20 Must-Play Games Like Grand Theft Auto V in 2025 🎮


Video: 8 Games to Play if You Like GTA.








Ever found yourself craving that perfect blend of open-world chaos, gripping stories, and jaw-dropping freedom that only Grand Theft Auto V can deliver? You’re not alone! GTA V has set the gold standard for crime-themed sandbox games, selling over 140 million copies worldwide and inspiring a whole generation of gamers and developers alike. But what if you want more? More mayhem, more exploration, more unforgettable characters?

Well, buckle up! We’re diving deep into 20 incredible games like GTA V that capture its spirit—whether through explosive action, immersive storytelling, or sprawling cities begging to be explored. From the dusty trails of Red Dead Redemption 2 to the neon-lit streets of Yakuza 0, and even family-friendly LEGO adventures, there’s something here to satisfy every craving. Plus, we’ll reveal some hidden gems and multiplayer modes that keep the party going long after the main story ends. Ready to find your next obsession? Let’s roll!

Key Takeaways

  • Open-world freedom and diverse gameplay are the heart of GTA V and its best alternatives.
  • Rockstar’s Red Dead Redemption 2 and Mafia III offer deep narratives with rich settings.
  • For explosive action and chaos, Just Cause 4 and Saints Row deliver wild fun.
  • Watch Dogs 2 and Payday 2 spice things up with hacking and cooperative heists.
  • Family-friendly and nostalgic options like LEGO City Undercover and The Simpsons Hit & Run provide lighter-hearted fun.
  • Most titles are available across PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, with some mobile options too.
  • Multiplayer modes vary from competitive chaos to cooperative teamwork, extending replay value.

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Dive into the chaos, the stories, and the unforgettable worlds waiting just a click away!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts About Games Like Grand Theft Auto V 🎮

Looking for games similar to Grand Theft Auto V? You’re in the right place! At Games Like, we specialize in finding games that resemble your favorites. Grand Theft Auto V is an iconic open-world game known for its engaging storyline, immersive gameplay, and extensive freedom to explore and cause chaos in the virtual city of Los Santos. If you’re a fan of GTA V, you might be interested in other games that offer similar experiences. Here are some quick tips and facts about games like GTA V:

  • Check out Cooperative games for a multiplayer experience.
  • Explore Console games for a wide range of platforms.
  • Visit Action and Adventure categories for more game options.

What to Look for in GTA V Alternatives

When searching for games like GTA V, consider the following key features:

  • Open-world exploration: The ability to freely roam and interact with the game environment.
  • Engaging storyline: A compelling narrative with well-developed characters and plot twists.
  • Variety of gameplay mechanics: A range of activities, such as driving, shooting, and role-playing elements.
  • High-quality graphics and sound design: Immersive visuals and audio that enhance the overall gaming experience.

The Evolution of Open-World Crime Games: GTA V and Its Legacy 🚗💥


Video: TOP 5 Best Open World Games Like GTA 5 | 2024.







Grand Theft Auto V has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, and its influence can be seen in many other open-world crime games. The game’s success can be attributed to its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and extensive freedom to explore and interact with the game world. According to Rockstar Games, the developer of GTA V, the game has sold over 140 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video games of all time.

The Impact of GTA V on the Gaming Industry

GTA V’s influence can be seen in many other open-world crime games, such as Red Dead Redemption 2 and Watch Dogs 2. These games have built upon the foundation established by GTA V, offering improved graphics, new gameplay mechanics, and more complex storylines. For example, Red Dead Redemption 2 features a more realistic open world, with a greater emphasis on immersive storytelling and player choice.

1. Red Dead Redemption 2: Rockstar’s Wild West Masterpiece with a Twist 🐎🔫


Video: RDR2 – That's why this game has sold 45 million copies.








Red Dead Redemption 2 is an open-world western game developed by Rockstar Games. The game is set in the late 1800s and follows the story of Arthur Morgan, an outlaw and member of the Van der Linde gang. Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a highly immersive open world, with a focus on realistic gameplay mechanics and engaging storytelling.

Gameplay Mechanics

Red Dead Redemption 2 features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Gunplay: Engage in intense shootouts with outlaws and lawmen.
  • Horseback riding: Explore the open world on horseback, with a focus on realistic horse behavior.
  • Hunting: Hunt and skin animals to craft new items and equipment.

2. Just Cause 4: Explosive Chaos and Over-the-Top Action in an Open World 💣🌪️


Video: THE BIG GTA V vs. JUST CAUSE 4 SBS COMPARISON | PC | ULTRA.








Just Cause 4 is an open-world action game developed by Avalanche Studios. The game is set in the fictional country of Solis and follows the story of Rico Rodriguez, a secret agent tasked with taking down a corrupt government. Just Cause 4 offers a highly destructive open world, with a focus on explosive action and over-the-top stunts.

