Top Nintendo Switch Launch Games You Need To Play

Nov 3, 2025 by Admin 50 views

So, you've just snagged yourself a brand-new Nintendo Switch, huh? Awesome! Getting a new console is always super exciting, but let's be real, a console is only as good as the games you can play on it. The Nintendo Switch had a pretty stellar launch lineup, offering a mix of big hitters and quirky indies to keep you glued to that vibrant screen. Let's dive into some of the best Nintendo Switch launch games that you absolutely need to check out, whether you're a day-one adopter or a newcomer to the Switch family.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Okay, let's kick things off with the absolute giant of the launch lineup: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. I mean, come on, guys! This game was a system seller, and for good reason. It's not just one of the best Nintendo Switch launch games; many argue it's one of the greatest games ever made. Forget everything you thought you knew about Zelda games, because Breath of the Wild throws the traditional formula out the window and gives you a massive, open world to explore at your own pace. You play as Link, who wakes up after 100 years of slumber with no memory of what happened. Your mission? To defeat Calamity Ganon and save Hyrule.

But the beauty of Breath of the Wild isn't just in its main quest. It's in the freedom it gives you to explore. You can climb almost any surface, glide across vast distances, and experiment with the environment in creative ways. See a mountain in the distance? You can climb it! Spot an enemy camp? Sneak in and set off an explosive barrel! The possibilities are endless, and the sense of discovery is truly magical. The game's physics engine is also incredibly impressive, allowing for emergent gameplay moments that will leave you constantly surprised and delighted. The art style is gorgeous, with a vibrant color palette and a painterly aesthetic that makes Hyrule feel both vast and intimate. And let's not forget the music, which is both epic and melancholic, perfectly capturing the game's themes of loss and hope.

Breath of the Wild isn't without its challenges. The weapon durability system can be frustrating at times, and the game's performance can dip in certain areas. But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise masterful game. If you own a Nintendo Switch and haven't played Breath of the Wild yet, what are you waiting for? Seriously, drop everything and go play it right now. You won't regret it.

1-2-Switch

Alright, let's switch gears (pun intended!) and talk about something a little different. 1-2-Switch was one of those best Nintendo Switch launch games that was designed to showcase the unique capabilities of the Joy-Con controllers. Instead of focusing on the screen, 1-2-Switch encourages you to look at your opponent and interact with them directly. It's a collection of minigames that utilize the Joy-Con's motion controls, HD Rumble, and IR camera.

Think of it like a modern-day Wii Sports, but with a focus on face-to-face interaction. You might be milking a cow, quick-drawing a pistol, or trying to guess how many marbles are in a box using the HD Rumble. The minigames are simple, but they can be surprisingly fun, especially when played with a group of friends or family. 1-2-Switch is definitely a party game, and it's best enjoyed in a social setting. It's not something you're likely to play for hours on your own, but it's a great way to break the ice and get everyone laughing. The HD Rumble is a real standout feature, allowing you to feel subtle vibrations that mimic real-world sensations. It's a neat gimmick that really adds to the immersion.

Now, 1-2-Switch did receive some criticism for its price point. Some felt that it was too expensive for what it offered. And it's true that the minigames are relatively shallow. But if you're looking for a fun, social experience that showcases the Switch's unique features, 1-2-Switch is worth checking out. Just be prepared to look silly in front of your friends.

Super Bomberman R

For those who love a bit of retro action with a modern twist, Super Bomberman R was among the best Nintendo Switch launch games to deliver. This game brought the classic Bomberman formula to the Switch with updated graphics, new characters, and online multiplayer. If you're not familiar with Bomberman, the gameplay is simple: you run around a maze-like arena, dropping bombs to destroy blocks and eliminate your opponents. The last bomber standing wins.

Super Bomberman R features a story mode that can be played solo or cooperatively with a friend. It also has a battle mode that supports up to eight players, either locally or online. The online multiplayer can be a blast, especially when you're playing with friends. The game also includes a variety of power-ups that can give you an edge in battle, such as increased bomb range, speed boosts, and the ability to kick or punch bombs. The graphics are colorful and cartoony, and the music is upbeat and catchy. Super Bomberman R is a great game for those who want a simple, addictive, and social gaming experience.

While Super Bomberman R is a fun game, it did receive some criticism for its initial lack of content and high price point. However, Konami has since released several updates that have added new characters, stages, and game modes. So, if you were turned off by the initial reviews, it might be worth giving the game another look. It’s a solid addition to the Switch's library of multiplayer games.

Snipperclips – Cut it out, Together!

Looking for a charming and innovative puzzle game? Snipperclips – Cut it out, Together! was one of the best Nintendo Switch launch games that offered a unique cooperative experience. You and a friend play as Snip and Clip, two paper-like characters who can cut each other into different shapes to solve puzzles.

The puzzles in Snipperclips are clever and require a lot of communication and teamwork. You might need to cut each other into specific shapes to fit through openings, carry objects, or trigger switches. The game is designed to be played cooperatively, and it's at its best when you're working together with a friend to figure out the solutions. Snipperclips also has a solo mode, but it's not as enjoyable as the cooperative mode. The game's art style is simple and charming, and the music is whimsical and upbeat. Snipperclips is a great game for couples, families, or anyone who enjoys a good puzzle.

Snipperclips is a relatively short game, but it's packed with creative and challenging puzzles. It's also one of the most affordable games in the Switch's launch lineup. If you're looking for a unique and enjoyable cooperative experience, Snipperclips is definitely worth checking out.

Honorable Mentions

While the games above were some of the biggest and most notable launch titles, there were a few other gems that are worth mentioning:

Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove: While not technically a new game at launch, Shovel Knight landed on the Switch right away and was an amazing experience on the go. A fantastic indie title.
Fast RMX: A fast-paced futuristic racer that showed off the Switch's graphical capabilities. A worthy successor to the F-Zero series.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch had a strong launch lineup, offering a variety of games for different tastes. From the epic open-world adventure of Breath of the Wild to the social fun of 1-2-Switch and the cooperative puzzles of Snipperclips, there was something for everyone. If you're a new Switch owner, be sure to check out these best Nintendo Switch launch games to get the most out of your console. And who knows, you might just discover your new favorite game!