Nintendo’s Best Open-World Experiences Ranked

28 May 2026

There’s something truly magical about open-world games, right? The thrill of stepping into a massive digital world, free to go wherever your heart desires, and letting curiosity lead the way—it’s hard to beat. And when it comes to delivering magic, Nintendo has consistently nailed it.

Now, if you’re wondering which of Nintendo’s open-world adventures rise to the top, you’re in the right place. We’re ranking the best of the best, diving into the wilds of Hyrule, revving up our engines in mysterious lands, and even venturing into the stars. Buckle up, because this is going to be one wild ride through Nintendo’s greatest open-world games.

Why Nintendo's Open-World Games Are a Big Deal

Let’s be honest—Nintendo didn't always dabble in open-world design. For years, their games were more level-based, focused on tight, polished experiences. But when they decided to dip their toes into open-world territory, they didn’t just join the crowd—they redefined the rules.

Nintendo has this uncanny ability to blend exploration with storytelling, gameplay with charm, and freedom with purpose. Their open worlds aren’t just big—they’re meaningful, bursting with life, secrets, and joy. You don’t just play these games—you live them.

Alright, enough hype. Let’s get into the rankings.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Release Year: 2017
Platform: Nintendo Switch, Wii U

Why not start with a game that redefined open-world design? "Breath of the Wild" didn’t just raise the bar—it launched it into orbit. This game was a seismic shift for both the Zelda series and the open-world genre at large.

What makes it amazing? Well, everything. The massive version of Hyrule feels alive. From the snowy peaks to the sun-drenched deserts, the world begs you to explore. You’re not held back by traditional quests or invisible walls. If you see a towering mountain in the distance, you can climb it. If you want to glide across a river, go for it. Finding your own path is the name of the game.

And the best part? The game doesn’t hold your hand. It trusts you to figure things out, and that makes every discovery feel earned. Breath of the Wild is the gold standard—a true open-world masterpiece.

2. Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Release Year: 2022
Platform: Nintendo Switch

If you haven’t dipped into the world of Xenoblade yet, you’re missing out. "Xenoblade Chronicles 3" is a sweeping JRPG that combines deep narrative with jaw-dropping open-world landscapes.

Imagine roaming gigantic fields, climbing towering rock formations, and fighting colossal creatures—all in one seamless environment. The attention to scale in Xenoblade is bonkers. One moment you're standing inside a giant's hand (seriously), and the next, you’re gazing out at a sprawling sea of clouds.

But here’s the kicker: it’s not just big for the sake of being big. Every area is packed with side quests, secrets, and lore. This is one of those games where "just one more hour" turns into a weekend marathon.

3. Pokémon Legends: Arceus

Release Year: 2022
Platform: Nintendo Switch

Let’s talk about a game that finally shook up the Pokémon formula. "Pokémon Legends: Arceus" is the breath of fresh air fans didn’t know they needed.

Set in the ancient Hisui region (which would become Sinnoh), this semi-open-world game lets you sneak up on wild Pokémon, dodge their attacks, and even get knocked out yourself—no more turn-based safety net! This immersive take on catching ’em all adds a layer of realism that's long been missing from the series.

Sure, it’s not a "true" open world in the Breath of the Wild sense, but it nails the spirit of exploration. The different biomes make each journey feel distinct, and the freedom to explore these areas at your own pace? Chef’s kiss. It’s a step in the right direction, and we’re hoping future Pokémon titles keep this trend going.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Release Year: 2023
Platform: Nintendo Switch

A sequel living up to a legend? Now that’s impressive. "Tears of the Kingdom" takes everything we loved about Breath of the Wild and cranks it up a notch.

This isn’t just more Hyrule—it’s a deeper one. There are new sky islands to explore (hello, verticality!), mysterious underground caverns, and a healthy dose of new mechanics like Ultrahand and Fuse that let you get super creative. Want to build a flying machine out of fans and wooden planks? You can. Want to combine a stick with a boulder to make a hammer? Go wild!

