In the vast world of gaming, some titles go above and beyond by including mini-games that captivate players as much as the main gameplay. These AAA games not only boast stunning graphics, immersive storylines, and polished gameplay, but they also offer entertaining and skillful diversions in the form of mini-games. 

Whether it's playing cards in the Wild West or participating in a fantasy card tournament, these mini-games have garnered attention for their innovation and sheer fun. Let's dive into the world of gaming and explore some of the best AAA titles with exceptional mini-games.

Developer: Visual Concepts

Awards: Multiple awards for various installments

Mini-Games: 3-Point Shootouts, Dunk Contests, and more

The NBA 2K series is renowned for its realistic basketball simulation. In addition to the core basketball gameplay, the series features engaging mini-games. These mini-games include the exhilarating 3-Point Shootout, where players can test their long-range shooting skills. 

Additionally, there are Dunk Contests, allowing players to showcase their creativity and athleticism with jaw-dropping slam dunks. Just like rugby league betting, there are also NBA 2K competitions where you can bet on teams competing. These mini-games offer a break from the regular basketball matches and provide a chance to focus on specific aspects of the sport. 

Developer: Rockstar Games

Awards: Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2018

Mini-Games: Poker, Blackjack, Dominoes, Five Finger Fillet, and more

Red Dead Redemption 2 immerses players in the rugged and dangerous world of the Wild West. Beyond its compelling narrative and stunning visuals, the game offers an array of mini-games such as poker and blackjack, allowing you to test your luck and skill in various gambling pursuits.

Developer: CD Projekt Red

Awards: Numerous Game of the Year awards

Mini-Game: Gwent

As Geralt of Rivia, players take on the role of a monster hunter in a richly detailed open world. One of the standout features of The Witcher 3 is Gwent, a collectible card game with deep strategy and a passionate fanbase. Players collect and build decks to challenge NPCs and other in-game characters, creating a thriving in-game card game community.

Developer: Square Enix

Awards: Multiple Game of the Year awards

Mini-Game: Gold Saucer Attractions

Final Fantasy VII is an iconic RPG known for its epic storyline. However, players can also visit the Gold Saucer, an amusement park featuring attractions like Chocobo Racing and the Battle Square. These mini-games offer a welcome change of pace from the game's core adventure.

Developer: SEGA

Awards: N/A

Mini-Games: Karaoke, Batting Cages, Mahjong, and more

The Yakuza series, particularly Yakuza 0 is a wild and eccentric journey through the Japanese underworld. In addition to its gripping crime drama, the game features an abundance of quirky mini-games that reflect Japanese pop culture, such as karaoke and batting cages.

Developer: Obsidian Entertainment

Awards: N/A

Mini-Games: Caravan

Fallout: New Vegas is a post-apocalyptic RPG set in the Mojave Wasteland. Amidst the chaos, players can engage in a strategic card game called Caravan, challenging various NPCs and adding a layer of depth to the game's already intricate world.

Developer: Rockstar Games

Awards: Multiple Game of the Year awards

Mini-Games: Tennis, Golf, Darts, and more

Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto V takes players to the bustling streets of Los Santos. While the game is renowned for its open-world mayhem, it also offers various recreational activities and mini-games, from golf to darts, providing a break from the criminal lifestyle.

Developer: Ubisoft

Awards: N/A

Mini-Game: Driver: San Francisco (Vehicle Hacking)

Watch Dogs 2 combines hacking and urban exploration. In a clever twist, players can engage in the Driver: San Francisco mini-game, allowing them to take control of and hack various vehicles throughout the city.

Developer: Ubisoft

Awards: N/A

Mini-Games: Dice Poker and Naval Combat

Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag places players in the Golden Age of Piracy. In addition to its swashbuckling adventures, the game includes mini-games like dice poker and thrilling naval combat.

Developer: Bethesda Game Studios

Awards: Multiple Game of the Year awards

Mini-Games: Brawls and Tavern Games

Skyrim offers a massive open world filled with quests and dragons. Alongside the main adventure, players can engage in various activities, including brawls and tavern games, to immerse themselves further in the richly detailed world.

Developer: Nintendo

Awards: Numerous Game of the Year awards

Mini-Game: Bowling

Breath of the Wild takes players to the expansive kingdom of Hyrule. As Link, you can take a break from battling evil by rolling a giant snowball or boulder down a hill to knock down pins in a bowling mini-game.

These AAA titles not only excel in their core gameplay but also provide players with enjoyable mini-games, offering a delightful diversion from their main adventures. Whether you prefer strategy card games, Wild West gambling, or karaoke in a Japanese crime saga, these games have something special to offer. So, the next time you embark on a gaming journey, keep an eye out for these titles that turn "a game within a game" into an art form.