Top New Nintendo Switch Games You Need To Play In 2021
Hey everyone! Ready to dive into the awesome world of Nintendo Switch games from 2021? There were so many incredible titles that year, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on some of the absolute best. Whether you're into action-packed adventures, brain-teasing puzzles, or immersive RPGs, there's something here for every type of gamer. So, grab your Switch, get comfy, and let's jump right in!
Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise absolutely dominated the gaming scene in 2021, and for a good reason. If you're a fan of action RPGs, this is one title you cannot miss. The game transports you to the vibrant and colorful world of Kamura Village, where you take on the role of a hunter tasked with protecting the village from monstrous threats. What sets Monster Hunter Rise apart is its fast-paced combat, innovative traversal mechanics, and stunning Japanese-inspired visuals.
The introduction of the Wirebug mechanic revolutionized the way players navigate and battle monsters. With the Wirebug, you can zip through the air, scale cliffs, and unleash devastating aerial attacks. This added verticality to the combat encounters makes each fight feel dynamic and engaging. Plus, the new Palamute companions are a fantastic addition, allowing you to ride into battle and execute coordinated attacks with your furry friend. The variety of monsters to hunt is staggering, ranging from the agile Great Izuchi to the colossal Magnamalo. Each monster has its unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring you to adapt your strategies and gear accordingly. Crafting new weapons and armor from the materials you gather is incredibly satisfying, and the sense of progression keeps you hooked for hours on end.
Monster Hunter Rise also shines in its multiplayer mode, where you can team up with friends or other hunters online to tackle even more challenging quests. Coordinating your attacks and sharing resources makes the hunts feel like a true collaborative effort. The sense of camaraderie and shared accomplishment after taking down a formidable monster is truly rewarding. Whether you're a seasoned Monster Hunter veteran or a newcomer to the series, Monster Hunter Rise offers an accessible and thrilling experience that will keep you coming back for more. The game's blend of action, strategy, and exploration makes it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch, and it's a must-have for any RPG enthusiast. Trust me, guys, you'll get addicted to this game!
Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread marked the triumphant return of Samus Aran in a thrilling 2D adventure that fans had been waiting decades for. As the first original side-scrolling Metroid game in nearly 20 years, Metroid Dread delivers a masterclass in atmosphere, exploration, and suspense. The game plunges you into the dark and foreboding planet ZDR, where Samus must confront a mysterious threat that could endanger the entire galaxy.
What makes Metroid Dread so captivating is its emphasis on stealth and evasion. The introduction of the E.M.M.I. robots, relentless and near-invincible hunters, adds a layer of tension and fear that permeates every corner of the game. When an E.M.M.I. is nearby, you must rely on your wits and agility to avoid detection, using stealth maneuvers and environmental obstacles to your advantage. These encounters are heart-pounding and genuinely terrifying, making each successful escape feel like a major victory. Beyond the E.M.M.I. encounters, Metroid Dread stays true to the series' roots with its intricate level design and focus on exploration. As you traverse the labyrinthine corridors of ZDR, you'll uncover hidden pathways, collect power-ups, and gradually expand your abilities. The sense of discovery is incredibly rewarding, and the game constantly encourages you to revisit previously explored areas to uncover new secrets.
The combat in Metroid Dread is tight and responsive, with Samus wielding an arsenal of iconic weapons and abilities. Mastering the use of the Screw Attack, Morph Ball, and various beam weapons is essential for taking down the hostile creatures that inhabit ZDR. The boss battles are particularly memorable, requiring you to exploit enemy weaknesses and execute precise maneuvers to emerge victorious. With its stunning visuals, haunting soundtrack, and expertly crafted gameplay, Metroid Dread is a true masterpiece that honors the legacy of the Metroid series while pushing it forward in exciting new directions. If you're a fan of action-adventure games, this is an absolute must-play on the Nintendo Switch. The sense of dread is real, but so is the satisfaction of overcoming its challenges. Honestly, one of my favorites from that year!
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is a delightful package that combines the charm of Super Mario 3D World with the open-world adventure of Bowser's Fury. Originally released on the Wii U, Super Mario 3D World makes its triumphant return on the Nintendo Switch with enhanced visuals, smoother gameplay, and the addition of online multiplayer. The game follows Mario and his friends as they embark on a colorful and whimsical journey to rescue the Sprixie Princess from the clutches of Bowser.
