The Best Games for Nintendo Switch
Nintendo has been one of the biggest names in home gaming for decades, and they've stepped up their game big time with the introduction of the Switch. The Switch melded the portability of fan favorites like the Gameboy and DS with the high-quality graphics and elevated gameplay of newer systems. The Switch has since become one of Nintendo’s most beloved consoles yet, with one of the broadest ranges of compatible games to choose from. To help you in your search, we’ve put together this list of the best Nintendo Switch games on the market.
What to Look For
We take our Switch experience seriously, so we made sure to find the best games by asking four guiding questions: How broad is the target audience, from youngsters to adult gamers? Does it offer long (or even infinite) gameplay? Does it bring immersive, interesting, and engaging graphics? Does it have that Nintendo charm that keeps us coming back for more? Our favorite is Just Dance 2021 since this edition not only keeps us on our toes but also boasts impressive graphics and a vast catalog of songs. But if you’re more interested in engaging in the excitement of adventure, we recommend checking out Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. There’s a lot to consider, so read on to find the right Switch game for you.
Just Dance 2021
Get into the groove
The Just Dance series has attracted a massive fanbase for years, and their best installment, Just Dance 2021, is sure to keep those numbers growing. Just Dance 2021 is a dancing game where the objective is to make all of the correct dance moves in time while jamming out to a wide array of hit songs. The gameplay features a few dancers performing the moves in real time while a ticker in the bottom right shows you which moves and when to bust them.
This heart-pumping game features a vibrant soundtrack of modern hits. And if you want more music, you can sign up for a monthly subscription that gives you access to a vast database of tunes. The scope of the genres and vibes featured in Just Dance 2021 is expansive, so there’s sure to be something here for every music fan.
Pros:
- You can get some exercise while having a fun time dancing and competing.
- There is a “Sweat Mode” that allows you to track the number of calories you’ve burned while dancing.
- The range of musical variety is impressive.
Cons:
- The monthly subscription can be a bit pricy for some.
- Some of the non-subscription games can be a little too difficult for beginners and kids.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
The journey of the hero
Taking place 100 years before the events of Breath of the Wild, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity follows the story of Link and Princess Zelda as they gather allies in an attempt to thwart the destructive efforts of their archenemy Ganon. Hyrule Warriors is one of the best-received games from both gamers and critics alike, who praise it for its intuitive gameplay, varied character POVs, and depth of character backstories. The game might be a bit of a culture shock for some fans of the main Zelda game series because of its more combat-centric gameplay, but we think it’ll be a rewarding and immersive experience for those willing to play a new kind of game in a familiar setting.
Pros:
- Unlike most Zelda games, this one lets you play as characters other than Link, including the Royal Princess of Hyrule herself.
- For Breath of the Wild fans, this adventure adds new depth to the complex history of Hyrule.
Cons:
- The gameplay is more combat-centric than the main Zelda series game, which might be a turnoff to some fans.
Minecraft Dungeons: Hero Edition
Join forces
Minecraft is one of the most iconic and instantly recognizable games of all time. One thing missing from the free-roaming original, however, was an engrossing story to engage with, and that’s where Minecraft Dungeons picks up the slack.
Minecraft Dungeons is the perfect choice for those who long for the gameplay of older PC MMORPGs such as Diablo and World of Warcraft but with some modern sensibilities. With Minecraft Dungeons, you get the creativity inherent in all Minecraft properties, alongside the fulfilling and challenging quests you’d find in more traditional adventure games. For gamers of all stripes, we can’t recommend this one enough.
Pros:
- It has the feel of older MMORPGs blended with a modern and cheeky Minecraft sensibility.
- This clearly has a greater attention to detail in the graphics than in the original game.
Cons:
- The gameplay can become repetitive throughout different levels.
Super Mario 3D All-Stars
The past, present, and future
This bundle contains three of the best games Nintendo has ever made, all for the price of one game. From the nostalgic Super Mario 64 to the bombastic expanses of Super Mario Galaxy, this pack covers over twenty years of the iconic plumber. Seeing timeless classics like Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine remastered for use on the Switch would be cause enough to celebrate sold separately, but together with Super Mario Galaxy makes this bundle a gaming revelation.
Pros:
- In many gamers’ opinions, the three classic games are the best Mario titles ever released.
- Although much of the graphics have been remastered, they still preserve the original games’ charms.
Cons:
- The older games might not hold up to newer players.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The battle begins
If you never thought you’d be able to see Mario, Pikachu, Link, and Donkey Kong squaring off amidst a storm of electricity and fire, this game is going to blow your mind.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the latest installment of this high-octane melee-style game where no holds are barred. Play with up to eight people, add in computer players, choose your items and locations, and you’re ready to rumble. It’s been out for a little while now, but in that time, it has garnered heavy praise for being one of the very best in the entire franchise. The Super Smash Bros. games have never had much in the way of a compelling story mode, but if you’re looking for a great multiplayer game to whip out at parties, this is unquestionably the pick for you.
Pros:
- Unlike previous editions, this one has a well-balanced fighter list, letting you compete with dozens of Nintendo’s most famous characters.
- The inclusion of online battles adds a new element of competitiveness.
Cons:
- The lack of an engaging story mode makes the single-player mode pretty uninteresting, so it’s best enjoyed with company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play Nintendo Wii or Gamecube games on my Switch?
Unfortunately, Nintendo changed their game discs’ format since the Gamecube and Wii generations. However, some Gamecube and Wii games have been updated for compatibility with the Switch (such as Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine from the 3D All-Stars bundle pack).
Can I play a Switch handheld like I would a Nintendo DS?
Yes, you can play the Switch hooked up to a larger monitor screen or play it on the smaller LCD screen on the device. The Switch’s screen is 4” by 9.4” in size, and the separate controllers can connect to each side for handheld button controls.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.