Top Nintendo Switch Launch Games: A Definitive Guide
So, you've just snagged yourself a brand new Nintendo Switch, congrats! Now comes the fun part: diving into the game library. But with so many titles vying for your attention, where do you even begin, right? Well, fear not, fellow gamers! Let's explore the best Nintendo Switch launch games that not only showcased the console's potential but also continue to provide hours of entertainment. Get ready to discover some real gems!
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Okay, let's kick things off with a true masterpiece. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild isn't just one of the best Nintendo Switch launch games; it's arguably one of the greatest video games of all time. Seriously, it's that good. From the moment you step out of the Shrine of Resurrection and gaze upon the vast, sprawling world of Hyrule, you know you're in for something special. This game redefined the Zelda franchise, ditching many of the series' established conventions in favor of a completely open-world experience. You're free to explore, experiment, and discover at your own pace, which is incredibly liberating.
What makes Breath of the Wild so compelling? Well, for starters, the world is absolutely brimming with things to do. Whether you're climbing towering mountains, solving ancient puzzles in Shrines, battling fearsome monsters, or simply foraging for ingredients to cook up a delicious meal, there's always something to keep you engaged. The physics engine is also incredibly impressive, allowing for all sorts of emergent gameplay moments. Want to start a forest fire to clear out a group of enemies? Go for it! Want to use a metal weapon to attract lightning during a thunderstorm? Be careful, but yes, you can do that too!
But beyond the gameplay mechanics, Breath of the Wild also boasts a captivating story and a cast of memorable characters. Link's journey to restore his memories and defeat the evil Calamity Ganon is a classic tale of good versus evil, but it's told with a surprising amount of depth and emotion. The game's soundtrack is also absolutely stunning, perfectly capturing the mood and atmosphere of each location. From the serene piano melodies of Kakariko Village to the pulse-pounding battle themes, the music is an integral part of the experience.
And let's not forget about the sheer replayability of Breath of the Wild. Even after you've completed the main story, there's still so much to discover and explore. You can challenge yourself to complete all 120 Shrines, track down every last Korok Seed, or simply wander the world and see what you can find. The game is designed to be played and replayed, and you'll likely discover new things each time you do.
In short, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. It's a landmark achievement in game design and a true testament to the power of interactive storytelling. If you haven't already experienced it, do yourself a favor and pick it up ASAP. You won't regret it!
1-2-Switch
Next up, we have 1-2-Switch, a unique and quirky party game that really showed off the Nintendo Switch's innovative Joy-Con controllers. Now, hear me out! I know this game got a bit of a mixed reception at launch, but I still think it's worth checking out, especially if you're looking for something to play with friends and family. 1-2-Switch is all about interactive mini-games that require you to use the Joy-Cons in creative and unexpected ways. Forget about looking at the screen – the focus is on interacting with your opponent and listening to the audio cues.
One of the most memorable mini-games is "Milk," where you have to pretend to milk a cow using the Joy-Con. It sounds ridiculous, and it is, but it's also surprisingly fun! The HD Rumble feature of the Joy-Con really shines here, as you can actually feel the sensation of milking a cow in your hands. Other mini-games include "Quick Draw," where you have to be the fastest to draw your weapon, and "Ball Count," where you have to guess how many balls are rolling around inside the Joy-Con. Each game is short and sweet, making it perfect for quick bursts of fun.
Now, I'll admit that 1-2-Switch isn't going to keep you entertained for hours on end like Breath of the Wild. It's more of a party game that you pull out when you have guests over. But in that context, it can be a real blast. It's a great way to break the ice and get people laughing and interacting with each other. And it's a perfect example of how the Nintendo Switch can offer unique and innovative gameplay experiences.
One of the criticisms leveled at 1-2-Switch was its price point. Some people felt that it was too expensive for what it offered. And I can understand that perspective. However, if you can find it on sale or used, I think it's definitely worth picking up. It's a unique and memorable game that's sure to provide some laughs. And who knows, you might even discover a hidden talent for milking cows!
