Video games have been an excellent source of pastime for many years. However, the scenario has shifted due to the pandemic, with many people longing to go outside for exploring the real world. As a result, video games have become an improbable source of solace. Recent years have witnessed huge leaps in fascination and graphical detail in video games, extending to a degree where gamers feel a rightful desire to travel to the exotic locations these games depict.
This virtual exploration allows gamers to immerse themselves in highly detailed sightseeing and travel experiences. Below are some of the finest video games that feature cultural wonders and real-world-inspired locations for you to explore:
ITALY: Land of Wonders
In this game, you play as a companion to Elio, an old lighthouse keeper. Elio, with the assistance of twenty sparks he retrieves, lights up the sun every morning, illuminating the country. The game begins at sunset, where Elio, referred to as Helios (the sun god in ancient Greek mythology), seeks a helper to complete his challenging task.
Elio tasks a mysterious character outside the lighthouse with retrieving twenty sparks and lighting the lighthouse to ensure the sun shines again. During their journey, players encounter five Guardians who help them discover aspects of Italian culture, including Cuisine, Nature, Design, Performance, and Art.
By the end of the journey, players take Elio’s place, becoming the new Lighthouse Keeper to protect the country’s treasures. To achieve this, they must navigate nearly one hundred puzzle game levels, each featuring a 3D reconstruction of awe-inspiring landmarks. Players explore cities, castles, mountains, coasts, myths, and traditions, with the game incorporating baroque, opera, and famous movie soundtracks inspired by great classics.
With a collection of six hundred articles, news, fun facts, and stories, this game also serves as a travel guide and an educational tool for schools teaching foreign languages.
Sleeping Dogs
Gamers love this game for its high-speed car chases through bustling streets. When the pace slows, you can wander and enjoy serene sunsets while watching houseboats bob on the horizon. The game also features underground gambling dens, bylanes filled with Cantonese-speaking characters, and karaoke bars, offering a vibrant depiction of Hong Kong-inspired settings.
Drift Hunters
You can explore a free browser game called Drift Hunters. This game allows players to engage in drifting across various tracks, offering a thrilling virtual driving experience.
Forza Horizon 4
This game, part of a series known for photorealistic worlds, sets its courses and racetracks across the English countryside. It offers a virtual road trip from the comfort of your home. The game’s locations and courses are crafted to provide an authentic English flavor, with every pothole and traffic sign enhanced by dynamic weather technology, immersing players in the capricious climate of the region.
Grand Theft Auto V
Redubbed “Los Santos,” this game fits the tongue-in-cheek spoof narrative of GTA V. Players encounter barbells, squat racks, and winding roads leading to palatial mansions of the rich and famous. The dynamic environment ensures there’s never a dull moment, contributing to the game’s massive popularity among gamers.
Escape from Tarkov
This MMO-RPG and first-person action game keeps players on edge with its intense survival mechanics. Since its beta release, countless players have joined, aiming to survive and secure the best resources. Players control a character tasked with defeating scavengers and other obstacles to escape.
For new players entering the game for the first time, the steep learning curve can be challenging. Some may consider using external tools to enhance their gameplay. However, it’s important to note that using hacks or cheats, such as those offered by certain websites, violates the game’s terms of service and can result in permanent bans. Instead, players are encouraged to improve their skills through practice, map knowledge, and teamwork, as these are safer and more rewarding ways to excel in Escape from Tarkov.[](https://shvoong.com/avoid-using-tarkov-from-cheats/)[](https://shvoong.com/avoid-using-tarkov-from-cheats/)