Best Open-World Nintendo Exclusive Games, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Nintendo has diverse exclusive open-world games like Go Vacation & The Wind Waker for different console generations.
StarTropics is a cult classic that introduced advanced features in 1990 that have become the norm in the modern age.
Batman: Arkham City – Armored Edition for Wii U features new gameplay mechanics, a refreshing option for Batman fans.

As a seasoned gamer with over three decades under my belt, I must confess that the Nintendo Switch has truly revolutionized my gaming experiences. Among all the games available for this versatile console, the Legend of Zelda series stands out as an unparalleled gem. While each game in the series offers its unique charm, there are a few that have left an indelible mark on me, and I’d like to share my top picks with you.

Over time, Nintendo has created an extensive collection of games spanning multiple genres, including timeless side-scrollers and modern first-person shooters. They are blessed with numerous third-party games featuring expansive open worlds, but they also boast a series of skillfully crafted exclusives set in open environments within their own universe.

Open-world video games provide vast landscapes that can extend for numerous miles, blending exciting quests in imaginative realms with chances to unwind amidst stunning destinations. Notably, these types of games are only available on Nintendo gaming systems, implying series such as “The Witcher 3 ” and “Final Fantasy 6” fall outside the specified category.

9. Go Vacation

Even Video Game Vacations Can Get The Job Done

If you’re looking for a calmer gaming experience, there’s an enjoyable game called “Go Vacation” for the Nintendo Wii. It shares similarities with games such as “Harvest Moon” and “Animal Crossing”, offering players the chance to explore and participate in various activities. Some might find this style of play boring, but “Go Vacation” provides a peaceful environment set on an island that is fully explorable, making gameplay time more enjoyable.

Visitors can enjoy a virtual getaway at Kawawii Island, boasting four distinctive resorts. Here, they can partake in an array of pastimes such as skiing, playing tennis, crafting snowmen, and numerous other options. Notably, the Nintendo Switch edition of Go Vacation provides unique content because it lacks motion controls on the Switch. Consequently, having both editions proves to be rewarding.

8. StarTropics

What Was Niche In 1990 Is Now The Norm

Back in the day, I found StarTropics to be a bit of a mind-bender due to its expansive, quest-filled world brimming with dungeons and chatty characters on the NES. Critics agreed, as it was considered too confusing at the time. But looking back now, those features were quite progressive for their day, setting StarTropics apart from other games of the era. As a result, this game has earned a dedicated cult following among fans like me who appreciate its unique blend of adventure and challenge.

A follow-up to StarTropics was released, yet it too slipped into obscurity. Over three decades later, StarTropics is now seen as a game with the capability to grow into a Nintendo franchise. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild took on a similar open-world approach but substantially developed it further.

7. Batman: Arkham City – Armored Edition

Nintendo’s Exclusive Batman Game Led To The Creation Of Arkham Origins

Batman: Arkham City can be found on multiple gaming platforms, however, the Armored Edition was unique to the Nintendo Wii U. This edition wasn’t just a straightforward port; it offered fresh gameplay elements. For instance, Batman and Catwoman were equipped with advanced armored suits, and there were B.A.T. gauntlets, which resemble the shock gauntlets that subsequently emerged in Batman: Arkham Origins.

The Wii U gamepad serves various functions, such as picking items, crime scene analysis, and using the Cryptographic Sequencer for hacking in games. Generally recognized as the finest installment, Batman: Arkham City, often gets this title within the Batman: Arkham series. The Wii U version offers a unique twist compared to the original, integrating all the additional content as part of the game itself.

6. Endless Ocean: Blue World

Exploring The Ocean With Double The Content Than Before

Developer: ARIKA
Release Date: September 17, 2009
Genre: Adventure
System: Nintendo Wii

Blue World” is a follow-up that builds on the original game’s foundation, offering an enriched and expanded exploration experience. The graphics have seen a major upgrade, making the enormous oceans appear lively as players dive in. Furthermore, the gameplay has been refined to incorporate additional missions, genuine dangers to face, and what many find to be a more compelling narrative.

