Five years ago, Nintendo stood at a critical crossroads, with the Wii U struggling in the console wars. But now, in a stunning turnaround, the Switch is poised to become Nintendo’s best-selling “home console” ever. Seven Switch games have already outsold the entire Wii U console. Nintendo is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, fueled by the Switch’s innovative hybrid format and an ever-expanding game library with strong third-party support.
Yet, the Switch’s online store can be a daunting maze to navigate. Fear not! This guide is here to help newcomers embark on their gaming journey with confidence. Discover the essential games you must own—for now. We constantly update and expand this list to keep it relevant. And if you’re rocking a Switch Lite, don’t worry, every game on this list is fully compatible with the portable-only console. Get ready to level up!
Number 1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a social simulation game developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. It is the fifth main entry in the Animal Crossing series, following Animal Crossing: New Leaf for the Nintendo 3DS. In New Horizons, the player controls a character who moves to a deserted island after purchasing a getaway package from Tom Nook, accomplishes assigned tasks, and develops the island as they choose. They can gather and craft items, customize the island, and develop it into a community of anthropomorphic animals.
The game was released worldwide on March 20, 2020. It received critical acclaim, with praise for its relaxing gameplay, charming characters, and creative customization options. New Horizons was a commercial success, selling over 33 million copies worldwide as of March 2023.
One of the most notable features of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is its emphasis on island customization. Players can use a variety of tools to terraform their island, including cliffs, rivers, and beaches. They can also place furniture, decorations, and buildings anywhere they want. This gives players a great deal of freedom to create their own unique island paradise.
Another key feature of New Horizons is its multiplayer mode. Players can visit each other’s islands, trade items, and collaborate on projects. They can also participate in special events, such as fishing tournaments and bug-catching contests. This makes New Horizons a great game for playing with friends and family.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a relaxing and charming game that offers players a variety of ways to express their creativity. It is a great game for anyone looking for a fun and stress-free way to pass the time.
Number 2. Bayonetta 3
