By: Max Cannon
It's been about a year since the launch of the Nintendo Switch, an awesome handheld/console hybrid that brought potentially the best first-year library we've ever seen. If you're looking for a game to add to your collection, whether you were a day one Switch owner or a newcomer, then check out our favorite titles on the Nintendo Switch to really get the most out of your system.
5. Splatoon 2
Splatoon 2 isn't without its problems but the idea is so original and purely Nintendo that it's easy to forgive many shortcomings. Rather than fall into the traditionally violent fights of most third-person shooters, Splatoon focuses on covering as much ground as possible with colored ink from your squirt guns. The squid/kid characters are fast, easy to control, and fairly balanced while playing online. Though the sequel mostly regurgitates ideas from the original game, things don't feel stale because the idea is so uniquely fresh. If you'd already played the game and are looking for a reason to return then this summer's Octo Expansion update to the game could be just what you're after.
Splatoon 2's upcoming DLC will focus heavily on single-player content.Courtesy of Nintendo
4. Rocket League
This is the only non-exclusive game on this list but it feels right at home on the Switch. Rocket League nearly immediately hit the mainstream when it launched as a PlayStation Plus title and fans were desperate for a port to the Switch. While the performance and visuals definitely perform weaker than Xbox, PlayStation or PC, the gameplay is so much fun whether you're sitting down for a single round or settling in for a long session. The simple "soccer with cars" premise may seem silly on paper but once you've tried it for yourself can you really see why people are so excited. And, if you don't have a Switch, you could still try this game on any other platform.
Rocket League is a perfect fit for a handheld console like the Switch.Courtesy of Nintendo
3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
While lacking the single-player focused content of our other games, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is possibly the best entry in the long-running franchise and the fact that every Switch comes equipped with a 2-player setup means that some shared local multiplayer is already an option. If you were able to play the game during its initial launch on the Wii U then you'd know how awesome that game could truly be when enjoyed on the go. The game is really no different than what made past entries special but the well-refined gameplay, courses, and items make this the best game to play as well as to look at with some 1080p and 60 frames per second visuals.
The Inklings aren't confined to the Splatoon games.Courtesy of Nintendo
2. Super Mario Odyssey
This is the 3D Mario game everyone was waiting for. Super Mario Odyssey brings players the excellent gameplay of Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Sunshine with gorgeous visuals and an instantly classic collection of music, there's not much more you could ask for than this. Tons of collectibles, places to explore, and costumes to wear keep the game engaging enough absorb hours and hours of your time. The best platforming a gamer could ask for is made accessible with great controls and a difficulty that's fair to tons of different players. This is the kind of game that keeps Nintendo as a household name.
Odyssey's colorful kingdoms keep the game feeling diverse and fresh.Courtesy of Nintendo
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Probably the greatest launch game ever, aside from Nintendo 64's Super Mario 64, Breath of the Wild took a noticeable step forward with the Zelda formula by bringing a game that presented the most freedom we've ever seen in the series. The story definitely took a backseat to the gameplay but this Zelda is a game that constantly generates little "water cooler" moments that are unique to each player's own experience. I'd easily say it's the best single-player game available on the console.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017 Trailer
Have Your Say?
This is just our list of Switch games but what would yours look like? Which Switch games are your favorites? Share your thoughts below!
