Best Switch Open World Games: Must-Plays for 2025 and Beyond

Stacy Norman

Legend of Zelda: TOTK

Open-world games have come a long way on the Nintendo Switch. Despite the hardware’s limitations compared to PlayStation and Xbox, developers have found clever ways to deliver massive, explorable worlds filled with personality and depth. From sweeping fantasy epics to inventive indie adventures, these are the titles redefining what the Switch can do in terms of freedom and scale.

Whether you’re riding skyrails in Hyrule, diving into mech warfare on alien planets, or roaming quirky Japanese countryside, the system has something for every type of explorer.

Top Open-World Nintendo Switch Games (As of 2025)


1. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Why It’s Great:
    Nintendo redefined open-world design with Breath of the Wild, and Tears of the Kingdom doubles down with layered exploration across sky islands, surface lands, and underground caverns. The new building mechanics (using Zonai technology) empower players to create custom vehicles and structures—effectively letting you reshape the world to your liking.
  • Key Features:
    • Multi-level Hyrule (sky, surface, underground)
    • Ultra Hand & Fuse mechanics
    • Nonlinear quest paths
    • Rich environmental storytelling

A technical marvel that manages to run smoothly on Switch hardware while delivering one of the most creative open worlds ever built.


2. Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition

  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Why It’s Great:
    This remastered version brings Monolith Soft’s ambitious Wii U RPG to a wider audience. Players explore the alien planet Mira, filled with enormous creatures, distinct biomes, and mech suits called Skells that dramatically alter traversal and combat.
  • Key Features:
    • Seamless open-world map
    • Day-night and weather systems
    • Real-time combat system with classes and arts
    • Mechs for land and air travel

The scale and depth of Xenoblade Chronicles X feels like a console-defying achievement on the Switch.


3. Promise Mascot Agency

  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Why It’s Great:
    A charming and unconventional open-world experience, this game tasks players with managing down-on-their-luck mascots in rural Japan. It combines light management mechanics with slice-of-life storytelling, making it one of the more experimental offerings in the genre.
  • Key Features:
    • Slow-paced, exploration-focused gameplay
    • Emphasis on NPC relationships
    • Open-ended side stories
    • Deeply atmospheric rural setting

A niche gem that blends Japanese whimsy with open-world curiosity.


Open-World Games Coming to Nintendo Switch 2

With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, developers are pushing boundaries even further with more powerful hardware. Here are the titles to watch:

1. Mario Kart World (Releases June 5, 2025)

  • The biggest change in the series since its inception, Mario Kart World introduces open-world elements like hub exploration, free-roam racing, and shared-world multiplayer. Think Forza Horizon but with Koopa shells and banana peels.
  • Key Additions:
    • Interconnected race zones
    • Vehicle customization
    • Online racing with up to 24 players
    • Dynamic weather and day-night cycles

2. Assassin’s Creed Shadows (Rumored)

  • A potential third-party coup for Nintendo, Ubisoft’s next major Assassin’s Creed entry could land on Switch 2. Set in feudal Japan, the game emphasizes stealth, vertical movement, and dual protagonists.
  • What We Know:
    • Focus on dynamic infiltration and AI behavior
    • Player-driven moral choices
    • Historically inspired architecture and regions

If confirmed, this would be one of the most graphically intensive games ever brought to a Nintendo system.


3. The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Warriors – Age of Imprisonment (Expected Late 2025)

  • A spiritual follow-up to Age of Calamity, this Musou-style game expands Hyrule’s timeline with new lore and larger-scale battles. While action-heavy, it retains open exploration zones, loot collection, and side missions.

Bonus Picks: Other Must-Play Open World Games

Game TitleDescriptionNotable Features
Zelda: Echoes of WisdomPlay as Princess Zelda using summoned “echoes” to fight and solve puzzles.Perspective shift from Link; hybrid gameplay
Pokémon Legends: Z-ASet in Lumiose City with an urban open-world structure.Vertical exploration, city integration themes
Skyrim: Anniversary EditionThe classic Bethesda RPG continues to thrive with mod support and all expansions.Dragon shouts, guild quests, open-ended play
Dragon’s Dogma: Dark ArisenCapcom’s cult-favorite action RPG with deep combat systems.Pawn system, dynamic combat, day-night cycles
The Witcher 3: Complete EditionGeralt’s monster-hunting journey, fully intact and portable.Rich story, impactful choices, deep side quests

The Nintendo Switch and upcoming Switch 2 have proven that you don’t need ultra-powerful hardware to craft unforgettable open-world experiences. With thoughtful design, creative limitations, and a commitment to exploration, these games deliver freedom in the palm of your hand.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stands as one of the best games on the Nintendo Switch. Released alongside the Switch at launch, this adventure continues to impress players with its vast open world.

