higher scores. Every run feels fresh thanks to procedurally generated challenges and unexpected combos. The design is simple yet deep — easy to learn, hard to master.
Online / Offline: Fully offline once downloaded.
Where to play: Android, iOS, PC, and consoles.
Verdict: Perfect for flights or long road trips. Easy to get into, impossible to put down.

Hades

From Supergiant Games, Hades is a fast-paced action roguelike that tells the story of Zagreus, the son of Hades, trying to escape the Underworld. The game combines fluid combat with stunning art and a deep, evolving narrative that reacts to your progress. Every escape attempt reveals new dialogue, weapons, and upgrades. It’s stylish, challenging, and loaded with personality.
Online / Offline: Fully offline (single-player).
Where to play: Android (mobile port), iOS, PC, and consoles.
Verdict: One of the best single-player offline games ever made. Period.

Dead Cells

Dead Cells is pure, fast, and unforgiving action. You explore a constantly changing castle filled with enemies, traps, and loot. The combat feels responsive and rewarding — it’s all about skill, timing, and upgrading your gear to survive deeper runs. The Android port runs beautifully, with precise touchscreen or controller support.
Online / Offline: Offline single-player.
Where to play: Android, iOS, PC, consoles.
Verdict: A must-play for fans of action and roguelikes who prefer gaming offline.

Slay the Spire

If you love strategy and card games, Slay the Spire is a masterpiece. It blends deck-building, roguelike progression, and turn-based combat into a brilliant, addictive loop. You pick a hero, build your deck, and climb a spire full of random encounters, treasures, and bosses. Every choice matters, and no two runs are ever the same.
Online / Offline: Offline single-player.
Where to play: Android, iOS, PC, and consoles.
Verdict: Deep, strategic, and endlessly replayable — perfect for long trips.

Free Fire

One of the most played games in the world, Free Fire delivers fast 10-minute battle royale matches that fit perfectly on mobile. It’s lightweight, accessible, and optimized for mid-range phones. There’s constant seasonal content and flashy character skins that keep players hooked.
Online / Offline: Online only.
Where to play: Android and iOS.
Verdict: Great for quick online sessions, not for offline use.

Eternium

Eternium is one of those rare action RPGs you can actually play offline. You’ll hack, slash, and loot your way through dungeons filled with monsters and bosses. It has that old-school Diablo vibe — smooth combat, tons of gear, and a nice sense of progression. Once you’ve downloaded the data, you can play freely without a connection.
Online / Offline: Playable offline after initial setup.
Where to play: Android and iOS.
Verdict: If you want an offline RPG that feels deep and satisfying, Eternium is a hidden gem.

Whether you’re chilling on a plane or somewhere with no signal, these games prove mobile gaming has come a long way.If you want true offline gems, go for Balatro, Slay the Spire, Dead Cells, Hades, and Eternium — all great for disconnecting while staying entertained.

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If you’ve got Wi-Fi and want to go competitive, Genshin Impact, PUBG Mobile, and Free Fire are still the biggest hitters.

Offline or not, it’s all about playing your way.

This list might ruffle some feathers. I know a lot of long-time fans of the Assassin’s Creed franchise swear by the classics—Ezio, Altair, the OG stealth-first roots of the series. But for me, it all started later.

My first ever AC game was Assassin’s Creed Odyssey on PS4—and it hooked me from the start. The open-world, the Greek mythology, the freedom to fight or sneak—I was sold. I later found out that Odyssey is one of the most divisive titles in the AC community. It’s very different from the early games. But hey, it was my intro to the franchise, and I don’t regret it.

After Odyssey, I went back and tried a few of the older titles—AC Origins, Unity, and AC2. While Unity and AC2 had better historical realism and more traditional stealth gameplay, the combat felt too slow for my taste. I finished them, but they didn’t pull me in enough to chase trophies or do another run.

Then came Valhalla, and yeah—it was massive. A bit too long, and yes, the missions could feel repetitive, but the combat and visuals made it worthwhile. Mirage? Also solid, but felt like a side mission compared to the other recent entries.

Anyway, here are the three AC games that really stuck with me—my personal top-tier picks:

1. Assassin’s Creed Origins (Played on PS4)

The game that truly made me appreciate the series.

• From Bayek’s story to the way ancient Egypt is brought to life—this game is pure immersion.
  
• The combat system feels smooth, the world is rich with detail, and the story hits hard.
  
• It’s a perfect blend of modern AC mechanics and that Assassin’s vibe.
  To me, this was AC at its most polished.
  

2. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (Played on PS4)

My first AC—and the one that pulled me into this universe.

• I’ve always been into Greek mythology, so exploring ancient Greece as Kassandra (or Alexios) felt epic.
  
• The combat, dialogue choices, and even the naval battles were all fire.
  
