Best Nintendo Switch Games: Top Picks For 2024

Hey there, fellow gamers! Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of Nintendo Switch gaming? If you're like me, you know that the Switch is more than just a console—it's a portal to endless adventures, epic quests, and unforgettable characters. With its unique hybrid design, you can game on the go or cozy up on the couch for a marathon session. But with so many incredible titles available, where do you even start? Don't worry, my friends, because I've got you covered! This guide will walk you through some of the top games for Nintendo Switch, ensuring you get the most out of your console. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's jump in!

1. 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. If you own a Switch and haven't played this game yet, you're seriously missing out. This isn't just a game; it's an experience. From the moment you step into the vast, open world of Hyrule, you'll be hooked. The sheer freedom and sense of adventure are unparalleled. You play as Link, who awakens after 100 years to defeat Calamity Ganon and save Hyrule. But the beauty of Breath of the Wild is that you can approach this main quest in so many different ways. Want to explore every nook and cranny of the map first? Go for it! Want to challenge Ganon right away? You can try (though it might be tough!). The world is filled with intricate puzzles, challenging enemies, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're scaling towering mountains, gliding across vast canyons, or delving into ancient shrines, there's always something new to discover. The physics engine in this game is mind-blowing. You can use the environment to your advantage in so many creative ways. Want to set a field of grass on fire to create an updraft? Sure! Want to use a metal weapon to attract lightning during a storm? Go ahead! The possibilities are endless, and the sense of freedom is incredibly empowering. The story is captivating, the characters are memorable, and the gameplay is simply sublime. Breath of the Wild is a must-play for any Switch owner, and it's a game that you'll likely keep coming back to for years to come. It's a true testament to the magic of video games and a shining example of what the Nintendo Switch is capable of.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

Next up, we have another absolute gem: Super Mario Odyssey. This game is pure joy distilled into a video game format. If you're looking for a game that will make you smile from ear to ear, look no further. Mario is back, and this time he's embarking on a globe-trotting adventure to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of the evil Bowser, who's planning a wedding! But Mario isn't alone on this journey. He's joined by Cappy, a sentient hat who can possess enemies and objects. This new mechanic opens up a world of possibilities, allowing Mario to transform into everything from a Goomba to a T-Rex. The levels in Super Mario Odyssey are ingeniously designed, each with its own unique theme and challenges. You'll explore vibrant cities, lush forests, and even the moon! The game is filled with secrets and collectibles, encouraging you to explore every corner of each kingdom. Collecting Power Moons is the name of the game, and there are hundreds of them hidden throughout the world. Some are easy to find, while others require you to solve puzzles or complete challenges. The sense of satisfaction you get from discovering a hidden Power Moon is incredibly rewarding. The gameplay is tight and responsive, and the controls are intuitive. Whether you're running, jumping, or capturing enemies with Cappy, everything feels smooth and fluid. The game is also packed with clever nods to Mario's history, making it a treat for long-time fans of the series. But even if you're new to Mario, you'll find plenty to love in this delightful adventure. Super Mario Odyssey is a masterpiece of game design, a joyous celebration of the platforming genre, and a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. It's a game that will remind you why you love video games in the first place.

3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Ah, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the game that took the world by storm! If you're looking for a relaxing and charming escape from the real world, this is the game for you. In New Horizons, you move to a deserted island and build your own little paradise. You can decorate your house, plant flowers, catch bugs, fish, and befriend adorable animal villagers. There's no real objective in Animal Crossing; it's all about creating your own fun and enjoying the simple things in life. The game runs in real-time, so the seasons change along with the real world. This means there's always something new to see and do, whether it's catching cherry blossoms in the spring or building snowmen in the winter. The animal villagers are one of the highlights of the game. Each villager has their own unique personality, and you'll quickly form bonds with your favorites. They'll ask you for favors, give you gifts, and even visit your house. The customization options in New Horizons are incredible. You can design your own clothes, create custom patterns, and even terraform the island to your liking. The possibilities are endless, and you can truly make your island your own. The game also has a strong online component, allowing you to visit your friends' islands and share your creations. You can trade items, participate in events, and even just hang out and chat. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is more than just a game; it's a community. It's a place where you can relax, be creative, and connect with others. If you're looking for a game that will bring a smile to your face and provide endless hours of enjoyment, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a perfect choice.

4. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Get ready to rev your engines because Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is here! This is the ultimate party game on the Nintendo Switch, and it's guaranteed to bring hours of fun for players of all ages and skill levels. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features a massive roster of characters, including Mario, Luigi, Peach, and many more. Each character has their own unique kart and stats, so you can find the perfect combination for your racing style. The game also includes a ton of different tracks, from classic Mario Kart courses to new and inventive locations. You'll race through underwater ruins, across volcanic landscapes, and even in outer space! The gameplay is fast-paced and chaotic, with plenty of power-ups to help you gain the upper hand. You can throw shells at your opponents, drop banana peels in their path, or even unleash a powerful lightning strike. The power-ups add an element of unpredictability to the races, making every game a thrilling experience. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is perfect for playing with friends and family, whether you're racing in the same room or online. The game supports up to four players in local multiplayer and up to twelve players online. There are also a variety of different game modes to choose from, including Grand Prix, Time Trial, and Battle Mode. Battle Mode is a particular highlight, offering a range of wacky and competitive modes, such as Balloon Battle and Bob-omb Blast. If you're looking for a game that's easy to pick up and play but offers plenty of depth and replayability, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have. It's a true classic that's been perfected for the Nintendo Switch.

5. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Prepare for the ultimate showdown because Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is here! This is the biggest and most ambitious Smash Bros. game ever, featuring a massive roster of characters from across the history of video games. If you're a fan of fighting games or just love seeing your favorite characters duke it out, this is the game for you. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate boasts an unbelievable lineup of fighters, including Mario, Link, Pikachu, and countless others. There are characters from Nintendo franchises, as well as guest characters from other popular games, such as Solid Snake, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Cloud Strife. Each character has their own unique moveset and playstyle, so you can find the perfect fighter to suit your preferences. The gameplay is fast-paced and strategic, requiring you to master your character's moves and learn how to counter your opponents. The stages are also dynamic and interactive, featuring hazards and elements that can change the course of the battle. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers a variety of different game modes, including the classic Smash mode, which pits you against other players in a free-for-all brawl. There's also a robust single-player mode called World of Light, which features a sprawling campaign and a massive roster of Spirits to collect. Spirits are characters from other games that can be equipped to your fighters, granting them special abilities and buffs. Collecting Spirits is a fun and addictive way to enhance your characters and customize your playstyle. The game also has a strong online community, allowing you to battle against players from around the world. Whether you're a casual player or a competitive tournament veteran, you'll find plenty to love in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. It's a celebration of video game history and a masterpiece of the fighting game genre.

6. Pokémon Sword and Shield

Gotta catch 'em all! Pokémon Sword and Shield bring the beloved Pokémon franchise to the Nintendo Switch, offering a fresh and exciting adventure in the Galar region. If you're a fan of Pokémon, or even if you're just curious about the series, these games are a great place to start. In Pokémon Sword and Shield, you embark on a journey to become the Champion of the Galar region. You'll travel through diverse landscapes, battle rival trainers, and of course, catch Pokémon. The Galar region is inspired by the United Kingdom, and it's filled with charming towns, rolling hills, and industrial cities. The Pokémon designs in Sword and Shield are fantastic, with a mix of new creatures and familiar favorites. The game also introduces Dynamaxing, a new mechanic that allows Pokémon to grow to gigantic sizes during battles. Dynamaxing adds a new layer of strategy to the battles, and it's visually impressive to see your Pokémon transform into massive versions of themselves. Sword and Shield also feature the Wild Area, a vast open-world area where you can explore, encounter Pokémon, and participate in Max Raid Battles. Max Raid Battles are cooperative battles where you team up with other players to take on powerful Dynamax Pokémon. They're a fun and challenging way to play with friends and earn rewards. The story in Pokémon Sword and Shield is engaging, and the characters are memorable. You'll meet a cast of colorful trainers, gym leaders, and rivals as you progress through the game. The game also has a post-game storyline that offers even more challenges and content. Whether you're exploring the Wild Area, battling gym leaders, or trading Pokémon with friends, Pokémon Sword and Shield offer a captivating and rewarding experience. They're a must-play for any Pokémon fan and a great entry point for newcomers to the series.

7. Luigi's Mansion 3

Get ready for some spooky fun with Luigi's Mansion 3! This is a charming and hilarious adventure game that puts you in the role of Luigi, Mario's often-nervous but always-lovable brother. If you're looking for a game that's both spooky and silly, this is the perfect choice. In Luigi's Mansion 3, Luigi and his friends are invited to a luxurious hotel for a vacation. But things quickly take a turn for the worse when the hotel turns out to be haunted! Mario, Peach, and the others are captured, and it's up to Luigi to save them. Armed with his trusty Poltergust G-00 vacuum cleaner, Luigi must explore the hotel, capture ghosts, and solve puzzles. The hotel is divided into different themed floors, each with its own unique ghosts and challenges. You'll encounter everything from mischievous poltergeists to powerful boss ghosts. The gameplay in Luigi's Mansion 3 is a clever mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and ghost-busting action. You'll need to use your Poltergust G-00 to suck up ghosts, interact with the environment, and solve puzzles. Luigi also has a few new tricks up his sleeve, including the ability to slam ghosts into each other and launch a gooey doppelganger called Gooigi. Gooigi can squeeze through tight spaces and help Luigi solve puzzles, adding a unique cooperative element to the gameplay. The game's visuals are stunning, with detailed environments and expressive character animations. The ghosts are creatively designed, and the hotel is filled with hidden secrets and surprises. The story is lighthearted and funny, with plenty of slapstick humor and memorable moments. Whether you're exploring the haunted hotel, battling ghosts, or solving puzzles, Luigi's Mansion 3 is a delightful and engaging experience. It's a must-play for fans of adventure games and a perfect choice for gamers of all ages.

8. Metroid Dread

Prepare for a thrilling and suspenseful adventure with Metroid Dread! This is the long-awaited return of the classic Metroid series, and it's a masterpiece of action-platforming and exploration. If you're a fan of Metroidvania games or just love a challenging and rewarding experience, this is the game for you. In Metroid Dread, you play as Samus Aran, a legendary bounty hunter who's investigating a mysterious signal on the planet ZDR. The planet is filled with dangerous creatures and relentless robots called E.M.M.I., who will hunt you down at every turn. The gameplay in Metroid Dread is a perfect blend of exploration, combat, and stealth. You'll explore a vast and interconnected world, discovering new abilities and upgrades that allow you to access previously inaccessible areas. The E.M.M.I. encounters are particularly intense, forcing you to use stealth and cunning to evade these powerful enemies. The game's visuals are stunning, with detailed environments and fluid character animations. The atmosphere is dark and foreboding, creating a sense of tension and suspense. The story is compelling, filled with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Metroid Dread is a challenging but rewarding game that will test your skills and your nerves. It's a triumphant return for the Metroid series and a must-play for fans of action-platforming games.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! These are just a few of the top games for Nintendo Switch that you should definitely check out. From epic adventures to relaxing simulations, the Switch has something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of Nintendo, there's no shortage of incredible games to discover. So grab your Switch, pick a game (or two, or three!), and get ready for some serious fun. Happy gaming, everyone!