Best Nintendo Switch Open World Games In 2023

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into some seriously awesome open-world adventures on your Nintendo Switch? 2023 has been a fantastic year for gaming, and the Switch has seen its fair share of incredible titles. Whether you're into exploring vast landscapes, battling epic monsters, or just getting lost in a captivating story, there's something here for everyone. So, let's jump right into the best open-world games you can play on your Nintendo Switch right now!

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild consistently tops the charts, and for good reason. This game is a masterpiece of open-world design. From the moment you step out into Hyrule, you're greeted with a world brimming with possibilities. You can climb anything, solve puzzles in ancient shrines, and battle all sorts of creatures. The sense of freedom is unparalleled, and the sheer amount of content will keep you hooked for hours. What makes Breath of the Wild stand out is its emergent gameplay. You can experiment with different items and abilities to solve problems in creative ways. Want to take down a Bokoblin camp? Set the grass on fire, use wind to spread the flames, and then swoop in for the final blow. The possibilities are endless!

Exploring Hyrule: The map is massive, with diverse regions ranging from snowy mountains to scorching deserts. Each area is filled with secrets, hidden treasures, and challenging enemies. The world feels alive, with dynamic weather and a day-night cycle that affects enemy behavior. One minute you're scaling a mountain in the bright sunshine, and the next you're caught in a thunderstorm, seeking shelter to avoid being struck by lightning. The attention to detail is incredible, and every corner of the map feels carefully crafted.

Story and Characters: While the open-world exploration is the main draw, the story is also compelling. You play as Link, who awakens after 100 years to a Hyrule ravaged by Calamity Ganon. Your mission is to regain your memories, gather allies, and defeat Ganon to restore peace to the land. Along the way, you'll meet a cast of memorable characters, each with their own stories and motivations. From the stoic Zelda to the quirky Beedle, the characters add depth and personality to the world.

Why it's a Must-Play: Breath of the Wild isn't just a game; it's an experience. It's a game that encourages you to explore, experiment, and create your own adventures. Whether you're a longtime Zelda fan or new to the series, this game is a must-play on the Nintendo Switch. It's a benchmark for open-world games and a testament to the power of innovative game design.

2. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim needs no introduction. This game has been a staple in the open-world genre for over a decade, and the Nintendo Switch version is a fantastic way to experience it on the go. In Skyrim, you play as the Dragonborn, a hero destined to defeat the dragon Alduin, who threatens to destroy the world. You can choose your race, customize your skills, and embark on a journey filled with epic quests, dangerous dungeons, and unforgettable characters.

Endless Customization: One of the best things about Skyrim is the freedom to create your own character and playstyle. Want to be a stealthy archer? Go for it. Prefer a heavily armored warrior who charges into battle? That's an option too. You can level up your skills in various categories, such as combat, magic, and stealth, and customize your character to fit your preferred playstyle. The possibilities are endless, and you can always respec your skills if you want to try something new.

A World of Quests: Skyrim is packed with quests, both big and small. The main questline will take you on a journey to defeat Alduin, but there are also countless side quests to discover. You can join guilds, such as the Thieves Guild or the Dark Brotherhood, and complete missions for them. You can also help the local townsfolk with their problems, explore ancient ruins, and uncover hidden secrets. There's always something to do in Skyrim, and you'll never run out of quests to complete.

Mods on Switch?: While the Switch version doesn't support mods like the PC version, the base game is still packed with content. You get the full Skyrim experience, complete with all the DLC expansions. This means you can explore new areas, encounter new enemies, and complete new quests. Even without mods, Skyrim on the Switch is a massive game that will keep you entertained for hours.

3. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

The Xenoblade Chronicles series is a must-try for any JRPG fan. These games offer vast, beautiful worlds to explore, filled with unique creatures, compelling characters, and epic stories. On the Nintendo Switch, you can experience Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3, each offering a distinct and memorable adventure.

