Learning about a new culture can be incredibly interesting and engaging. From the language to traditions and folklore, every culture is a trove of fascinating knowledge. Games often try to represent different countries and societies and give players at least a glimpse into what it's like on the other side of the world.

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7 Open-World Games That Showcase Diverse Cultures and Traditions

Some open-world games feature a diverse culture and set of traditions, whether that be inspired by real-life, or fictional.

Certain countries are more represented than others, but with every year that passes the collection of culturally diverse games grows, little by little. It can be quite tricky to get it just right, but with enough love and passion for the industry, many developers have done a fantastic job of giving their players at least a peak into a world different than their own and showcasing how one might try and navigate it.

8 The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Metascore: 94

European folklore has been explored many times, in so many different genres and mediums. However, much like the books themselves, The Witcher has always been much more than that and showcased a culture that otherwise got very little representation: Polish.

Many Slavic readers and gamers would immediately recognize certain monsters and customs, such as “kikimora” or "bread and salt" at a wedding. The game also does fairly well when it comes to exploring and clashing cultures, especially when it comes to other races. Every race in the game and the books gives a unique perspective on the world, and the opposing views are often the topic of discussion between the characters.

7 Ghost of Tsushima

Metascore: 83

Being one of the “powerhouses” when it comes to video games, Japan always had a fair amount of media representation of the different time periods, locations, and history. But in comparison to many other titles, Ghost of Tsushima is actually fairly tame when it comes to exaggerations and is based on a real piece of Japan’s history.

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While the story itself is fictional, the Mongol invasion in 1274 and the actual island of Tsushima are real. Obviously, the Japanese culture in the game is fairly thorough and accurate, however, the Mongolians also have a lot of very real details, and the game does give an insight into their tactics, traditions, and culture.

6 Red Dead Redemption 2

Metascore: 97

The series always strived to go beyond the “typical western”, and did a lot to highlight the cultural diversity in the United States, and the many difficult problems that surrounded the subject. The latest game in the series masterfully explores different locations and landscapes, from bustling cities to vast wilderness, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of various communities.

The game's narrative weaves a tale of absolution and betrayal, with a cast reflecting the complexity of the American experience. It meticulously addresses issues like industrialization, discrimination, and the clash of old and new. With the cast being as diverse as this, the question of cultural exploration comes up a lot, with everyone learning new things about each other as they go along.

5 Yakuza: Like a Dragon

Metascore: 86

In many ways, the game breaks from tradition, offering a fresh perspective on the crime drama genre. Departing from the series' brawler style, it introduces turn-based combat, injecting new life into the gameplay. Set in the bustling city of Yokohama, the game explores the underbelly of Japanese society with its rich narrative and diverse cast.

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The game stands out for letting players immerse themselves in the day-to-day challenges of modern Japan, even if it's from an unconventional angle. Even if many elements are comically overblown, it is still an interesting look into a very unique culture.

4 Mafia: Definitive Edition

Metascore: 78

The Mafia series navigates cultural exploration through its immersive storytelling and meticulous attention to historical detail. Set against the backdrop of iconic American cities, the games delve into the diverse tapestry of ethnic communities that shaped the nation during pivotal periods like Prohibition and the mid-20th century.

From the vibrant Little Italy in the first installment to the culturally rich New Bordeaux in Mafia III, each locale serves as a canvas for exploring the struggles, aspirations, and conflicts of various immigrant groups. The series not only tries to capture the essence of these communities but also examines the societal impact of organized crime, offering players a thought-provoking glimpse into America's complex cultural evolution.

3 Sleeping Dogs

Metascore: 80

Not many titles dive deep into the cultural nuances of modern China, but this game does a fantastic job of that. Set in the bustling streets of contemporary Hong Kong, the game not only delivers engaging combat and a fresh storyline, but also depicts the vibrant life that is associated with the city.

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Characters from different walks of life add a unique perspective to the world itself, and on the particular struggles that they have. Navigating the bustling streets and experiencing the local flavor, it's a game that manages to entertain while subtly exploring the rich tapestry of cultures.

2 Watch Dogs 2

Metascore: 82

Few games tackle as many problems as Watch Dogs 2, and even fewer do it as well. From racism to discrimination, to the riches of various cultures, the game manages to showcase more in roughly 20 hours than many do in hundreds.

Perspective is always absolutely essential to solving intercultural problems, and the game succeeds with flying colors in providing exactly that. Whether players enjoy the “hacking” genre or not, this is a great game with a stellar story, and interesting points of view.

1 Assassin's Creed Series

Tackling Cultural Diversity Since 2007

• Assassin's Creed
• Assassin's Creed 2
• Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
• Assassin's Creed: Revelations
• Assassin's Creed 3
• Assassin's Creed Chronicles
• Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
• Assassin's Creed Unity
• Assassin's Creed Syndicate
• Assassin's Creed Origins
• Assassin's Creed Odyssey
• Assassin's Creed Valhalla
• Assassin's Creed Mirage

The popular series can easily fill this list on its own, with every new entry diving deeper and deeper into history, various cultures, and ancient locations. From ancient Rome and the Middle East to England and Norway, the series keeps expanding its “map” further and further with every new game.

The developers not only put a lot of attention into the architectural aspect of each game but also to the traditions and the way that people lived in that particular period. Every game is a short excursion into a different time and place, and whatever controversies the company might face, that fact remains unchanged.

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