It’s not just an iteration—it’s an evolution. The sandbox feels more playful, more experimental, and that makes exploration endlessly engaging. If Breath of the Wild was your favorite sandbox, Tears of the Kingdom turns it into a LEGO playground.

5. Super Mario Odyssey

Release Year: 2017
Platform: Nintendo Switch

Okay, I know what you’re thinking—"Is Odyssey really open-world?" It’s not in the traditional sense, but hear me out.

Each of Mario's kingdoms in "Super Mario Odyssey" is like a mini open-world. You’re not forced down a linear path. Instead, you’re dropped into a huge sandbox and told, “Go collect some Power Moons. How you do it? Up to you.”

And boy, do those kingdoms shine. From the bustling streets of New Donk City to the sandy dunes of the Sand Kingdom, each area feels packed with surprises and personality. The freedom to explore, experiment, and capture everything in sight (literally) makes it one of Mario’s most refreshing adventures.

6. Xenoblade Chronicles

Release Year: 2010 (original), 2020 (Definitive Edition)
Platform: Wii, 3DS, Switch

The first Xenoblade set the foundation that later titles built upon. While its graphics have aged a bit, the world design holds up beautifully.

Roaming across the body of two frozen titans—Bionis and Mechonis—is the kind of sci-fi fantasy stuff dreams are made of. The scale here is wild. Imagine fighting monsters at the bottom of a waterfall, then climbing up giant legs and discovering ancient civilizations hanging off the edge of a sword.

It’s a slower burn, especially compared to newer entries, but if you love exploration with a side of philosophical storytelling, this is a must-play.

7. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Release Year: 2020
Platform: Nintendo Switch

Open-world doesn’t always mean action-packed. Sometimes, it’s about creating your own pace, and "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" nails that vibe.

Your island is your world. You design it, decorate it, and fill it with friendly animal neighbors. There’s no rush. No monsters. Just the soothing sound of waves and the gentle joy of digging up fossils.

It may not be open-world in the classic, go-anywhere style, but in terms of freedom and self-expression? This game is top-tier. It’s like a digital vacation you never want to leave.

8. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Release Year: 2022
Platform: Nintendo Switch

Now, let’s chat about the ambitious but slightly messy "Pokémon Scarlet and Violet." Nintendo aimed for a full open-world Pokémon experience—and they largely delivered.

Paldea is a sprawling region that you can explore in any order. No more linear gym paths. No invisible walls stopping your journey. You can go wherever you like, whenever you like. That kind of freedom is exciting.

Yes, the performance issues were real, and some visuals were… questionable. But underneath the technical hiccups lies a game with heart and potential. The sheer joy of stumbling upon a rare Pokémon in the wild, or discovering a hidden path to a new town? That’s the good stuff.

Honorable Mentions

Because we just can’t help ourselves…

- Kirby and the Forgotten Land

A semi-open world done with that adorable pink puffball flair. It’s more level-based, but the hub world and exploration elements give it that open-world flavor.

- Metroid Dread

Technically a Metroidvania, but its interconnected world design scratches a similar itch.

So, What Makes a Nintendo Open-World Game Great?

It’s not just size. It’s not just freedom. It’s about how those elements come together to spark curiosity. Nintendo’s best open-world games are the ones that make you think, “What’s over that hill?” and reward you for finding out.

They don’t just throw a map at you—they give you a world begging to be uncovered, one joy-filled step at a time. Whether you’re climbing mountains in Hyrule, catching Pokémon in Hisui, or just planting flowers on your Animal Crossing island, these games offer countless hours of immersive, heartfelt fun.

Final Thoughts

Nintendo has proven that their unique brand of magic fits perfectly in the open-world genre. They've taken risks, innovated boldly, and created some of the most memorable digital playgrounds of our time.

Whether you're a completionist, a wanderer, or just someone who loves getting lost in a game, there's a Nintendo open-world experience waiting for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Time to grab your Switch, pick a world, and dive headfirst into one unforgettable adventure after another.