The Nintendo Switch has seen a plethora of games that have captivated fans worldwide, but some titles stand out as the must-plays for any Nintendo enthusiast. In 2021, the platform offered a diverse range of experiences, from epic adventures to competitive battlegrounds and cozy communities. Here’s a look at the top 10 best Switch games of 2021 that you shouldn’t miss, each offering a unique reason to be part of your collection.
Key Takeaways
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild continues to set the benchmark for open-world adventure games on the Switch.
- Super Mario Odyssey delivers a classic platforming experience with a modern twist, showcasing Nintendo’s iconic mascot in top form.
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a relaxing escape with its charming world-building and community-driven gameplay.
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains the definitive multiplayer racing experience, perfect for competitive play with friends and family.
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate stands as the ultimate crossover fighting game, featuring an expansive roster of beloved characters.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stands as a monumental achievement in gaming, even years after its release. It’s not just a game; it’s a vast, breathtaking experience that redefines the open-world genre.
- The game offers unparalleled freedom, allowing players to explore the expansive world of Hyrule at their own pace.
- Link’s ability to climb almost any surface and the introduction of numerous Shrines offer a fresh take on the series’ classic exploration and puzzle-solving elements.
- The shift from traditional dungeons to a multitude of Shrines means there’s always something new around the corner.
Breath of the Wild’s Hyrule is a testament to the beauty and scale that video games can achieve. It’s a world brimming with adventure, mystery, and the promise of discovery.
While it was a launch title for the Switch, its legacy continues to influence games within and beyond the Zelda franchise. Its impact is undeniable, and it remains a must-play for any Nintendo fan.
2. Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey stands out as a relentlessly joyful 3D platformer that revolutionized the genre by offering unprecedented freedom. The game features a plethora of large, open levels, each brimming with Power Moons. These moons can be collected through a variety of activities, including challenging platforming sequences, defeating enemies, and solving inventive puzzles.
The introduction of Mario’s sentient hat, Cappy, adds a new dimension to gameplay, providing a fresh array of moves and abilities. For those looking to share the fun, Super Mario Odyssey’s cooperative mode is particularly well-suited for young children, making it a family-friendly choice.
To this day, fans can’t get enough of Super Mario Odyssey’s relentless charm. The adventures of Mario on the Switch continue to be an absolute treat for players of all ages.
Here’s a quick glance at the game’s critical acclaim and details:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Metascore | 97 |
| Platform | Switch |
| Release Date | October 27, 2017 |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| Genre | Platformer |
3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains a top-tier choice for Nintendo Switch players, offering a serene escape to a personalized island paradise. The game’s release coincided with global lockdowns, providing a timely and engaging experience that includes fishing, bug-catching, and home decorating.
The game’s appeal is broadened with continuous updates and the substantial Happy Home Paradise DLC, which introduces a resort area and new design options. The robust customization features, including terraforming, allow players to shape their island to their heart’s content.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons not only brings the series back to home consoles but enhances every aspect of the game, creating an experience that is both familiar to veterans and inviting to newcomers.
The social aspect of the game is also significant, with the ability to have up to 8 players interacting together, making it a perfect game for friends and family to enjoy collectively.
Pricing for the game is consistent across major retailers:
| Retailer | Price |
|---|---|
| Amazon | $60 |
| Walmart | $60 |
| Best Buy | $60 |
4. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
First things first, it’s worth stating that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is easily the best kart-racing game on the market. The gameplay has always been slick, fun, and accessible, and the Deluxe edition on the Nintendo Switch takes it to a whole new level with additional content and features.
With stacks more content, including added tracks and cups, as well as a much-needed overhaul of the Battle Mode, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a comprehensive package that offers endless hours of racing fun.
