PlayStation Plus Free Open-World RPG Is 6x Skyrim's Size As the holiday season approaches, PlayStation Plus subscribers are in for a treat. Sony has announced that one of the free games for December 2022 will be Elex II, an expansive open-world RPG from veteran developer Piranha Bytes. What makes this offering particularly enticing is the game's sheer scale - it's reportedly six times larger than Bethesda's beloved fantasy epic, Skyrim. Elex II is the sequel to 2017's Elex, a cult-favorite post-apocalyptic RPG that blended science fiction and fantasy elements. Set in the same richly imagined world, the new installment promises an even grander adventure for players to sink their teeth into. The original Elex received praise for its deep character progression system, impactful choices and consequences, and vast, seamlessly connected open world. Elex II appears poised to build upon these strengths while expanding the scope considerably. According to the developers, the game's map will measure a staggering 16 square kilometers, dwarfing even the expansive landscapes of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, which spanned around 2.5 square kilometers. This means that PlayStation Plus subscribers will have ample opportunity to explore, quest, and get lost in Elex II's meticulously crafted world. "We wanted to create a truly massive open world for players to discover," said Björn Pankratz, the game's director. "Skyrim was already an incredibly immersive experience, but we felt we could push the boundaries even further. Elex II's map is absolutely massive, with so many unique locations, characters, and stories to uncover." One of the key features that sets Elex II apart is its emphasis on player choice and consequence. The game's narrative is heavily influenced by the decisions players make, with each choice carrying significant weight. Whether it's siding with a particular faction, engaging in dialogue options, or taking on quests, the ramifications of your actions will be felt throughout the adventure. "We really want the player to feel like the choices they make matter," Pankratz explained. "The world of Elex II is complex and dynamic, and the way you navigate it will shape your experience in profound ways. No two playthroughs will be exactly the same." This level of player agency and narrative depth is particularly impressive given the game's massive scale. Traversing the vast landscapes of Elex II will require a combination of exploration, resource management, and strategic decision-making, as players navigate the power struggles between the game's various factions. In addition to its sprawling open world, Elex II also boasts a robust character progression system, allowing players to customize their protagonist's abilities and playstyle. From wielding futuristic weapons and technology to harnessing ancient magic, the game's deep RPG mechanics promise a truly immersive experience. The inclusion of Elex II as a PlayStation Plus freebie is a significant coup for Sony's subscription service. With the game typically retailing for $59.99, this presents an incredible value proposition for players who may have been hesitant to try the title otherwise. "We're thrilled to be able to offer Elex II as a PlayStation Plus game," said Pankratz. "Our team has poured their hearts into creating this massive, engaging RPG, and we're excited for PlayStation gamers to dive in and experience it for themselves. It's a perfect way to spend the holiday season - getting lost in a sprawling, richly detailed open world." For PlayStation owners looking to embark on a deep, engrossing adventure this winter, Elex II's arrival as a free PlayStation Plus title is an enticing proposition. With its vast, meticulously crafted open world, compelling narrative, and robust RPG systems, the game promises to deliver hundreds of hours of captivating gameplay. It's a testament to the continued growth and ambition of the medium, as developers push the boundaries of what's possible in the open-world genre.