Top Nintendo Switch Launch Games You Need To Play
Hey guys! So, you're diving into the world of the Nintendo Switch, huh? Awesome! You're in for a treat. The Switch has become a gaming juggernaut, and it all started with a bang. But what games were there to actually play when the Switch first hit the shelves? Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore the best Nintendo Switch launch games. These titles weren't just about showing off the Switch's capabilities; they were about providing unforgettable gaming experiences right from the start. Whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or completely new to the scene, these games offered something special and set the stage for the console's incredible success. Let's get into the nitty-gritty and see what made these launch titles so memorable.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - A Masterpiece from Day One
Alright, let's kick things off with a game that needs absolutely no introduction: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game wasn't just a launch title; it was a system seller. Honestly, if you bought a Switch at launch, chances are pretty high that Breath of the Wild was the first game you played on it. And for good reason! It's a sprawling, breathtaking open-world adventure that redefined what a Zelda game could be. The sheer freedom to explore the vast kingdom of Hyrule, climb any surface, and interact with the world in a multitude of ways was revolutionary. Breath of the Wild wasn't just a game; it was an experience. From the moment you woke up in the Shrine of Resurrection to the final showdown with Calamity Ganon, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. The game's physics engine allowed for emergent gameplay, meaning you could solve puzzles and overcome challenges in creative and unexpected ways. Want to chop down a tree and use it as a makeshift bridge? Go for it! Need to set fire to some grass to create an updraft and glide across a chasm? Absolutely! The possibilities felt endless.
Beyond the gameplay, Breath of the Wild's art style and soundtrack were equally stunning. The game's minimalist approach to UI and the gorgeous vistas created a sense of immersion that few games have ever achieved. The music, a combination of ambient soundscapes and epic orchestral scores, perfectly complemented the gameplay, heightening the sense of adventure and wonder. Even the subtle details, like the way the wind rustled through the grass or the way the rain affected the terrain, contributed to the game's overall feeling of realism and immersion. It's safe to say that Breath of the Wild set a new standard for open-world games and remains a benchmark for quality. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and unforgettable score earned it numerous awards and critical acclaim, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest games of all time. Whether you're a seasoned Zelda veteran or a newcomer to the series, Breath of the Wild offers an experience unlike any other, making it an essential game for any Switch owner. The game also provided a fresh take on the Zelda formula, introducing new mechanics and gameplay elements that kept the experience exciting and engaging, even for seasoned players. The story was captivating, drawing players into the world of Hyrule and its characters. In conclusion, Breath of the Wild wasn't just a launch game; it was a statement. A statement about the Switch's capabilities and a testament to the power of great game design. If you haven't played it yet, seriously, what are you waiting for?
1-2-Switch - Fun for Everyone
Alright, let's move on from the epic adventure of Zelda and talk about something a little different: 1-2-Switch. This game was all about showcasing the Switch's unique Joy-Con controllers and their HD rumble features. Instead of traditional gameplay, 1-2-Switch offered a collection of minigames designed to be played face-to-face, looking at your opponent rather than the screen. This created a social experience that was perfect for parties and gatherings. From dueling with samurai swords (using the Joy-Con as swords) to milking cows, the games were simple but incredibly fun, particularly when played with friends and family. The HD rumble was a key component, allowing players to feel the actions happening in the game, whether it was the click of a safe lock or the tension of a ball bouncing inside the Joy-Con. It really brought the games to life and made them more immersive.
While some critics weren't entirely sold on 1-2-Switch, it's undeniable that it served its purpose. It showed off the innovative features of the Switch in a way that resonated with a broad audience. It was designed to be a pick-up-and-play experience, perfect for introducing newcomers to the Switch's unique capabilities. It made use of the Joy-Con's motion controls and HD rumble, which set it apart from other gaming systems. The emphasis was on interaction, making it a great way to bond with others and create memorable moments. Even if it wasn't a game you'd spend hours playing, it was still a fantastic example of the Switch's capabilities.
Super Bomberman R - Classic Action, Modern Twist
Next up, we have Super Bomberman R. This one's for the retro gamers, or anyone who enjoys some classic, bomb-blasting action. Bomberman is a franchise with a long and storied history, and Super Bomberman R brought that familiar gameplay to the Switch. The objective is simple: navigate mazes, lay bombs, blow up walls, and take out your opponents. It's a formula that has worked for decades, and Super Bomberman R delivered the goods. It featured a single-player story mode, but the real fun came from the multiplayer mode, where you could battle it out with friends locally or online. The game's vibrant visuals and updated mechanics made it a worthy entry in the series.