The game not only includes all the tracks from the original Wii U version but also brings in new racers and a total of 48 tracks, making it a treasure trove for Mario Kart enthusiasts. The introduction of driving assistance settings opens the game up to a wider audience, allowing even younger players to enjoy the thrill of the race without the frustration of constant crashes.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes this game a must-have for any Switch owner:
- Over 40 racers to choose from
- 48 meticulously designed tracks
- Enhanced Battle Mode with new arenas
- Two item slots for strategic gameplay
- Smart steering feature for newcomers
Whether you’re a seasoned karting champion or just looking for some casual fun with friends, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an essential addition to your gaming library.
5. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate stands as a monumental achievement in the fighting game genre, bringing together an unprecedented roster of characters from various franchises. With over 80 fighters, including newcomers like the Splatoon Inklings, and more than 100 stages, the game offers a breadth of content that is unmatched.
The core of the game remains the thrilling combat system where players aim to increase their opponents’ damage until they can be knocked off the stage. This simple yet deep mechanic ensures that both newcomers and veterans can enjoy the game at any level of play.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is not just a game; it’s a celebration of gaming history, packed with content that will keep players engaged for countless hours.
Whether you’re battling it out with friends or honing your skills solo, the game’s variety and depth are sure to provide a lasting and enjoyable experience. It’s no wonder that it’s considered one of the greatest fighting games ever and an essential title for any Nintendo Switch library.
6. Splatoon 2
Splatoon 2 continues to be a standout title in the Nintendo Switch’s library, offering a unique take on the shooter genre with its vibrant ink-based combat and emphasis on territory control. The game’s appeal lies not just in its competitive multiplayer modes but also in its engaging single-player campaign.
- Turf Wars and Salmon Runs remain fan favorites for their fast-paced and strategic gameplay.
- The single-player mode offers exploration, collectibles, and a variety of missions.
- A plethora of weapons and customization options ensures a fresh experience each time.
Splatoon 2’s multiplayer buffet is a testament to the game’s lasting appeal, with a massive amount of modes and options that keep players returning for more.
While veterans may find the experience familiar, newcomers will discover that Splatoon 2 is an excellent gateway into the series. Its family-friendly action and colorful world make it a must-play for any Nintendo Switch owner.
7. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Released to critical acclaim, Fire Emblem: Three Houses stands as a pinnacle of strategic RPGs on the Nintendo Switch. The game invites players into a richly woven narrative where they assume the role of a professor at a mysterious monastery, guiding one of three distinct houses.
The game’s depth is evident in its dual focus on tactical combat and social simulation. Players find themselves deeply engaged in the lives of their students, balancing time between training for battle and fostering relationships. This blend of gameplay elements has been praised for its innovation and execution.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses will stand as a highlight in the series for years to come. With its expanded gameplay styles, retooled combat, and in-depth character customization, it hooks players for potentially hundreds of hours.
The game’s success is reflected in its reception, with accolades such as being named one of the best Nintendo Switch games in Fall 2020. Whether you’re a series veteran or a newcomer, Fire Emblem: Three Houses is an essential experience that sets a new standard for what a strategy RPG can be.
8. Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Xenoblade Chronicles 2 stands as a monumental sequel to the original, offering a vast world suspended in an ocean of clouds. Players embark on a grand adventure across the backs of colossal beasts known as Titans, uncovering the secrets of the world and the history of their civilization.
- Explore a rich, expansive world
- Engage in a deeply strategic combat system
- Experience a compelling narrative with memorable characters
Xenoblade Chronicles 2 not only continues the legacy of its predecessor but also sets the stage for the critically acclaimed Xenoblade Chronicles 3, which has been praised as a masterpiece of the series.
While Xenoblade Chronicles 2 delivers an unforgettable journey, it’s worth noting that the series reaches new heights with Xenoblade Chronicles 3. The latest installment refines gameplay mechanics and presents an even more engaging story, making it a must-play for fans of the franchise.
