The Ultimate Marathon: Longest Video Games To Beat

Hey gaming fanatics! Ever wondered what the ultimate test of endurance is in the video game world? We're diving deep into the realm of epic adventures, sprawling narratives, and time-consuming quests to uncover the longest video games to complete. Forget those bite-sized experiences; we're talking about games that demand hours, even days, of your precious time. Get ready to flex your gaming muscles, because this is a marathon, not a sprint! We will discuss games that offer a wealth of content, intricate storylines, and expansive worlds to explore. Prepare yourself, because once you start one of these, you might not see the light of day for a while. Let's get started on this exciting quest. These titles will challenge your dedication and provide an unforgettable journey. Are you ready to see some examples of games that will take you a long time to complete?

Unveiling the Titans: The Champions of Length

Alright, guys, let's get down to brass tacks. Determining the longest video game isn't as simple as checking a timer. Completion times vary wildly depending on play style, how much side content you tackle, and, let's be honest, how easily distracted you are. (Shiny things, anyone?). However, we can use data from HowLongToBeat.com and other resources to estimate the time it takes to experience everything a game has to offer. In this list, we'll focus on games that offer a deep main story and optional content. So let's look at some examples! Some games have a main story that is so long that it will take a considerable amount of time, while others have lots of side quests and content to keep you busy. This is your warning! If you want to dive into these games, you will need to prepare to spend a very long time in them. Grab your favorite snacks and let's go!

1. The Elder Scrolls Online

This one is a behemoth, a true champion of playtime. The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) isn't just a game; it's a massive online world that's constantly growing. With numerous expansions and updates, the base game alone offers hundreds of hours of quests, exploration, and character progression. We're talking about a vast map filled with diverse regions, from the frozen wastes of Skyrim to the deserts of Elsweyr. The main questline is already significant, but if you're like most players, you'll be drawn to the side quests, crafting, and social aspects of the game. Completing every quest, exploring every dungeon, and leveling up your character to the maximum can easily take over 1,000 hours. Yes, you heard that right! That's a serious commitment! And since ESO is an MMO, there's always something new to do. New events, new content, and new players will always appear in the game. You'll never get bored, but you will need lots of time. So be sure to play the game when you have lots of free time.

2. EVE Online

If you want to experience something incredibly unique, look no further than EVE Online. This space-based MMORPG isn't just a game; it's a living, breathing universe shaped by player actions. EVE Online is famous for its player-driven economy, intricate political landscape, and, of course, its ridiculously long playtime. Your time in EVE won't be spent just completing quests; it's about building your empire, engaging in epic space battles, and navigating the complex web of alliances and betrayals. The learning curve is steep, and mastering the game can take years, so the time it takes to complete is potentially unlimited. Some players have spent over a decade in this world. This is the ultimate time sink. If you're looking for a game that offers a truly unique experience, you can't go wrong with this game.

3. Monster Hunter: World & Monster Hunter Rise

Ah, the thrill of the hunt! The Monster Hunter series is all about taking down colossal beasts and crafting gear from their remains. Both Monster Hunter: World and Monster Hunter Rise offer hundreds of hours of gameplay. You'll spend your time tracking monsters, learning their attack patterns, and honing your skills. Each game features a massive roster of monsters to hunt, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. The loop of hunting, crafting, and upgrading your equipment is incredibly addictive. Completing the main story in either game will take a good chunk of time, but the real meat of the game lies in the endgame content. Building the perfect armor sets, taking on challenging hunts, and mastering all the weapons will easily push your playtime into the hundreds of hours. This is a great game if you're a fan of grinding and challenging yourself. Get your hunting gear ready and prepare to face some of the greatest monsters ever.

4. Final Fantasy XIV

Final Fantasy XIV is a modern classic of the MMO genre. It has a compelling story, fantastic music, and a strong sense of community. The game has undergone a major transformation in recent years, becoming one of the most popular MMORPGs on the market. The main story alone will take you a considerable amount of time to complete, but the game has a wealth of side content. There are raids, dungeons, crafting, and various other activities to keep you busy. Like other MMOs on this list, Final Fantasy XIV is constantly growing. The developers are always adding new content, so the time it takes to