The Nintendo Switch has revolutionized the gaming industry with its unique hybrid design, allowing players to seamlessly transition between portable and home console gaming. Whether you’re a seasoned Nintendo fan or a newcomer to the world of Nintendo gaming, this article is your go-to resource for discovering the top games that define the Switch experience.
One of the standout features of the Nintendo Switch is its versatility. Being able to play games on the go and then dock the console for a larger screen experience is truly magical. Nintendo has always been known for its exceptional first-party titles, and the Switch is no exception. With iconic franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Mario, Kirby, and Animal Crossing, Nintendo has delivered unforgettable gaming experiences that have captivated players worldwide.
In addition to the beloved Nintendo franchises, the Switch library offers a diverse range of games to cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re into action, adventure, RPGs, platformers, or indie gems, there’s something for everyone on the Nintendo Switch. With its impressive third-party support, the console has become a hub for both exclusive and multi-platform releases, further expanding its extensive game library.
As the Nintendo Switch lineup continues to evolve, it’s important to consider the different models available. The Nintendo Switch OLED provides a stunning handheld experience with its vibrant display, while the Nintendo Switch Lite offers a compact and durable option perfect for younger gamers or those who prefer handheld-only gameplay.
Drawing from our years of experience and passion for Nintendo games, we have curated a definitive list of the best Nintendo Switch games. Whether you’re searching for an epic adventure, engaging multiplayer experience, or a charming indie title, our recommendations will guide you towards your next gaming obsession.
So, whether you’re a longtime Nintendo enthusiast or a newcomer to the Switch, we invite you to explore our list of must-have Nintendo Switch games and embark on countless hours of gaming enjoyment. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant worlds and captivating gameplay that have made the Nintendo Switch an absolute must-have console.
Table of Contents
1. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has achieved something remarkable as the successor to the critically acclaimed Breath of the Wild, a title that set the bar incredibly high. However, Tears of the Kingdom manages to surpass its predecessor and solidifies its position as the best Nintendo Switch exclusive game to date.
Building upon the foundation of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom introduces players to an astonishingly detailed and expansive open world. Every nook and cranny of Hyrule is filled with captivating environments that beg to be explored. From lush forests to treacherous mountains, each location has its own unique charm and secrets waiting to be uncovered.
The game’s dungeons provide thrilling challenges that push players to their limits. With clever puzzles, formidable enemies, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Tears of the Kingdom keeps players engaged and excited throughout their adventure. The combat system is as satisfying as ever, allowing players to employ various strategies and weapons to overcome their foes.
One of the standout features of Tears of the Kingdom is its emphasis on creativity. The introduction of new Zonai devices, such as Ultrahand and Fuse, adds a fresh perspective to gameplay, providing players with innovative ways to interact with the game world. This level of creativity extends to the game’s quests, side activities, and character interactions, making each moment in the game feel truly unique.
The attention to detail, the immersive world, and the captivating gameplay combine to create an experience that captivates players from start to finish. Without revealing too much, Tears of the Kingdom may very well be the best entry in the long-running Zelda franchise, a testament to the legacy of this iconic series.
In conclusion, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom sets a new standard for Nintendo Switch exclusives. With its breathtaking world, challenging dungeons, and innovative gameplay, it represents the pinnacle of gaming excellence on the handheld-console hybrid. If you own a Nintendo Switch, Tears of the Kingdom is an absolute must-play that will leave you awe-struck and eagerly anticipating the future of the Zelda series.
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons marks the long-awaited return of the beloved Animal Crossing series to console gaming after eight years. This time, you find yourself on a deserted island courtesy of the exclusive Nook Inc package. What awaits you is an enchanting getaway where you can shape the island to your heart’s desire using the game’s new island-building tools.
Immerse yourself in the charming world of Animal Crossing as you befriend adorable villagers, indulge in fishing escapades, gather bountiful fruit, and unleash your creativity in decorating your island. With a wide array of cute tools and decorative items at your disposal, the possibilities for customizing your island are virtually endless. Create an idyllic paradise that reflects your unique style and preferences, and watch it come to life.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons strikes a perfect balance between the familiar elements that fans adore and a fresh experience filled with exciting improvements and newfound depth. The game’s online features add a whole new dimension of social interaction, allowing you to visit the islands of your friends, trade items, and even design and try on custom clothing. The social aspect of the game has never been more engaging and fulfilling.
Nintendo has masterfully woven together all these elements to create a game that is incredibly difficult to put down. Animal Crossing: New Horizons captures your imagination with its charming tone, delightful presentation, and an endless array of activities to enjoy. Even if you don’t find yourself playing for years on end, the game’s irresistible charm is bound to captivate you from the moment you step foot on your virtual island.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is an irresistible retreat for fans of social simulation games. It offers a captivating and relaxing experience, allowing you to escape to a tranquil island paradise where you can shape your own personal haven. With its charming characters, extensive customization options, and engaging online features, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a must-play title that will leave you enchanted and eagerly returning to your island time and time again.
