Virtual Tourism in 2026: Why Players Are Choosing Digital Destinations

While industry anticipation builds for the release of Resident Evil 9 on platforms including Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, many gamers are looking back at established titles to evaluate the most beautiful video game locations to visit in 2026. As players wait for Capcom to reveal more details regarding Leon Kennedy and the next chapter of the franchise, the trend of virtual tourism continues to grow. We at In Game News have observed a shift where users prioritize environmental design as much as core mechanics, leading to a renewed interest in titles like Firewatch and Cyberpunk 2077.

The Appeal of Virtual Tourism in 2026

Virtual tourism has evolved from a niche interest into a primary motivation for game exploration. Players are increasingly seeking out digital spaces that offer immersion, aesthetic quality, and a sense of place. Whether it is the quiet solitude of a forest or the chaotic energy of a futuristic metropolis, the best video game worlds for virtual tourism provide a respite from reality. This interest is not limited to new releases; classic titles like Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare, which holds an 87 Metacritic score, remain relevant for their distinct environmental storytelling.

For those interested in how these environments compare to upcoming releases, you can check out our reviews coverage to see how modern titles are pushing graphical boundaries. The desire to visit these locations is often driven by the contrast between the digital environment and the player's physical reality, making titles that emphasize atmosphere particularly popular.

Firewatch and the Shoshone National Forest

Is Firewatch Shoshone National Forest based on a real location? The answer is affirmative, as the game utilizes the Wyoming wilderness as its primary inspiration. Developed by Campo Santo, Firewatch is often cited as a pioneer of the walking simulator genre. The game places the player in the role of Henry, a fire lookout who monitors the forest during the summer months. The experience is defined by the visual presentation of the environment, including day-night cycles that alter the lighting across the terrain.

The appeal of this location lies in its simplicity. Players engage in long walks, light climbing, and investigative tasks while communicating via walkie-talkie. Despite the narrative tensions involving a forest fire and a mysterious stranger, the primary draw remains the scenic vistas. For many, the game serves as a digital escape, allowing for a form of travel that is accessible from a home console or PC.

Cyberpunk 2077 and the Night City Experience

Why is Cyberpunk 2077 Night City a popular gaming destination? The city is characterized by its verticality and scale, which distinguish it from other open-world titles. Since its initial release and subsequent updates, including a significant DLC expansion, the city has become a benchmark for dense, urban world-building. The environment is not sanitized; it features a mix of corporate centers, street-level markets, and neon-lit districts that simulate a functioning, albeit dangerous, society.

While the game world contains elements of violence and social decay, the architectural design and the sheer density of the city attract players who enjoy urban exploration. The ability to traverse from a high-end corporate penthouse to the depths of the city's underbelly provides a level of variety that is difficult to find elsewhere. It stands as a primary example of how developers can create a believable, high-density environment that encourages players to simply walk the streets and observe the details.

Red Dead Redemption 2 and Scenic Virtual Travel

When discussing Red Dead Redemption 2 scenic locations for virtual travel, it is impossible to ignore the impact Rockstar Games has had on the industry. While the base game is renowned for its natural beauty, the series has a history of creating memorable environments, as seen in the 2010 release of Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare. That title, which launched on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, demonstrated the developer's ability to repurpose existing assets to create a haunting, distinct atmosphere.

For more information on how these open-world designs influence modern development, see our industry features. The focus on detail—from the weather patterns to the flora and fauna—ensures that the world of Red Dead Redemption 2 remains a top choice for players who want to engage in long, virtual treks across diverse landscapes.

Comparison of Virtual Destinations

The following table outlines the key characteristics that define these popular virtual destinations for travelers in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Firewatch Shoshone National Forest based on a real location?

Yes, the setting of Firewatch is inspired by the real-world Shoshone National Forest located in Wyoming, USA.

Why is Cyberpunk 2077 Night City a popular gaming destination?

Night City is considered a popular destination due to its immense scale, verticality, and the dense, functioning atmosphere of its diverse city districts.

What are the best video game worlds for virtual tourism?

The best worlds for virtual tourism include the scenic wilderness of Shoshone National Forest in Firewatch and the hyper-detailed urban sprawl of Night City in Cyberpunk 2077.