The Nintendo Switch might not be as hyped up as the Xbox and PlayStation, but it can offer tons of fun and classic gaming too. It is also designed to be light, compact, and easily playable—whether you are on the go or if you prefer to go all out and play using a huge television.
Unfortunately, when it comes to their game catalog, Nintendo Switch pales in comparison with that of Xbox and PlayStation. Admittedly, the Switch mostly just carries classic Nintendo games such as Super Mario and Pokémon. But to be fair, the Switch is relatively younger than its rivals, so it’s understandable that developers would need time to address compatibility or even iron out partnership agreements.
Despite its modest catalog, the Nintendo Switch can still hook you up for hours on end. If you haven’t owned this console yet and you’re curious about which game titles can offer the best Switch gaming experience for you, check out the list below:
1. Pokémon Unite
It’s hard to imagine purchasing a Nintendo Switch and not finding a single Pokémon game on it. After all, Pokémon is one of Nintendo’s most successful franchises. When you buy a Switch, you can expect to have free Nintendo Switch Pokémon games to start playing with.
Among the many Pokémon games that are already available on the Nintendo Switch, Pokémon Unite is definitely one of the best. Released in 2021, it has proven to be a unique Pokémon game because it follows the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) format—following the lead of popular mobile games these days such as Mobile Legends and League of Legends.
Since it’s a 5v5 MOBA game, you’re required to team up with four other players and face an opposing team. Your objective in Pokémon Unite is to level up your Pokémon, defeat the opposing team and the wild Pokémon to earn the most points. You need to work together as a unit to win. This means you and the other four players need to have perfect synergy.
2. Super Mario Odyssey
Aside from Pokémon, Super Mario is one of Nintendo’s most successful franchises. So, you can always expect to have a free Super Mario game when you get the Switch. Like every Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey offers the typical action-adventure platform game—only this time, Mario is running around in a 3D hat-themed world.
Mario feels new and fresh after leaving the mushroom kingdom in this game. However, he still maintains every bit of its retro charm and nostalgia, because this game still contains green pipes and ground pounds.
3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing is probably one of the most relaxing games you can play on the Switch. This game is set on an island where you can build your own cottage, plant crops, catch fish and insects, go snorkeling, and befriend other animal villagers.
Friendship is a big deal in every Animal Crossing game. To improve friendship levels with another character, you have to interact with them, send gifts, or even do favors. Don’t worry, your friends will also do the same for you!
4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Launched in 2017, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is another Nintendo Switch-exclusive that makes the console worth purchasing. This is a fantasy action game set on an open-world map that players can freely explore.
No matter how many times you play the game, there’s always something new to discover in its rich landscape—whether that be hidden items, world secrets, or new characters and missions. Players have the freedom to complete the main campaign early or put that off and go on side quests. If you’re the type of player who likes exploring the in-game world first, then you can also do that in The Legend of Zelda. You can wander off various paths, swim in waters, or check out different towers.
5. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby is another classic Nintendo character who is easily recognizable due to its pink and puffy appearance. In Kirby and the Forgotten Land, you can go on new adventures with Kirby and discover new environments and civilizations.
You will also be tasked to help Kirby’s friends with the help of Elfilin, Kirby’s new mysterious companion. This game can be more fun if you encourage your friends to join the local co-op mode where you can solve and explore puzzles together.
Takeaway
The Nintendo Switch might not offer a wide range of games unlike other consoles, but it does feature a lot of familiar classics that make it a worthy purchase. Pokémon, Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, and Kirby have entertained gamers from different generations—all thanks to Nintendo. The more recent Animal Crossing is also making its mark among a new generation of gamers.
