While in need of some graphic modding, Vice City remains the right way to do open world games. Every task you need to complete is fully built around a story. Optional tasks that give rewards are doable without dragging out too long, and everything else is just optional and can be ignored if you're not a completist.
Add to this the memorable characters, great (ridiculous) storytelling, and an amazingly good soundtrack... And you get simply one of the best games ever made.

While in need of some graphic modding, Vice City remains the right way to do open world games. Every task you need to complete is fully built around a story. Optional tasks that give rewards are doable without dragging out too long, and everything else is just optional and can be ignored if you're not a completist. Add to this the memorable characters, great (ridiculous) storytelling, and an amazingly good soundtrack... And you get simply one of the best games ever made.