Top Nintendo Switch Launch Games To Play Now
So, you've just snagged yourself a Nintendo Switch, huh? Awesome! Getting your hands on a new console is always super exciting, and the Switch is no exception. But now comes the big question: What games should you dive into first? Launch games are special; they’re the titles that introduce you to a console's capabilities and set the tone for what's to come. Let's break down some of the best Nintendo Switch launch games that you absolutely need to check out.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Okay, let's be real – if you own a Switch, playing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild isn't just recommended; it's practically mandatory. This game isn't just a launch title; it's a masterpiece that redefined open-world adventures. From the moment you step out into Hyrule, you're greeted with a world brimming with possibilities.
Breath of the Wild throws the traditional Zelda formula out the window in the best way possible. Forget linear dungeons and predictable storylines. Here, you’re free to explore a massive, interconnected world at your own pace. Want to head straight to Hyrule Castle and face Ganon right away? Go for it! The game gives you the freedom to tackle challenges in any order you choose, making each playthrough feel unique.
What makes Breath of the Wild truly special is its attention to detail and emergent gameplay. The world feels alive, with dynamic weather, realistic physics, and an ecosystem that reacts to your actions. You can climb almost any surface, cook meals using ingredients you find in the wild, and experiment with different weapons and armor to create your own playstyle. The sense of discovery is constant, and you'll often stumble upon hidden secrets and breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe.
The combat system is also a standout. It's challenging but fair, requiring you to think strategically and use your environment to your advantage. Whether you're parrying enemy attacks, setting traps with elemental arrows, or using the Sheikah Slate's abilities to manipulate objects, there's always a creative way to approach each encounter. And let’s not forget the dungeons – or rather, the Divine Beasts. These massive mechanical constructs are unlike anything seen in previous Zelda games, offering intricate puzzles and epic boss battles that will test your skills.
Breath of the Wild isn't just a game; it's an experience. It's a journey that will stay with you long after you've rolled credits. If you're looking for a game that will captivate you with its beauty, challenge you with its gameplay, and inspire you with its sense of freedom, look no further. This is a must-have for any Switch owner, and it's the perfect way to kick off your adventure on Nintendo's hybrid console.
1-2-Switch
Alright, let's switch gears (pun intended!) and talk about 1-2-Switch. This game was designed to showcase the unique capabilities of the Nintendo Switch's Joy-Con controllers, and it does so in a wonderfully quirky and social way. 1-2-Switch is less about what you see on the screen and more about how you interact with each other in the real world.
The concept is simple: you and your friends or family face each other, holding a Joy-Con in each hand. The game presents a series of mini-games that require you to use the Joy-Cons' motion controls and HD rumble feature. The catch? You're supposed to look at your opponent, not the screen, as you play.
This might sound strange, but it's what makes 1-2-Switch so much fun. The game encourages you to pay attention to your opponent's movements and reactions, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. Whether you're trying to quick-draw in a Wild West duel, milking a cow, or counting marbles in a box, the focus is on the physical interaction and the social dynamics between players.
Now, 1-2-Switch isn't a game you're likely to play solo for hours on end. Its strength lies in its ability to bring people together and create memorable moments. It's the perfect party game for gatherings, family reunions, or even just a casual night with friends. The mini-games are easy to pick up, but they can be surprisingly competitive, leading to plenty of laughter and friendly rivalry.
Some of the standout mini-games include "Milk," where you have to mimic milking a cow as accurately as possible; "Quick Draw," a classic Western-style duel that tests your reflexes; and "Ball Counting," where you have to guess how many balls are rolling around inside the Joy-Con. Each mini-game is designed to highlight a different aspect of the Joy-Cons' technology, showcasing their precision and sensitivity.
While 1-2-Switch may not have the depth or replayability of other launch titles, it's a unique and entertaining experience that demonstrates the innovative spirit of the Nintendo Switch. If you're looking for a game that will get you and your friends moving, laughing, and interacting, 1-2-Switch is definitely worth checking out. It's a fun and quirky way to show off your new console and create some unforgettable memories.
