The Switch is the second best-selling home console in history, just behind the now-discontinued PlayStation 2. While Nintendo’s handheld console is gradually phasing out in favor of its 2.0 version, the Japanese giant’s first hybrid still has much to offer. As evidence, its game library continues growing with both independent titles and recent installments of star franchises. So, let’s take a look at some Switch games that deserve a buy on the Nintendo eShop.
Super Mario Odyssey
What franchise better embodies Nintendo than Super Mario? From the Super NES to the 3DS, the adventures of the iconic Italian plumber have marked every decade of video gaming. The Switch also had its share of exclusive games, among which Super Mario Odyssey stands as a serious contender for the title of best Mario game of all time. This platformer takes us on a chase around the planet.
Traveling aboard a flying ship, Mario tries to put a halt on Bowser’s plans to marry Princess Peach. The assistance of a strange companion from the Hat country, Cappy, will come in handy to face the Broodals – a group of anthropomorphic rabbit wedding planners – across seventeen worlds. While staying true to the franchise’s core formula, Super Mario Odyssey takes the rewarding risk of originality. Better yet, this fun experience can be shared with another fellow gamer in multiplayer mode.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
One of the most anticipated releases of 2023, the twentieth installation of the world’s most famous action-adventure saga, landed on the Switch last May. Expectations were sky-high after the masterful performance of Breath of the Wild, considered by many as the best game ever released on the console. Already a classic upon its launch, Link’s odyssey in a post-apocalyptic Hyrule kingdom also revolutionized the series’ formula by introducing an unprecedented open-world mechanic.
Tears of the Kingdom won everyone over by asserting itself as the worthy successor to its illustrious predecessor. Praised by critics, the game delighted fans with four newly-introduced special abilities, bringing an exciting new dimension to the gameplay. Overall, a consistently strong storyline and a more detailed open world than ever cement Tears of the Kingdom as an unequivocal must-have for the Switch.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is nothing short of one of the biggest successes of the Nintendo Switch. This adorable life simulation shattered all sales records in 2020, selling over thirty million copies in that very year. Since then, the media hype has calmed down. However, several successive updates now make New Horizons a must-have for gamers seeking a relaxing break.
In addition to new mechanics present in the base game, such as terraforming, which allows players to overhaul their island’s topography, features like cooking and swimming have been introduced. Players tired of hunting bugs or tending to their gardens also have the option to sail in search of exotic islands.
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley puts you in the shoes of a former office worker who left everything behind to take over his late grandfather’s farm. Whether in solo or multiplayer modes, this farm simulation game is not just about gardening and looking after livestock, as Stardew Valley is brimming with activities. Cooking can be a way to befriend the residents of Pelican Town. Fishing trips, mine explorations, and quests also punctuate the year amidst seasonal events. Additionally, retro mini-games await at the saloon, while the back shop of the Oasis offers access to slot machines.
Although these casino games are entertaining, they can quickly become repetitive. Gambling enthusiasts might, therefore, turn to more refined online options. Websites such as CasinoReviews come in handy to find top online casinos worldwide, from America to New Zealand. Reviewers account for key decision-making factors such as payment methods and high-quality bonuses. As such, Kiwi players can easily sort through big brands and niche platforms alike to access pokies and tabletop games. Besides, experts only recommend casinos committed to a safe online environment.
The Nintendo Switch boasts countless must-play games, from laid-back life sims to gripping adventure entries. While the titles above are arguably a cut above the rest, what makes a game a must-have ultimately boils down to personal preferences. Incidentally, we could have mentioned other top-rated Switch titles on Metacritic, from Hades to Persona 5 Royal and Celeste. At any rate, this abundance of exceptional games shows the Switch itself is one console worth owning for all gamers out there.