3. Bayonetta 3
Prepare to be amazed as PlatinumGames’ iconic witch, Bayonetta, returns to deliver an adrenaline-fueled adventure across dimensions in Bayonetta 3. Once again, you assume the role of the powerful melee fighter and gunslinger as she embarks on a mission to thwart a deadly singularity threatening the multiverse.
Bayonetta is renowned for its unrivaled sense of style, and this latest installment takes it to new heights. The witch effortlessly engages in battles against colossal enemies, performing gravity-defying flips, cartwheels, and acrobatic feats that will leave you in awe. The combat is not only visually stunning but also incredibly smooth and satisfying to play, rivaling other acclaimed action games like Devil May Cry 5.
Adding to the already stellar combat mechanics, Bayonetta 3 introduces summons that offer unique abilities but also come with their own risks. These summons elevate the gameplay experience, providing new strategic elements and thrilling moments of gameplay. As our Bayonetta 3 review highlights, the game pushes the Nintendo Switch hardware to its limits, showcasing the console’s capabilities in delivering a visually stunning and immersive action-packed experience.
Bayonetta 3 is not just a game; it’s an explosive spectacle that will get your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping. If you’re seeking an action experience that will leave your mouth hanging open in awe, this is the game for you. Prepare to be enthralled by Bayonetta’s relentless combat prowess, jaw-dropping visuals, and a rollercoaster ride of excitement that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
4. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby, the lovable pink puffball, embarks on a remarkable adventure in Kirby and the Forgotten Land, a game that seamlessly transitions the iconic character into the realm of 3D platforming. This charming and ambitious title is a testament to the enduring appeal of Kirby, offering a delightful experience for players of all ages.
In this bold installment, Kirby explores new dimensions and contorted shapes, breathing new life into the beloved series. The game retains the core mechanics that make Kirby so endearing: inhaling enemies to absorb their abilities, navigating intricate platforming segments with jumps and glides, and engaging in epic battles against formidable bosses. However, the shift to 3D adds a fresh perspective and introduces new abilities that enhance the gameplay experience.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land beautifully showcases the graphical leap from the 3DS to the Nintendo Switch, immersing players in vibrant and visually captivating environments. The game strikes a perfect balance between familiarity and novelty, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers to the Kirby franchise. It’s a testament to the enduring charm of Kirby that continues to captivate players of all generations.
Whether you’re embarking on your first Kirby adventure or have been a fan for years, Kirby and the Forgotten Land promises a delightful treat. Prepare to be enchanted by Kirby’s adorable antics, discover hidden secrets in imaginative levels, and immerse yourself in a world filled with wonder and joy. Kirby’s jump to 3D is as smooth as the pink blob himself, making this a must-play title for platforming enthusiasts and Kirby fans alike.
5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe takes the exhilarating arcade racing experience of its predecessor on the Wii U and enhances it to new heights. This definitive edition of Nintendo’s beloved racer offers an abundance of new features and content, solidifying its position as one of the best entries in the Mario Kart franchise.
One of the standout additions is the highly anticipated return of the battle mode, providing thrilling multiplayer showdowns that test your skills in explosive arenas. Additionally, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe introduces new characters to the roster, combines all previously released DLC tracks into one comprehensive package, and introduces the ability to hold two special items simultaneously, adding a strategic element to the fast-paced races.
The game’s multiplayer options are also exceptional, offering various ways to enjoy the racing action with friends. Whether you prefer online multiplayer races against players from around the world, engaging in split-screen mayhem with up to four players, or connecting multiple consoles wirelessly for epic multiplayer sessions with up to eight players, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe delivers endless fun and competition.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is not only a standout title in the Mario Kart series but also one of the finest games available on the Nintendo Switch. Its versatility and engaging gameplay make it a must-have for both newcomers and those who missed out on the original Wii U version. With ongoing support and new DLC releases, the game continues to evolve, ensuring that the racing excitement never ends.
Just keep in mind that to fully enjoy the online multiplayer features and race against friends, a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online is required. Buckle up, grab your favorite character, and get ready for the ultimate racing experience with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It’s a timeless classic that brings joy, laughter, and intense competition to players of all ages.
As the Switch lineup continues to evolve, it’s essential to consider the different models available. Whether you opt for the Nintendo Switch OLED for a stunning handheld experience or the compact and durable Nintendo Switch Lite, there’s a model to suit your preferences.
With our curated list of the best Nintendo Switch games, you have a roadmap to countless hours of gaming enjoyment. Whether you’re embarking on epic adventures, engaging in multiplayer battles, or immersing yourself in charming worlds, the Switch offers a gaming experience like no other.
So, whether you’re a longtime Nintendo enthusiast or a newcomer to the Switch, we invite you to explore our list of must-have Nintendo Switch games and embark on unforgettable gaming journeys. The Nintendo Switch has redefined how and where we play games, and with its exceptional lineup of games, it continues to bring joy, excitement, and wonder to players around the world. Get ready to experience the magic of the Nintendo Switch and create lasting memories with these incredible games. Happy gaming!