The main aim of the Endless Ocean video games revolves around investigating and appreciating the diverse marine ecosystems, where you can encounter hundreds of unique marine and plant species. Endless Ocean: Blue World expands this experience by offering close to 400 different animals to observe, learn about, and possibly bond with. It is widely recognized as the finest game in the series and a notable achievement for the Nintendo Wii.

5. Bowser’s Fury

Nintendo Finally Gave Mario An Open World

In contrast to previous 3D Mario games that included open-ended levels, Bowser’s Fury marks a significant shift as it represents the first true open-world game within the franchise. The duo of Mario and Bowser Jr. embark on a mission to rescue Bowser, who has been altered into an ink-like form due to corruption. Players are free to traverse the Lake Lapcat world without encountering loading screens, providing them with unrestricted exploration freedom.

The game is named Bowser’s Fury, thanks to its distinctive NPC mechanism that frequently brings Bowser onto the scene in an imposing, Godzilla-like form to attack Mario. These interactions aren’t just thrilling, but they also serve as the sole means to gather specific items. By blending this aspect with the liberty to explore, Bowser’s Fury could be establishing a new benchmark for future Mario games.

4. The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker

Sailing The Open Seas To Save Hyrule

In the world of The Legend of Zelda, adventurers are given the freedom to traverse various incarnations of Hyrule. Yet, what sets apart The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is its expansive sea landscape brimming with a multitude of islands. Each island serves as a fresh playground for players, presenting Link with novel experiences and brain-teasing challenges to uncover.

Regardless if it’s the initial Nintendo GameCube release or the enhanced version on the Nintendo Wii U, “The Wind Waker” is a delightful game suitable for everyone. It mirrors the spirit of adventure you usually experience when watching films like “Pirates of the Caribbean,” seamlessly merging action-packed pirate scenes with magical elements. This unique blend makes it one of the most endearing additions to this cherished series.

3. Xenoblade Chronicles X

An Action RPG That Feels Like A Mech Anime

Xenoblade Chronicles X blends conventional role-playing game action with survival elements, offering a broad, engaging experience set on an exotic alien world. Players can participate in fights as human characters they customize themselves. Additionally, players can utilize mechanized suits inspired by anime aesthetics, which are not only visually appealing but also add to the combat dynamics during battles.

On the expansive world of Mira, the game stands out as an impressive feat for a Wii U title. Consequently, it was upgraded for the Nintendo Switch as a remastered version with a special edition. The scenery not only boasts breathtaking visuals, but also offers a wide array of adversaries, from alien creatures to colossal bosses, making exploration exciting. Moreover, the tactical RPG combat adds depth to the overall experience.

2. The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild

Nintendo Changed The Zelda Formula For The Better

Changing the traditional formula in an established Nintendo franchise might have been risky, but they pulled it off successfully with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Unlike previous games, Link is given a vast open world to explore, one of the largest maps ever seen in video gaming, filled with numerous side quests and hidden discoveries scattered across the post-apocalyptic Hyrule.

In “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” players need to adapt to various weather conditions like rain, snow, and harsh temperatures, using diverse clothing and food items to ensure Link stays alive. The game offers destructible items, smaller dungeons called shrines, unique abilities for Link, a narrated storyline, and distinct powers. Although some fans might have found the new features challenging, “Breath of the Wild” has proven to be one of Nintendo’s most successful titles.

1. The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom

Link Is On A Bigger Journey With An Improved Storyline

In the follow-up to “Breath of the Wild,” Nintendo has significantly grown the world of Hyrule, incorporating floating islands akin to those seen in “Skyward Sword.” This new adventure is titled “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom,” demonstrating that sometimes, bigger really can be better.

Instead of merely enlarging “Breath of the Wild,” developers chose to go beyond expectations with “Tears Of The Kingdom.” Link now boasts new powers, there are more immersive dungeons, and crafting has been substantially upgraded. Previous game issues have been addressed, and the narrative is widely regarded as one of the best in the “The Legend of Zelda” series.

2024-12-01 03:04