Top Nintendo Switch Games To Play In 2024
Hey guys! Ready to dive into the awesome world of Nintendo Switch games in 2024? You're in the right place! The Nintendo Switch continues to be a powerhouse of fun, offering everything from epic adventures to cozy indie gems. So, let's explore the best Nintendo Switch games that you absolutely need to check out this year. We'll cover a range of genres to make sure there's something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the Switch scene. Get your Joy-Cons ready – it's game time!
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Okay, let’s kick things off with a bang! The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is arguably the must-play game on the Nintendo Switch. Following up on the monumental success of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom takes everything to the next level. The sheer scope of the game is mind-blowing. We’re talking about a massive Hyrule to explore, both on the ground and in the skies, with floating islands and intricate cave systems.
The gameplay is where Tears of the Kingdom truly shines. Link's new abilities, like Fuse, Ultrahand, and Recall, open up a world of creative possibilities. Fuse lets you combine weapons and items to create powerful and hilarious combinations – imagine attaching a bomb to a shield or creating a fire-spewing sword. Ultrahand allows you to build vehicles and structures, solving puzzles and traversing the environment in incredibly inventive ways. Recall lets you reverse the time of objects, adding another layer of complexity to puzzle-solving and combat. These mechanics aren't just gimmicks; they're deeply integrated into the core gameplay, making every encounter and exploration feel fresh and exciting.
The story is captivating, filled with memorable characters and emotional moments. While it’s a direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom introduces new mysteries and challenges that keep you hooked from start to finish. The dungeons are more elaborate and engaging than in its predecessor, and the boss battles are epic spectacles that will test your skills and creativity. The world is teeming with secrets to uncover, side quests to complete, and hidden treasures to find. Whether you're soaring through the skies on a makeshift glider, delving into dark and dangerous caves, or battling hordes of enemies, Tears of the Kingdom offers an unparalleled sense of adventure and discovery.
Visually, the game is stunning, with vibrant colors, detailed environments, and impressive draw distances. The art style perfectly blends the familiar aesthetic of Breath of the Wild with new, imaginative designs. The soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of orchestral scores and atmospheric tunes that perfectly capture the mood of each location. Tears of the Kingdom is a technical marvel on the Nintendo Switch, pushing the console to its limits while maintaining a smooth and enjoyable gameplay experience. This game isn't just a sequel; it's a masterpiece that redefines what an open-world adventure can be. If you own a Nintendo Switch, this is an absolute must-have. Prepare to lose countless hours exploring Hyrule and unleashing your creativity in this unforgettable gaming experience.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Next up, let’s chill out with Animal Crossing: New Horizons. If you’re looking for a relaxing and endlessly charming game, this is it. Animal Crossing: New Horizons took the world by storm, and for good reason. It's the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You start on a deserted island and slowly build it into your own personal paradise. The gameplay is simple but incredibly addictive. You can catch bugs, fish, dig up fossils, and decorate your house to your heart's content.
One of the best things about Animal Crossing is the sense of community. The villagers are all unique and lovable, each with their own personalities and quirks. Getting to know them, helping them out, and building friendships is a core part of the experience. The game also encourages creativity. You can design your own clothes, furniture, and even entire landscapes. The possibilities are endless, and it's amazing to see the incredible creations that players come up with.
What sets New Horizons apart from previous Animal Crossing games is the level of customization and control you have over your island. You can terraform the land, move buildings around, and create custom paths and decorations. This level of freedom allows you to truly make the island your own, reflecting your personal style and creativity. The game is constantly updated with new events, items, and features, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. Whether it's seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas or collaborations with other franchises, there's always something new to look forward to.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just a game; it's a community, a creative outlet, and a way to relax and unwind. It's perfect for players of all ages and skill levels, and it's easy to pick up and play for a few minutes or a few hours. If you're looking for a game that will bring a smile to your face and provide endless hours of fun, look no further than Animal Crossing: New Horizons. It's a true gem on the Nintendo Switch and a must-have for anyone looking for a cozy and heartwarming gaming experience. So, grab your net, plant some flowers, and get ready to create your own island paradise!
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Alright, let's switch gears to something fast-paced and competitive: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This game is a classic for a reason. It’s the ultimate party game, perfect for playing with friends and family. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn't just a game; it's an institution. It's been a staple of Nintendo consoles for decades, and the Deluxe version on the Switch is the definitive edition. With its colorful characters, inventive tracks, and chaotic power-ups, it's a recipe for endless fun and laughter.
The gameplay is simple to pick up but difficult to master. You race around a variety of tracks, from the classic Rainbow Road to new and imaginative courses. Along the way, you collect power-ups that can help you get ahead or sabotage your opponents. The blue shell, the banana peel, the lightning bolt – these are all iconic Mario Kart items that can turn the tide of a race in an instant. The sense of competition is fierce, but it's all in good fun. Whether you're playing against friends on the couch or online with strangers, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.
What makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe so special is its accessibility. Anyone can pick up a controller and start playing, regardless of their gaming experience. The game offers a variety of control options, including motion controls, which make it easy for even the youngest players to join in. At the same time, the game has a surprising amount of depth for more experienced players. Mastering the drift mechanic, learning the best shortcuts, and timing your power-ups just right can give you a significant edge in a race.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes all the tracks and characters from the original Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U, as well as new characters and tracks. The addition of the Booster Course Pass has further expanded the game's content, adding dozens of new tracks inspired by previous Mario Kart games. This ensures that there's always something new to discover, even if you've been playing the game for years. The game looks and sounds fantastic, with vibrant graphics and catchy music. The tracks are beautifully designed, with plenty of detail and personality. The sound effects are classic Mario Kart, and the music is guaranteed to get stuck in your head. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. It's the perfect party game, the perfect competitive game, and the perfect game to play when you just want to unwind and have some fun. So, grab your friends, pick your favorite character, and get ready to race!
Hades
Now, for something a little different, let's talk about Hades. This rogue-like dungeon crawler is a masterpiece of game design. Hades isn't just a game; it's an experience. It's a rogue-like dungeon crawler that has taken the gaming world by storm, and for good reason. With its tight gameplay, compelling story, and stunning art style, it's a game that will keep you coming back for more. You play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, who is trying to escape the Underworld. Each run is different, with randomly generated levels, enemies, and power-ups. The goal is to reach the surface, but the odds are stacked against you.
The gameplay is incredibly addictive. You fight your way through hordes of enemies, collecting power-ups called Boons from the Olympian gods. These Boons grant you special abilities and buffs, allowing you to customize your play style. The combat is fast-paced and fluid, and the game is constantly throwing new challenges at you. Even if you die, you'll still make progress, unlocking new weapons, abilities, and story elements. The sense of progression is incredibly satisfying, and it keeps you motivated to keep trying.
What sets Hades apart from other rogue-like games is its story. The characters are all richly developed and the dialogue is witty and engaging. You'll learn more about Zagreus's family and the history of the Underworld as you progress through the game. The story is told through conversations with the other characters, as well as through environmental details and item descriptions. It's a masterclass in storytelling, and it elevates Hades above its genre peers.
Hades is a visual masterpiece, with a unique and striking art style. The characters are beautifully designed, and the environments are richly detailed. The game runs smoothly on the Nintendo Switch, even during the most chaotic combat encounters. The soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of orchestral scores and electronic music that perfectly captures the mood of the game. Hades is a must-play for any fan of rogue-like games, or anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding gaming experience. It's a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing, and it's a testament to the power of independent game development. So, grab your sword, collect your Boons, and get ready to escape the Underworld!
Metroid Dread
Finally, let's wrap things up with Metroid Dread. This game is a triumphant return to form for the Metroid series. Metroid Dread isn't just a game; it's a legend reborn. It's the first original 2D Metroid game in nearly two decades, and it doesn't disappoint. With its tight controls, challenging level design, and atmospheric presentation, it's a game that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. You play as Samus Aran, a bounty hunter who is sent to investigate a mysterious planet. The planet is filled with dangerous creatures and deadly robots called E.M.M.I., which can kill you in one hit.
The gameplay is classic Metroid, with an emphasis on exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. You explore the planet, unlocking new abilities that allow you to access new areas. The combat is fast-paced and challenging, and the E.M.M.I. encounters are terrifying. These robots are relentless, and you'll need to use all your skills to evade them. The game is constantly throwing new challenges at you, and it's incredibly rewarding to overcome them.
What sets Metroid Dread apart from other Metroid games is its atmosphere. The game is dark and foreboding, and the sense of dread is palpable. The environments are beautifully designed, with plenty of detail and hidden secrets. The sound design is equally impressive, with eerie music and unsettling sound effects that create a sense of unease. Metroid Dread is a visual masterpiece, with stunning graphics and smooth animation. The game runs flawlessly on the Nintendo Switch, even during the most intense action sequences. The controls are tight and responsive, and the game is easy to pick up and play. Metroid Dread is a must-play for any fan of the Metroid series, or anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding action-adventure game. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of the Metroid formula, and it's a welcome return to form for the series. So, grab your blaster, explore the planet, and get ready to face your fears!
So there you have it – some of the best Nintendo Switch games you should definitely be playing in 2024. Whether you're into epic adventures, cozy simulations, competitive racing, or challenging rogue-likes, the Switch has something for everyone. Happy gaming, and I'll catch you in the next one!