Snipperclips: Cut It Out, Together!
Next up, we have Snipperclips: Cut It Out, Together! This charming puzzle game is all about teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving. It's the kind of game that will have you and your friends scratching your heads one minute and bursting into laughter the next.
In Snipperclips, you and up to three other players take control of Snip and Clip, two adorable paper characters who can cut each other into different shapes. The goal is to use your cutting abilities to solve a variety of puzzles, which range from simple shape-matching challenges to complex physics-based scenarios.
The gameplay is deceptively simple but incredibly engaging. By overlapping your character with another player's, you can cut them into a new shape. This allows you to create hooks, wedges, and other tools that are essential for solving the puzzles. The key is to communicate effectively with your teammates and coordinate your actions to achieve the desired result.
What makes Snipperclips so special is its emphasis on cooperation and creativity. There's often more than one way to solve a puzzle, and the game encourages you to experiment with different approaches. Whether you're trying to pop balloons, carry basketballs, or guide a pencil through a maze, you'll need to work together to find the solution.
The game's charming art style and quirky sense of humor add to its appeal. Snip and Clip are endearing characters with expressive animations, and their interactions are often hilarious. The puzzles are also well-designed and gradually increase in difficulty, providing a satisfying challenge for players of all skill levels.
Snipperclips is a perfect example of a game that's greater than the sum of its parts. It's a simple concept executed with polish and care, resulting in a delightful and addictive experience. If you're looking for a game that will test your teamwork skills, spark your creativity, and bring you closer to your friends and family, Snipperclips is an excellent choice. It's a must-have for any Switch owner who enjoys cooperative puzzle games.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Alright, buckle up, racers, because we're about to talk about Mario Kart 8 Deluxe! While technically not a brand new launch title (it's an enhanced version of the Wii U game), it's such a definitive Mario Kart experience that it deserves a spot on this list. This game is pure, unadulterated fun, and it's guaranteed to bring out your competitive side.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe takes everything that made the original Mario Kart 8 great and adds even more content and features. You get all the original tracks and characters, plus all the DLC tracks and characters that were released for the Wii U version. On top of that, there are new characters like the Inklings from Splatoon, a revamped battle mode, and the ability to carry two items at once.
The gameplay is classic Mario Kart: race around colorful and imaginative tracks, collect items to sabotage your opponents, and try to cross the finish line in first place. The controls are tight and responsive, and the drifting mechanic is easy to pick up but difficult to master. Whether you're a seasoned Mario Kart veteran or a newcomer to the series, you'll find plenty to enjoy here.
What sets Mario Kart 8 Deluxe apart from other racing games is its sheer variety and replayability. The game features dozens of tracks, each with its own unique theme and challenges. From the gravity-defying loops of Rainbow Road to the underwater antics of Dolphin Shoals, there's always something new to discover.
The battle mode is also a major highlight. It features a variety of game types, such as Balloon Battle, Bob-omb Blast, and Shine Thief, all set in specially designed arenas. The revamped battle mode is a blast to play with friends, and it adds a whole new dimension to the Mario Kart experience.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a perfect game for both solo play and multiplayer mayhem. You can race against friends and family in local split-screen mode, or you can take your skills online and compete against players from around the world. The game also supports a variety of control options, including the Joy-Cons, the Pro Controller, and even the GameCube controller.
If you're looking for a racing game that's fun, accessible, and endlessly replayable, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have for your Nintendo Switch. It's a game that you can pick up and play anytime, and it's guaranteed to provide hours of entertainment for players of all ages.
These launch titles really set the stage for what the Nintendo Switch had to offer: innovative gameplay, a mix of solo and multiplayer experiences, and a whole lot of fun. So, grab your Switch, pick up these games, and get ready for some unforgettable gaming adventures!