Gameplay Mechanics

Just Cause 4 features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Grapple hook: Use a grappling hook to traverse the open world and take down enemies.
  • Wingsuit: Fly through the air using a wingsuit, with a focus on realistic physics.
  • Explosives: Use explosives to take down enemies and destroy environments.

3. Watch Dogs 2: Hacking, High-Tech Heists, and San Francisco Shenanigans 💻🔓


Video: Hacking San Francisco In Watch Dogs 2 – Gameplay And Shenanigans.








Watch Dogs 2 is an open-world action game developed by Ubisoft. The game is set in San Francisco and follows the story of Marcus Holloway, a young hacker who joins a group of activists known as DedSec. Watch Dogs 2 offers a highly immersive open world, with a focus on hacking and high-tech heists.

Gameplay Mechanics

Watch Dogs 2 features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Hacking: Hack into computers and devices to gain access to new areas and information.
  • Drone: Use a drone to scout out areas and take down enemies.
  • 3D printing: Use 3D printing to craft new items and equipment.

4. Yakuza 0: Dive Into Japan’s Underworld with Style and Storytelling 🎎🥋


Video: Top 3 Open World Games Like GTA | You Should Play!








Yakuza 0 is an open-world action game developed by Sega. The game is set in Tokyo and follows the story of Kazuma Kiryu, a young yakuza member who becomes embroiled in a gang war. Yakuza 0 offers a highly immersive open world, with a focus on stylish combat and engaging storytelling.

Gameplay Mechanics

Yakuza 0 features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Combat: Engage in intense combat with yakuza members and other enemies.
  • Exploration: Explore the open world and interact with non-playable characters (NPCs).
  • Mini-games: Participate in various mini-games, such as karaoke and pool.

5. Sleeping Dogs: Hong Kong’s Gritty Open-World Crime Drama with Martial Arts Flair 🥊🌆


Video: Top 3 Games Like GTA 5 | Best Open-World Action Adventure Games.








Sleeping Dogs is an open-world action game developed by United Front Games. The game is set in Hong Kong and follows the story of Wei Shen, an undercover cop who infiltrates a triad organization. Sleeping Dogs offers a highly immersive open world, with a focus on martial arts combat and engaging storytelling.

Gameplay Mechanics

Sleeping Dogs features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Martial arts: Engage in intense martial arts combat with triad members and other enemies.
  • Driving: Drive vehicles through the open world and engage in high-speed chases.
  • Exploration: Explore the open world and interact with NPCs.

6. Mafia III: A Gritty Tale of Revenge and Crime in 1960s New Bordeaux 🚬🔫


Video: "Rise to Power: The Story of Mafia 3"|"Gritty Streets and Ruthless Gangs: Mafia 3 Review".








Mafia III is an open-world action game developed by Hanger 13. The game is set in 1960s New Bordeaux and follows the story of Lincoln Clay, a Vietnam War veteran who seeks revenge against the mafia. Mafia III offers a highly immersive open world, with a focus on revenge and crime.

Gameplay Mechanics

Mafia III features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Combat: Engage in intense combat with mafia members and other enemies.
  • Driving: Drive vehicles through the open world and engage in high-speed chases.
  • Exploration: Explore the open world and interact with NPCs.

7. LEGO City Undercover: Family-Friendly Open World Fun with a Comedic Twist 🧱🚓


Video: Lego City Undercover but 100 Police are HUNTING Me.








LEGO City Undercover is an open-world action game developed by TT Fusion. The game is set in a LEGO-themed city and follows the story of Chase McCain, a police officer who must stop a crime wave. LEGO City Undercover offers a highly immersive open world, with a focus on family-friendly fun and comedy.

Gameplay Mechanics

LEGO City Undercover features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Combat: Engage in comedic combat with criminals and other enemies.
  • Driving: Drive LEGO vehicles through the open world and engage in high-speed chases.
  • Exploration: Explore the open world and interact with NPCs.

8. Payday 2: Team-Based Heists and Intense Coop Action for Crime Fans 💰🔫


Video: GTA V Payday 2 Heist Short Film.








Payday 2 is a cooperative first-person shooter game developed by Overkill Software. The game follows the story of a group of professional thieves who plan and execute heists. Payday 2 offers a highly intense cooperative experience, with a focus on team-based heists and intense action.

Gameplay Mechanics

Payday 2 features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Heists: Plan and execute heists with your team, using a variety of skills and equipment.
  • Combat: Engage in intense combat with law enforcement and other enemies.
  • Character customization: Customize your character with a range of skills and equipment.

9. The Simpsons Hit & Run: Nostalgic Open-World Mayhem in Springfield 🍩🚗


Video: Grand Theft Auto in Simpsons: Hit & Run.








