Best Wii U Open World Games: Explore Epic Adventures
The Wii U, while not as commercially successful as some of Nintendo's other consoles, boasts a surprisingly robust library of games, including some fantastic open-world experiences. If you're looking to dive into expansive worlds filled with adventure, exploration, and compelling stories on your Wii U, you've come to the right place. Let's explore the best open-world games that this unique console has to offer, highlighting what makes each title special and why you should consider adding them to your collection. Whether you're a long-time Wii U owner or a newcomer curious about its hidden gems, there's plenty to discover in the realm of open-world gaming on this console. From the sprawling landscapes of Hyrule to uncharted islands teeming with life, the Wii U provides diverse and immersive environments that cater to a variety of gaming preferences. So, grab your Wii U GamePad, get comfortable, and prepare to embark on unforgettable journeys through these captivating virtual worlds. We'll delve into gameplay mechanics, storyline depth, graphical fidelity, and overall enjoyment, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of what each game brings to the table. Ready to explore? Let’s jump in!
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
When you think of open-world games on the Wii U, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild undoubtedly tops the list. This isn't just a great Wii U game; it's a landmark title that redefined the open-world genre. Breath of the Wild throws you into a massive, breathtaking Hyrule that's been ravaged by Calamity Ganon. As Link, you awaken after a century-long slumber and must traverse this vast land to regain your memories, gather allies, and ultimately defeat Ganon to restore peace to the kingdom. What makes Breath of the Wild so special is its unparalleled sense of freedom. From the moment you step out of the Shrine of Resurrection, you can go anywhere and do anything. Want to climb that towering mountain in the distance? Go for it! See a mysterious forest on the horizon? Explore it! The game's physics engine and interactive environment encourage experimentation and creativity, allowing you to solve puzzles and overcome challenges in countless ways. You can chop down trees to create bridges, use fire to create updrafts for paragliding, or even cook meals to gain temporary buffs. The possibilities are truly endless, and this level of player agency is what sets Breath of the Wild apart. Beyond the freedom, the game is also visually stunning, with a beautiful art style that blends realism and fantasy. The dynamic weather system adds another layer of immersion, as you'll need to adapt to changing conditions like rain, snow, and thunderstorms. The world feels alive and reactive, making every journey feel unique and memorable. While the Wii U version may not have the graphical fidelity of the Nintendo Switch version, it's still a fantastic experience that showcases the console's capabilities. If you own a Wii U and haven't played Breath of the Wild yet, now is the time to dive in and experience one of the greatest open-world games ever made. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and captivating story will keep you hooked for hours on end.
Xenoblade Chronicles X
Another outstanding open-world title for the Wii U is Xenoblade Chronicles X. This sprawling sci-fi RPG transports you to the alien planet of Mira, where humanity has taken refuge after Earth was destroyed in a galactic war. As a member of BLADE (Builders of Lately Awakened Earth), your mission is to explore Mira, establish new settlements, and uncover the secrets of this mysterious world. Xenoblade Chronicles X features one of the largest and most diverse open worlds ever created. Mira is divided into five massive continents, each with its own unique environments, creatures, and challenges. From the lush forests of Primordia to the desolate plains of Oblivia, there's always something new to discover around every corner. The game's exploration is further enhanced by the ability to pilot Skells, giant mechs that allow you to traverse the world quickly, engage in aerial combat, and access previously unreachable areas. The combat system in Xenoblade Chronicles X is deep and engaging, combining real-time action with strategic decision-making. You can customize your character with a variety of weapons, armor, and skills, and team up with other players online to take on challenging missions and defeat powerful enemies. The game's story is also compelling, delving into themes of survival, adaptation, and the search for a new home. While the narrative can be a bit convoluted at times, the characters are well-developed, and the world-building is exceptional. The sense of scale in Xenoblade Chronicles X is truly impressive. The world feels vast and dangerous, and you'll constantly be discovering new locations, creatures, and secrets. The game's soundtrack is also fantastic, with a mix of orchestral scores and electronic music that perfectly complements the game's atmosphere. If you're looking for a massive open-world RPG with deep gameplay, a compelling story, and a vast world to explore, Xenoblade Chronicles X is a must-play on the Wii U. Its scope and ambition are unmatched, and it's a testament to the console's capabilities.
