Best Nintendo Switch Open World Games For Kids

Hey everyone! Looking for some awesome open-world adventures on the Nintendo Switch for your kids? You've come to the right place! The Nintendo Switch is a fantastic console for gamers of all ages, and it boasts a surprisingly robust library of open-world games that are perfect for younger players. Let's dive into some of the best titles that will keep your kids entertained for hours while exploring vast and engaging virtual worlds.

What Makes a Good Open-World Game for Kids?

Before we jump into the specific games, let's talk about what makes an open-world game suitable and enjoyable for kids. Several factors come into play:

• Accessibility: The game should be easy to pick up and play, with intuitive controls and clear objectives. Kids shouldn't get bogged down in complex mechanics or confusing tutorials.
• Age-Appropriateness: The content needs to be suitable for children. This means avoiding excessive violence, mature themes, and overly complicated storylines. Look for games with ESRB ratings of E (Everyone) or E10+ (Everyone 10 and older).
• Engaging World: The open world should be interesting and inviting, with plenty to explore and discover. This could include colorful environments, fun characters, and a variety of activities to keep kids engaged.
• Fun Activities: A good open-world game for kids should offer a range of activities beyond the main storyline. Think side quests, collectibles, mini-games, and opportunities for creative expression.
• Forgiving Gameplay: Kids are still learning and developing their skills, so it's helpful if the game is forgiving and doesn't punish mistakes too harshly. Features like generous checkpoints, easy difficulty options, and helpful hints can make a big difference.

Keeping these factors in mind, let's explore some of the best Nintendo Switch open-world games that are perfect for kids.

Top Nintendo Switch Open World Games for Kids

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an absolute masterpiece and a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. While it might seem daunting at first, its open world is incredibly inviting and full of wonder, making it surprisingly accessible for kids. In Breath of the Wild, players take on the role of Link, who awakens after 100 years to defeat Calamity Ganon and save Hyrule. The game encourages exploration and experimentation, allowing players to tackle challenges in their own way. What makes it suitable for kids? The violence is minimal and cartoonish, the story is engaging but not overly complex, and the world is filled with charming characters and delightful secrets. Kids will love climbing mountains, discovering hidden shrines, cooking meals, and battling quirky monsters. The sense of freedom and discovery in Breath of the Wild is unparalleled, making it a truly unforgettable experience for players of all ages.

The game's non-linear structure means kids can explore at their own pace, focusing on what interests them most. They can spend hours simply wandering the landscape, discovering new locations, and interacting with the environment. The physics-based gameplay allows for creative problem-solving, encouraging kids to think outside the box. While some of the challenges may be difficult, the game is generally forgiving, and there are plenty of resources available to help players along the way. Breath of the Wild is a game that can be enjoyed by the whole family, offering a shared experience of adventure and discovery. Its stunning visuals, captivating soundtrack, and engaging gameplay make it a true classic that will be cherished for years to come.

2. Lego City Undercover

For a kid-friendly open-world experience with a healthy dose of humor, look no further than Lego City Undercover. This game puts players in the shoes of Chase McCain, an undercover police officer tasked with bringing down the notorious Rex Fury. Set in the sprawling Lego City, the game offers a vast open world to explore, filled with vehicles to drive, buildings to climb, and secrets to uncover. What makes Lego City Undercover great for kids? The Lego aesthetic is inherently appealing, the story is lighthearted and funny, and the gameplay is simple and accessible. Kids will love driving cars, flying helicopters, and using Chase's various disguises to solve puzzles and complete missions. The game is packed with slapstick humor and witty dialogue, ensuring plenty of laughs along the way. The challenges are generally not too difficult, and the game is forgiving, making it a great choice for younger players. The open world of Lego City is vibrant and full of life, with plenty to see and do. Kids can explore the city at their own pace, discovering new locations, completing side quests, and collecting hidden items. The game encourages creativity and problem-solving, as players must use their wits and skills to overcome obstacles and complete missions. Lego City Undercover is a fun and engaging open-world game that is sure to delight kids of all ages. Its charming characters, humorous story, and accessible gameplay make it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch.

3. Minecraft

Minecraft is a global phenomenon, and for good reason. This open-world sandbox game allows players to build, explore, and create anything they can imagine. While it may not have a traditional storyline, Minecraft's endless possibilities make it incredibly engaging for kids. In Minecraft, players can gather resources, craft tools and weapons, build structures, and explore procedurally generated worlds. The game offers a variety of modes, including survival mode, where players must fend off monsters and manage their resources, and creative mode, where players have unlimited resources and can build anything they desire. What makes Minecraft so appealing to kids? The freedom to create and explore is unparalleled, the possibilities are endless, and the game encourages creativity and problem-solving. Kids can build houses, castles, farms, and even entire cities. They can explore caves, climb mountains, and sail the seas. They can fight monsters, tame animals, and create works of art. The only limit is their imagination. Minecraft is a game that can be enjoyed alone or with friends, offering a collaborative and social experience. Its simple graphics and accessible gameplay make it easy to pick up and play, while its depth and complexity ensure that there is always something new to discover. If your kids are looking for a truly open-world experience with endless possibilities, Minecraft is the perfect choice.

4. Dragon Quest Builders 2

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a unique blend of open-world exploration, crafting, and role-playing. Set in the world of Dragon Quest, this game puts players in the role of a builder who must rebuild the world after it has been destroyed by a cult of destruction. Players gather resources, craft tools and weapons, build structures, and help the people of the land. What makes Dragon Quest Builders 2 great for kids? The crafting and building mechanics are engaging and rewarding, the story is charming and lighthearted, and the characters are endearing. Kids will love exploring the world, discovering new resources, and building amazing structures. The game encourages creativity and problem-solving, as players must use their skills to overcome obstacles and help the people of the land. The combat is simple and accessible, and the game is generally forgiving, making it a great choice for younger players. Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a fun and engaging open-world game that is sure to appeal to kids who enjoy crafting and building. Its charming story, endearing characters, and rewarding gameplay make it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. This game masterfully combines the charm of the Dragon Quest universe with the engaging mechanics of a building game, creating a truly unique and enjoyable experience for kids.

5. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

While not a traditional open-world game, Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a similar sense of freedom and exploration. In this game, players move to a deserted island and are tasked with building a community. They can gather resources, craft items, build houses, and interact with adorable animal villagers. What makes Animal Crossing: New Horizons so popular with kids? The game is incredibly relaxing and charming, the gameplay is simple and accessible, and the possibilities are endless. Kids can customize their island, decorate their homes, collect bugs and fish, and make friends with the animal villagers. The game is constantly updated with new content and events, ensuring that there is always something new to discover. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a game that can be enjoyed at any pace, making it a perfect choice for kids who want a relaxing and creative experience. Its charming characters, engaging gameplay, and endless possibilities make it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. Although it doesn't have the same vast, interconnected world as some of the other games on this list, the freedom to shape and customize your own island provides a similar sense of open-world exploration and discovery. The game encourages creativity, social interaction, and a sense of community, making it a truly special and rewarding experience for kids.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch offers a fantastic selection of open-world games that are perfect for kids. From the epic adventures of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to the creative freedom of Minecraft and the charming world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, there is something for everyone. When choosing a game for your child, be sure to consider their age, interests, and skill level. Look for games with age-appropriate content, accessible gameplay, and engaging worlds. With the right game, your kids can embark on unforgettable adventures and create lasting memories. Happy gaming!