The Nintendo Switch has been arguably one of the most successful Nintendo console systems after the Wii U and 3DS era. However, due to the limited storage space that the Nintendo Switch inherently has as well as relatively expensive games, one might be overwhelmed by the sheer fact that there are more than 4,000 Nintendo Switch games available to purchase. Not to fear, as here are the top 10 games on the Nintendo Switch system according to a wide assortment of reviews and critics.
10. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a Metroidvania (a subgenre of action-adventure video games focused on guided non-linearity and utility-gated exploration and progression) that takes influence and inspiration from plenty of places but combined with novel concepts to create something truly incredible. It boasts its charming hand-drawn art style, its haunting soundtrack, its flexible combat system, its satisfying movement mechanics, and the list goes on. All of its aspects, both proprietary and borrowed, are packed into work in beautiful tandem.
9. Celeste
Celeste is a surprise masterpiece, with its 2D platforming being one of the toughest since Super Meat Boy. The game’s levels are just as challenging to figure out as they are satisfying to beat. However, its greatest triumph would be its best-in-class jumping and dashing, which is blended beautifully with a sincere story and beautiful soundtrack that makes for a genuinely emotional game
8. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The eighth game on the list is a remake of the eighth Mario Kart game. Mario Kart 8 was already a great success story on the Wii U, and this success was able to transfer to the Nintendo Switch as well. Even though the deluxe version is nearly a carbon copy of the original game with a few extra game modes, it was still able to reach a wide audience on the Nintendo Switch, being one of the best-selling Nintendo games. This game features beloved Mario characters (and those from other Nintendo franchises) and places all of them on various racetracks. Its simple controls allow for a smooth experience for both returning veterans and newbies alike.
7. Hades
In 2020, Hades was nominated for the Game Awards’ Game of the Year. Even though it didn’t win this category, it was nominated for eight other categories too, winning Best Indie and Best Action Game. Hades is a game heavily referencing the Greek underworld with ruthless and challenging affairs while maintaining a steady momentum using excellent storytelling. It’s that mix of progression and gameplay that make Hades as delectable as ambrosia itself.
6. Luigi’s Mansion 3
Luigi’s Mansion 3 is a dream for those who are into mildly horror games. Charming, clever, and aesthetically pleasing, the game consists of 17 levels of ghost-hunting. While the levels aren’t as challenging as thematically similar games, the creative boss fights and deviously hidden easter eggs will keep players busy for a dozen hours to come.
5. Metroid Dread
The fanbase of the Metroid series has had growing expectations for a new Metroid game for 20 years already, and Metroid Dread was Nintendo’s response to this drought. This game has clearly met the fans’ expectations; it’s easily the silkiest game in the series, running at 60 fps. Metroid Dread incorporates both new and returning game mechanics along with a plethora of new weapons and abilities the series now cannot live without. With high production values, incredible game design, and its labyrinthine map, this new Metroid game is not one to miss.
4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Released right on the doorstep of the ongoing pandemic, Animal Crossing: New Horizons provided many gamers with an escape from reality. It is one of the best-selling Nintendo games so far, with 34 million copies sold to date. This game is suitable for players of all ages due to its simplicity, encouraging them to keep up with chores, redecorate, or spend time acquiring rare fish.
3. Super Mario Odyssey
A masterclass in 3D platforming, Super Mario Odyssey combines and refines the best elements from every preceding Mario game with new gameplay mechanics to create a blend of nostalgia and novelty. New players will adore traversing through diverse worlds, while veterans will spend hours upon hours to complete objectives that await their dexterity and skill.
2. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a celebration of the progression of gaming, and one of the most ambitious crossovers yet. This game boasts more than 89 playable fighters originating from 40 different franchises, both of Nintendo and third-party developers. Even though it was designed to be a party fighting game, this video game has a startling esports scene found everywhere in the world.
1 Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Even though this game was one of the first Switch games ever, it has maintained its position as the best Nintendo Switch game ever since its launch. Breath of the Wild was awarded Best Game of the Year in 2017, and rightfully so. It offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and scale in the palm of your hands, telling a breathtaking story as you glide, cook, and battle your way through the kingdom of Hyrule. It was able to reinvigorate the series in a way that fans had only dreamed of, propelling itself to the number one spot on the list.