Bomberman, in its essence, is all about strategic placement of bombs and dodging explosions. Super Bomberman R kept the core gameplay intact but added new maps, characters, and customization options to keep things fresh. It was a perfect game for short bursts of play, making it ideal for the Switch's portability. The ability to quickly jump into a match with friends, whether at home or on the go, was a major selling point. The game provided a nostalgic experience for older players while introducing the fun of Bomberman to new audiences. While it might not have been a groundbreaking title, Super Bomberman R was a solid and enjoyable addition to the Switch's launch library, and it offered hours of explosive fun for players of all ages. The game also boasted a robust online multiplayer mode, allowing players from all over the world to compete against each other.
Snipperclips - Cut It Out, It's Time for Fun!
Snipperclips: Cut It Out, Together! is a super cool and creative puzzle game that was available as a digital download. The concept is quite simple: you and a friend (or solo if you're feeling brave) control two adorable paper-like characters. You can snip each other to change your shapes and then use these different shapes to solve puzzles. The levels require you to coordinate your movements, cut each other into the right forms, and use the environment to overcome obstacles. It's a game that encourages teamwork and communication.
Snipperclips is a great example of the kind of innovative games the Switch supports. The core gameplay loop is super intuitive, but the puzzles quickly become complex. It really gets your brain working, and the satisfaction of solving a particularly tricky level together with a friend is fantastic. The simplicity of the visuals belies the depth of the gameplay. The game's physics-based puzzles and collaborative design make it an excellent choice for co-op gaming, as you must work together to succeed. It's a perfect game for both casual and more dedicated gamers, as the difficulty can be adjusted to suit your skill level. The charming art style and cheerful music add to the game's overall appeal, making it a joy to play. It's a testament to the power of simple, yet well-executed game design. Snipperclips showcases the creative potential of the Switch and provides a fun and unique gaming experience. The game's success further demonstrated the appeal of collaborative puzzle games and helped pave the way for other similar titles.
Just Dance 2017 - Get Your Groove On!
No launch lineup is complete without a dance game, right? Just Dance 2017 was the perfect choice for the Switch's debut. It brought the familiar and accessible gameplay of the Just Dance series to the console, allowing players to use the Joy-Con controllers to mimic on-screen dance moves. It's a fantastic game for parties, solo workouts, or just plain fun. The game features a wide range of songs, from pop hits to classic tracks, catering to all tastes. The simplicity of the controls makes it easy for anyone to pick up and play, regardless of their dancing experience. It's all about having a good time and letting loose.
Just Dance 2017 took advantage of the Switch's portability and motion controls to provide a fun and engaging dance experience. You don't need a lot of space, and the Joy-Con's motion-sensing capabilities made the dancing feel responsive and intuitive. The game tracks your movements and gives you points based on how accurately you follow the on-screen choreography. The vibrant visuals, catchy music, and straightforward gameplay made Just Dance 2017 a hit with casual gamers and dance enthusiasts alike. It's a great way to get some exercise, have some laughs, and create memories with friends and family. The game's success helped solidify the Switch's appeal as a social gaming platform. Moreover, the series' continued presence on the Switch is a testament to its popularity, with new editions released regularly, offering new songs, dances, and features.
Honorable Mentions and What Made These Games Special
While the games above were the stars, it's worth mentioning a couple of other launch titles that contributed to the Switch's early success.
- Super Mario Odyssey: It came out a bit later, but it helped set a new standard for 3D platformers and it's considered to be one of the best games ever made. Even if it came out a bit later, many players got it shortly after their Switch.
- FAST RMX: This racing game provided a fast-paced, futuristic racing experience and was a great showcase for the Switch's graphics capabilities.
What made these launch games special? They all offered something unique, whether it was the groundbreaking open-world gameplay of Breath of the Wild, the social fun of 1-2-Switch, or the classic action of Super Bomberman R. They also showcased the Switch's versatility, from its portable design to its Joy-Con controllers. But most importantly, they were all fun. They captured the spirit of Nintendo: innovation, quality, and a focus on providing enjoyable gaming experiences for players of all ages and skill levels. These games laid the foundation for the Switch's phenomenal success and remain a testament to the console's incredible launch lineup.
Conclusion: Launching into Success
So there you have it, folks! The best Nintendo Switch launch games that helped kickstart the console's incredible journey. These titles weren't just about selling a console; they were about providing unforgettable gaming experiences that would keep players coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, these games are a testament to the power of great game design and the magic of Nintendo. If you haven't played them yet, do yourself a favor and give them a try. You won't be disappointed! Thanks for reading, and happy gaming!