Gaming's Most Stunning Worlds Bypass Fast Travel

A Love for Exploration in Video Game Worlds

There’s something truly magical about experiencing a game world on foot. I’ll never forget the first time I watched a sunset in Skyrim. Even on PlayStation 3, it was breathtaking. When Skyrim: Special Edition came out, that awe only deepened. From that moment on, I made a promise to myself—I would never use fast travel again. Whether I was walking, riding a horse, or taking a horse-drawn carriage, I wanted to feel every step of the journey across the realm. To make sure I stuck to my vow, I even installed a mod that significantly increased carriage service prices, discouraging me from relying on them too often.

This sentiment isn’t unique to me. Many gamers have shared similar experiences, especially in open-world games. Over the years, I’ve been fascinated by which worlds have resonated so deeply with players. One ongoing Reddit thread has captured my attention, filled with passionate discussions about why some people choose to avoid fast travel altogether.

Why Warp When You Can Walk? (Or Sail?)

The Reddit thread is full of engaging and thoughtful responses. One of the top comments, from user FG237, highlights Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag. In this game, you play as Edward Kenway, a pirate in the 18th-century Caribbean. While fast travel is an option, many players prefer to sail from island to island, making the journey part of the experience. Once on land, there’s still plenty of walking to do, adding to the sense of adventure.

For longer on-foot excursions, Ghost of Tsushima by Sucker Punch is a popular choice. I completely agree with the praise it receives. One player, Maw-91, called it “a beautiful game, very cinematic.” Another, DaShAgNL, added, “You can literally stop anywhere, and it’s a damn painting.” It’s no wonder this game has become a favorite among those who enjoy immersive exploration.

Unique Experiences in Open Worlds

In Cyberpunk 2077, lost_scotsman shares a different take on fast travel. They mention using the monorail transport as their only fast travel option. “If you haven’t used it yet, you’re missing out—it’s incredibly scenic and quite tranquil just looking out the window,” they say. However, some players weren’t aware that this feature existed in the game. I haven’t played Cyberpunk 2077 much, so I’m not sure how common this is.

Another standout is The Witcher 3, where Geralt’s journey spans multiple regions. Player KoolFunk recalls taking detours in Toussaint because of its beauty. This is a sentiment I share with many other games, such as Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Dragon Age: Inquisition. My all-time favorite game, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, is also frequently mentioned. I’m currently enjoying the Switch 2 version, and the Zelda Notes voice memories add a new layer of charm to the experience.

Not Everyone Is a Fan of No-Fast-Travel

Of course, not everyone agrees with this approach. Some players, like urgasmic, don’t mind using fast travel. “None for me,” they say, “but yes, there are definitely some great games with beautiful worlds to walk through, sometimes.” It’s true—avoiding fast travel can significantly increase playtime, and that’s not for everyone.

Games like Skyrim, the recent Oblivion remaster, and Fallout 4 have also sparked conversations on Reddit. Strange_Compote_4592 notes that Bethesda games in general are a big part of this trend. Meanwhile, PMar797 shares a more unconventional choice: Pokémon Emerald. They praise the GBA spritework and colors, calling them timeless. The vibrant region of Hoenn, with its diverse biomes and unique towns, makes exploring on foot a joy. Using a Mach Bike, surf, and repels makes getting around quick and easy.

A New Appreciation for Game Worlds

Reading through these comments, I find myself longing to spend a quiet Sunday immersed in video game worlds. Imposed travel restrictions aren’t for everyone, but for those of us who love to explore, they add a level of depth and engagement that fast travel simply can’t match. Whether it’s the vast landscapes of Skyrim, the cinematic beauty of Ghost of Tsushima, or the nostalgic charm of Pokémon Emerald, there’s something special about experiencing a game world one step at a time.