Ever since its release four years ago (yep, it’s been four years, apparently time flies when you’re having fun), the Nintendo Switch has become an incredibly best-selling system. It’s already sold over 68 million units, and should close in on even more over the course of 2021.
But let’s say you’re just not getting your hands on a Switch or a Switch Lite. Where the heck do you start when it comes to games? Well, there are a lot to choose from, depending what you’re into. Racing? Covered. Platforming? Yep. Adventure? Games for days.
That said, we put together an essential list of games that you shouldn’t miss out on if you’re just getting started in building your library. Prep your credit card and get your shelving space ready, because you won’t be able to do without these gems!
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
To be honest, the last time we admired such an amazing launch title for a system was back in 1999, when SoulCalibur released for the Dreamcast. (Well, maybe Halo for the Xbox, too.) But The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a spectacular tour-de-force. An open-world adventure filled to the brim with utmost quality and genuine surprises, it continues to be an engrossing tale after all this time – and a game that no player should be without. Get your best dungeon-crawling face on and give this a go. Just remember to take it easy when you’re rock climbing, yeah?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
“So why are you guys recommending a game that was already released for the Wii U?” Um, because not everyone got a Wii U? Not to mention that it’s one of the best racing games out there, if not the best. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe carries over all the momentum of its previous release, complete with multiplayer options (both local and online), a slew of memorable tracks, gravity-bending gameplay and beautiful visuals that pop to life in both TV and handheld modes.
Even if you’ve never tried a Mario Kart game before – and seriously, where have you been if you haven’t – this is an absolute must, especially for party nights.
Super Mario Odyssey
Amazing Mario games have been commonplace over the years, from the classic Super Mario 64 to the awesome Super Mario Galaxy. But Super Mario Odyssey is something special, a game that has you explore a whole universe filled with challenges, tasks and all sorts of hidden goodies. And it does so with a wondrous soundtrack, gorgeous 60 frames per second visuals and a rousing finale that would put the smile on any given Mario fan’s face. When it comes to Super Mario Odyssey, you just gotta say, “Yes-see!”
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
There’s a damn good reason that Animal Crossing: New Horizons has sold millions of copies since its release. I mean, sure, COVID is a pretty big one. But the game itself is probably the most charming Crossing to date. Innocuous charm oozes from this adventure, with hours’ worth of gameplay that all ages can enjoy. On top of that, memorable characters and a simple but well-done presentation bring it all home. Plus there’s seasonal events and stuff you can do with friends. It’s got that small-town charm, which is a rare feat for such a big title!
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
This is easily the best fighting game you can own on the Switch right now, a tour-de-force that brings together a mishmash of a cast across the gaming world. And what’s more, Ultimate is adding on even more faces, including oddball favorites like Banjo Kazooie and Steve from Minecraft, with additional ones coming in the months ahead. But the real draw here?
Multiplayer. You can clash with friends no matter your skill set and have a ball doing it, with multiple people joining in at once. Also, did we mention how diverse the visuals and sound are?
All these additions tying in with the characters. We love it.
Bayonetta 2
Okay, so this may be an oddball favorite that’s more reserved for hardcore gamers and those that don’t mind the pure sexiness of Bayonetta. But what’s wrong with that? The Nintendo
Switch has become home to a number of great mature titles, and Bayonetta 2 takes the cake with splendid graphics, wild gameplay and all sorts of ridiculousness, courtesy of our favorite witch. Plus, if you can find the game new, you’ll also get the original Bayonetta for your trouble.
And that’s more than enough to keep you busy while we wait for the third chapter to arrive.
Luigi’s Mansion 3
Like all the ghosts that pop up in the game, Luigi’s Mansion 3 has a way of sneaking up on you. It’s a fun, well-designed adventure where Luigi has to use his powerful vacuum to shut down ghostly forces while solving puzzles and exploring each area. There’s secrets hidden galore, along with a story that’s genuinely fun as it unfolds. Be sure to check into this hotel, but be careful – you may never want to leave!
What favorites do you want to pick up for Nintendo Switch? Leave us some recommendations below and we’ll visit them for a future article!
Want to win a PlayStation 5 while you’re at it? Here’s your chance!
