This guide x-rays the best games like World of Warcraft for the Nintendo Switch. For many gamers, World of Warcraft (WoW) has been a cornerstone of their online gaming experience. This massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) boasts a vast open world, diverse character classes, and engaging social gameplay. However, the world of Azeroth might not be readily accessible to everyone, especially those seeking an adventure on the go.
The Nintendo Switch, with its portability and versatile controller options, presents a unique platform for gaming. While there are no direct equivalents of WoW on the Switch due to the console’s limitations (controllers aren’t ideal for the complex controls and social aspects of MMOs), there are several titles that offer similar gameplay experiences in different ways.
From Legend of Zelda: Breath of Wild to Dauntless, here are the best games like World of Warcraft for the Nintendo Switch.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, released in 2017 for the Nintendo Switch and Wii U, is an action-adventure game praised for its open-world exploration and innovative gameplay.
Hyrule, the kingdom you explore, is a sprawling world filled with diverse landscapes, from lush forests and snow-capped mountains to scorching deserts. Unlike traditional Zelda games, Breath of the Wild encourages players to forge their own path. You choose which objectives to tackle and how to approach them. The game world is packed with secrets waiting to be uncovered. You can stumble upon hidden shrines, encounter unique wildlife, and discover ancient ruins.
Breath of the Wild utilizes a physics engine that allows for creative problem-solving. Players can use the environment and items in imaginative ways to overcome obstacles and enemies. Weapons and equipment degrade over time, requiring players to find and craft replacements. You can also gather materials to cook food and brew elixirs with various effects. Players control Link, who awakens from a 100-year slumber to a Hyrule devastated by Calamity Ganon. The main objective is to help Princess Zelda defeat Ganon and save the kingdom. While not directly an RPG, it offers exploration and combat that can scratch the same itch as WoW.
2. Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact can be described as an open-world action role-playing game (RPG). It features a visually appealing world inspired by anime aesthetics, with a vast open environment to explore. The game revolves around utilizing different elemental powers for strategic battles. Players can control a party of four characters, switching between them to unleash powerful elemental combos.
A core aspect of the game is acquiring new characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles. This is achieved through a system called “gacha,” which involves using in-game currency or real-world money.The game offers a main story quest where you embark on a journey to find your lost sibling, encountering various characters and challenges along the way. Genshin Impact encourages exploration of its vast world, filled with secrets, puzzles, and hidden treasures to uncover, reminiscent of WoW’s group content.
3. Diablo III: Eternal Collection
This action RPG powerhouse brings the fast-paced combat and loot-driven gameplay of Diablo to the Switch. Players choose from several character classes, battle hordes of demons, and collect powerful gear, offering a satisfying alternative to WoW’s combat-focused gameplay.
4. Octopath Traveler
Octopath Traveler is a role-playing video game (RPG) known for its unique narrative and visual style. You control eight individual characters, each with their own distinct storyline, motivations, and goals. You explore the world and uncover their narratives at your own pace, switching between characters as needed.
Each character possesses a special ability outside of combat, called a “Path Action”. These abilities allow you to interact with the world and NPCs in unique ways, such as a merchant who can barter with townsfolk or a warrior who can challenge them to a duel.
The game boasts a striking visual style that blends 2D pixel art reminiscent of classic RPGs with 3D environments, creating a unique and charming atmosphere.
5. Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition
Released in 2020 for the Nintendo Switch, Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a remaster of the critically acclaimed Japanese RPG (JRPG) originally launched on the Wii in 2010. Set on the backs of giant, living creatures called Titans, the game follows Shulk, a protagonist who wields a mystical sword named Monado. He embarks on a quest to defeat the villainous Mechon alongside his companions.
Players explore vast open-world environments, completing quests, battling enemies in real-time combat, and uncovering the secrets of the Titans. The combat system involves positioning your character strategically and using special abilities alongside your party members.
The game is praised for its grand world design, engaging story, and memorable soundtrack. Overall, Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a well-regarded JRPG offering a captivating world to explore, a deep story to follow, and a unique combat system to master.
6. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
This remastered classic offers a strategic turn-based combat system, a complex character customization system, and a deep story. Players build their party, explore a vast world, and complete quests, offering a wealth of content and tactical depth.
7. Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise is an action role-playing game where you take on the role of a hunter in a vibrant world. You track down and battle ferocious beasts using various weapons and strategies. Players can be accompanied by Palicoes (feline companions) and Palamutes (wolf-like companions) who aid you in fights.
8. Dauntless
Dauntless is a free-to-play online action role-playing game developed by Phoenix Labs. Players become Slayers in a shattered world overrun by monstrous creatures called Behemoths. The objective is to team up with other Slayers to hunt these Behemoths, collecting loot to craft and upgrade weapons and armor. As you progress, you face stronger Behemoths requiring strategic teamwork and skill. Players choose from various weapon types, craft gear, and battle challenging bosses, offering a cooperative and combat-focused experience reminiscent of WoW.
Final Thoughts
While there’s no perfect replacement for the unique experience of World of Warcraft on the Switch, several titles offer similar gameplay elements in distinct ways. Whether you crave action-packed combat, strategic turn-based battles, or online cooperative adventures, these games can provide engaging alternatives for Switch players seeking an epic adventure.
FAQs
Q. Will World of Warcraft ever come to the Switch?
A. While there haven’t been any official announcements, the limitations of the Switch controller and the demanding nature of MMOs make a direct port unlikely.
Q. Which game is the most similar to WoW?
A. There’s no single game that perfectly replicates WoW’s experience. However, Monster Hunter Rise offers the closest experience in terms of online cooperative boss battles, while Genshin Impact provides a free-to-play open-world adventure with character progression and elemental combat.
Q. Are any of these games free-to-play?
A. Yes, Genshin Impact and Dauntless are both free-to-play with optional in-app purchases. However, other titles on this list require purchase.
Q. Do any of these games offer local co-op?
A. While most titles focus on online play, some offer local co-op options. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild allows local co-op for specific challenges, while Monster Hunter Rise supports local co-op hunting with additional controllers. Be sure to check each game’s individual features for details.
Q. Which game should I choose if I enjoyed WoW?
A. If you enjoyed the exploration and open-world freedom of WoW, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Genshin Impact might be a good fit. If you preferred the strategic combat, consider Octopath Traveler or Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age. For those who miss the social elements and cooperative boss battles, Monster Hunter Rise or Dauntless could be your pick. Remember, the “Buyer’s Guide” section offers a brief overview based on your preferences.
