Nintendo

There are a plethora of games I would recommend, but before getting into the ones that are exclusive to the Nintendo Switch, I’d like to mention the vast amount of indie and retro games available on the hybrid console. I really fell in love with the independent platformer Celeste due to its availability on the Switch, and being able to play NES and SNES titles on the go is a major win for me!

But what about the Nintendo games? If you are a fan of adventure, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is truly a unique experience, departing from the formula that fans had come to expect of the series. I bought my Switch with this game the day they both released, and I still find myself logging in to explore Hyrule today! The exploration, combat, and world-building gave me a sense of awe I hadn’t felt since I was a six-year-old first exploring the polygonal version of Hyrule in Ocarina of Time.

For platformers, I’d recommend Super Mario Odyssey. This, to me, is the most polished and mechanically tight game that is made exclusively for the Switch. The way you can use so many different types of moves to traverse the beautiful and diverse levels is really something else, and the deep moveset Mario sports this time around means you can really challenge yourself in the endgame. It takes the style of 3D Mario games that you’ve come to expect, and adds an extremely satisfying twist on that, making for an experience both veteran players and those new to the series can enjoy.

If you’re more into shooters, Splatoon 2 has scratched an itch I never even knew I had. I’m traditionally not a fan of FPS-type games (granted, the Splatoon series is from a third-person camera perspective), but the childish tone of the game paired with its unbelievably catchy soundtrack has created an addiction in me. I will say, though, that if you are considering buying this game, you should know that the developers have slowed down adding updates to the game. Unfortunately, this means that your opportunity to engage in “Splatfests” (incredibly fun limited-time events) has passed.

Lastly, I’d recommend Super Smash Bros. Ultimate to almost everybody. This is a game you can play with friends or family, casual or competitive, and still have an absolute blast! Including every character from the series was such a cool move by the developers, making this definitely the “ultimate” entry in the Super Smash Bros. series!

If you can’t tell, I really love this console. To me, games are at their best when there is a social component readily available. I love bringing it to family gatherings for some quality Super Mario Party or 1-2 Switch action. I’ve even played Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with other passengers on a flight who I just happened to see with their own Switch! For anybody who even remotely enjoys playing games, the Nintendo Switch is a must-have.