In conclusion, 1-2-Switch may not be a system seller, but it's a fun and quirky party game that showcases the potential of the Nintendo Switch's Joy-Con controllers. If you're looking for something to play with friends and family, it's definitely worth considering.
Snipperclips – Cut it out, together!
Don't overlook Snipperclips – Cut it out, together! This is a fantastic puzzle game that's perfect for playing with a friend or loved one. It's all about teamwork and communication as you and your partner must cut each other into different shapes to solve a variety of puzzles. It's simple to learn but challenging to master, and it's guaranteed to provide hours of laughter and frustration in equal measure.
The premise of Snipperclips is deceptively simple. You control two paper characters, Snip and Clip, who can rotate and cut each other into different shapes. By cutting each other, you can create new tools and abilities that allow you to solve puzzles. For example, you might need to cut one character into a point to pop balloons, or cut the other into a bucket shape to carry water. The puzzles are cleverly designed and require you to think outside the box.
What makes Snipperclips so special is its emphasis on cooperative gameplay. You and your partner must work together to figure out how to solve each puzzle. This requires clear communication and a willingness to experiment. There will be times when you accidentally cut your partner into the wrong shape, or when you can't quite figure out how to reach a particular object. But that's all part of the fun! The game is designed to be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding when you finally crack a tough puzzle.
Snipperclips also features a charming art style and a whimsical soundtrack that perfectly complements the gameplay. The characters are adorable, and the environments are colorful and inviting. The game is suitable for all ages, making it a great choice for families. And with its relatively low price point, it's an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a fun and engaging co-op experience.
Beyond the main puzzle mode, Snipperclips also includes a variety of party games that are perfect for playing with a group of friends. These games are more focused on competition than cooperation, but they're still a lot of fun. You can compete to see who can pop the most balloons, score the most points in basketball, or solve puzzles the fastest. The party games add even more replayability to an already excellent package.
In summary, Snipperclips – Cut it out, together! is a must-have for anyone who enjoys puzzle games or cooperative gameplay. It's a clever, charming, and challenging game that's sure to provide hours of entertainment. If you're looking for a game to play with a friend or loved one, look no further!
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
Last but certainly not least, we have Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove. Okay, so technically, Shovel Knight wasn't a launch title in the strictest sense. The Treasure Trove collection, which includes the original game and all its expansions, came to the Switch a little later. But it's such a fantastic game that I couldn't resist including it on this list. Shovel Knight is a love letter to classic 8-bit platformers like Mega Man and Castlevania, but it's also fresh and original in its own right.
You play as Shovel Knight, a valiant knight on a quest to save his beloved Shield Knight from the evil Enchantress. Armed with his trusty shovel, you must traverse a variety of challenging levels, battling enemies and collecting treasure along the way. The gameplay is tight and responsive, and the level design is absolutely brilliant. Each level is packed with secrets and challenges, and you'll need to use all your skills to survive.
But what really sets Shovel Knight apart is its sheer charm. The game is dripping with personality, from its colorful pixel art to its catchy soundtrack. The characters are memorable, and the story is surprisingly engaging. It's a game that's impossible not to love. And with the Treasure Trove collection, you get even more Shovel Knight to enjoy. The collection includes the original game, plus three additional campaigns that let you play as Plague Knight, Specter Knight, and King Knight. Each campaign features unique gameplay mechanics and a brand new story. It's like getting four games for the price of one!
Shovel Knight is also incredibly replayable. You can challenge yourself to complete the game without dying, or try to find all the hidden secrets. The game also features a variety of optional challenges that will test your skills to the limit. And with its retro aesthetic, it's a game that will appeal to both old-school gamers and newcomers alike.
In conclusion, Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. It's a fantastic platformer that's charming, challenging, and incredibly replayable. If you're a fan of classic 8-bit games, you absolutely need to check this one out. You won't be disappointed!
So there you have it, folks! These are just a few of the best Nintendo Switch launch games that are sure to provide hours of entertainment. Whether you're a fan of epic adventures, quirky party games, or challenging platformers, there's something for everyone on the Nintendo Switch. So grab your console, pick up a few games, and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of Nintendo!