by Liz Publika

Video games are evolving rapidly, so we’re spotlighting six releases with the most impressive graphics from the last three years. Plus, four honorable mentions from the past five years that have earned recognition for their stunning design. From breathtaking open worlds to mind-blowing realism and inventive visual styles, these games push the limits of what’s possible on modern hardware. Whether you’re chasing epic landscapes, intricate details, or cinematic moments, this list highlights the titles that make graphics a true part of the experience.

Hi-Fi Rush (2023)

Developer: Tango Gameworks

Publisher: Bethesda Softworks

Type: Action Game

Hi-Fi Rush is a rhythm-driven action game where the entire world moves to the beat. Developed by Tango Gameworks, it follows Chai, a wannabe rock star who survives a corporate experiment gone wrong and discovers his heart now syncs reality to music. Combat, platforming, enemy attacks, and environmental details all pulse in time with the soundtrack, rewarding players who fight on rhythm without punishing those who don’t. Its cel-shaded visuals pull from animation and comics, while licensed tracks and original music shape every level. Published by Bethesda Softworks, Hi-Fi Rush stands out by making timing, style, and sound inseparable from play.

Elden Ring (2022)

Developer: FromSoftware

Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment

Type: Open World / Action Game

Elden Ring is an open-world action RPG from FromSoftware, published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, built in collaboration with fantasy author George R.R. Martin. Players take on the role of a customizable Tarnished exploring the vast, interconnected Lands Between, a dark fantasy realm shattered after the Elden Ring itself was broken. Traversing colossal plains, swamps, ruins, and hidden dungeons on foot or horseback, you’ll battle demigods, monstrous foes, and countless secrets as you gather power to restore the Elden Ring and claim the title of Elden Lord. Its mix of freedom, depth, and high stakes has made it one of the most acclaimed games of its generation.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (2021)

Developer: Insomniac Games

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Type: Shooter Game

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a fast-paced shooter and platformer from Insomniac Games, published by Sony Interactive Entertainment for PlayStation 5. When the villainous emperor Nefarious tears open interdimensional rifts, Ratchet and Clank are hurled into alternate realities, separated from their friends. With dimensional travel at its core, you blast iconic weapons, explore wildly different worlds, and meet new allies like the Lombax warrior Rivet. The game uses PS5 tech for near-instant loading between dimensions, spectacular visuals, and crisp haptic feedback. Packed with inventive combat, humor, and rich level design, Rift Apart delivers a joyful blend of shooting and exploration that feels both fresh and true to the series.

Forza Horizon 5 (2021)

Developer: Playground Games

Publisher: Xbox Game Studios

Type: Open World / Racing Game

Forza Horizon 5 is an open-world racing game from Playground Games, published by Xbox Game Studios, set against a stunning, diverse re-creation of Mexico. You’ll race across deserts, jungles, beaches, cities, and volcanoes in hundreds of licensed cars, tuning performance and style as you go. Dynamic seasons and weather change the way every route feels, while Horizon Festival events, challenges, and online co-op keep the pace fresh. From high-speed highway blasts to precision off-road runs, the game mixes casual cruising with deep driving mechanics. With gorgeous visuals, expansive maps, and limitless racing freedom, Forza Horizon 5 delivers one of the most immersive driving playgrounds in the genre.

Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020)

Developer: Asobo Studio

Publisher: Xbox Game Studios

Type: Open World / Flight Simulator

Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020) from Asobo Studio and published by Xbox Game Studios redefines flying games with a true-to-life globe you can pilot through. Using satellite data and real-time weather, it maps the entire planet so you can take off from any runway and soar over real cities, mountains, oceans, and landmarks. Choose from a range of aircraft — from light props to commercial jets — and experience realistic flight physics, cockpit systems, and ATC guidance. Whether you’re practicing takeoffs, chasing storms, or flying across continents, it blends simulator depth with breathtaking visuals that make every flight feel like the real thing.

Ghost of Tsushima (2020)

Developer: Sucker Punch Productions

Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment

Type: Open World Game / Action Game

Ghost of Tsushima is an open-world action game from Sucker Punch Productions, published by Sony Interactive Entertainment for PS4 and PS5. Set in feudal Japan during the first Mongol invasion of Tsushima Island, you play Jin Sakai, a samurai struggling between honor and necessity as he defends his home. The game blends sweeping landscapes with fluid combat, letting you master swordplay, stealth tactics, and evolving techniques as you confront brutal invaders. Explore forests, villages, and coastlines, follow dynamic quests, and shape Jin’s path between tradition and the deadly new way of the Ghost. Striking visuals, cinematic storytelling, and immersive world design make every battle and journey unforgettable.

Honorable Mentions

• Red Dead Redemption II (2018)

• Death Stranding (2019)

• Control (2019)

• The Last of Us Part II (2020)

Note* Cover images for this article is in the public domain. Descriptions updated on 1.4.2026