Best Games like GTA 5 (2026)

What makes GTA 5 so hard to put down? Maybe it's the freedom to turn a simple drive into a wild police chase, the unpredictable missions, or the feeling that there's always something happening around the next corner. While few games bring all these elements together in quite the same way, plenty offer their own take on open-world adventures. From gritty gangster stories to chaotic sandbox playgrounds, we've picked out games like GTA 5 that are worth adding to your playlist.

What should you play after GTA 5?

• Mafia III - Loved GTA's heists and criminal underworld? Mafia III takes you into a gritty 1960s setting where revenge, gang rivalries, and territory takeovers drive the action. It's a great pick if you want another crime-focused adventure with classic cars and plenty of gunfights.
• Yakuza 0 - If GTA's memorable characters and unexpected side activities kept you entertained, this one's worth your attention. Explore the busy streets of 1980s Japan, get caught up in dramatic gangster conflicts, and take a break with karaoke or arcade games. You won't get GTA-style driving, but there's plenty to discover.
• L.A. Noire - Ever wondered what GTA would feel like from the other side of the law? Become a detective in 1940s Los Angeles, investigate crime scenes, question suspects, and chase down criminals. It's slower and more investigative, making it a good choice when you want a story that rewards paying attention.
• The Saboteur - Enjoy stealing vehicles, sneaking into restricted areas, and creating chaos? This underrated adventure lets you do all that in Nazi-occupied Paris. Climb rooftops, sabotage enemy operations, and explore an unusual open world that feels very different from Los Santos.
• Mad Max - If driving was your favorite way to spend time in GTA 5, imagine swapping city traffic for desert convoys and explosive vehicle battles. Build your ultimate wasteland car, fight hostile gangs, and explore a dangerous world where your vehicle is your most valuable possession.
• Ghost Recon Wildlands - Miss teaming up with friends and tackling missions your own way? Explore a massive open world, drive different vehicles, fly helicopters, and take down a dangerous cartel. It's more tactical than GTA Online, but the freedom to approach objectives together makes it especially fun in co-op.
• LEGO City Undercover - Want the freedom of GTA without the mature themes? This playful adventure lets you explore a bustling city, drive all kinds of vehicles, chase criminals, and discover hidden activities. It's an excellent choice for casual gaming or a lighter open-world experience.