Top Nintendo Switch Games: Must-Play Titles In 2024

Hey there, fellow gamers! If you're a proud owner of a Nintendo Switch, you already know the magic this little console holds. Its versatility, allowing you to play both on your TV and on the go, makes it a true game-changer. But with a vast library of games available, it can be overwhelming to choose the next adventure. Fear not! This guide will walk you through the top games for Nintendo Switch, ensuring you don't miss out on the absolute best experiences this console has to offer. We'll dive deep into various genres, from action-packed adventures to brain-teasing puzzles, ensuring there's something for everyone. So, grab your Joy-Cons, get comfortable, and let's explore the incredible world of Nintendo Switch gaming!

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is more than just a game; it's a masterpiece. Seriously, guys, if you own a Switch and haven't played this yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest video game experiences of all time. This isn't your typical Zelda game. Forget the linear path and rigid structure of previous titles. Breath of the Wild throws you into a massive, breathtaking open world and simply says, "Go explore!" And explore you will. From the moment you step out of the Shrine of Resurrection, the vastness of Hyrule unfolds before you, beckoning you to uncover its secrets. The freedom is unparalleled. You can climb any surface, cook meals using foraged ingredients, tame wild horses, and even glide across the map using a paraglider. The sense of discovery is constant, with something new and exciting around every corner. You might stumble upon a hidden shrine, encounter a fearsome monster, or simply find a beautiful vista that takes your breath away. The combat system is also a major departure from previous Zelda games. Link now has a variety of weapons at his disposal, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Swords, spears, axes, and bows are just a few of the options, and you'll need to master them all to survive. Durability is a factor, so you'll need to be mindful of your equipment and scavenge for new weapons regularly. The puzzles in Breath of the Wild are ingenious. The game encourages you to think outside the box and use your environment to your advantage. You might need to use fire to create updrafts, metal objects to conduct electricity, or even magnesis to manipulate metal structures. The sense of accomplishment you feel when you solve a particularly challenging puzzle is incredibly rewarding. The story, while not as central as in some other Zelda games, is still compelling. You play as Link, who awakens from a 100-year slumber to find Hyrule in ruins. Calamity Ganon, an ancient evil, has returned, and it's up to Link to defeat him. The story unfolds gradually as you explore the world and uncover memories of Link's past. The characters you meet along the way are memorable and charming, adding depth to the world and making you care about the fate of Hyrule. Breath of the Wild is a game that will stay with you long after you finish it. Its sheer scope and ambition are awe-inspiring, and its gameplay is so addictive and rewarding. If you're looking for an adventure that will truly immerse you, look no further. This is a must-own for any Nintendo Switch owner.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is a joyous celebration of everything that makes Mario great. Guys, this game is pure, unadulterated fun from start to finish. It's a vibrant, creative, and endlessly charming adventure that will put a smile on your face. Odyssey takes Mario to a variety of wonderfully imaginative kingdoms, each with its own unique theme and challenges. You'll explore bustling cities, sandy deserts, lush forests, and even a land made entirely of food! The level design is simply brilliant, packed with secrets, surprises, and collectibles to discover. But the real star of the show is Cappy, Mario's new companion. This sentient hat allows Mario to "capture" enemies and objects, taking control of them and using their abilities. This mechanic opens up a whole new world of gameplay possibilities. You can control a T-Rex, a Goomba, a Bullet Bill, and dozens of other creatures, each with their own unique moveset. The capturing mechanic adds a layer of depth and creativity to the gameplay that is simply unmatched. The game is also incredibly generous with its collectibles. Power Moons, the game's main collectible, are hidden everywhere, and you'll constantly be finding new ones as you explore. The feeling of discovery is constant, and it's incredibly satisfying to find a hidden Power Moon after a bit of searching. The game is also surprisingly challenging, especially if you're aiming to collect every Power Moon. Some of the challenges require precise platforming and clever use of Cappy's abilities. The boss battles are also a highlight, each one being a unique and memorable encounter. The story is simple but effective. Bowser has kidnapped Princess Peach (again!) and plans to force her into marriage. Mario, with the help of Cappy, sets out on a globe-trotting adventure to rescue her. The story is really just a framework for the amazing gameplay, but it provides a nice sense of progression and motivation. Super Mario Odyssey is a game that is bursting with creativity and joy. It's a masterpiece of game design that will appeal to players of all ages and skill levels. If you're looking for a game that will make you smile, laugh, and feel like a kid again, look no further. This is a must-own for any Nintendo Switch owner.