LEGO City Undercover
For a more lighthearted open-world experience on the Wii U, LEGO City Undercover is an excellent choice. This action-adventure game puts you in the role of Chase McCain, an undercover cop who must infiltrate a criminal organization led by the notorious Rex Fury. Set in the sprawling metropolis of LEGO City, the game is a hilarious parody of police procedurals and action movies, filled with witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and plenty of LEGO-themed antics. LEGO City Undercover features a large and detailed open world to explore, filled with missions, challenges, and collectibles. You can drive a variety of vehicles, from cars and trucks to boats and helicopters, and use Chase's various disguises to gain access to restricted areas and solve puzzles. The game's combat is simple but satisfying, with Chase using a variety of martial arts moves and gadgets to take down enemies. The story is genuinely funny, with memorable characters and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. The game also makes excellent use of the Wii U GamePad, with the screen displaying a map, communication device, and other helpful information. One of the best things about LEGO City Undercover is its sense of humor. The game is constantly poking fun at itself and the open-world genre, and the dialogue is consistently clever and witty. The characters are all well-developed and memorable, and the story is engaging from beginning to end. The world of LEGO City is also a joy to explore, with plenty of secrets and surprises to discover. Whether you're a fan of LEGO games or just looking for a fun and lighthearted open-world experience, LEGO City Undercover is a must-play on the Wii U. Its humor, gameplay, and charming world make it a standout title in the console's library.
Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition
While perhaps not exclusively known as a Wii U title, Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition offers a compelling open-world action RPG experience on the console. As Death, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, you embark on a quest to clear your brother War's name after he is wrongly accused of starting the End Times. This journey takes you through a variety of expansive and visually stunning realms, each filled with challenging dungeons, formidable enemies, and ancient secrets. Darksiders II stands out with its intricate combat system, blending hack-and-slash action with RPG elements. Death is a highly customizable character, allowing you to tailor your skills and equipment to suit your playstyle. The game encourages exploration, rewarding players who venture off the beaten path with valuable items, hidden dungeons, and lore-rich discoveries. The Wii U version benefits from the Deathinitive Edition's enhanced graphics and improved gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the series or newcomers alike. The storyline is rich and engaging, drawing inspiration from biblical themes and mythology. The world is dark and atmospheric, creating a sense of impending doom and urgency. The puzzles are well-designed, requiring you to think creatively and use Death's abilities to overcome obstacles. While the Wii U version may not be the definitive version of the game, it still offers a solid open-world experience with plenty of content to keep you engaged for hours on end. If you're a fan of action RPGs with a dark and gritty atmosphere, Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition is definitely worth checking out on the Wii U. Its challenging combat, engaging story, and expansive world make it a standout title in the console's library.
Assassin’s Creed III
Although the Assassin's Creed series is known for its massive and immersive worlds, Assassin's Creed III on the Wii U offers a unique open-world experience set during the American Revolution. Playing as Connor, a Native American assassin, you become embroiled in the centuries-old conflict between the Assassins and the Templars. The game features a vast open world spanning colonial cities like Boston and New York, as well as the sprawling American frontier. One of the standout features of Assassin's Creed III is its focus on historical accuracy. The game meticulously recreates the environments and events of the American Revolution, allowing you to experience this pivotal period in history firsthand. You'll encounter historical figures like George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, and participate in key events like the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Bunker Hill. The Wii U version of Assassin's Creed III utilizes the GamePad to provide a map, inventory management, and other helpful information. The game's combat system is fluid and engaging, allowing you to use a variety of weapons and tactics to take down enemies. The storyline is complex and engaging, exploring themes of freedom, justice, and the cost of war. The open world is filled with side missions, collectibles, and other activities to keep you busy. While the Wii U version may not have the graphical fidelity of other platforms, it still offers a solid open-world experience with plenty of content to explore. If you're a fan of history, action, and adventure, Assassin's Creed III is a must-play on the Wii U. Its immersive world, engaging story, and historical accuracy make it a standout title in the console's library.
Final Thoughts
The Wii U might not be the first console that comes to mind when you think of open-world gaming, but as you've seen, it has some truly exceptional titles in the genre. From the groundbreaking freedom of Breath of the Wild to the sprawling sci-fi landscapes of Xenoblade Chronicles X and the humorous adventures in LEGO City Undercover, the Wii U offers a diverse range of open-world experiences to suit different tastes. These games showcase the console's capabilities and provide hours of entertainment for those willing to explore their virtual worlds. So, dust off your Wii U, grab your GamePad, and get ready to embark on some unforgettable adventures. You might be surprised at what you discover in the hidden corners of these captivating open worlds. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the Wii U, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. Happy gaming!