The game breaks from traditional Zelda formulas by giving players complete freedom. You can tackle the main story in any order or simply wander the massive kingdom of Hyrule at your own pace.

What makes Breath of the Wild special is its sense of discovery. Every hill climbed might reveal a hidden shrine, a new enemy camp, or a beautiful vista that takes your breath away.

Combat feels fresh and exciting, allowing players to approach situations creatively. You can sneak around enemies, use the environment against them, or face them head-on with an array of weapons.

The game’s physics system adds another layer of fun. Players can use realistic reactions between objects, elements, and the environment to solve puzzles in multiple ways.

Critics have praised Breath of the Wild as an evocative and exhilarating adventure. Its beautiful cell-shaded art style brings Hyrule to life, with changing weather patterns and a day-night cycle that affects gameplay.

The puzzles found in shrines across the map provide bite-sized challenges that reward players with tools to enhance Link’s abilities. These improvements help you explore more of the world and face tougher enemies.

Many gamers spend hours exploring the never-ending world, finding new secrets even after hundreds of hours of play. The game’s minimal guidance encourages natural curiosity.

The cooking system lets players combine ingredients found throughout Hyrule to create helpful dishes. These meals can restore health, provide temporary buffs, or protect Link from harsh environments.

For players who enjoy open-world RPGs, Breath of the Wild set a new standard that other games still try to match. Its influence can be seen in many titles that followed its 2017 release.

2. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition

The Witcher 3 on Nintendo Switch brings a massive fantasy adventure to a portable form. This action RPG lets players explore a vast world as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire.

Players quickly adjust to the graphical differences in the Switch version. While it doesn’t look as stunning as on other platforms, the game still captures the beauty of its world.

The game’s story and characters come from books by Andrzej Sapkowski. The Switch edition includes all downloadable content, giving players hundreds of hours of gameplay.

What makes this port special is having such a huge adventure on the go. Exploring forests, villages, and monster lairs feels fresh when you can play anywhere.

Combat feels responsive even on the Switch’s controls. Players can use swords, magic signs, and potions to defeat enemies in strategic battles.

The game’s quests stand out for their moral choices and surprising outcomes. Even small side missions often tell memorable stories with tough decisions.

The Complete Edition contains the base game plus two major expansions: Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. These add new areas, storylines, and monsters to fight.

Switch owners looking for one of the best open-world experiences will find it here. Few games match The Witcher 3’s depth and quality.

The technical achievement of fitting this massive game on Switch can’t be overlooked. Despite some visual concessions, the core experience remains intact.

Players can expect around 100 hours for the main story alone. Add in side quests and expansions, and that number easily doubles.

The Switch version runs at a stable frame rate most of the time. Occasional drops happen in busy areas, but rarely affect gameplay.

For RPG fans who value story and exploration over cutting-edge graphics, this port delivers. It brings one of gaming’s greatest adventures to a portable console without losing what makes it special.

3. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen

Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen offers an exciting open-world experience on the Nintendo Switch. This action RPG brings a vast fantasy landscape filled with monsters and adventures.

The game stands out with its tight, satisfying combat system. You can grab onto larger enemies and climb them to attack weak spots, which adds a unique twist to battles.

What makes it special is the Pawn system. You create a companion who fights alongside you, and you can recruit two other Pawns made by other players. Your team learns enemy weaknesses and adapts to your play style over time.

The world feels alive with day-night cycles that actually matter. Dangerous creatures come out at night, making travel more challenging and exciting.

While some players note it lacks epic narrative, the game makes up for it with interesting quests and exploration. You’ll discover hidden areas, fight huge monsters, and collect valuable loot.

Character customization is deep. You can choose from different classes like Fighter, Strider, or Mage, each with unique skills and playstyles.