3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ultimate escape. Guys, if you're looking for a game that will let you unwind, relax, and express your creativity, this is it. New Horizons is a charming and addictive life simulation game that puts you in charge of your own deserted island. You start with nothing but a tent, a few basic tools, and a handful of adorable animal villagers. From there, you can build your dream island, crafting furniture, decorating your home, and making friends with your neighbors. The game operates in real-time, so the seasons change, the days and nights pass, and there's always something new to do. You can go fishing, catch bugs, dig up fossils, plant flowers, and much more. The game is incredibly open-ended, allowing you to play at your own pace and focus on the activities that you enjoy the most. One of the biggest draws of New Horizons is the sheer amount of customization options available. You can customize your home, your clothes, your island layout, and even the look of your villagers. The game encourages you to express your creativity and make your island truly your own. The social aspect of New Horizons is also a major draw. You can visit your friends' islands, trade items, and even participate in special events together. The game fosters a sense of community and encourages players to connect with each other. The game also receives regular updates, adding new content, events, and features. This ensures that the game stays fresh and engaging, even after you've played it for hundreds of hours. The sense of progression in New Horizons is incredibly satisfying. You start with nothing and gradually build your island into a thriving community. The feeling of accomplishment you get from creating something beautiful and unique is truly rewarding. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a game that is both relaxing and addictive. It's the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life, and it's a game that you can play for hours on end without getting bored. If you're looking for a game that will make you feel happy and relaxed, look no further. This is a must-own for any Nintendo Switch owner.

4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate truly lives up to its name. Guys, this is the ultimate fighting game, bringing together every character who has ever appeared in the Super Smash Bros. series. That's over 80 characters! From Mario and Link to Pikachu and Samus, and even characters from other franchises like Solid Snake, Cloud Strife, and Banjo-Kazooie, the roster is simply mind-blowing. But it's not just the massive character roster that makes Smash Ultimate so special. The gameplay is fast-paced, chaotic, and incredibly fun. The goal is to knock your opponents off the stage, and there are countless ways to do so. You can use a variety of punches, kicks, and special moves, as well as items that appear on the stage. The game is easy to pick up and play, but it has a surprising amount of depth and complexity. Mastering the controls and learning the nuances of each character takes time and dedication, but it's incredibly rewarding. The game also features a huge amount of content, including a single-player campaign, a classic mode, a training mode, and a variety of multiplayer modes. You can play with friends locally or online, and there's always a challenge to be found. The single-player campaign, World of Light, is a massive adventure that will keep you entertained for hours. You'll travel across a sprawling map, fighting against a variety of enemies and unlocking new characters. The classic mode is a more traditional arcade-style mode, where you fight a series of opponents and face a challenging boss at the end. The game also features a robust online multiplayer system, allowing you to compete against players from all over the world. You can participate in ranked matches, unranked matches, and even create your own custom arenas. The online community is active and passionate, and there's always someone to play with. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a game that is packed with content and replayability. It's a must-own for any fighting game fan, and it's a game that you can play for years to come. If you're looking for a game that is both fun and challenging, look no further. This is a must-own for any Nintendo Switch owner.

5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive Mario Kart experience. Guys, if you're looking for a fun, competitive, and family-friendly racing game, this is it. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe takes the best of the Wii U version and adds even more content, characters, and features. The result is a polished and refined racing game that is sure to provide hours of entertainment. The game features a massive roster of characters, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, Yoshi, and many more. There are also characters from other Nintendo franchises, such as Link, Inkling, and Isabelle. Each character has their own unique stats and abilities, so you can choose the character that best suits your playstyle. The game also features a wide variety of karts, bikes, and tires, which you can customize to create your perfect racing machine. The tracks in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe are brilliant and inventive. You'll race through underwater courses, anti-gravity tracks, and even tracks that change dynamically as you race. The game is visually stunning, with vibrant colors and detailed environments. The gameplay in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is fast-paced and chaotic. You'll need to master the drifting mechanics and item usage to stay ahead of the competition. The items in the game are a blast to use, from the classic banana peel and green shell to the more powerful blue shell and lightning bolt. The game also features a variety of modes, including Grand Prix, Time Trial, Versus, and Battle. You can play with friends locally or online, and there's always a challenge to be found. The Battle mode in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is particularly enjoyable, with a variety of modes and arenas to choose from. You can compete in Balloon Battle, Bob-omb Blast, Coin Runners, and more. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a game that is easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master. The controls are intuitive, and the game is accessible to players of all skill levels. However, mastering the drifting mechanics and item usage takes time and practice. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-own for any Nintendo Switch owner. It's a game that is fun for the whole family, and it's a game that you can play for years to come. If you're looking for a racing game that is both fun and competitive, look no further.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! Our top picks for the best games on the Nintendo Switch. This console truly offers something for everyone, from epic adventures to relaxing life sims. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of Nintendo, there's a game on this list that will capture your imagination and provide hours of entertainment. The Nintendo Switch continues to be a powerhouse in the gaming world, and with a constant stream of new releases and updates, the future looks bright for this versatile console. So, grab your Switch, pick a game, and get ready for an unforgettable gaming experience!