Top 20 Open World Games on Nintendo Switch Ranked (Our Picks)
Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the vast and exciting world of open-world games available on this fantastic console.
From the mystical realms to action-packed adventures, the Nintendo Switch has a plethora of open-world experiences to offer.
Here’s our roundup of the top 20 open-world games you can enjoy on your Switch, each offering its unique flavor of exploration, adventure, and thrill.
So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let’s embark on this journey!
20Hyper Light Drifter - Special Edition (2018)
Imagine a world where colors burst in neon hues and danger lurks in every corner. That’s “Hyper Light Drifter” for you.
This Special Edition on the Switch not only brings the visually stunning and challenging game to your fingertips but also adds a dash of exclusive content. Traveling through this mysterious, ruined world, the game’s silent protagonist battles nightmarish foes and uncovers long-lost secrets.
The eerie beauty of its pixel art and the depth of its story will keep you glued for hours. It’s a blend of fast-paced action and captivating puzzles that challenges both your reflexes and your wits.
19A Short Hike (2020)
“A Short Hike” is a cozy gem in the world of open-world games. It’s like a warm, welcoming hug in the form of a game.
You play as Claire, a bird on a mission to reach the peak of Hawk Peak Provincial Park. What makes this game special is its laid-back approach. There’s no rush, no pressing dangers, just a beautifully crafted world full of charming characters and hidden treasures.
The game’s pixel art style, combined with a soothing soundtrack, makes your hike an experience to cherish.
18Borderlands 3: Ultimate Edition (2023)
“Borderlands 3: Ultimate Edition” brings the chaotic, looter-shooter madness to the Switch with style. This edition packs all the DLCs, adding more layers to the already rich content.
With its signature humor, a myriad of guns, and a roster of quirky characters, the game offers an experience that’s both exhilarating and hilarious.
You’ll find yourself in the middle of an intergalactic war, hopping from planet to planet, each with its own distinct environment and challenges.
The game shines in its co-op mode, where you and your friends can team up for some insane shoot-and-loot action.
17Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin (2021)
Dive into a world where you’re not just a hunter, but a rider in “Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin.”
This spin-off from the main series offers a refreshing take with a more narrative-driven approach. You form bonds with famous monsters from the Monster Hunter universe, each with unique abilities and traits.
The game’s turn-based combat is a delightful mix of strategy and action, making each encounter a thrilling experience.
The vibrant world is a joy to explore, filled with mysteries and epic battles. It’s a game that beautifully balances story, exploration, and combat.
16Dragon’s Dogma Dark Arisen (2019)
“Dragon’s Dogma Dark Arisen” is a masterpiece that blends fantasy and darkness in a unique way. The game throws you into a rich, expansive world filled with daunting creatures and intriguing lore.
You’re not just an ordinary adventurer; you’re an Arisen, destined to face the mysterious Dragon. The game’s real-time combat system is a standout, allowing for deep customization and thrilling battles.
With the innovative ‘Pawn’ system, where you can recruit other players’ companions, the game adds an interesting social element to your adventure. It’s a challenging journey that rewards your curiosity and combat skills.
15Cassette Beasts (2023)
Enter the world of “Cassette Beasts,” where music and monsters collide in a unique RPG adventure. This game is a fresh breath in the open-world genre, blending monster collection with a nostalgic 90s aesthetic.
You roam an island capturing beasts, which, true to the game’s name, you can transform into cassette tapes. The combat is a mix of turn-based strategy and real-time action, keeping the encounters engaging and fresh.
The game’s vibrant art style and catchy soundtrack add to its charm, making it a standout experience on the Switch.
14Immortals Fenyx Rising (2020)
“Immortals Fenyx Rising” is a mythological adventure that’s both epic and whimsical. Set in the world of Greek mythology, you play as Fenyx, a hero on a quest to save the gods.
The game’s colorful world is a joy to explore, filled with puzzles, mythical creatures, and gods with larger-than-life personalities. The combat is fluid and satisfying, with plenty of abilities to master.
It’s a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously, offering a humorous, light-hearted take on classic myths. Whether you’re solving intricate puzzles or battling legendary monsters, “Immortals Fenyx Rising” is a delightful escapade.
13Pokemon Legends: Arceus (2022)
“Pokémon Legends: Arceus” marks a bold new direction for the Pokémon series. Set in the ancient Hisui region, the game combines traditional Pokémon catching with open-world exploration.
It’s a Pokémon game like you’ve never seen before, where you’re free to roam vast landscapes, study Pokémon in their natural habitats, and uncover the mysteries of the region.
The game’s blend of action and RPG elements brings a refreshing depth to the Pokémon experience. “Pokémon Legends: Arceus” is a revolutionary addition to the franchise.
12The Pathless (2023)
“The Pathless” is an artistic masterpiece that combines exploration, puzzles, and an enchanting story in a seamless way. You play as a master archer, traveling through a mystical forest, unraveling its secrets, and restoring light to the world.
The game’s distinctive art style and captivating soundtrack create a mesmerizing atmosphere. What sets “The Pathless” apart is its fluid movement system, allowing you to glide through the world with grace and speed.
The puzzles are cleverly designed, challenging your wit and agility. It’s a game that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination, offering a tranquil yet exhilarating experience.
11Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga (2022)
“Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga” is a playful, brick-filled adventure through the iconic Star Wars universe.
Covering all nine saga films, the game offers an expansive, humorous retelling of the epic space opera.
