Best Wii U Open World Games: Explore Epic Adventures
The Wii U, while often overlooked, boasts a surprisingly diverse library of games, including some fantastic open-world experiences. Open-world games on the Wii U offer unique adventures, letting you explore vast landscapes and embark on unforgettable quests. So, grab your Wii U gamepad, and let's dive into some of the best open-world games this console has to offer!
Top Open World Games on Wii U
When it comes to open-world games on the Wii U, there are several standout titles that deserve your attention. These games not only offer expansive worlds to explore but also provide engaging gameplay, compelling stories, and unique features that leverage the Wii U's capabilities. Let's take a closer look at some of the top contenders:
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is arguably the best open-world game on the Wii U and one of the greatest games of all time. This masterpiece redefined the Zelda formula, offering players an enormous and incredibly detailed world to explore. From the sprawling Hyrule Field to the towering peaks of the Hebra Mountains, every corner of the map is filled with secrets, challenges, and breathtaking vistas. The sense of freedom is unparalleled; you can climb almost any surface, experiment with the environment, and tackle objectives in any order you choose. The game's physics-based gameplay allows for emergent and creative solutions to puzzles and combat encounters, making every playthrough feel unique. Breath of the Wild truly shines on the Wii U, even though it was also released on the Nintendo Switch. The gamepad can be used as a map, inventory management screen, and even a camera, adding to the immersive experience. If you own a Wii U, Breath of the Wild is an absolute must-play, offering countless hours of adventure and discovery. Its innovative design and captivating world make it a benchmark for open-world games. The game's story, while simple, is effectively told through environmental storytelling and optional memories, allowing players to piece together the events that led to Hyrule's downfall. The characters you meet along the way are memorable and contribute to the rich tapestry of the game's world. Whether you're a longtime Zelda fan or new to the series, Breath of the Wild is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.
2. LEGO City Undercover
LEGO City Undercover is a hilarious and charming open-world adventure that puts you in the shoes of Chase McCain, an undercover cop tasked with bringing down the notorious Rex Fury. Set in the sprawling LEGO City, this game is a loving parody of police procedurals and action movies, filled with slapstick humor and clever writing. The world is brimming with LEGO bricks to smash, vehicles to commandeer, and secrets to uncover. Chase McCain has a variety of disguises at his disposal, each granting him unique abilities and allowing him to access different areas of the city. From a robber to a construction worker, these disguises add a layer of depth to the gameplay and encourage exploration. LEGO City Undercover truly shines on the Wii U thanks to its use of the gamepad. The gamepad acts as Chase's communicator, scanner, and map, adding to the immersive experience. The game also features local co-op, allowing a second player to join in on the fun using the gamepad. The open-world is densely packed with activities, from main story missions to side quests, challenges, and collectibles. You'll spend hours exploring the city, uncovering its secrets, and laughing along with the game's witty dialogue. If you're looking for a lighthearted and fun open-world game on the Wii U, LEGO City Undercover is an excellent choice. Its charming characters, hilarious story, and engaging gameplay make it a standout title in the LEGO series. The game's attention to detail and loving homage to classic cop movies make it a joy to play for gamers of all ages.
