The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid video game console that allows players to enjoy games at home on their television or on the go in handheld mode. It features a 6.2-inch touchscreen display, detachable controllers called Joy-Cons, and the ability to connect to other Switch consoles for multiplayer experiences. It is home to a variety of games, including popular franchises such as Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Animal Crossing. Here are 10 games you won’t want to miss out in 2023!
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
It has become the defining game of 2020. Its cute and immersive simulation of daily life has always been popular, but with the COVID-19 pandemic causing lockdowns, many people have turned to their virtual islands as a way to find social connections and relaxation. Even the task of paying a mortgage to a raccoon seems worth it for the sense of normalcy and community that the game provides.
ARMS
With its combination of quirky cartoon graphics, futuristic weaponry, and stretchy-armed boxing, ARMS is a fresh and distinctive take on the fighting game genre from Nintendo. Its accessible yet competitive gameplay and visually striking style, reminiscent of the popular game Splatoon, make it a highly enjoyable and polished experience. Whether it will make a splash in the world of esports remains to be seen, but in the meantime, you can use its various weapons and abilities to duke it out with your friends
Bayonetta 2
Although it was initially released on the wrong console, Bayonetta 2 has proven itself to be one of the greatest action games of all time. Its precise controls, challenging gameplay, and over-the-top style make it a standout title in the genre. Now that it has been ported to the Switch, it has the opportunity to receive the recognition and admiration it rightfully deserves. If you’re a fan of action games, you won’t want to miss out on this classic.
Bayonetta 3
Bayonetta 3 from PlatinumGames is a true masterpiece of video game action. In addition to the classic punches, kicks, and guns that fans know and love, players can also summon giant demons to aid in combat. The story, as always, is over-the-top and absurd, even by Bayonetta’s standards. It’s sure to captivate players with its enchanting gameplay and wild narrative.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, led by the mastermind behind many beloved Castlevania games, Koji Igarashi, offers a familiar narrative of a demonic castle and a hero on a quest to defeat it. Fans of the Castlevania series will find all the elements they love in this game, from its gameplay to its references to titles such as Symphony of the Night, Aria of Sorrow, and Order of Ecclesia. If you’re looking for a new, high-quality game in the vein of Castlevania that harkens back to before the Lords of Shadow reboot and the disappointing Mirror of Fate, Bloodstained is the game for you.
Bravely Default II
While modern Final Fantasy games have evolved in their own ways, Bravely Default II serves as a reminder of why we fell in love with classic Square Enix JRPGs. The unique combat system, which allows players to either take multiple actions at once or save them up for later turns, adds depth and strategy to the gameplay. The Switch version of the game also boasts beautiful, nostalgically rendered diorama-style graphics. If you’re a fan of classic JRPGs, you won’t want to miss Bravely Default II.
Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer
Crypt of the NecroDancer is a game that combines elements of roguelikes and rhythm games and was a surprise hit in 2015. When it was released on the Nintendo Switch in 2018, it became an even bigger sensation. Now, it’s back in a new form with a Nintendo twist: Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer brings the game’s unique blend of rhythm and dungeon exploration to the world of The Legend of Zelda. This Switch game seamlessly merges Crypt of the NecroDancer with Zelda, creating a fun and accessible experience set to the beat of Zelda’s iconic music. If you’re a fan of either series, you won’t want to miss Cadence of Hyrule.
Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
If you’re in the mood for something simple and timeless, Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics is the perfect choice. This classic compilation includes a variety of vintage games like chess and solitaire, making it easy to play some of the most enduring games of all time with friends. In addition to providing hours of entertainment, Clubhouse Games also serves as an educational resource, offering insights into the history of these classic games, including the interesting early history of Nintendo through the game of Hanafuda. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to these timeless pastimes, Clubhouse Games has something to offer
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
The Switch has gained a reputation for being a platform for game ports, and with good reason. While the Wii U wasn’t as successful as the Wii, it still had a number of fantastic games that went overlooked. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is one such game, a sequel to Donkey Kong Country Returns that offers even more challenge and variety. The Switch version of the game includes Funky Kong Mode, which adds a new, easier setting and a playable character (Funky Kong) to make the notoriously difficult platforming a bit more forgiving. If you’re a fan of challenging platformers, you won’t want to miss out on Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze on the Switch.
Game Builder Garage
Game Builder Garage is an incredibly powerful 3D game creation tool that allows you to create a variety of games, from platformers to racing games to puzzle mysteries. If you enjoyed Super Mario Maker and want to learn more about game development, this is the perfect game for you. The friendly tutorials included in the game teach you how to use the robust “Nodon” coding language, making it easy for even novices to create hitboxes and manipulate the Z-axis like a pro. Whether you’re a seasoned game developer or just starting out, Game Builder Garage has something to offer.