The Ultimate Guide To The Longest Games Ever

Hey gaming fanatics! Ever wondered what the longest game ever to complete is? We've all sunk countless hours into our favorite titles, but some games are legendary for their sheer epic scale and the time commitment they demand. This article dives deep into the rabbit hole of time-consuming games, exploring the titles that will keep you glued to your screen for weeks, months, or even years! We're talking about games that redefine the term 'immersive experience'. So, buckle up, grab your snacks, and prepare to discover the titans of the gaming world. We'll be looking at games across various genres, from massive open-world RPGs to relentless strategy titles. Get ready to find your next time-sink – or just marvel at the dedication of those who have conquered these colossal challenges. This journey will explore why these games are so long, what makes them so engaging, and maybe, just maybe, inspire you to take on one of these legendary quests yourself. Let's get started and uncover the longest game ever to complete!

Unveiling the Giants: Defining Long Gameplay

First things first, what exactly qualifies as a 'long' game? It's a pretty subjective question, right? For some, a 50-hour RPG might seem like an eternity, while others consider that a mere warm-up. For our purposes, we're talking about games that typically require 100+ hours to complete, with some stretching far beyond that mark. We're considering the main storyline, side quests, and optional content that contribute to the overall experience. This means we're not just looking at the 'main quest' completion time; we're taking into account everything that makes these games so captivating. The definition also has to do with how the game is designed. Is it open-world? Does it have a lot of side content and activities? Does the gameplay allow for grinding? Also the replayability. Can the game be replayed multiple times and offer a unique experience? The games that will be featured on this list, offer all these qualities and so much more. These games are a testament to the developers' ambition and the players' dedication. So, when considering the longest game ever to complete, remember that it is more than just a matter of hours; it's about the depth of the experience, the complexity of the world, and the sheer volume of content available. This is what sets apart the longest games from the rest of the pack. They are games that you live in, and not just play.

RPG Titans: Conquering Expansive Worlds

RPGs are known for their epic scope, rich stories, and often, their considerable playtime. These games are designed to immerse you in a world, letting you explore, battle, and build your character over hundreds of hours. It should come as no surprise that some of the longest games ever to complete are found in this genre. The level of detail and character development is the key. The side quests allow for even more hours of gameplay.

One of the prime examples of a long RPG is The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. If you're a fan of this game, you already know it is an open-world RPG where exploration is at the heart of the experience. Between the main storyline, countless side quests, exploring dungeons, crafting, and just messing around, you can easily sink hundreds of hours into this game. Many players find themselves still discovering new things even after hundreds of hours. This is the beauty of open-world RPGs like Skyrim – the freedom to do whatever you want, whenever you want, making each playthrough unique. The longest game ever to complete can be easily found in this game due to its size and depth. Another RPG that deserves a mention is Fallout 4. If you love post-apocalyptic settings and vast worlds, this is your game. The main storyline is pretty long, but it is the side content that keeps players engaged for hours on end. Building settlements, finding companions, and uncovering the mysteries of the wasteland add to the already massive playtime.

Strategy Games: The Marathon of Minds

Strategy games often involve building empires, managing resources, and outwitting your opponents. These games can take a long time. The longest game ever to complete is not always found in the RPG genre. They can be found in strategy games, especially if you dive deep into all the intricate mechanics and various game modes. Each decision matters, and a single mistake can cost you hours of progress.

Civilization VI, for example, is a prime candidate. A single game of Civilization VI can easily stretch to dozens of hours, especially on larger maps with more players. Planning your civilization's growth, managing diplomacy, and engaging in warfare demands time and focus. This is a game where every decision can have major consequences down the line. To be the best, you need to understand the mechanics, research the units, and learn from your mistakes. The replayability of this game is amazing. It allows for players to experiment with different civilizations, strategies, and game modes. Each playthrough feels fresh and unique. Another strategy game that deserves a mention is Crusader Kings III. This game is about dynasty management in the medieval era. It's a game of intricate politics, warfare, and family drama. Mastering the game takes time. Understanding the nuances of the game, like marriage alliances, inheritance laws, and religious conflicts, adds to the complexity. This means it can take a massive amount of time to complete. With a great variety of scenarios, expansions, and game modes, this is one of the longest game ever to complete.

MMORPGs: The Never-Ending Journey

Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) are designed to keep you hooked for years. These games are all about creating a persistent online world where thousands of players interact. MMORPGs offer a continuous stream of content, from regular updates to seasonal events, ensuring there's always something new to do. They can be considered as the longest game ever to complete. The amount of content, coupled with the social aspect, makes MMORPGs incredibly engaging and time-consuming.

One of the most popular is Final Fantasy XIV. This game has a huge world, a compelling story, and a thriving community. The main quest is pretty long, but the amount of side content, from crafting and gathering to raiding and PvP, is insane. Also, the constant updates from Square Enix, with new content and stories, means that the game is constantly growing. Another major player in the MMORPG world is World of Warcraft. With numerous expansions, WoW offers a vast amount of content, including dungeons, raids, and PvP arenas. The social aspect is really important, with players forming guilds and working together to achieve their goals. The amount of content and the social aspect make World of Warcraft one of the longest game ever to complete.

The Grind: Exploring Games with Potentially Infinite Playtimes

There are a handful of games that push the boundaries of playtime. These games are designed to keep you engaged forever. They are often defined by a 'grind', where the goal is to consistently repeat actions to earn rewards and progress. While this may not appeal to everyone, for some, the grind is part of the fun.

Eve Online is known for its complex economy, space battles, and player-driven politics. Players spend their time mining resources, crafting items, trading, and engaging in large-scale conflicts. The learning curve is steep, and mastering all the aspects of the game can take years. Another game that fits this category is Diablo III. Diablo is all about looting, leveling up, and finding the perfect gear. The gameplay is repetitive, but the feeling of progression and the constant hunt for upgrades keep players coming back for more. With new seasons and constant updates, the potential playtime is almost unlimited. Those who love the grind will surely rank these titles as the longest game ever to complete.

Conclusion: Your Journey Begins!

So, there you have it, folks! We've journeyed through the realms of time-consuming games, from the vast worlds of RPGs to the strategic depths of strategy games and the endless possibilities of MMORPGs. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the hobby, there's always a new world to explore and a new challenge to conquer. The longest game ever to complete depends on your gaming style. Remember, these games aren't just about finishing; they're about the experience. They're about the stories you create, the friendships you forge, and the memories you make along the way. Now, the question is: which one of these time-sinks will you dive into first? The gaming world is vast and full of amazing experiences. Get ready to embark on your epic quest and find out which game will become the longest game ever to complete in your gaming history! Happy gaming!