The Wii wasn’t exactly known for massive open worlds, but that doesn’t mean it didn’t have its share of games that encouraged exploration. Despite the console’s unique motion controls and relatively limited hardware, a handful of titles managed to create immersive, expansive environments that made players want to get lost in them.
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6 Endless Ocean: Blue World
Dive Deep Into Serenity
Endless Ocean: Blue World
- Released
- February 5, 2010
- ESRB
- Everyone 10+ // Mild Suggestive Themes, Mild Violence
- Developer(s)
- Arika
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Wii
- Genre(s)
- Adventure
It’s not often a game encourages players to take a breath and just explore. Endless Ocean: Blue World is a rare gem on the Wii that trades intense action for pure, aquatic wonder. This sequel builds on the original with a larger world, a more structured storyline, and improved diving mechanics. Players can traverse various underwater locations, from sunken ships to vibrant coral reefs, documenting marine life and uncovering secrets.
It’s a relaxing, almost therapeutic experience, but it’s also surprisingly engaging when you encounter a massive whale or discover a rare species. The lack of combat might put off some, but for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of exploration, this game is a perfect escape.
5 Scarface: The World Is Yours
Say Hello To An Open World
Scarface: The World Is Yours
- Released
- July 25, 2006
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- m
- Developer(s)
- Radical Entertainment
- Platform(s)
- PC, PS2, Wii, Xbox (Original)
- Genre(s)
- Action-Adventure
Few people expected Tony Montana to make his way to the Wii, but Scarface: The World Is Yours didn’t hold back. Set in an alternate timeline where Tony survives the mansion shootout, players rebuild his empire from the ground up. The game’s Miami is gritty, vibrant, and teeming with opportunity, whether it’s managing drug deals, buying properties, or just cruising in a sports car blasting 80s hits.
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Surprisingly, the Wii controls work well for aiming during shootouts, adding a tactile feel to the action. There’s a relentless ambition in how Tony regains his throne, and while it’s not as polished as other open-world crime games, it nails the over-the-top spirit of the movie.
4 Driver: San Francisco
Driver: San Francisco
- Released
- August 30, 2011
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T For Teen Due To Drug Reference, Language, Sexual Themes, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Ubisoft Reflections
Wait, wasn’t Driver: San Francisco on PS3 and Xbox 360? Yes, but the Wii got its own version, and it’s a surprisingly unique take. Instead of following the mind-bending plot of the HD versions, the Wii’s rendition sticks to a more grounded story while still offering the same freedom of the city.
Players take the wheel as Tanner in a sprawling urban environment, where completing missions and performing stunts is the name of the game. Though the visuals are understandably dialed down , the driving mechanics still feel tight, and the sense of speed holds up. It’s a different beast from its HD siblings but still captures the thrill of the chase.
3 Go Vacation
Fun-Filled Island Getaway
Imagine a resort island where nearly every sport and activity you can think of is available, and you’ve got Go Vacation. This lesser-known Wii title mixes exploration with a wide variety of mini-games, from jet skiing to horseback riding, all spread across four unique areas. The island isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a playground.
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Players can stumble upon hidden areas, interact with NPCs, and even snap photos to document their vacation. While the motion controls can be a bit hit-or-miss, the sheer amount of content makes up for it. Plus, there’s something genuinely charming about cruising around in an ATV one moment and playing beach volleyball the next.
2 Xenoblade Chronicles
A Vast World On Giant Titans
Xenoblade Chronicles
- Released
- July 29, 2022
Monolith Soft really pushed the Wii to its limits with Xenoblade Chronicles. This sprawling JRPG takes place on the bodies of two colossal titans, and every inch of their world feels lived-in. Players join Shulk on a journey that’s as much about exploration as it is about battling mechanized enemies. The environments are diverse and enormous, ranging from grassy plains to floating islands.
Even when the story slows down, the world itself is fascinating enough to keep players moving. The soundtrack, packed with sweeping orchestral tracks, perfectly complements the sense of adventure. It’s a game that doesn’t just give players a big world but one that feels meaningful to explore.
1 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Hyrule In All Its Gloomy Glory
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
- Released
- November 19, 2006
WHERE TO PLAY
It’s no secret that The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess is one of the Wii’s crown jewels. Set in a darker, more mature version of Hyrule, the game’s world is packed with secrets, dungeons, and sprawling landscapes that feel both daunting and inviting. Whether riding Epona through vast fields or exploring creepy ruins as wolf Link, there’s a tangible sense of purpose in every corner of the map.
The motion controls take some getting used to, but the swordplay feels satisfying once mastered. Beyond its atmospheric world, the story digs deeper into the lore of Hyrule, making it a standout entry in the series. Twilight Princess doesn’t just offer a big world; it gives players a reason to care about it.
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