The Dark Arisen version includes all the original content plus the challenging Bitterblack Isle expansion. This extra area offers tougher enemies and better rewards.

The Switch port runs well in both handheld and docked modes. Loading times are reasonable, and the controls feel responsive during intense battles.

Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen regularly appears on lists of must-play Switch open world games, showing its popularity among Nintendo players. Its unique combat and companion system make it stand out from other RPGs on the system.

For players looking for action-packed adventures with freedom to explore, this game delivers hours of engaging gameplay without overwhelming complexity.

4. Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 stands as one of the most ambitious open-world experiences on the Nintendo Switch. The game features massive environments that players can freely explore while embarking on an emotional journey with compelling characters.

While some players debate whether it’s truly “open world,” it’s better described as semi-open world similar to Twilight Princess or Skyward Sword. The game connects large, expansive areas rather than offering one continuous world. This design still gives players plenty of freedom to wander.

The landscapes in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 are breathtaking. From sweeping plains to towering mountains, each region has its own distinct feel and secrets to discover. Players who enjoy exploration will find countless hidden areas, unique monsters, and valuable treasures.

Combat happens in real-time with an engaging system that builds on previous games in the series. It mixes automatic attacks with special moves that players trigger at the right moment. The battle system grows more complex as you progress, adding depth without becoming overwhelming.

Some fans find the open-world aspects of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 less impressive than earlier entries, particularly compared to Xenoblade Chronicles X. However, the game makes up for this with its strong story and character development.

The main storyline tackles mature themes and offers genuine emotional moments. Its characters face difficult situations that make players care about their journey. This narrative strength helps balance any shortcomings in the world design.

Side quests give players more reasons to explore the world. Many tell meaningful stories that add to the game’s themes rather than feeling like simple fetch quests.

For those who loved Breath of the Wild’s sense of discovery but want more structure and story, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 fills that gap nicely. Some fans even consider it the best open-world experience on Switch since 2017 – a clear nod to Breath of the Wild’s release year.

The game offers dozens of hours of content. Main story completion takes roughly 60 hours, while completionists can easily spend over 100 hours discovering everything the world has to offer.

Many players consider Xenoblade Chronicles 3 the best entry in the series, combining the strongest elements from previous games with new ideas. For RPG fans looking for an epic adventure on Switch, it delivers a memorable open-world experience.

5. Hogwarts Legacy

Hogwarts Legacy brings the wizarding world to the Nintendo Switch in an exciting open-world format. As an immersive, open-world action RPG, it lets players experience Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in a whole new way.

Players can create their own character and explore familiar locations from the Harry Potter universe. The game offers freedom to roam the castle, nearby villages, and the surrounding wilderness.

The Switch version maintains the core gameplay despite some technical differences from other platforms. You can attend classes, learn spells, brew potions, and develop your magical abilities throughout your adventure.

Many players enjoy the game’s accessibility. It’s been noted as one of the recommended games for those who prefer easier gameplay while still offering an engaging open world.

Combat involves using various spells against magical creatures and dark wizards. The skill progression system lets you customize your character’s abilities based on your preferred playstyle.

Side quests add depth to the game, allowing players to help fellow students or uncover secrets hidden throughout the world. These optional activities provide rewards that help strengthen your character.

The game appears in several lists of top Nintendo Switch open-world games, showing its popularity among Switch players. Its mix of exploration, story, and RPG elements makes it stand out in the console’s library.

Seasonal changes affect the game world, creating visual variety as you progress through the school year. This attention to detail helps make the world feel alive and dynamic.

For Harry Potter fans, the game offers a chance to live out the fantasy of attending Hogwarts. Even for newcomers to the series, the magical setting provides a unique open-world experience on the Switch.

6. Skyrim

Skyrim is one of the most popular open world games ever made. It brought the famous Elder Scrolls series to the Nintendo Switch with impressive results. The game gives players a huge world to explore filled with mountains, forests, caves, and cities.

You can play Skyrim however you want. Want to be a warrior with a giant axe? Go for it. Prefer sneaking around as a thief? That works too. Maybe you’d rather cast spells as a mage? The choice is yours.

The Switch version includes all the downloadable content from the original game. This means you get extra storylines like Dawnguard and Dragonborn without paying more.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim set the standard for modern open-world games with its ambition and scope. Many people consider it the measuring stick for other games in the genre.

