In 2025, one of the most exciting travel trends is emerging from an unexpected source: video games. From iconic open-world landscapes to neon-lit cyberpunk cities, gamers are now packing their bags to explore real-world destinations inspired by their favorite virtual worlds. Welcome to the era of gaming-inspired getaways—where fantasy meets reality.
What Are Gaming-Inspired Getaways?
Gaming-inspired getaways are travel experiences based on popular video games, either by visiting real-world locations that appear in games or by immersing in destinations that evoke a similar vibe. For millions of travelers—especially Millennials and Gen Z—gaming isn’t just entertainment, it’s a form of storytelling, and now, travel planning.
Whether it’s driving through the Scottish Highlands from Forza Horizon or exploring Japan’s bustling streets like in Yakuza or Persona, the line between digital and physical adventure is getting blurrier than ever.
Why Gamers Are Traveling Differently in 2025
According to a recent Skyscanner report, over 80% of Gen Z and Millennial travelers said that video games influence their travel decisions. Here’s why this trend is exploding:
- Nostalgia and fandom: Gamers want to step into the worlds they’ve spent hours exploring.
- Social media appeal: Instagrammable scenes from famous game locations generate massive engagement.
- Cultural curiosity: Games often introduce players to countries, food, music, and fashion they want to experience in real life.
- Immersive tourism: Fans are looking for deeper, more interactive travel.
Top Gaming-Inspired Travel Destinations
Here are a few global hotspots gaining popularity among gaming travelers:
- Japan – Tokyo & Kyoto
- Games: Persona, Yakuza, Ghost of Tsushima
- Visit Akihabara for a tech-infused experience or travel to the serene temples of Kyoto straight out of Ghost of Tsushima.
- Scotland – Edinburgh & the Highlands
- Game: Forza Horizon 4
- Scenic drives, castle ruins, and dramatic weather create a real-world version of the beloved racing map.
- Iceland – Nordic Fantasy Landscapes
- Game: God of War, Skyrim
- Iceland’s glaciers, black-sand beaches, and volcanoes feel like you’re in a Norse saga or fantasy quest.
- New Orleans, USA
- Game: Mafia III
- This vibrant city channels the atmosphere and energy portrayed in the game, with jazz-filled streets and complex history.
- Eastern Europe – Prague, Warsaw, Budapest
- Games: Cyberpunk 2077, The Witcher
- Explore medieval towns and futuristic cityscapes that inspired these blockbusters.
Tips for Planning a Gaming-Inspired Getaway
- Research Game Locations: Use fan forums and community maps to find real-world counterparts to your favorite virtual worlds.
- Travel Off-Season: To match the serene or eerie vibes of many game worlds, avoid peak tourism times.
- Visit Gaming Events: Align your trip with conventions like Gamescom, Tokyo Game Show, or Comic-Con for the full experience.
- Book a Themed Stay: Look for video game-themed hotels or Airbnb listings decorated like your favorite titles.
More Than Just a Fandom Trip
Gaming-inspired travel isn’t only about taking selfies where a cutscene happened. It’s about reconnecting with imagination, appreciating world-building through cultural lenses, and celebrating how interactive storytelling can shape our real-world dreams.
Final Quest: Ready to Travel Through Your Favorite Game Worlds?
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual gamer, gaming-inspired getaways offer a unique and unforgettable way to explore the world. It’s no longer just about escape—it’s about bringing those epic, pixelated dreams to life.