Each planet you visit is a playground of puzzles, battles, and secrets waiting to be uncovered. The game’s charming LEGO style, combined with its witty humor, makes it a delightful experience for both young and old.
This game is a joyous celebration of the franchise, packed with fun and surprises.
10L.A. Noire (2017)
“L.A. Noire” transports you to the glamorous yet gritty world of 1940s Los Angeles. This detective thriller stands out with its groundbreaking facial animation technology, bringing characters to life like never before.
As Detective Cole Phelps, you navigate through a series of cases, each unraveling a piece of the city’s dark underbelly. The game brilliantly combines open-world exploration with investigative gameplay, challenging your deduction skills and attention to detail.
From interrogating suspects to chasing down criminals, “L.A. Noire” is a captivating journey into the heart of classic noir.
9Red Dead Redemption (2023)
“Red Dead Redemption” on the Switch is a testament to the console’s versatility. This epic tale of the Wild West immerses you in the life of outlaw Arthur Morgan.
The game’s vast, open world is a marvel, teeming with life, stories, and stunning landscapes. From gunfights to horseback riding, the game captures the essence of the American frontier.
It’s a story of loyalty, redemption, and survival, told with remarkable depth and emotion. “Red Dead Redemption” offers an unparalleled open-world experience.
8Assassin’s Creed: The Rebel Collection (2019)
“Assassin’s Creed: The Rebel Collection” brings two iconic games - “Black Flag” and “Rogue” - to the Switch. Sail the high seas as a pirate assassin in these action-packed adventures.
The games stand out with their naval combat, exploration, and rich historical settings. From the Caribbean to the icy waters of the North Atlantic, each game offers a unique journey through history.
The collection is a perfect blend of stealth, action, and exploration, capturing the essence of the Assassin’s Creed franchise.
7Dying Light: Platinum Edition (2021)
“Dying Light: Platinum Edition” is a thrilling survival horror game that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Set in a zombie-infested city, the game combines parkour, combat, and crafting in a tense, open-world environment. The day-night cycle adds a layer of strategy, as the infected become more aggressive after dark.
The game’s intense, visceral combat and high-stakes exploration make it a standout experience. It’s a relentless fight for survival, where every decision counts.
6South Park: The Stick Of Truth (2018)
“South Park: The Stick Of Truth” is as outrageous and hilarious as the TV show it’s based on. Dive into the town of South Park, where you join Cartman, Kyle, Stan, and Kenny in a wild role-playing adventure.
The game brilliantly captures the show’s trademark humor and satire, delivering an experience that feels like you’re playing through an episode of the series. The combat is surprisingly deep, offering a variety of hilarious and effective moves.
Exploring South Park, interacting with its eccentric residents, and uncovering all the references and easter eggs is a delight for fans and newcomers alike. It’s a game that doesn’t shy away from being crude, offensive, or utterly ridiculous, and that’s exactly why it’s so much fun.
5Minecraft (2017)
“Minecraft” on the Nintendo Switch is a limitless world of creativity and adventure. This iconic game needs no introduction.
It’s a sandbox where your imagination is the only limit. Whether you’re building colossal structures, exploring vast landscapes, or surviving against the creatures of the night, “Minecraft” offers a unique experience every time you play.
The game’s blocky, pixelated world is instantly recognizable and endlessly charming. It’s a place where players of all ages can lose themselves for hours, crafting their own stories and adventures.
4The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2017)
“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” is a legendary title in the world of open-world games, and its arrival on the Switch was a game-changer.
As the Dragonborn, you explore the vast, breathtaking world of Skyrim, filled with dragons, dungeons, and a plethora of quests. The game’s open-ended gameplay allows you to craft your own journey, be it as a warrior, mage, or stealthy rogue.
The immersive world, rich lore, and the freedom to play how you want make “Skyrim” an unforgettable adventure. It’s a game where every choice shapes your story, set in a world that feels alive and teeming with possibilities.
3The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019)
“The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening” is a charming remake of the classic Game Boy title. This game brings a beloved adventure to life with beautiful, updated graphics and a whimsical art style.
As Link, you find yourself stranded on the mysterious Koholint Island, filled with peculiar characters and challenging puzzles.
The game stays true to the original while adding new features and quality-of-life improvements.
Its captivating story, engaging gameplay, and the unique, dream-like world make “Link’s Awakening” a must-play title on the Switch.
2Dragon Quest Builders 2 (2019)
“Dragon Quest Builders 2” combines the fun of building and crafting with the charm of the Dragon Quest series.
It’s a delightful mix of RPG elements and sandbox gameplay. As you explore the vast world, you gather materials, build structures, and fend off monsters.
The game’s story mode adds depth, guiding you through different islands, each with its own unique challenges and environments.
The joy of creating, combined with engaging combat and exploration, makes “Dragon Quest Builders 2” a uniquely satisfying experience.
1The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023)
“The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” takes the top spot in our list. Building upon the success of its predecessor, “Breath of the Wild,” this game expands on the open-world concept with new mechanics, a gripping story, and breathtaking visuals.
As Link, you traverse a vast, living world, filled with mysteries, ancient ruins, and dynamic weather. The game’s open-ended approach allows you to tackle challenges in various ways, fostering creativity and exploration.
The sense of adventure, coupled with the series’ iconic charm, makes “Tears of the Kingdom” a masterpiece in open-world gaming.