The land of Skyrim feels alive with its own history and conflicts. You’ll meet various factions fighting for control, regular people just trying to survive, and plenty of creatures that want to eat you.

Combat is fun and flexible. You can switch between weapons, magic, and stealth on the fly. This lets you adapt to different situations without feeling stuck in one playstyle.

Side quests are everywhere in Skyrim. You might start heading to a main quest location but get distracted by five different adventures along the way. This is part of what makes the game so engaging.

The portable nature of the Switch makes Skyrim even better. Now you can slay dragons on your lunch break or complete a dungeon during your commute.

While the graphics aren’t as sharp as newer versions on other systems, the game still looks good on the Switch. The ability to play anywhere makes up for the slightly lower visual quality.

Skyrim stands strong among other open world games on Switch including Red Dead Redemption, Assassin’s Creed Black Flag, and Dark Souls. The game offers hundreds of hours of content if you want to see everything.

7. Red Dead Redemption

Red Dead Redemption brings the wild west to Nintendo Switch with its gritty storytelling and open landscapes. This Rockstar Games classic lets players explore a vast frontier as John Marston, a former outlaw hunting down his old gang members.

The game’s transition to Switch has received mixed reviews. Some players find it a faithful way to experience the Red Dead world, while others note it has aged in certain aspects.

The Switch version maintains the core experience that made the original game popular. You can ride horses across plains, engage in shootouts, and interact with a world full of unique characters and random events.

Players can hunt animals, play poker in saloons, and take on bounty missions. These activities add depth to the western experience and make the world feel alive.

The game’s story happens after the events seen in Red Dead Redemption 2, making it an essential play for Switch owners interested in completing the saga. The narrative tackles themes of redemption, loyalty, and the dying frontier.

Graphics on the Switch version look good when you adjust your expectations. The console handles the game’s wide-open spaces reasonably well, though with expected limitations compared to other platforms.

One downside mentioned in reviews is the high asking price for a game that first released years ago. Players should consider this when deciding whether to purchase.

The controls feel natural on the Switch, whether playing in handheld mode or docked. The game takes advantage of the platform’s features while maintaining the gameplay that fans love.

For Switch owners seeking an open-world western adventure with strong storytelling, Red Dead Redemption delivers a compelling experience. It consistently appears on lists of must-play Switch open world games alongside titles like Skyrim and Hogwarts Legacy.

8. Immortals Fenyx Rising

Immortals Fenyx Rising is an entertaining open-world title that was released in October 2020 as a cross-platform game. Developed by Ubisoft, this game brings Greek mythology to life in a colorful and accessible way.

The game follows Fenyx, a customizable hero who must save the Greek gods from a powerful villain. Players explore a vibrant world filled with puzzles, combat challenges, and plenty of humor.

Many players consider it a play and chill game with moments that require more focus. The difficulty sits at an intermediate level, making it approachable for most gamers without being too easy.

Combat in Immortals feels responsive and fun. Fenyx can use godly powers, multiple weapons, and aerial moves to defeat mythological monsters. The upgrade system keeps things fresh throughout the adventure.

Puzzles make up a big part of the gameplay. These range from simple physics challenges to complex multi-step problems that might take time to figure out. The game rewards exploration with new gear, abilities, and story elements.

The Nintendo Switch version has surprised many players by being better than expected. While it doesn’t look quite as stunning as on more powerful consoles, it runs smoothly and includes all the content.

Some critics have noted similarities to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While Immortals does draw inspiration from Nintendo’s masterpiece, it offers its own unique take on the open-world formula with distinct combat and puzzle systems.

The story stands out with its humorous narration by Prometheus and Zeus. Their banter adds personality to the mythological tale and provides context for your adventures across the Golden Isle.

For Switch owners looking for an open-world game with action, puzzles, and a good sense of humor, Immortals Fenyx Rising offers plenty to enjoy. Its colorful art style, accessible gameplay, and mythological setting create an adventure that’s easy to pick up but hard to put down.

9. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a captivating addition to the Nintendo Switch library that combines open-world exploration with challenging combat. While not a traditional open world game, it offers a vast, interconnected map that rewards curious players.

