Top Nintendo Switch Launch Games To Play Now
So, you've just snagged yourself a shiny new Nintendo Switch, huh? Awesome! But now you're staring at that crisp screen wondering, "What do I play first?" Don't sweat it, guys! Launch games are super important – they’re your first impression of a console, and can really set the tone for your gaming experience. Let’s dive into some of the best Nintendo Switch launch games that are still totally worth playing today. These games not only showed off what the Switch could do but also remain incredibly fun and engaging.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Okay, let's be real. No discussion about Nintendo Switch launch titles is complete without mentioning The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Seriously, this game is a masterpiece and a system-seller. From the moment you step out into Hyrule, you're greeted with a world that's begging to be explored. The sheer freedom is mind-blowing, and it’s easy to lose yourself for hours just wandering around, discovering new secrets, and battling enemies. The game's physics engine is incredible, allowing for emergent gameplay moments that make each playthrough feel unique. Whether you’re cooking up a weird concoction of ingredients, solving intricate puzzles in shrines, or taking down massive beasts, Breath of the Wild offers an adventure unlike any other. The narrative is compelling, even though it takes a backseat to the exploration. Link's journey to restore Hyrule and defeat Calamity Ganon is filled with emotional moments and memorable characters. Plus, the art style is gorgeous, blending a painterly aesthetic with detailed environments. Even years after its release, Breath of the Wild continues to be a benchmark for open-world games, and it remains one of the best reasons to own a Nintendo Switch. If you haven't played it yet, do yourself a favor and dive in. You won't regret it! The game's scope is massive, with countless hours of content to discover. You can easily spend over 100 hours exploring every nook and cranny of Hyrule, and even then, you'll probably still find something new. The combat system is also surprisingly deep, with a variety of weapons and techniques to master. You can experiment with different fighting styles and find what works best for you. And let's not forget about the music! The soundtrack is absolutely beautiful, perfectly capturing the mood of each area and enhancing the overall experience. Seriously, Breath of the Wild is a game that you'll be thinking about long after you've finished playing it. It's a true masterpiece, and it's a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner.
1-2-Switch
Alright, so 1-2-Switch might not be the deepest game on this list, but it's an absolute blast at parties. This game is all about using the Joy-Cons in weird and wacky ways, focusing on face-to-face interaction rather than looking at the screen. Think of it as a digital version of charades, but with more milk-mooing and quick-draw showdowns. The mini-games are simple but surprisingly engaging, and they really show off the unique capabilities of the Joy-Cons. The HD Rumble is used to great effect, allowing you to feel the individual marbles rolling around inside a virtual box or the tension as you quick-draw against your opponent. While it's definitely more of a party game than a solo experience, 1-2-Switch is a fantastic way to get everyone laughing and interacting. It's perfect for breaking the ice at gatherings or just having a silly night in with friends and family. It may not have the lasting appeal of Breath of the Wild, but it's a fun and unique experience that's worth checking out, especially if you're looking for something to play with a group. The game's simplicity is also its strength, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Even your non-gamer friends will be able to pick up the Joy-Cons and join in the fun. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to try their hand at milking a virtual cow? The game's focus on physical interaction is also a refreshing change of pace from traditional video games, encouraging players to get up and move around. So, if you're looking for a party game that's guaranteed to get everyone laughing, 1-2-Switch is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for some awkward moments and plenty of silly faces.
Snipperclips – Cut it out, together!
Don't underestimate Snipperclips – Cut it out, together! because of its simple premise. This puzzle game is an absolute gem for co-op play. You and a friend (or family member) control two paper characters, Snip and Clip, and you have to cut each other into different shapes to solve puzzles. Sounds easy, right? Wrong! The puzzles are cleverly designed and require a lot of communication and coordination. You'll need to think outside the box and work together to figure out how to manipulate your characters to fit the required shapes or interact with the environment. The game's charm lies in its simplicity and the hilarious moments that arise from miscommunication or accidental cuts. It's the kind of game that will have you and your partner laughing one minute and scratching your heads the next. Snipperclips is a perfect example of how a simple idea can be executed brilliantly, and it's a must-have for anyone looking for a fun and engaging co-op experience on the Switch. The game's puzzles are also surprisingly varied, ranging from simple shape-matching challenges to more complex physics-based puzzles. You'll need to use your imagination and creativity to come up with solutions, and there's often more than one way to solve each puzzle. This adds to the game's replayability, as you can experiment with different strategies and see what works best. And let's not forget about the adorable character designs! Snip and Clip are just so darn cute, and their expressive faces make every interaction even more charming. So, if you're looking for a co-op game that's both challenging and hilarious, Snipperclips is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared to test your communication skills and maybe even your friendship!
Super Bomberman R
Super Bomberman R brought the classic Bomberman formula to the Nintendo Switch at launch, and it's a fun, albeit somewhat simple, addition to the lineup. If you're a fan of the classic Bomberman games, you'll feel right at home here. The core gameplay remains the same: plant bombs, blow up obstacles, and try to trap your opponents in the blast radius. The game features a story mode with multiple worlds to explore, each with its own unique challenges and boss battles. There's also a multiplayer mode where you can battle it out with friends and family, either locally or online. While Super Bomberman R may not be the most innovative game on this list, it's a solid and enjoyable experience that's perfect for quick bursts of fun. The game's graphics have been updated for the Switch, but the gameplay remains faithful to the classic Bomberman formula. This is both a blessing and a curse, as some players may find the game to be a bit too repetitive. However, if you're looking for a simple and addictive multiplayer game, Super Bomberman R is definitely worth checking out. The game's multiplayer mode is where it truly shines, as you can battle it out with up to eight players in a variety of different arenas. You can also customize your character with different costumes and accessories, adding a bit of personality to the chaos. So, if you're looking for a nostalgic blast from the past, Super Bomberman R is a solid choice.
Fast RMX
For those craving a high-octane racing experience, Fast RMX was a solid launch title. This futuristic racer is all about speed, precision, and mastering the art of phase-shifting. You pilot a vehicle that can switch between two different phases, and you need to use these phases to match the colors of the boost pads on the track. Matching the colors gives you a speed boost, while failing to match them slows you down. This simple mechanic adds a layer of strategy to the racing, as you need to constantly be aware of the track ahead and plan your phase-shifts accordingly. Fast RMX is a challenging game that requires a lot of practice to master, but it's also incredibly rewarding. The sense of speed is exhilarating, and the tracks are beautifully designed. The game also features a variety of different vehicles to unlock, each with its own unique handling characteristics. While it may not have the same level of polish as some of the bigger racing games on the market, Fast RMX is a fun and addictive experience that's perfect for fans of the genre. The game's focus on speed and precision makes it a unique and challenging racer, and the phase-shifting mechanic adds a layer of strategy that you won't find in other games. So, if you're looking for a fast-paced and thrilling racing experience on the Switch, Fast RMX is definitely worth checking out. The game's futuristic setting and electronic soundtrack also add to the overall atmosphere, creating a truly immersive experience.
In Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch launch had some stellar titles that really set the stage for what the console could offer. From the expansive world of Breath of the Wild to the party fun of 1-2-Switch and the co-op puzzling of Snipperclips, there was something for everyone. These games are still fantastic and totally worth playing, whether you're a new Switch owner or just looking to revisit some classics. So grab your Joy-Cons, pick a game, and get ready for some serious fun! You won't be disappointed by these iconic titles that helped kick off the Nintendo Switch era.