What makes Super Mario 3D World so enjoyable is its creative level design and focus on cooperative gameplay. Each level is packed with clever challenges, hidden secrets, and inventive power-ups. The Cat Suit, in particular, is a standout addition, allowing you to climb walls, pounce on enemies, and zoom through levels with feline grace. The game supports up to four players in local or online multiplayer, making it a perfect choice for family game nights or friendly gatherings. The chaotic fun of coordinating your jumps, sharing power-ups, and competing for the high score is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Bowser's Fury, on the other hand, offers a completely different experience with its open-world design and dynamic weather system. You explore the interconnected islands of Lake Lapcat, collecting Cat Shines to quell the raging fury of Bowser.
The scale of Bowser's Fury is impressive, with a seamless transition between the open-world environment and the more traditional platforming challenges. The battles against Fury Bowser are epic and visually stunning, as the colossal beast unleashes fiery attacks that transform the landscape around you. Teaming up with Bowser Jr. to take down his father adds a unique twist to the gameplay, and the sense of accomplishment after defeating Fury Bowser is incredibly satisfying. Whether you're a fan of classic Mario platforming or open-world adventures, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury offers a wealth of content and replayability. The combination of two distinct gameplay styles makes it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch, and it's a must-have for any Mario enthusiast. It's like getting two amazing games in one!
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap brought a fresh perspective to the Pokémon universe, trading battles and training for photography and exploration. As a sequel to the beloved Nintendo 64 game, New Pokémon Snap invites you to embark on a scenic journey through the Lental region, capturing stunning photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats. The game is a relaxing and immersive experience that appeals to both longtime Pokémon fans and newcomers alike.
What makes New Pokémon Snap so engaging is its focus on observation and discovery. You ride in the NEO-ONE, an automated vehicle that glides along predetermined paths, allowing you to focus on taking the perfect shot. The key to capturing great photos is to pay attention to the environment, use items to interact with the Pokémon, and experiment with different angles and compositions. The game rewards you for taking creative and well-composed photos, with each photo being graded based on its pose, size, direction, and background. Building up your Photodex and discovering new Pokémon behaviors is incredibly satisfying.
The Lental region is teeming with diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush jungles to vibrant coral reefs. Each area is home to unique Pokémon species, and you'll need to use your wits and observation skills to capture them in their most natural and expressive moments. The game also features a day-and-night cycle, which affects the behavior of the Pokémon and reveals new photo opportunities. New Pokémon Snap is more than just a photography game; it's a celebration of the Pokémon world and its inhabitants. The game's relaxing gameplay, stunning visuals, and charming soundtrack make it a perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life. If you're looking for a unique and heartwarming experience on the Nintendo Switch, New Pokémon Snap is definitely worth checking out. It's like going on a virtual safari, but with Pokémon!
Shin Megami Tensei V
Shin Megami Tensei V made a significant splash on the Nintendo Switch, delivering a dark and challenging RPG experience that fans of the series had been eagerly anticipating. Set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, the game follows a high school student who merges with a mysterious being to become a Nahobino, a powerful entity capable of fighting against demons and shaping the fate of the world. Shin Megami Tensei V is known for its deep and strategic combat system, intricate demon fusion mechanics, and morally ambiguous storyline.
What sets Shin Megami Tensei V apart is its focus on demon negotiation and fusion. Instead of simply battling demons, you can attempt to negotiate with them, convincing them to join your party. Each demon has its own personality and motivations, and you'll need to carefully consider your words and actions to earn their trust. Once you've recruited a demon, you can fuse it with other demons to create even more powerful allies. The fusion system is complex and rewarding, allowing you to experiment with different combinations and create a team that suits your playstyle.
The combat in Shin Megami Tensei V is turn-based but highly strategic. Exploiting enemy weaknesses is crucial for success, as hitting a weakness grants you an extra turn. However, enemies can also exploit your weaknesses, so you'll need to carefully manage your party's resistances and abilities. The game is notoriously difficult, and even experienced RPG players will find themselves challenged by the game's relentless enemies and demanding boss battles. Shin Megami Tensei V is a mature and thought-provoking RPG that explores themes of morality, free will, and the nature of good and evil. The game's dark atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and intricate storyline make it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch, and it's a must-play for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a game that will test your skills and challenge your beliefs, Shin Megami Tensei V is the perfect choice. Just be prepared for a tough but rewarding journey!
These are just a few of the new Nintendo Switch games that made 2021 such a memorable year for gaming. Each of these titles offers a unique and engaging experience that will keep you entertained for hours on end. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Switch and start playing!