The game takes place in Hallownest, an underground kingdom of bugs and insects. Players control a small knight exploring this fallen civilization. The art style is simple yet striking, with hand-drawn environments that create a memorable atmosphere.

What makes Hollow Knight stand out is its incredible depth of content. The map is huge, with many different areas to discover. Each zone has its own look and feel, from fungal wastes to crystal peaks.

Combat is tight and responsive. The knight has a nail (sword) for close attacks, plus special abilities gained throughout the adventure. Fights require timing and strategy, especially during boss battles.

Exploration is the heart of Hollow Knight. Players find new paths, shortcuts, and secrets constantly. The game doesn’t hold your hand – you must figure out where to go next through careful observation and experimentation.

The game also features a charm system for customization. These small trinkets give different bonuses when equipped, allowing players to match their playstyle.

Many consider Hollow Knight one of the best Metroidvania games available on Switch. Its combination of challenging combat, exploration, and atmospheric storytelling creates a memorable experience.

The lack of obvious direction might frustrate some players initially. However, this freedom to explore is what makes the game special. There’s joy in discovering new areas without being led there by quest markers.

Switch players get the complete package, including all DLC content at no extra cost. This adds several hours of gameplay to an already substantial adventure.

For those who enjoy exploration-focused games with precise combat, Hollow Knight delivers an enthralling insect world to get lost in. It’s a fantastic value considering the amount of quality content.

Looking for other games in this style? The Ori series offers a similar experience with stunning visuals and excellent music.

10. Tears of the Kingdom

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is one of the most impressive open-world games available on Nintendo Switch. Released as the sequel to Breath of the Wild, it builds upon the foundation of its predecessor while adding new mechanics and areas to explore.

Players return to Hyrule but with exciting additions like sky islands and underground caves that expand the already massive world. The game introduces Link’s new abilities such as Ultrahand, which lets players build structures and vehicles from objects found in the world.

What makes Tears of the Kingdom stand out is its focus on creativity and problem-solving. There are countless ways to approach challenges, making every player’s experience unique.

The game borrows the best elements from older Zelda titles while introducing fresh ideas. This blend of nostalgia and innovation creates a truly special gaming experience.

While some players note that the game doesn’t have the most cutting-edge graphics, it more than makes up for this with outstanding gameplay and its vast open world. The art style still creates a beautiful and immersive Hyrule.

The freedom to explore at your own pace is a key strength. You can tackle the main story or spend hours discovering hidden secrets, solving puzzles, and fighting enemies throughout the land.

Tears of the Kingdom’s world feels alive with wildlife, settlements, and weather patterns that affect gameplay. Link can climb mountains, glide through the air, and swim through rivers as he journeys across this expansive landscape.

The game’s storyline expands on Breath of the Wild’s narrative while introducing new characters and uncovering more of Hyrule’s history. Fans of Zelda lore will find plenty to enjoy.

For anyone who loves exploration in games, Tears of the Kingdom offers one of the most rewarding experiences on Switch. Its open design respects players’ intelligence and rewards curiosity.

With hundreds of hours of potential gameplay, side quests, and secrets to discover, this title provides exceptional value. It’s not just one of the best open-world games on Switch—it’s one of the best games period.

Defining Open World Games

Open world games are video games where players can freely explore a virtual world with minimal restrictions. Unlike linear games that follow a set path, open world titles let you choose where to go and what to do.

On the Nintendo Switch, games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild revolutionized what players expect from portable open worlds. These games typically feature:

  • Large, continuous environments to explore
  • Freedom to tackle objectives in any order
  • Ability to ignore the main story and just explore
  • Discovery-based gameplay mechanics

Open world games create a sense of adventure by letting players feel like they’re actually exploring new places. The Nintendo Switch offers many cozy open-world options for those who prefer relaxed exploration over intense action.

Characteristics of the Open World Genre

What makes open world games special is their unique design philosophy. They prioritize player agency and discovery over strict storytelling.

Key Elements:

  • Exploration: Finding new locations, secrets, and vistas
  • Activities: Side quests, collectibles, and mini-games scattered throughout
  • Progression: Leveling up characters or abilities while exploring
  • Environmental storytelling: Learning about the world through observation

Switch open world games range from massive adventures to indie gems. Some create dense worlds with lots to do in small areas, while others offer vast landscapes with scattered points of interest.