• I know it’s not “classic AC,” but it gave me that open-world RPG freedom I love. Still one of my favorite AC experiences to date.

3. Assassin’s Creed Shadows (Played on PS5)

Say what you want—I actually enjoyed AC Shadows.

• Yes, it’s not perfect. But being able to switch between a samurai and a shinobi? That alone had me locked in.
  
• The combat mechanics are clean, the Japanese setting is beautiful, and I love how Ubisoft tried something different.
  
• If you’re a fan of feudal Japan, you’ll find plenty to appreciate here—even if it’s not everyone’s favorite.

Bonus Mention: Assassin’s Creed Mirage

Mirage was fun and visually stunning, but it felt more like an expansion than a full game. Stealth felt tight, but it ended way too soon. Hoping for a solid DLC to expand that experience. Read my full review on Assassin’s Creed Mirage here.

Whether you’re team Ezio or team RPG-style AC, every Assassin’s Creed fan has their favorites—and these are mine. If you’re new to the series and wondering where to start, honestly? Origins or Odyssey is a solid entry point. Which Assassin’s Creed game is your favorite? Are you old-school or new-school AC? Drop your top 3 in the comments—let’s compare!

Gaming often gets a bad rap—“waste of time,” “brain rot,” “bad for kids”—but new research says otherwise. A recent study shows that playing video games can actually boost mental health and improve life satisfaction, especially when done in moderation.

Yeah, you heard that right—gaming can be good for your mind.

Gaming = Stress Relief + Mood Boosting + Social Connection

Contrary to what your non-gamer aunt might think, video games aren’t just mindless fun. The study found that purposeful and moderate gaming can:

• Reduce stress
• Enhance your mood
• Strengthen social bonds—especially in multiplayer and co-op games

That sense of achievement, challenge, and community you get from completing a mission or clutching a win with your squad? That’s not just a dopamine rush—it’s legit emotional regulation and personal growth in action.

Gaming is Good for Your Brain—No Cap

Forget the outdated “games ruin your brain” narrative. Research now shows that gamers often outperform non-gamers in areas like attention span, focus, and visuospatial skills.

Visuospatial skills are what help you in real life with things like:

• Driving
• Playing sports
• Even dancing (yes, seriously)
  

Gaming can also boost brain efficiency, especially in the regions responsible for decision-making and multitasking—skills that transfer to work, school, and everyday life.

Balance is Everything – Don’t Let It Take Over

That said, it’s all about balance.
Gaming too much? You risk:

• Burnout
• Relationship issues
• Dropping the ball at work or school
• Even repetitive stress injuries (wrist, thumb, or hand pain is real!)
  

Gaming addiction is no joke. Chasing that dopamine hit can make you lose interest in everything else. So take breaks, stretch your hands, and don’t forget to step outside once in a while.

Final Thoughts – Game Smart, Live Smarter

The takeaway?
Gaming is powerful.
It can actually make your brain stronger and your mood better.
But it only works when it’s part of a balanced lifestyle.

So play your games, beat your bosses, grind your platinum trophies—but also get some fresh air, hit the gym, hang out with friends, and keep your daily life in check.

Gaming is great. Just don’t forget to live, too!

We’re halfway through 2025, and I’ve only scratched the surface of the games I’ve been waiting for. So far, I’ve managed to play Assassin’s Creed Shadows and DOOM: The Dark Ages—both on my radar since day one.

Expedition 33 wasn’t even on my list originally. But after seeing a ton of clips and streams pop up on my feed, I had to check it out. I picked it up, but haven’t had the time to dive in yet. Looks wild though—definitely that boss-fight energy I like.

But now that we’re heading into the second half of the year, I’ve got four titles locked in as my most anticipated games of 2025. They all share a few things I love: martial arts, stealth, gritty atmosphere, and solo storytelling. If you know my playstyle, that combo makes total sense.

Ghost of Yōtei

Ghost of Tsushima is one of my favorite games of all time, so naturally, Ghost of Yōtei is at the top of my list. I’m hoping it brings the same energy—cinematic swordplay, immersive world-building, and that silent warrior vibe—but with new twists:

• New abilities
• Evolved combat
• A massive open-world map to explore feudal Japan

The trailers already show off insane visuals, and if the gameplay feels anything like Tsushima but more refined, this one might just take the crown again.

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers

This one’s been on my radar since the first teaser.
It gives off serious Bloodborne x Sekiro vibes—dark fantasy with brutal combat and rich world design. The setting looks eerie and atmospheric, and the combat seems to lean heavy on countering and precise timing. Exactly the kind of game I get obsessed with.
Solo, stylish, and deadly.

Ninja Gaiden 4

This is a big one for me.
I grew up playing Ninja Gaiden, and it was one of the first games that made martial arts in gaming feel fast, flashy, and ruthless.
If Ninja Gaiden 4 can capture that same rhythm—while modernizing it for current-gen consoles—it’s going to be wild.

