Background information:
Working on a game that has this structure: Most content is compacted into settlements. There are wilds between these settlements. The primary purpose of having wilds, in this design, is forcing people to take breaks from the more intense gameplay of the settlements.
Problem:
Travelling through the wilds can be painfully dull. I’m guessing the solution would be to add something mild to the wilds as a distraction while the player is wandering around. I say mild because the travel is an intermission for resting. Anything too intense would be counter-productive to that end.
Do you know of any games with a relaxing but compelling overworld? What are some things that could make the boredom of walking around less painful?