Best To Worst: Ranking Nintendo Switch Games

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Best to Worst: Ranking Nintendo Switch Games

Hey guys! So, you're looking to dive into the world of Nintendo Switch games, huh? Awesome! But with so many titles available, it can be a real head-scratcher trying to figure out what's worth your time and money. That's where I come in! I've put together a comprehensive (and, let's be honest, totally subjective) ranking of Nintendo Switch games, from the absolute must-plays to the ones you might want to skip. Get ready for a wild ride through the Switch library!

The Pinnacle: Absolute Must-Play Nintendo Switch Games

When we talk about the absolute best Nintendo Switch games, we're talking about titles that redefine genres, offer unforgettable experiences, and leave you wanting more long after the credits roll. These are the games that showcase the Switch's unique capabilities and stand as testaments to the power of interactive storytelling and gameplay. Consider these titles as the cornerstones of your Switch library.

  • The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: Where do I even begin? This game isn't just good; it's a masterpiece. Breath of the Wild redefined open-world games with its sheer freedom, incredible physics engine, and a world begging to be explored. You play as Link, waking up after 100 years to a Hyrule ravaged by Calamity Ganon. Your mission? Save the kingdom, of course! But how you do it is entirely up to you. Climb anything, experiment with the environment, and discover secrets around every corner. The sense of discovery is unparalleled, and the combat is both challenging and rewarding. Even after hundreds of hours, you'll still find new things to do. If you own a Switch, you need to play this game. It's not just one of the best Switch games; it's one of the best games ever made.

  • Super Mario Odyssey: Super Mario Odyssey is a pure joy from start to finish. It takes the classic Mario formula and injects it with a healthy dose of innovation, thanks to Cappy, Mario's new hat companion. Cappy allows Mario to "capture" enemies and objects, giving him their abilities. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for exploration and puzzle-solving. The levels are incredibly diverse and imaginative, ranging from bustling cities to forgotten kingdoms. The game is packed with secrets and collectibles, encouraging you to explore every nook and cranny. The controls are tight and responsive, making Mario a joy to control. Super Mario Odyssey is a must-have for any Mario fan or anyone looking for a fun and uplifting gaming experience. This game shows how Nintendo continuously reinvents their flagship franchise.

  • Animal Crossing: New Horizons: When Animal Crossing: New Horizons launched, it was exactly what the world needed. A charming, relaxing, and endlessly customizable escape to a deserted island. You start with nothing but a tent and a dream, and slowly build your island into a thriving community. You can catch bugs, fish, decorate your house, and befriend adorable animal villagers. The game's real-time clock and calendar mean there's always something new to see and do, and the seasonal events keep things fresh. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just a game; it's a lifestyle. It's a perfect way to unwind after a long day, and its creative possibilities are limitless. It's a social experience too, allowing you to visit friends' islands and share your creations. It's an endlessly charming game that will keep you hooked for months, if not years.

The Greats: Highly Recommended Nintendo Switch Games

These games may not quite reach the legendary status of the must-plays, but they're still fantastic experiences that deserve a spot in your collection. They offer compelling gameplay, engaging stories, and polished presentations that will keep you entertained for hours. These are games that consistently receive high praise and are considered essential by many Switch owners.

  • Hollow Knight: Don't let the cute art style fool you; Hollow Knight is a challenging and rewarding Metroidvania with a deep and atmospheric world. You play as the Knight, a silent protagonist exploring the decaying kingdom of Hallownest. The game's combat is precise and demanding, requiring you to master your abilities and learn enemy patterns. The world is vast and interconnected, with secrets hidden around every corner. Hollow Knight is a game that rewards exploration and persistence, and its haunting soundtrack and melancholic atmosphere will stay with you long after you finish playing. It's a true indie gem that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the best Metroidvanias of all time. It's also incredibly affordable, offering hundreds of hours of gameplay for a fraction of the price of a AAA title.

  • Stardew Valley: Stardew Valley is a farming simulator with a surprisingly deep and engaging gameplay loop. You inherit your grandfather's farm and must restore it to its former glory. You can plant crops, raise animals, mine for resources, and befriend the quirky residents of Pelican Town. The game is incredibly relaxing and addictive, and its charming pixel art and upbeat soundtrack create a cozy atmosphere. Stardew Valley is more than just a farming simulator; it's a life simulator. You can get married, have children, and build a community. It's a game that allows you to escape the stresses of modern life and create your own little slice of paradise. And like Hollow Knight, it's an incredible value for the amount of content it offers.

  • Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate truly lives up to its name. It's the ultimate celebration of gaming, featuring a massive roster of characters from across video game history. The gameplay is fast-paced and chaotic, with up to eight players battling it out in iconic stages. The game is easy to pick up and play but difficult to master, with a deep and complex fighting system. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a perfect party game, and its World of Light single-player campaign offers hours of content. Whether you're a casual player or a hardcore fighting game enthusiast, there's something to love about Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of the crossover fighting genre.

The Good: Solid and Enjoyable Nintendo Switch Games

These games are definitely worth checking out, offering fun and engaging experiences, though they might have a few flaws or lack the lasting appeal of the games in the higher tiers. They're still good games, just not quite great.

  • Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a fantastic kart racer with tight controls, beautiful graphics, and a ton of content. It includes all the tracks and characters from the Wii U version, plus new characters and items. The game's online multiplayer is robust and addictive, and its local multiplayer is perfect for parties. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have for any Switch owner, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of the other games on this list due to its lack of significant innovation compared to its predecessor. It's still a blast to play, but it feels more like an enhanced port than a completely new game.

  • Luigi's Mansion 3: Luigi's Mansion 3 is a charming and spooky adventure with clever puzzles and beautiful visuals. You play as Luigi, who must rescue Mario and his friends from a haunted hotel. The game's ghost-busting gameplay is satisfying and addictive, and its cooperative multiplayer mode is a lot of fun. Luigi's Mansion 3 is a great game for all ages, but its relatively short length and lack of replayability prevent it from reaching the top tier. It's a delightful experience while it lasts, but it doesn't offer the same long-term engagement as some other Switch titles.

  • Splatoon 2: Splatoon 2 is a unique and innovative shooter with a vibrant art style and a focus on team-based gameplay. You play as Inklings, who can transform between humanoid and squid forms. The game's main mode, Turf War, involves covering the arena in your team's ink. Splatoon 2 is a refreshing take on the shooter genre, but its online-centric gameplay and lack of a compelling single-player campaign may not appeal to everyone. It's a fantastic game if you enjoy online multiplayer, but it may not be worth the investment if you prefer single-player experiences.

The Mediocre: Playable but Not Essential Nintendo Switch Games

These games are okay. They might have some redeeming qualities, but they're ultimately forgettable experiences that you can probably skip without missing out on too much. There might be some niche appeal here, but generally, there are better options available.

  • 1-2-Switch: 1-2-Switch was a launch title for the Nintendo Switch, designed to showcase the console's Joy-Con controllers. The game features a collection of minigames that require players to interact with each other rather than looking at the screen. While the game is a decent party game, its lack of depth and replayability makes it a hard sell. It's a novelty that wears off quickly, and there are far better party games available on the Switch.

  • ARMS: ARMS is a unique fighting game with extendable arms. The game's motion controls are surprisingly responsive, and its colorful characters and arenas are visually appealing. However, the game's limited roster and repetitive gameplay make it a niche title. It's an interesting concept, but it doesn't quite live up to its potential.

  • Super Mario Party: Super Mario Party is a decent party game, but it lacks the charm and innovation of previous entries in the series. The game's minigames are repetitive, and its reliance on dice rolls can be frustrating. While it's a fun game to play with friends, there are better party games available on the Switch.

The Avoidable: Nintendo Switch Games to Skip

These are the games you should probably avoid. They're either broken, boring, or simply not worth your time or money. There are very few reasons to pick these up.

  • Override: Mech City Brawl: Override: Mech City Brawl is a fighting game featuring giant mechs. The game's controls are clunky, and its graphics are underwhelming. The game's online multiplayer is also plagued with issues. It's a disappointing experience from start to finish.

  • Tiny Racer: Tiny Racer is a racing game with a top-down perspective. The game's controls are unresponsive, and its graphics are basic. The game's lack of content and overall poor quality make it a complete waste of money.

  • Gems of War: Gems of War is a puzzle RPG that combines match-three gameplay with turn-based combat. While the game is free-to-play, its aggressive monetization and repetitive gameplay make it a chore to play. There are far better puzzle games available on the Switch.

Final Thoughts on Nintendo Switch Games

So, there you have it – my completely subjective ranking of Nintendo Switch games! Remember, this is just my opinion, and your mileage may vary. The most important thing is to find games that you enjoy playing. The Nintendo Switch has something for everyone, so get out there and explore! Happy gaming!