I’m expecting:

• Tight combos
• No mercy difficulty
• That signature Team Ninja combat flow

Honestly, I’ll be happy if it just feels like a proper return.

Metal Gear Solid Δ: Snake Eater (Delta)

I’ve always respected the Metal Gear series, and Snake Eater was a standout in terms of stealth, story, and music. Now that we’re getting a full remake, I’m hoping the devs keep the soul of the original but give it the modern polish it deserves.

Final Thoughts: 2025 Is Stacked

There are other games on the horizon too (Borderlands 4, Avowed, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, Dying Light: The Beast, etc.)

But these four? They’re the ones I’ve got my eye on. They line up with the style of games I love most—focused combat, rich lore, solo journeys, and that blend of martial arts and stealth.
And honestly, with this lineup, it’s going to be tough to pick a Game of the Year.

I’ll probably rotate between these depending on mood:
Sometimes I want to sneak through the jungle like Snake.
Other times, I want to go full swordmaster in the mountains of Yōtei.

Either way, 2025 is looking stacked.
Let’s just hope I find the time to play them all.

One of the biggest reasons I love open-world games?
The maps.

Not just because they’re huge, but because they feel alive.
You get to explore at your own pace—looting, fighting, discovering hidden quests, or sometimes just stopping to admire the view. There’s something about walking through a virtual world that makes you forget about objectives for a while.

Whether it’s snow-covered peaks, cyberpunk alleyways, or ancient ruins, each world tells its own story—even when you’re not doing the main mission. So here are my top 5 open-world maps that really stayed with me.

1. Red Dead Redemption 2 (PS5)

Map size: ~75–78 km²

If you’ve played RDR2, you already know—this map is insanely detailed.
It’s not just big for the sake of it. Every inch feels handcrafted.

You’ve got dense forests, snow-capped mountains, lonely towns, and wild terrain that changes with the weather. Sometimes I’d just hop on my horse, set a custom waypoint, and ride with no destination—just vibing with the world.

The sceneries in this game? Easily some of the best I’ve seen.

2. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (PS5)

Map size: ~256 km² (130 km² land)

This one surprised me. Ancient Greece? Massive.
There’s land, sea, and a ton of islands—all packed with quests, loot, and stunning views.

The world is dense, full of unique cities, mythical ruins, and NPCs that make the world feel lived in. The moment I stepped into Odyssey, I knew I wouldn’t just rush the story.
Instead, I took my time:
Cleared forts
Explored islands
Climbed statues just to take in the view

It’s one of those maps where you want to get lost.

3. Cyberpunk 2077 (PS5)

Map size: ~24 km²

Smaller than the others on this list, but don’t let the numbers fool you.
Night City hits different.

What it lacks in surface area, it makes up in vertical design.
You’re not just exploring streets—you’re climbing buildings, sneaking through rooftops, diving into underground markets. It’s layered, dense, and full of side gigs and stories around every corner.

Sometimes I’d stop at a food stall, scan a crowd, or cruise through at night just to see the lights. It’s chaotic in the best way.

4. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (PS5)

Map size: ~135 km²

If we’re talking legendary open-worlds, The Witcher 3 still sets the bar.
It’s been years since it dropped, and it still feels timeless.

The map is broken into regions—each with its own vibe. From Velen’s grim war-torn villages to Skellige’s windswept cliffs, the world feels massive but never empty.

I could spend hours just picking herbs, fighting drowners, or taking on contracts before even thinking about the main quest.
It’s the kind of game where you accidentally level up by exploring—and that’s the best kind of leveling.

5. Starfield (Xbox Series X|S)

Explorable planets: 1,000+ across 100+ star systems

Now this one’s different.
It’s not a traditional open-world—it’s open-galaxy.

Starfield’s world is technically endless, with procedural planets mixed with handcrafted ones. While some areas feel more like “resource zones,” others are packed with hand-built cities, missions, and insane landscapes.

It’s not the same kind of map as the others—but in terms of scale and ambition, it’s on another level.
Sometimes I just fly around, land on a random moon, and chill under an alien sky.

Why Exploration Still Feels So Good

I don’t usually speed through the main story. I like to take it slow, absorb the world, and unlock gear or XP through side quests or just raw curiosity.

Some of the best items or quests I’ve found?
Totally by accident—just by wandering.
Whether it’s a legendary sword in a cave or a hidden NPC storyline, those moments hit harder when you discover them yourself.And yeah, there are other games I still want to try—GTA V, Skyrim, Elden Ring.
But what I’ve learned is this:
Sometimes just walking through an open-world map, no goal in mind, is the best part of the game.
It’s meditative. It’s immersive. It’s why I keep playing.

