Last October, Nintendo rolled out the OLED version of the Nintendo Switch to join its standard and Lite versions and to further cater to gamers’ varying needs from a console. And it looks like the Switch will just get better from here; after all, since its release in 2017, the success of Nintendo’s handheld console really proved to be a gamechanger, taking the portability of video games to the next level.
If you’ve finally decided to join the growing community of Nintendo Switch users, or are just trying to expand the library of games on your device, then you’re probably on the lookout for some Switch games that are worth your time and money. If so, you don’t need to look far. Here’s a list of some of the best games that you should definitely play if you have a Switch!
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild showcases the peak of the Nintendo Switch’s potential. It takes players to the vast, open-world Hyrule where the iconic characters of The Legend of Zelda franchise reside. Embark on a journey across Hyrule’s beautiful and barren lands, climb its frozen mountains and flaming volcanoes, glide from its highest peaks in this open-world game that gives the players immense freedom. As Link, it is your quest to help Princess Zelda defeat the darkness from the evil Calamity Ganon and bring back the peace in Hyrule. The sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is also expected to be released this 2022.
2. Super Mario Odyssey
Mario is one of Nintendo’s most popular characters, if not the most popular. For the Nintendo Switch, the mustached plumber also got a triple-A game that takes the Super Mario gameplay to the next level. In this sandbox-style 3D game, you join Mario and his new ally Cappy on a globe-trotting adventure where you can capture and control a variety of objects, animals, and even enemies, as you explore incredible new places far from the Mushroom Kingdom. Collect Power Moons to fuel the Odyssey airship and save Princess Peach from Bowser! The game also allows you to play with a friend where one of you plays Mario and the other plays the fun Cappy!
3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is another must-have game for the Nintendo Switch, especially for those who want to just relax and enjoy playing with their console. Inhabit a deserted island and build a community from the ground up. Have a soothing island getaway where you can garden, fish, catch insects, befriend islanders, hang out with your friends, and so much more! With all the available tools, the possibilities seem limitless when it comes to decorating and putting a personal touch on your paradise! Nintendo also continues to release updates and DLCs for the players to expand their game with.
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4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The ultimate crossover of video game icons, Super Smash Bros. is an epic fighting game that you and your friends can totally enjoy. Packed with characters like Mario, Link, Kirby, Pikachu, Cloud Strife, Sonic, and Ryu just to name a few, Super Smash Bros. offers plenty of battle action with stages that can cater to up to eight players! Make your couch the next arena for a legendary competition with your pals! More characters are also being added to the roster via DLC.
5. Pokémon Sword and Shield
Like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda, the beloved Nintendo game franchise Pokémon also received an upgrade in the form of Pokémon Sword and Shield. Choose from the three starters: Grookey, Scorbunny, or Sobble, and begin your journey as a newbie trainer in the immersive 3D landscapes of the Galar Region. Challenge the troublemakers of Team Yell, unravel the mystery behind the Legendary Pokémon Zacian and Zamazenta, and utilize the new power of Dynamax and Gigantamax Pokémon to become the next champion! Of course, always aim to catch them all!
6. Luigi’s Mansion 3
It’s Luigi’s moment to step up and save everyone in Luigi’s Mansion 3! The green-clad plumber has been invited to the Last Resort Hotel, but when his brother and friends go missing, it is up to Luigi to save the day. Explore the creaky and creepy floors of the hotel, fight spooky ghosts with the all-new Poltergust G-00, and join forces with the green and gooey Gooigi to solve puzzling contraptions and defeat the bosses of each themed floor! Up to 8 players can also play together to ascend the ScareScraper via local wireless or online.
7. Monster Hunter Rise
Whether you’re a fan of the Monster Hunter franchise or a newbie hunter, Monster Hunter Rise is definitely worth checking out for the Switch. Jump into the ninja-inspired village of Kamura where you, alongside your canine companion Palamute, go on a quest to become the ultimate hunter. Aside from its new environments and monsters, MH: Rise also introduces the high-flying ‘Wire Action’ gameplay which adds an exciting new layer to its combative gameplay.
8. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the ideal couch game for up to four friends. The game features every track of the Mario Kart 8 on Wii U, including the DLC, plus new battle courses where you can race and crash your friends’ karts! Aside from returning favorites such as King Boo, Dry Bones, and Bowser Jr., the Inklings of Splatoon are also joining in on the fun!
9. Hades
One of the best video game releases of 2020, the indie video game Hades has found gamers’ respect that levels with Nintendo’s own triple-A games. In this rogue-like, hack-and-slash game, you play the Prince of the Underworld, Zagreus, who defies his father Hades and tries to escape the realm crawling with mythical monsters. Upgrade your weapons, grasp the power of Olympus, and discover the rich stories you can only find in the Underworld.
10. Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition
From the beloved Dragon Quest series, this game hails you as the Luminary– the hunted hero who must protect the kingdom of Erdrea from destruction. Join a ragtag group of adventurers, forge your gear, level up your party members’ skills, and engage in epic turn-based battles as you travel across the kingdom. This version also lets you change between HD and 16-bit graphics, giving everyone a kick of nostalgia for long-time fans of the series.
Honorable Mentions
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
- Bayonetta 2
- Dark Souls Remastered
- Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Looking for more video games to play? Check out our latest video game lists. Stay in the loop and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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