Best Wii U Open World Games You Need To Play

The Wii U might not be the first console that comes to mind when you think about sprawling open-world adventures, but don't count it out just yet, guys! This quirky console actually has a handful of gems that offer surprisingly expansive and immersive experiences. So, if you're dusting off your Wii U or looking for a reason to fire it up, let's dive into some of the best open-world games you absolutely need to check out.

Why Open World Games on the Wii U?

Okay, let's be real. The Wii U wasn't exactly a powerhouse in terms of hardware. But that's part of its charm! Developers got creative, and some managed to squeeze impressive open worlds onto the system. The unique GamePad controller also added a cool dimension to gameplay, offering things like maps, inventory management, and even off-screen play. Open-world games provide players with an immersive experience, and the Wii U delivers this through various titles that allow you to explore vast landscapes, complete numerous side quests, and discover hidden secrets. These games often feature rich narratives and deep gameplay mechanics that can keep you engaged for hours on end.

One of the key advantages of playing open-world games on the Wii U is the innovative use of the GamePad. The GamePad can act as a map, a tool selector, or even a second screen for cooperative gameplay. This enhances the overall gaming experience by providing additional layers of interaction and information. The console's ability to support off-screen play also means you can continue your adventure even when the TV is in use, making it a versatile option for gamers with busy households. Moreover, the Wii U's library includes titles that are exclusive to the console, offering unique experiences that you can't find anywhere else. These exclusive games often showcase the console's unique features and capabilities, making them a must-play for any Wii U owner.

Exploring open-world games on the Wii U can also be a nostalgic trip for many gamers. The console has a distinctive charm, and revisiting its games can bring back fond memories. The unique controller and quirky design of the Wii U create a gaming experience that is different from modern consoles, offering a refreshing change of pace. Whether you are a long-time fan of Nintendo or new to the Wii U, there are plenty of reasons to dive into its library of open-world games. From epic adventures to charming indie titles, the Wii U has something for everyone. So grab your GamePad, charge up your console, and get ready to explore the vast and exciting worlds that the Wii U has to offer.

Top Open World Games on Wii U

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty! Here are some of the top open-world games that you should definitely add to your Wii U collection. These titles have been chosen based on their expansive worlds, engaging gameplay, and overall fun factor. So, without further ado, let's jump in!

1. Xenoblade Chronicles X

If you're looking for a truly massive open world on the Wii U, Xenoblade Chronicles X is your answer. This game is HUGE. We're talking about a sprawling alien planet called Mira that's ripe for exploration. You play as a survivor of a human colony ship, and your mission is to help establish a new home for humanity. This open-world game is particularly good because of its exploration elements.

The sheer scale of Xenoblade Chronicles X is one of its most impressive features. The planet Mira is divided into multiple continents, each with its own unique environments, creatures, and challenges. Exploring these continents can take hours, and you'll constantly discover new locations and secrets. The game also features a day-night cycle, which affects the behavior of enemies and the availability of resources. This adds another layer of depth to the exploration experience, as you'll need to plan your expeditions accordingly. In addition to the vast open world, Xenoblade Chronicles X also offers a deep and engaging story. The narrative revolves around the struggle for survival, as the remnants of humanity try to rebuild their lives on an alien planet. The game features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. As you progress through the story, you'll uncover the mysteries of Mira and learn more about its inhabitants. The combination of a compelling narrative and a massive open world makes Xenoblade Chronicles X a truly unforgettable gaming experience. If you are a fan of open-world games, this title should be at the top of your list.

The gameplay in Xenoblade Chronicles X is another standout feature. The combat system is deep and strategic, requiring you to master different weapon types and abilities. You can customize your character with a variety of skills and equipment, allowing you to create a build that suits your playstyle. The game also features a unique mech system, where you can pilot giant robots called Skells. These Skells provide a powerful advantage in combat and allow you to explore areas that are otherwise inaccessible. Whether you're battling giant monsters or soaring through the skies in your Skell, the gameplay in Xenoblade Chronicles X is always exciting and engaging. The game also encourages exploration by rewarding you with experience points and resources for discovering new locations. This incentivizes you to venture off the beaten path and uncover the hidden secrets of Mira. With its vast open world, deep combat system, and engaging story, Xenoblade Chronicles X is a must-play for any Wii U owner. This open-world game offers hours of exploration and adventure, making it one of the best titles on the console.

2. Lego City Undercover

Okay, so maybe you're not into sci-fi epics. How about a hilarious Lego adventure? Lego City Undercover is essentially Grand Theft Auto but made entirely of Lego bricks and with a much more kid-friendly (and funny) storyline. You play as Chase McCain, an undercover cop tasked with taking down a notorious criminal.