When I jump into an open-world game, I usually activate the main mission first—just to know what the overarching goal is. But after that? I take my time.
I farm XP, test combat mechanics, and explore side content—all before charging head-first into the main story.

Step 1: Don’t Rush the Main Campaign

I know some players like to power through the main quest first, but to me, that misses the point.
Open-world RPGs are built for immersion. For wandering. For leveling up your character and your playstyle.

So while the main campaign is active in the background, I’ll:

• Take down regular NPCs and mini-bosses
  
• Clear out camps or dungeons
  
• Experiment with weapons, magic, or stealth
  
• Farm XP for new skills or stat boosts

It’s like sharpening your blade before stepping into a duel—you don’t have to, but it feels way better when you do.

Step 2: Use Side Quests to Power Up

Side quests are where the real gems hide.
Sometimes it’s extra XP. Sometimes it’s legendary gear or secret abilities. And sometimes it’s just a beautiful detour with great writing and unexpected story beats.

But here’s something I always do:
Check the quest title or dialogue carefully. Not all side quests are meant to be accepted immediately. Some can alter your main story or lock you out of future events. So I play it smart—if something feels off, I’ll save it for later.

Step 3: Understand the Game’s Progression System

Not every game is about raw XP or leveling up your health bar.
In games like Sekiro, you don’t grind to boost your stats. You git gud—learn how to parry, dodge, and counter. Same goes for Elden Ring or Bloodborne, where skill often matters more than stats.

So part of leveling up means understanding:

• What rewards the game actually gives you
  
• Whether you need XP, gear, or just mastery
  
• When to train, when to upgrade, and when to challenge yourself

Step 4: Explore First, Finish Later

Personally, I find it boring to rush through the main quest and leave the rest of the map untouched. Unless I’m on a deadline for a game review, I’ll take my time.
I explore early. I learn the map. I experiment with mechanics.
And the moment I do hit the main storyline, I come in stronger—mentally and mechanically.

It’s not just about padding your stats—it’s about becoming part of the world.

Final Thoughts: The Journey Is the Power-Up

Open-world RPGs are meant to be played your way.
Whether you’re chasing XP, collecting gear, or perfecting your parry timing, the goal is always the same:
Level up—with intention.

You don’t need to grind mindlessly. Just stay sharp, explore freely, and enjoy the story as it unfolds.

Because when it comes to these games, the real final boss is how well you know yourself—and how far you’re willing to go to master the world around you.

For me, choosing the right difficulty setting isn’t about showing off—it’s about matching the challenge to the type of game I’m diving into. Some games I want to breeze through and enjoy the ride. Others? I want to suffer, grind, and come out sharper than when I started.

Shooters? I Play to Learn. Samurai Games? I Play to Bleed.

If I’m playing a shooter like Cyberpunk 2077 or Dead Space, I usually start on medium difficulty.
Not because I’m scared—but because I’m still learning.
Shooting isn’t really my main skillset, so I use those playthroughs to practice mechanics, pacing, and strategy.
Once I get comfortable, I sometimes ramp it up to hard mode—especially if I feel like I’ve earned it.

But when it comes to samurai or shinobi games?
I don’t hold back.
Games like Ghost of Tsushima, Nioh, or Assassin’s Creed?
I go straight for the hardest difficulty—no hesitation.

Why? Because that’s where the real rhythm lives. The timing. The tension. The reward.
It’s not just about XP or better loot (though that helps). It’s about discipline, growth, and mastering the mechanics.

Some Games Don’t Let You Choose. You Just Have to Git Gud.

Then there are titles like Sekiro—games that throw you in the fire and say:
“Survive.”
No easy mode. No training wheels.
You either adapt, evolve, or die trying.

And honestly? I respect that.
It forces you to lean into the mechanics, study enemy patterns, and build real skill.
Every boss you beat in a game like Sekiro feels like an achievement, not a checkpoint.

It’s Okay to Dial It Down, Too

That said—there’s no shame in scaling difficulty down if the game stops being fun.
Some games let you start on hard and switch to normal or easy mid-game.
If I’m just not feeling the grind—or if the mechanics are frustrating instead of rewarding—I’ll switch it up.
Gaming should challenge you, not punish you.

With Dead Space Remake, for example, I started on medium to get a feel for the pacing. Then I replayed it on hard mode.
Was it wildly different? Not always.
But small things—like how fast your health bar drops, or how tight your timing needs to be—make a big difference when the pressure’s on.

Final Thoughts: It’s All About Progression

Whether you play on easy or nightmare mode, the core of it is the same:
Practice. Learn. Adapt.
That’s the real heart of gaming.

So I don’t judge anyone’s difficulty setting.
Sometimes I want to get wrecked.
Sometimes I just want to enjoy the story.
What matters most is that you’re in the game, learning, and leveling up—at your own pace.