The Simpsons Hit & Run is an open-world action game developed by Radical Entertainment. The game is set in the fictional town of Springfield and follows the story of Homer Simpson, who must stop an alien invasion. The Simpsons Hit & Run offers a highly nostalgic open world, with a focus on open-world mayhem and comedy.

Gameplay Mechanics

The Simpsons Hit & Run features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Driving: Drive vehicles through the open world and engage in high-speed chases.
  • Combat: Engage in comedic combat with aliens and other enemies.
  • Exploration: Explore the open world and interact with NPCs.

10. Saints Row Series: Over-the-Top Gang Warfare and Wild Humor 🤪🔫


Video: CGRundertow SAINTS ROW: THE THIRD for Xbox 360 Video Game Review.








The Saints Row series is a collection of open-world action games developed by Volition. The games follow the story of a gang war in the fictional city of Stilwater, with a focus on over-the-top gang warfare and wild humor.

Gameplay Mechanics

The Saints Row series features a range of gameplay mechanics, including:

  • Combat: Engage in intense combat with gang members and other enemies.
  • Driving: Drive vehicles through the open world and engage in high-speed chases.
  • Character customization: Customize your character with a range of skills and equipment.

Exploring Other Noteworthy GTA V Alternatives: Hidden Gems and Cult Classics 💎🎲

In addition to the games mentioned above, there are many other noteworthy GTA V alternatives that are worth exploring. Some of these games include:

  • Bully: An open-world action game developed by Rockstar Games, set in a high school.
  • L.A. Noire: An open-world detective game developed by Rockstar Games, set in 1940s Los Angeles.
  • Crackdown: An open-world action game developed by Realtime Worlds, set in a futuristic city.

Multiplayer Mayhem: Comparing Online Modes in GTA V and Its Competitors 🌐🔥


Video: GTA 5 VS GTA ONLINE.








Many open-world games, including GTA V, offer online multiplayer modes that allow players to interact with each other in a shared game world. Some of the most popular online multiplayer modes include:

  • GTA Online: The online multiplayer mode for GTA V, which allows players to interact with each other in a shared game world.
  • Red Dead Online: The online multiplayer mode for Red Dead Redemption 2, which allows players to interact with each other in a shared game world.
  • Watch Dogs 2 Online: The online multiplayer mode for Watch Dogs 2, which allows players to interact with each other in a shared game world.

What Makes a Game “Like GTA V”? Key Features and Gameplay Elements Explained 🕹️🔍


Video: Every time I crash horsepower increases in GTA 5.








So, what makes a game “like GTA V”? Some of the key features and gameplay elements that are commonly associated with GTA V include:

  • Open-world exploration: The ability to freely roam and interact with the game environment.
  • Engaging storyline: A compelling narrative with well-developed characters and plot twists.
  • Variety of gameplay mechanics: A range of activities, such as driving, shooting, and role-playing elements.
  • High-quality graphics and sound design: Immersive visuals and audio that enhance the overall gaming experience.

Platform Availability: Where to Play These GTA V-Like Games? 🖥️🎮📱


Video: 5 games like GTA – open worlds similar to Grand Theft Auto.








Many of the games mentioned in this article are available on a range of platforms, including:

  • PC: Games like GTA V, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Watch Dogs 2 are available on PC via Steam and other digital distribution platforms.
  • Consoles: Games like GTA V, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Watch Dogs 2 are available on consoles like PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
  • Mobile devices: Some games, like GTA: Chinatown Wars, are available on mobile devices like iOS and Android.

Quick Tips for Choosing Your Next Open-World Crime Adventure 🕵️‍♂️✅


Video: 7 Things to Know Before Playing the GTA 5 Story Mode! (2021).








Here are some quick tips for choosing your next open-world crime adventure:

  • Check the game’s reviews: Look for reviews from reputable sources, like IGN and GameSpot, to get an idea of the game’s quality and gameplay.
  • Watch gameplay videos: Watch videos of the game in action to get a sense of the gameplay and graphics.
  • Check the game’s system requirements: Make sure your computer or console meets the game’s system requirements to ensure smooth gameplay.

Conclusion: Which GTA V Alternative Should You Dive Into Next? 🎯

a computer screen with a video game on it

After exploring this extensive lineup of games like Grand Theft Auto V, it’s clear that the open-world crime genre is bursting with variety and creativity. Whether you crave the cinematic storytelling and immersive world of Red Dead Redemption 2, the explosive chaos and freedom of Just Cause 4, or the high-tech hacking thrills of Watch Dogs 2, there’s a perfect match for every GTA fan.

