The Nintendo Switch has been a phenomenal success since its release in 2017, with a vast library of games that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. While popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe have garnered widespread attention, there are numerous hidden gems on the console that deserve more recognition. In this article, we'll delve into some of the most underrated games on the Nintendo Switch, highlighting their unique features, engaging gameplay, and overall value.
Indie Gems
The Nintendo Switch has become a haven for indie developers, with many titles offering innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and emotional storytelling. Here are a few indie gems that have flown under the radar:
- Hyper Light Drifter: This top-down action game is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, with a beautiful pixel art style and a haunting soundtrack. Players control the Drifter, a mystical being on a quest to uncover the secrets of a long-lost world.
- Night in the Woods: This narrative-driven adventure game follows the story of Mae, a cat who returns to her hometown after dropping out of college. With a strong focus on character development and dialogue, Night in the Woods explores themes of mental health, relationships, and small-town life.
- The Swapper: This puzzle game takes place on a deserted space station, where players must create clones and solve challenging puzzles to progress. With a unique mechanic that allows for cloning and swapping, The Swapper offers a thought-provoking experience that's both relaxing and engaging.
Exploring the World of JRPGs
The Nintendo Switch has a rich selection of JRPGs (Japanese Role-Playing Games), with many titles offering engaging stories, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay. Here are a few JRPGs that are worth exploring:
- Octopath Traveler: Developed by Square Enix, this classic JRPG features a unique HD-2D visual style, with 2D characters and 3D environments. Players control one of eight characters, each with their own story and motivations, as they navigate a vast open world.
- Lost Sphear: This JRPG from Square Enix and Tokyo RPG Factory is a spiritual successor to I Am Setsuna, with a similar battle system and exploration mechanics. Players control a group of characters as they uncover the secrets of a mystical world.
- The Alliance Alive: Developed by Cattle Call, this JRPG features a unique grid-based battle system and a rich story with multiple characters. Players control a group of allies as they explore a vast world and uncover the secrets of a mystical realm.
Retro Revivals
The Nintendo Switch has seen a resurgence of classic games, with many retro titles being remade or remastered for the console. Here are a few retro revivals that are worth playing:
- Castlevania Anniversary Collection: This collection of classic Castlevania games features eight titles from the series, including Castlevania, Castlevania II: Simon's Quest, and Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse.
- Pac-Man Championship Edition: This updated version of the classic arcade game features improved graphics, new levels, and challenging gameplay.
- Axiom Verge: This metroidvania game is a love letter to classic titles like Super Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, with a unique glitch mechanic and a vast open world to explore.
Action-Packed Adventures
The Nintendo Switch has a wide range of action-packed games that offer fast-paced gameplay, stunning visuals, and intense action sequences. Here are a few titles that are worth playing:
- Astral Chain: Developed by PlatinumGames, this action-adventure game features a unique combat system and a rich story with multiple characters. Players control a police officer and their trusty Legion as they battle against monstrous creatures in a futuristic world.
- Bayonetta 2: This action game from PlatinumGames features fast-paced combat, stunning visuals, and a rich storyline with multiple characters. Players control Bayonetta, a magical witch with a penchant for combat and fashion.
- Diablo III: Eternal Collection: This action-RPG from Blizzard Entertainment features a vast open world, a rich storyline, and addictive gameplay. Players control a character from one of five classes as they battle against hordes of demons and explore a dark gothic world.
Family-Friendly Fun
The Nintendo Switch has a wide range of family-friendly games that offer fun and engaging experiences for players of all ages. Here are a few titles that are worth playing:
- Overcooked 2: This cooking simulation game features chaotic gameplay, colorful visuals, and a rich storyline with multiple characters. Players control a chef as they prepare and serve meals in a variety of kitchens.
- Minecraft: This popular sandbox game features a vast open world, a rich storyline, and addictive gameplay. Players control a character as they build and explore a blocky world filled with creatures and resources.
- Lego Games: The Nintendo Switch has a wide range of Lego games, including Lego City Undercover, Lego Worlds, and Lego Marvel Super Heroes 2. These games offer fun and family-friendly experiences with popular franchises like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Marvel.
Local Multiplayer Fun
The Nintendo Switch has a wide range of local multiplayer games that offer fun and engaging experiences for players of all ages. Here are a few titles that are worth playing:
- Mario Tennis Aces: This sports game features fast-paced gameplay, colorful visuals, and a rich storyline with multiple characters. Players control Mario and his friends as they compete in tennis tournaments and explore a variety of courts.
- Mario Golf: Super Rush: This sports game features fast-paced gameplay, colorful visuals, and a rich storyline with multiple characters. Players control Mario and his friends as they compete in golf tournaments and explore a variety of courses.
- Just Dance 2022: This dance game features fast-paced gameplay, colorful visuals, and a rich soundtrack with popular songs. Players control a dancer as they perform choreographed routines and compete against friends and family.
What are some of the most underrated games on the Nintendo Switch?
+Some of the most underrated games on the Nintendo Switch include Hyper Light Drifter, Night in the Woods, and The Swapper. These games offer unique gameplay, atmospheric storytelling, and emotional experiences that are worth exploring.
What are some of the best JRPGs on the Nintendo Switch?
+Some of the best JRPGs on the Nintendo Switch include Octopath Traveler, Lost Sphear, and The Alliance Alive. These games offer engaging stories, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay that are worth exploring.
What are some of the best family-friendly games on the Nintendo Switch?
+Some of the best family-friendly games on the Nintendo Switch include Overcooked 2, Minecraft, and Lego Games. These games offer fun and engaging experiences for players of all ages, with colorful visuals, addictive gameplay, and rich storylines.
With this list of hidden gems on the Nintendo Switch, you'll discover a world of unique gameplay, engaging stories, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're a fan of indie games, JRPGs, or local multiplayer experiences, there's something for everyone on the Nintendo Switch. So why not give these games a try, and uncover the secrets of the Switch's vast library of games?