During summer, not everyone can afford a trip to a Polynesian lagoon, an Andean mountain, or a Cevennes forest. However, for those who can't travel physically, imagination offers a powerful alternative. Fantasy and science fiction cultures have long allowed people to explore imaginary worlds, and in recent years, this has become even more accessible thanks to the power of next-gen video game consoles and the growing trend of stationary travel post-pandemic. Video games now serve as a gateway to dreamlike destinations, offering immersive experiences that can rival real-world adventures. Here’s a guide to five unforgettable virtual destinations from beloved video games. The Kingdom of Hyrule, from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. This vast land features lush greenery, towering mountains, and a mysterious desert, all under a sky that sometimes turns blood red. The landscape is dotted with ancient ruins and diverse wildlife, from red foxes to mythical centaurs. Visitors should be cautious of thunderstorms, as they can be dangerous, and avoid touching the local chickens, which are fiercely territorial. The best way to explore is through the latest Zelda game on the Nintendo Switch 2, offering open-world freedom and breathtaking visuals. The Mushroom Kingdom, from the Super Mario series, is a vibrant and colorful world filled with floating bricks, giant mushrooms, and playful architecture. While it's a joyful place, it's not without its quirks. The local cuisine is based on mushrooms, some of which can grow rapidly or shoot fireballs. Visitors should be aware that Princess Peach's castle might be under siege, and the local transportation system is chaotic, with banana peels and explosive shells on the roads. For an immersive experience, play Super Mario Odyssey on the Nintendo Switch or its upgraded version, or team up for Super Mario 3D World with up to four players. Bordeciel, a fictional realm from The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, offers a Nordic experience with a twist. Imagine Lapland with dragons and heavily armored warriors. This world is known for its snow-capped peaks, ancient fortresses, and the famous "Sweet Roll" dessert. Visitors might encounter giants who volunteer for the local space program, offering a quick trip to the stratosphere. However, be cautious of inns where fellow travelers might try to steal your boots. The best way to explore is through the anniversary edition of Skyrim on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, which features enhanced graphics and smoother gameplay. The Desert Island of Tom Nook, from Animal Crossing: New Horizons, is a peaceful paradise where you can fish, garden, and interact with friendly, anthropomorphic animals. However, the island's charm comes with a financial challenge: a raccoon in a Hawaiian shirt hands you a loan equivalent to a small country's GDP, which you must repay. Visitors should be careful not to provoke local wildlife, like wasps that can cause dramatic facial swelling. The game is best played on the Nintendo Switch, allowing players to build their dream island at their own pace. Night City, from Cyberpunk 2077, is a futuristic metropolis set in 2077, inspired by a hyper-stylized version of New York. This neon-lit city is filled with towering skyscrapers, dark alleys, and a population that's mostly cyber-enhanced. Visitors are encouraged to dress in LED-lit fashion and avoid eye contact with gang members. The city's streets are filled with ads and spontaneous explosions, and the best way to experience it is through the Cyberpunk 2077 game with the Phantom Liberty expansion on PC, PlayStation 5, or Xbox Series X. Avoid older consoles to prevent technical glitches.