9. Luigi’s Mansion 3
Luigi’s Mansion 3 is a delightful spookfest that continues the legacy of the series with its charming ghost-hunting gameplay. Luigi is back with his trusty Poltergust vacuum to rescue Mario and friends from the clutches of spectral foes. This time, the action takes place in a haunted hotel, each floor brimming with puzzles, ghosts, and gags.
The game introduces new mechanics, such as the ability to slam ghosts or use Gooigi, a gooey doppelganger that allows for creative problem-solving and co-op play. The ScareScraper mode adds even more fun, offering an 8-player local wireless or online co-op experience where players can team up to tackle ghostly challenges.
Luigi’s Mansion 3 is not just about busting ghosts; it’s a testament to Nintendo’s ability to create a world filled with wonder, humor, and a touch of eeriness.
Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, Luigi’s Mansion 3 is a must-play for anyone looking for a mix of laughter and light-hearted frights on their Nintendo Switch.
10. Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pok\u00e9mon Sword & Shield introduced fans to the Galar region, a diverse landscape teeming with new Pok\u00e9mon and adventures. As a trainer, you embark on a quest to become the Pok\u00e9mon League Champion, starting with a single Pok\u00e9mon and earning badges to prove your skill. The game’s Wild Areas, including additional content from DLCs, provide a refreshing twist to the series with Pok\u00e9mon visibly roaming the environment.
The first mainline Pok\u00e9mon game on the Nintendo Switch, Sword & Shield strikes a balance between innovation and the classic Pok\u00e9mon experience. It’s a game that welcomes newcomers and offers depth for the veterans who wish to explore every corner of the Galar region. Critics have noted that with combined scores of 80 on both Metacritic and OpenCritic, Sword and Shield stand as some of the best Pok\u00e9mon games on Switch.
The Galar region’s Wild Areas represent a significant evolution in how players can interact with Pok\u00e9mon in a natural setting, making the experience more immersive and engaging.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the top 10 best Switch games of 2021, it’s clear that the Nintendo Switch continues to be a powerhouse of gaming joy. From exclusive hits that have fans raving about their 10/10 experiences to hidden gems that have captured our hearts, this list represents the pinnacle of what made gaming on the Switch so memorable in 2021. Whether you’re looking for an epic adventure, a challenging platformer, or a captivating RPG, the Switch has something for everyone. So grab your Joy-Cons, and dive into these must-play titles that have defined a year of exceptional gaming for Nintendo fans. Remember, with a console as versatile as the Switch, every game is an opportunity to explore new worlds and create unforgettable memories, both at home and on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild a must-play for Switch owners?
Breath of the Wild is acclaimed for its open-world exploration, innovative gameplay mechanics, and the freedom it offers players to approach challenges in multiple ways. Its vast, beautiful landscape and engaging story make it a definitive experience on the Switch.
Can Super Mario Odyssey be enjoyed by players of all ages?
Absolutely! Super Mario Odyssey is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for gamers of all ages, featuring family-friendly content, intuitive controls, and a charming world full of creativity and wonder.
What is the appeal of Animal Crossing: New Horizons for gamers?
Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a relaxing escape to a virtual island where players can customize their environment, interact with quirky characters, and engage in various activities at their own pace, making it a unique social simulation game.
Is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe suitable for multiplayer gaming sessions?
Definitely, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe shines as a multiplayer game, offering fun and competitive racing action for up to four players locally and up to twelve players online. Its wide selection of tracks and characters ensures replayability and enjoyment.
What makes Super Smash Bros. Ultimate a standout game in the fighting genre?
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate stands out with its expansive roster of characters from various gaming franchises, its accessible yet deep combat system, and its multitude of game modes catering to both casual and competitive players.
Are there any new RPGs on the Switch that have been highly recommended by fans?
Nintendo Switch fans have recently been captivated by a new RPG that has been described as ‘amazing,’ although specific titles vary over time. It’s always a good idea to check the latest reviews and fan recommendations for new and exciting RPG experiences.