The best open world games make exploration feel rewarding. They hide treasures, secrets, and special encounters that make players want to check “just one more location” before putting the game down.

The Appeal of Open World Games on Switch

Open world games shine on the Nintendo Switch because of its portable nature and unique controls. Players can explore vast digital landscapes anywhere, from home to travel, with a system that offers flexibility in how you play.

Unique Features of Switch Open World Games

The Nintendo Switch transforms open world gaming through its hybrid design. You can play Zelda, Assassin’s Creed, Witcher, and Skyrim on your TV, then continue your adventure in handheld mode. This flexibility makes long gaming sessions more comfortable.

Motion controls add another layer to exploration. Aiming a bow in Breath of the Wild or steering a vehicle in Starlink feels natural with the Joy-Con controllers.

Many Switch open worlds make smart compromises. The Witcher 3 manages to fit its massive world onto the portable system while keeping the core experience intact.

Battery life matters too! Newer Switch models improve playtime, letting adventurers explore longer without hunting for power outlets.

Engaging Storylines and Gameplay

The best Switch open world games balance freedom with purpose. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom encourages exploration while maintaining a compelling narrative that pulls players forward.

Side quests in these games feel meaningful rather than repetitive. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen offers adventures that develop characters and world-building rather than just checking boxes.

Discovery drives these experiences. Finding a hidden shrine in Breath of the Wild or an unexpected treasure in Skyrim creates genuine excitement and rewards curiosity.

Combat systems vary widely across Switch open world titles. Some focus on strategic battles while others emphasize stealth or puzzle-solving. This variety ensures different playing styles find their perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Players often want to know which open world games best fit their specific interests and gaming styles. Here are answers to some common questions about open world games on the Nintendo Switch.

What open world Switch games offer the best experience for adult gamers?

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition stands out for adult gamers with its mature storyline and complex moral choices. The game’s dark fantasy setting and deep character development make it perfect for players seeking grown-up themes.

Elden Ring provides a challenging experience that many adult gamers appreciate. Its difficult combat and mysterious world-building create an engaging experience that rewards persistence.

Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen offers a unique combat system and monster-climbing mechanics that appeal to players looking for something different from typical open world games.

Which open-world RPGs for Switch should I not miss out on?

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 features an emotional story and vast landscapes to explore. Its combat system blends real-time and strategic elements, giving players plenty of depth.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an essential experience with its physics-based puzzles and freedom to tackle the game in almost any order.

Skyrim remains a favorite RPG with hundreds of quests and the ability to create virtually any type of character you want.

Are there any quality free open world games available on Switch?

Fortnite offers a free battle royale experience with a large map to explore. The building mechanics and frequent updates keep the gameplay fresh.

Warframe is a free-to-play sci-fi action game with open world zones. It features fast-paced combat and extensive customization options.

Dauntless provides a free Monster Hunter-like experience where you can explore islands and hunt powerful creatures with friends.

Can you recommend some open world Switch games that are suitable for kids?

Minecraft is perfect for kids with its creative building possibilities and adventure mode. The blocky graphics hide any potentially scary elements.

Super Mario Odyssey offers colorful kingdoms to explore with family-friendly gameplay. Kids love collecting Power Moons and trying out Mario’s possession abilities.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet let younger players explore an open world while catching and training Pokémon. The simple combat system is easy to learn but offers depth.

What are the most popular open world games on Switch with character creation capabilities?

Skyrim has one of the most robust character creation systems. Players can choose from various races and customize appearance, skills, and playstyle.

Monster Hunter Rise allows detailed hunter creation and lets you craft your perfect armor sets. Your character reflects your hunting style and preferences.

Saints Row IV: Re-Elected includes an extensive character creator with wild customization options. Players can make practically any type of hero they can imagine.

How does Super Mario Odyssey rank among open world games for Switch?

Super Mario Odyssey is consistently ranked among the top Switch games though it features kingdom-based levels rather than one continuous world. Each kingdom offers open exploration with multiple paths and secrets.

The game’s capture mechanic, which lets Mario possess objects and enemies, creates unique gameplay opportunities in each area. This innovation helps it stand out from other 3D platformers.

While not as vast as Breath of the Wild, Odyssey’s dense, activity-filled kingdoms make every corner worth exploring. Many players appreciate its more focused approach to open world design.