Are there any differences between the open world and sandbox concepts? (except their names obviously) :-)

I just got a bit confused of which to use when you're about to link these kind of concepts to a game.
But if there aren't any differences, then perhaps a merger of the two concepts is in order? What do you think?

Open world is just that you can go around in the open world and basically take on objectives from a different angle.

Sandbox games mean that you normally have various vehicles, weapons, and tools and generally harass pedestrian AI or goof off with friends, sort of like Saints Row 2 or Garry's Mod.

yeah they both mean you can openly explore the world and do what you want, like it's your own sandbox.

" @HeyLookIJust: Like what?  Elaborate on your post please? "

Open world allows you to roam around and explore a large area. Even something like Headhunter on PS2/Dreamcast could be considered an "open world" game.

Sandbox games seem to be defined by games that are "open world" while having "asshole physics" (or emergent gameplay. whatever). Crackdown, GTA San Andreas, Oblivion, etc.

A sandbox game is a game with no clear objectives. Players create their own goals or objectives if they wish. GTA is both, Battlefield is neither.

Ultima Online is a sandbox MMO.
Simcity is also a Sandbox game.

FUEL is open world, for instance. You can free-roam, but the interaction to the scenario (destruction, for example) is, well, limited.

Ok I think I get it then.  Also I just realized this is a conversation we should of had 11 months ago.. :P

Baldur's Gate is open world
STALKER is sandbox.

Sandbox games are really open world games, but the game would have lots of tools and mechanics for you to use to mix things up, creating emergent gameplay opportunities.

Open World games have a wide terrain, and are not linear.
Sand Box games have an open world, but you can do many different things in them. Sandbox games allow you to have varied gameplay with different "tools" or "weapons".

So, sand box games are more of a sub genre of open world games.

LMAO @ 11 month delayed response!!!

OH MY GOD! MY THREAD IS ALIVE!

Haha

I think @Vager: has the correct answer.

You can have a open world game without being sandbox, but you can't have a sandbox game not be open world (at least not by my definitions)

" You can have a open world game without being sandbox, but you can't have a sandbox game not be open world (at least not by my definitions) "

Sandbox games allow you to manipulate more elements of the world, and while this can be in an open world game (see: open-world sandbox), they aren't necessary. Neither is a qualifier for the other, but neither is either of them exclusive

All open world games fit into the sand box category but their are some sand box games (gary's mod) that aint open world