Best Open-World Games On The Nintendo Switch 2

Initially, I wasn’t so sure about the Nintendo Switch being a haven for expansive open-world adventures, given that it seemed to trail behind platforms like the PS4, Xbox One, and later their successors in this regard. However, as time went by, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the rich selection of open-world games the Switch began to offer. Titles such as “Xenoblade Chronicles 3” and the upcoming “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom” are perfect examples of this shift, providing immersive experiences that have made me appreciate the Switch’s growing prowess in open-world gaming.

The newly released Nintendo Switch 2 has been around for a few months now, and some fans might be wondering about its open-world game selection so far. There are already quite a few impressive games available exclusively or enhanced for the console, with even more upcoming titles like “Borderlands 4” and “Pokemon Legends: Z-A”. For the moment, open-world enthusiasts can indulge in these top-notch games on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Mario Kart World

Let’s-A-Go!

Open-world games or racing games aren’t typically available when a new console is launched. However, Mario Kart World broke this trend by being the initial game in its series to provide an open world for players to explore between races. As one would expect from Nintendo, they executed this concept quite effectively.

This game offers side missions, challenges, non-player characters, hidden elements, and numerous costumes to discover. However, compared to other open-world games, Mario Kart World seems less bustling, despite its features. Yet, it’s an entertaining racing game that provides a fun start to the Switch 2’s launch period.

Donkey Kong Bananza

Oh, Banana!

Following Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong’s latest adventure, aptly titled Donkey Kong Bananza, made a splash as the next significant exclusive for our console. This game revitalizes Donkey Kong’s presence with impressive force, as he smashes his way through an extensive variety of terrains across multiple biomes. What sets this apart is that these environments are seamlessly connected vertically, offering a unique and engaging experience.

In this game, although not completely open-world, the playable environments are expansive and filled with hidden treasures such as secret levels and assorted resources for upgrading Donkey Kong. Moreover, Pauline joins the adventure, injecting an additional zest into a game already pulsating with excitement.

The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild

A Switch Launch Game That Still Rules

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild served as the debut title for the Switch console, and has since undergone significant enhancement on the Switch 2. The game now loads quicker, boasts a more fluid frame rate, and remains visually stunning even by contemporary standards. It played a pivotal role in reshaping our understanding of what a Zelda game entails, with Nintendo delivering an exceptional performance through the Shrine puzzles, NPCs, physics systems, and the expansive nature of the world.

Enthusiasts of Soulslike games hopped onto the bandwagon with the original Switch version due to it being one of the most difficult Zelda games ever crafted by Nintendo. The upgraded version on the Switch 2 retains that same challenging spirit, but offers an enhanced experience through technical and visual improvements.

The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom

One Open-World Becomes Three

In “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom,” the setting remains the familiar Hyrule from “Breath of the Wild.” However, what sets this new game apart lies in the ability to traverse beyond the surface world into the skies and the underworld, offering fresh exploration experiences for fans.

As a devoted fan, I must say that this sequel truly amplified an already epic game, but not everyone felt the same way, as sometimes, more isn’t necessarily better. What truly set this sequel apart, though, was Link’s extraordinary ability to combine weapons from objects scattered around the world, and even craft fully-functional vehicles! This feature fostered a vibrant online community of inventors who pushed the boundaries of creativity in the game to unprecedented levels.

Cyberpunk 2077

Surprisingly, It Runs Great

2020 didn’t show Cyberpunk 2077 at its best, but by 2025, this game has transformed into an outstanding title on various consoles, including the yet-to-be-released Switch 2. Remarkably, even with reduced graphical capabilities compared to the PS5 version, the port still delivers a strong performance given the game’s complexity. With numerous intricate components, striking visuals, and intense battles, Cyberpunk 2077 is not just visually impressive – it’s an intricate game that requires a solid port to function well.

In this game, adventurers can delve into Night City, where they can engage in cyber activities or venture into the surrounding futuristic wastelands for encounters with bandits. The game caters to players’ preferences when it comes to living their cyberpunk fantasy, as it offers an extensive character customization system that includes unique abilities and a gripping narrative that Keanu Reeves enthusiasts should not skip.

No Man’s Sky

For Star Fox Fans

Initially, No Man’s Sky faced challenges at its launch, but over nearly a decade of updates, it has transformed into the game Hello Games initially advertised and even surpassed players’ expectations. Essentially, it’s an open-galaxy title where you can travel to countless planets solo or with friends, making it one of the largest games on the Switch 2.

In this game, you can venture to different planets, gather resources, observe wildlife, and potentially engage in some non-violent conflicts, though combat is not the main focus. Despite advancements in fighting mechanisms over time, the game remains remarkably relaxed. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a vast, seemingly endless gaming experience that offers a tranquil atmosphere.

Hogwarts Legacy

A Student Of Magic

The Switch version of the game, Hogwarts Legacy, was indeed launched, but it faced significant issues compared to its performance on other consoles. However, Nintendo enthusiasts can now enjoy their Harry Potter-themed adventure more smoothly as the improved Switch 2 version runs and appears noticeably better than before.

Attend classes with other students, master spells, battle evil, and much more! In this game, players have the freedom to roam around Hogwarts, which is a vast map in itself. However, the surrounding grounds and countryside are even more expansive. Players can traverse these areas on foot, by broomstick, or even on an animal mount once they become available throughout the game’s progression.

2025-09-01 19:05