3. Xenoblade Chronicles X
Xenoblade Chronicles X is a massive and ambitious open-world RPG that takes place on the alien planet of Mira. After Earth is destroyed in a galactic war, humanity's last survivors escape in colony ships, one of which crash-lands on Mira. As a member of the BLADE organization, your mission is to explore the vast and uncharted territories of Mira, establish new settlements, and uncover the planet's secrets. The world of Mira is truly awe-inspiring, with diverse environments ranging from lush forests to desolate deserts. The scale of the game is immense, and you'll spend countless hours traversing the landscape, discovering hidden locations, and battling alien creatures. The combat system is deep and strategic, allowing you to customize your character's skills, equipment, and party members. One of the unique features of Xenoblade Chronicles X is the ability to pilot Skells, giant mechs that can transform into vehicles. Skells allow you to explore the world more efficiently, reach previously inaccessible areas, and engage in epic battles against colossal enemies. The game's online multiplayer component allows you to team up with other players to complete missions, share resources, and explore Mira together. While the story can be convoluted at times, the sheer sense of adventure and exploration makes Xenoblade Chronicles X a must-play for RPG fans. The game's vast world, deep combat system, and customizable Skells provide countless hours of gameplay. If you're looking for a truly epic open-world RPG on the Wii U, Xenoblade Chronicles X is an excellent choice. The game's attention to detail and commitment to player freedom make it a standout title in the genre.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Open World Titles
Beyond the well-known titles, the Wii U also has some hidden gems in the open-world genre that are worth exploring. These games may not have received as much attention, but they offer unique experiences and engaging gameplay. Let's take a look at some of these underrated titles:
1. Assassin’s Creed III
While perhaps better known on other platforms, Assassin’s Creed III on the Wii U offers the open-world experience fans of the series have come to expect. Set during the American Revolution, you play as Connor, a Native American assassin fighting for freedom. The game features a vast open world that includes bustling cities like Boston and New York, as well as the sprawling American frontier. The Wii U version includes all the naval combat, hunting, and side missions found in other versions, and the gamepad offers a map and inventory management, streamlining the experience. Although the Wii U version may not be the definitive version of the game, it is still a very good port with the complete gameplay loop. For fans of the Assassin's Creed series who own a Wii U, this is a worthwhile addition to the library. It is especially great for fans of history to experience the revolutionary war with a twist.
2. Darksiders II
Darksiders II presents a sprawling open-world environment where you embody Death, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Though it's available on multiple platforms, the Wii U version includes unique features that utilize the gamepad. This version allows you to manage your inventory and skills directly from the touch screen, streamlining gameplay. The world is filled with dungeons, puzzles, and enemies, providing hours of gameplay. The Wii U version supports off-TV play, allowing you to continue your adventure on the gamepad's screen. The game's open-world is beautifully designed, with diverse environments ranging from lush forests to desolate wastelands. The combat is fast-paced and satisfying, with a variety of weapons and abilities to unlock. If you're a fan of action-adventure games with a dark fantasy setting, Darksiders II on the Wii U is definitely worth checking out. Its engaging story, challenging gameplay, and unique features make it a standout title in the console's library. The ability to play the game entirely on the gamepad is a great bonus, allowing you to enjoy the game on the go or in the comfort of your bed.
Why Open World Games Shine on the Wii U
The Wii U may not be the most powerful console, but its unique features make it a great platform for open-world games. The gamepad, with its touchscreen and motion controls, adds a new layer of interactivity to these games. Here's why open-world games shine on the Wii U:
- Gamepad Integration: The gamepad can be used as a map, inventory management screen, and even a camera, adding to the immersive experience.
 - Off-TV Play: Many open-world games on the Wii U support off-TV play, allowing you to continue your adventure on the gamepad's screen, even when the TV is occupied.
 - Unique Control Schemes: The Wii U's motion controls can be used to enhance gameplay, such as aiming weapons or solving puzzles.
 
Conclusion: Embrace the Freedom of Exploration on Wii U
The Wii U may not be the first console that comes to mind when you think of open-world games, but it has a surprisingly strong lineup of titles in this genre. From the epic adventures of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to the hilarious antics of LEGO City Undercover and the massive world of Xenoblade Chronicles X, there's an open-world game on the Wii U for everyone. So, dust off your Wii U, grab your gamepad, and prepare to embark on unforgettable adventures in these captivating worlds. Whether you're a longtime fan of open-world games or new to the genre, the Wii U has something to offer. The unique features of the console, combined with the engaging gameplay and compelling stories of these games, make for an unforgettable experience. Don't let the Wii U's reputation fool you; it's a hidden gem for open-world gaming. Go and find that next adventure!