Lego City Undercover stands out as a unique and charming entry in the open-world game genre. The game's open-world environment is a sprawling Lego city, filled with familiar landmarks and hidden secrets. As Chase McCain, you'll explore this city on foot, in vehicles, and even in disguise. The game's story is filled with humor and clever references, making it enjoyable for both kids and adults. The missions are varied and engaging, ranging from chasing down criminals to solving puzzles. One of the key features of Lego City Undercover is its focus on exploration. The city is packed with collectibles, hidden areas, and side quests that reward you for venturing off the beaten path. You can unlock new characters, vehicles, and abilities as you progress through the game, adding to the sense of discovery. The game also features a day-night cycle, which affects the behavior of characters and the availability of certain missions. This adds another layer of depth to the exploration experience, as you'll need to plan your activities accordingly. If you are looking for an open-world game that is both fun and engaging, Lego City Undercover is an excellent choice.

The gameplay in Lego City Undercover is a blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving. Chase McCain has a variety of disguises, each with its own unique abilities. You can use these disguises to infiltrate different areas, solve puzzles, and interact with the environment. The game also features a robust combat system, where you can use a variety of moves to take down enemies. The combat is simple but satisfying, and the game's humor shines through in the animations and sound effects. In addition to the main story missions, Lego City Undercover also offers a wealth of side content. You can participate in races, complete challenges, and collect hidden items. The game also features a cooperative mode, where you can team up with a friend to explore the city and complete missions together. Whether you're playing solo or with a friend, Lego City Undercover offers hours of fun and entertainment. With its charming story, engaging gameplay, and vast open world, Lego City Undercover is a must-play for any Wii U owner who enjoys open-world games.

3. Assassin's Creed III

Yes, Assassin's Creed on the Wii U! While it might not be the best version of the game (graphically speaking), Assassin's Creed III still offers a massive open world to explore, set during the American Revolution. You play as Connor, a Native American assassin fighting for freedom.

Assassin's Creed III on the Wii U provides an immersive open-world experience set against the backdrop of the American Revolution. While the Wii U version may not boast the same graphical fidelity as its counterparts on other platforms, it still offers a vast and detailed world to explore. Players step into the role of Connor, a Native American assassin, as he navigates the turbulent events of the late 18th century. The game's open world spans from bustling colonial cities like Boston and New York to the vast and untamed American frontier. Each location is richly detailed and filled with historical landmarks, offering players a sense of immersion in the era. Exploring these environments is a key aspect of the game, with numerous side quests, collectibles, and secrets to discover. The game also features a dynamic weather system, which can affect gameplay and visibility. Whether you're scaling buildings in the city or hunting animals in the wilderness, the open world of Assassin's Creed III provides a diverse and engaging playground for players to enjoy. For fans of history and open-world games, Assassin's Creed III on the Wii U offers a unique and compelling experience.

The gameplay in Assassin's Creed III is a blend of stealth, combat, and exploration. As Connor, you'll use your skills as an assassin to infiltrate enemy strongholds, eliminate targets, and gather intelligence. The game features a robust combat system, where you can use a variety of weapons and tactics to take down enemies. You can also use stealth to your advantage, blending into crowds, hiding in bushes, and using the environment to your advantage. In addition to the main story missions, Assassin's Creed III also offers a wealth of side content. You can participate in naval battles, hunt animals, and complete various challenges. The game also features a cooperative mode, where you can team up with a friend to complete missions together. With its engaging story, diverse gameplay, and vast open world, Assassin's Creed III is a must-play for any Wii U owner who enjoys open-world games. Despite its graphical limitations, the game offers a compelling and immersive experience that is sure to captivate fans of the series. The open-world game elements alone make it worth a look.

Honorable Mentions

• Darksiders II: Definitive Edition: While not strictly open world, it has large, interconnected areas to explore.
• Batman: Arkham City Armored Edition: Similar to Darksiders II, it offers a large, explorable map with plenty to do.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! The Wii U might not be overflowing with open-world games, but the ones it does have are definitely worth checking out. From the epic scale of Xenoblade Chronicles X to the Lego-filled fun of Lego City Undercover, there's something for everyone. So grab your GamePad and get ready to explore!

These open-world games provide hours of entertainment and exploration, making them valuable additions to any Wii U library. The unique features of the Wii U, such as the GamePad and off-screen play, enhance the gaming experience and set these titles apart from their counterparts on other platforms. Whether you're a long-time fan of Nintendo or new to the Wii U, these open-world games offer a diverse and engaging experience that is sure to captivate you. So don't let the Wii U collect dust – dust it off, charge it up, and dive into these fantastic open-world games today! You might be surprised at just how much fun you can have exploring these virtual worlds on this quirky and underrated console. The open-world game genre is alive and well on the Wii U, and these titles prove that the console is still worth playing even today.