Positives across these titles:

  • Rich open worlds that invite exploration and endless fun.
  • Diverse gameplay mechanics from martial arts combat in Sleeping Dogs to cooperative heists in Payday 2.
  • Strong narratives that rival GTA V’s memorable characters and dark humor.
  • Multiplayer modes that extend replayability and social engagement.

Negatives to consider:

  • Some games like Saints Row may lean heavily into over-the-top humor, which might not suit all tastes.
  • Titles such as Mafia III have been critiqued for repetitive gameplay, despite strong storytelling.
  • Platform availability varies, so check compatibility before diving in.

Our confident recommendation? Start with Red Dead Redemption 2 if you want Rockstar’s signature polish and a story-driven experience. For pure mayhem and player freedom, Just Cause 4 is a blast. If you love tech and hacking, Watch Dogs 2 is your playground. And don’t overlook gems like Sleeping Dogs and Payday 2 for unique spins on the crime genre.

Ready to jump in? Your next epic open-world adventure awaits!

Must-Reads for Crime Game Fans 📚

  • The Ultimate History of Video Games by Steven L. Kent — a deep dive into gaming’s evolution.
  • Console Wars by Blake J. Harris — for the behind-the-scenes drama of gaming giants.
  • Blood, Sweat, and Pixels by Jason Schreier — stories of game development struggles and triumphs.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About GTA V-Like Games Answered ❓

high rise buildings city scape photography

What are some open-world games similar to Grand Theft Auto V?

Open-world games similar to GTA V include Red Dead Redemption 2, Just Cause 4, Watch Dogs 2, Sleeping Dogs, and Saints Row. These games offer expansive maps, freedom of exploration, and crime-themed narratives. Each brings its own twist, from western settings to high-tech hacking and over-the-top humor.

Read more about “15 Must-Try Alternative Games to Ignite Your 2025 🎮🔥”

Are there any games like GTA V available for PC?

✅ Absolutely! Most of the top GTA V alternatives like Red Dead Redemption 2, Watch Dogs 2, Mafia III, and Payday 2 are available on PC via platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store. PC versions often benefit from mods and higher graphical settings, enhancing the experience.

Read more about “20+ Games Like GTA: Your Ultimate Guide 🎮”

What are the best alternatives to Grand Theft Auto V for PlayStation?

PlayStation gamers can enjoy Red Dead Redemption 2, Yakuza 0, Saints Row, and Sleeping Dogs among others. These titles leverage PlayStation’s hardware for smooth gameplay and immersive storytelling. The Saints Row reboot on PS5 offers a fresh take on the franchise with next-gen visuals.

Can I play games similar to Grand Theft Auto V on Xbox?

✅ Yes! Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S players have access to GTA V and its alternatives like Just Cause 4, Mafia III, and Watch Dogs 2. Many of these games support Xbox Game Pass, making it easier to try multiple titles without breaking the bank.

Read more about “Discover the Top 10 Best-Selling Game Consoles of All Time 🎮 …”

What games have a similar storyline to Grand Theft Auto V?

Games like Mafia III and Sleeping Dogs feature crime-driven narratives with complex characters and revenge or undercover themes. Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a more historical take but shares GTA’s focus on outlaw life and moral ambiguity.

Read more about “Explore 15 Exciting Games Like Your Favorites! 🎮 …”

Are there any games that offer a similar multiplayer experience to Grand Theft Auto V?

GTA Online is unique, but games like Payday 2 provide cooperative multiplayer heists with friends. Watch Dogs 2 also has multiplayer modes focused on hacking and competitive challenges. For a more chaotic multiplayer, Saints Row offers gang warfare with friends.

What are some upcoming games that are similar to Grand Theft Auto V?

Keep an eye on titles like Crime Boss: Rockay City and the upcoming Payday 3 for fresh takes on open-world crime and heist gameplay. These promise to build on GTA’s legacy with new mechanics and multiplayer features.

Read more about “Which Is the Most Like Game? Discover 10 Surprising Titles You’ll Love! … 🎮”

Ready to explore your next open-world crime saga? Dive in and unleash your inner outlaw! 🚗💥

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob is a game developer turned editor who leads GamesLike.org with a builder’s eye for systems, balance, and “feel.” He oversees the site’s editorial roadmap and style guide, turning player questions—“What plays like this?”—into clear, cross-platform recommendations. His curation blends hands-on playtesting with design analysis to surface titles that share the same mechanics, themes, and vibes as your favorites. You’ll see that approach across GamesLike.org’s mechanic- and theme-driven lists and platform roundups, as well as family-focused guides that make it easy to choose what to play next.

At GamesLike.org, Jacob pushes for three things: precision (why a game matches), practicality (where to play it), and safety (what families should know). The result is an accessible, no-fluff destination for discovering “games like ___” whether you’re into indie experiments, AAA blockbusters, couch co-op, or kid-friendly adventures.

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