Sandbox / Open World

In "Sandbox" or "Open World" games, players are given a tremendous amount of freedom to pursue their goals without the restrictions of a more linear game style. Players are encouraged to explore and engage with the world, and find their own story as they do so. These games offer the players the opportunity to drive the narrative, and allow for the story to evolve organically through the choices they make.

Frequently asked questions about Sandbox / Open World games

Blog links about Sandbox / Open World games

How to Run D&D Campaigns in a Sandbox Style

Running a sandbox-style Dungeons & Dragons campaign can be one of the most rewarding experiences for Game Masters and players. It allows for organic storytelling, empowers player agency, and creates a living world that evolves with their actions.

Sandbox / Open World Reviews and Actual Plays

Sandboxing! | Running the Game

YouTube game master Matt Colville explains how he sets up and runs sandbox campaigns.

Haunted City | Blades in the Dark

The Glass Cannon Network travels to the dark world of Duskwall, where criminal scoundrels pull daring heists in a world without a sun.

The Halls of Arden Vul

3d6 Down the Line's long-running megadungeon sandbox campaign unleashes players on an old-school dungeon crawl where they must figure out the strangeness of the dungeon to survive.

Similar styles to Sandbox / Open World

West Marches

West Marches games are typically run as “drop-in/drop-out” campaigns, where a pool of players hop into sessions as they are available or as sessions align with their schedules. These games focus on a player-led story and exploration, with each session acting as a self contained adventure. Players can experience a variety of stories with a rotating cast within an overarching campaign.

Hexcrawl / Exploration

“Hexcrawl / Exploration” games are all about the journey. Whether you're uncovering ancient ruins, navigating dangerous terrain, or charting new territory, the focus is on discovery and player-driven adventure. Hexcrawls add additional structure by using a map where each hex holds new surprises, challenges, or story hooks.

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