The Nintendo Switch continues to captivate gamers worldwide, offering an unrivaled blend of convenience and quality. As we step into 2024, the platform boasts an impressive catalogue of titles that cater to a wide range of tastes. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you through the top 25 must-play games for the Switch this year, highlighting the unique experiences each one brings to the table.
1. The Ink-splattered Fun of Splatoon 3
Splatoon 3 stands out as a premier multiplayer experience. This unique shooter game focuses on covering arenas with colorful ink, allowing players to swim swiftly in squid form. It’s not just about the vibrant turf wars; the game also offers varied play styles and a compelling single-player campaign.
2. Super Mario Maker 2
Super Mario Maker 2 turns dreams into reality, letting players design their Mario levels or even full-length campaigns. It’s a playground for creativity and also a never-ending source of fun, thanks to its expansive community-driven content.
3. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Three Houses takes the Fire Emblem series in a refreshing direction by introducing social simulation and an explorable hub world. Strengthening bonds with your students enhances their abilities in battle, making for an addictive strategic loop.
4. Persona 5 Royal: A Must-Play RPG
Renowned for its engaging story, stunning visuals, and captivating music, Persona 5 Royal is an essential title for RPG fans. The game beautifully balances thrilling battles with everyday life challenges.
5. Celeste: A Masterpiece of Platforming
Celeste challenges players with its precise mechanics and thoughtful level design, standing tall among the best in indie and 2D platforming. It’s a visual and auditory delight, available at an irresistible price.
6. Octopath Traveler 2
With eight intertwining stories and a vast world, Octopath Traveler 2 improves on its predecessor in every way, delivering a deeply engaging RPG experience rooted in classic turn-based combat.
7. Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread delivers an action-packed adventure, blending exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat into a memorable experience that was worth the nearly two-decade wait.
8. Pokémon Sword and Shield
These games introduced groundbreaking features like the Wild Area and the Gigantamax phenomenon, setting a new standard for the Pokémon franchise.
9. Pikmin 4
Pikmin 4 elevates the series with its strategic gameplay, adorable characters, and challenging missions, making it the best installment yet.
10. Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition
This masterpiece brings quality of life improvements and a new epilogue, enhancing one of the most epic RPG stories ever told.
11. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD
Experience Zelda like never before with motion-controlled combat and puzzle-solving that redefine the series.
12. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Packed with innovation and charm, this title possibly ranks as the best 2D Mario game, thanks to its inventive levels and badge system.
13. Kirby And The Forgotten Land
Kirby’s 3D debut surprises with challenging gameplay and hidden treasures, wrapped in an engaging story and flawless controls.
14. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
This game takes self-expression to new heights with deep customization options, introducing crafting and terraforming to the beloved series.
15. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
With an expanded course selection and timeless gameplay, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains the pinnacle of kart racing.
16. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
These titles lay the foundation for an exciting future, offering extensive exploration and a rich narrative that stands out in the Pokémon saga.
17. Xenoblade Chronicles 3
The epic conclusion to a beloved trilogy, this game offers stunning worlds, thrilling combat, and an unforgettable soundtrack.
18. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: The Ultimate Crossover
Featuring a vast roster of iconic characters, Ultimate sets the gold standard for fighting games, offering endless fun in both solo and multiplayer modes.
19. Pokémon Legends Arceus
This game revolutionizes the Pokémon formula with real-time battles and exploration, delivering the most immersive experience yet.
20. Hollow Knight: The Indie Darling
Hollow Knight sets a new benchmark for 2D action-adventure games with its intricate world and challenging gameplay.
21. Metroid Prime Remastered
This remastered version enhances the original with stunning visuals and refined gameplay, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.
22. Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Monolith Soft’s masterpiece weaves a compelling tale set in a breathtaking world, with deep mechanics and emotional depth.
23. Super Mario Odyssey
Mario’s latest journey is a groundbreaking exploration of new worlds, thanks to his new companion Cappy, offering endless fun and discovery.
24. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
A masterpiece that transformed expectations, Breath of the Wild is an epic journey through a beautifully realized world, setting a new standard for the genre.
25. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Building on its predecessor’s foundations, Tears of the Kingdom expands the Zelda formula with innovative gameplay and a captivating story, securing its place as the ultimate Switch game.
The Nintendo Switch library is richer and more diverse than ever before, offering something for everyone. From breathtaking adventures to strategic battles, these games provide countless hours of entertainment.
