Why Collectibles Are Ruining Open Worlds - And How to Fix Them

Collectibles are everywhere in open world games, but are they actually good game design? In this video, we break down why so many collectibles feel like pointless checklist padding, how they can ruin exploration, and what developers can do to make them meaningful again. From Spider-Man and Dragon Age Inquisition to MGS V, Shadow of War, and Just Cause 3, we analyze what separates hollow busywork from rewarding exploration. We also explore how incentives, lore integration, gameplay challenges, and unique rewards can transform collectibles from filler into one of the best parts of an open world. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by map icons or exhausted by meaningless pick-ups, this breakdown explains exactly why - and how to fix it.