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition: This is where it all began. The Definitive Edition enhances the original Wii game with improved graphics, smoother gameplay, and a brand-new epilogue story. You play as Shulk, a young man who wields the Monado, a powerful sword that can see into the future. Together with his friends, Shulk embarks on a journey to avenge his home and uncover the secrets of the Monado. The world of Xenoblade Chronicles is set on the bodies of two colossal titans, the Bionis and the Mechonis, and it's a sight to behold. Each area is filled with vibrant colors, unique wildlife, and stunning vistas.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2: This sequel takes place in a new world, Alrest, where humans live on the backs of Titans floating in a sea of clouds. You play as Rex, a salvager who becomes the Driver of a legendary Blade named Pyra. Together, they set out on a quest to reach Elysium, a paradise said to exist at the top of the World Tree. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 features a more anime-inspired art style, a complex combat system, and a cast of memorable characters. The story is filled with twists and turns, and the world is just as captivating as the original.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3: The latest installment in the series, Xenoblade Chronicles 3, combines elements from the previous games and introduces a new story set in a world where two nations, Keves and Agnus, are locked in a perpetual war. You play as a group of six soldiers from both nations who must join forces to uncover the truth behind the conflict and find a way to end it. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 features a massive world to explore, a deep combat system, and a compelling story with themes of war, identity, and destiny.

4. Genshin Impact (Cloud Version)

Genshin Impact is a free-to-play action RPG that has taken the gaming world by storm. While the Nintendo Switch version is a cloud-based version, it still offers a vast and beautiful open world to explore. In Genshin Impact, you play as the Traveler, a mysterious figure who has been separated from their sibling. You must journey through the world of Teyvat, meet new allies, and uncover the secrets of the gods.

A Stunning World: Teyvat is a visually stunning world, with diverse regions inspired by real-world locations. From the lush forests of Mondstadt to the towering mountains of Liyue, each area is filled with unique landscapes, enemies, and secrets. The game features a dynamic weather system and a day-night cycle, which adds to the immersion.

Gacha Elements: As a free-to-play game, Genshin Impact incorporates gacha elements, which means you can spend real money to acquire new characters and weapons. However, the game is still enjoyable without spending any money, as you can earn characters and items through gameplay. The gacha system can be a bit addictive, but it's not necessary to progress through the story.

Cross-Platform Play: One of the best things about Genshin Impact is that it supports cross-platform play, which means you can play with your friends on PC, PlayStation, and mobile devices. This makes it easy to team up and tackle challenging dungeons or explore the world together.

5. Dragon Quest Builders 2

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a unique blend of action RPG and sandbox building, set in the world of Dragon Quest. This game offers a charming story, engaging gameplay, and endless possibilities for creativity. In Dragon Quest Builders 2, you play as a Builder, a hero destined to rebuild the world after it has been destroyed by the Children of Hargon.

Building and Exploration: The core gameplay of Dragon Quest Builders 2 revolves around building and exploration. You can gather resources, craft items, and construct buildings to create thriving communities. The game features a variety of tools and materials, which allows you to build anything from simple houses to elaborate castles. The world is filled with secrets to discover, and you can explore dungeons, fight monsters, and complete quests.

A Charming Story: Unlike many sandbox games, Dragon Quest Builders 2 features a compelling story with memorable characters. You'll meet a cast of quirky and lovable NPCs who will help you on your journey. The story is filled with humor and heart, and it will keep you engaged throughout the game.

Multiplayer Fun: Dragon Quest Builders 2 supports multiplayer, which means you can team up with your friends to build and explore together. You can visit each other's islands, share resources, and collaborate on building projects. This adds a whole new dimension to the game and makes it even more enjoyable.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! These are some of the best open-world games you can play on your Nintendo Switch in 2023. Whether you're a fan of epic adventures, charming stories, or creative building, there's something here for everyone. Grab your Switch, pick a game, and get ready to dive into a world of endless possibilities. Happy gaming!