Best Nintendo Switch Games Of 2021: Top Picks!
Hey guys! Ready to dive into the amazing world of Nintendo Switch games from 2021? Buckle up, because we're about to explore some of the absolute best titles that hit the console that year. Whether you're into action-packed adventures, brain-teasing puzzles, or immersive RPGs, 2021 had something special for every type of gamer on the Nintendo Switch. So, let's jump right in and discover the must-play games that made 2021 an unforgettable year for Nintendo fans!
1. Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread marked a triumphant return for Samus Aran in a thrilling 2D action-adventure. This game brilliantly blends classic Metroidvania elements with modern gameplay mechanics, creating an experience that's both nostalgic and fresh. The atmosphere is thick with tension, perfectly capturing the isolation and dread that the title promises. As Samus explores the labyrinthine depths of Planet ZDR, players encounter relentless E.M.M.I. robots, forcing them to rely on stealth and quick thinking to survive. The level design is intricate and rewarding, encouraging exploration and strategic combat.
One of the standout features of Metroid Dread is its polished gameplay. Samus's movements are fluid and responsive, allowing for precise platforming and combat maneuvers. The upgrades and abilities she acquires throughout the game add depth and variety to her arsenal, enabling players to tackle challenges in creative ways. The E.M.M.I. encounters are particularly memorable, injecting a sense of urgency and fear as players must evade these nigh-invulnerable foes. The game's narrative is also compelling, offering intriguing lore and revelations about Samus's past and the Metroid universe. Whether you're a long-time fan of the Metroid series or a newcomer, Metroid Dread offers a captivating and exhilarating experience that showcases the best of what the Nintendo Switch has to offer. Its combination of challenging gameplay, immersive atmosphere, and compelling story makes it a standout title in the Metroidvania genre and a must-have for any Switch owner.
Metroid Dread isn't just a game; it's an experience. The feeling of finally overcoming a difficult E.M.M.I. encounter or discovering a hidden upgrade is incredibly satisfying. The game's attention to detail, from its stunning visuals to its haunting sound design, creates a world that feels both alien and familiar. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of the Metroid series and a shining example of how to revitalize a classic franchise for a modern audience. So, if you haven't already, be sure to add Metroid Dread to your Switch library – you won't regret it!
2. Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise brought the exhilarating monster-hunting action to the Nintendo Switch with a vibrant and accessible entry in the beloved series. This game introduces players to the village of Kamura, a serene mountain community threatened by the impending Rampage. As a hunter, your mission is to defend the village and uncover the mysteries behind this cataclysmic event. Monster Hunter Rise stands out with its innovative gameplay features, such as the Wirebug, which allows for dynamic traversal and aerial combat, adding a new layer of verticality and strategy to hunts. The introduction of Palamutes, customizable canine companions, further enhances the hunting experience by providing fast and reliable transportation across the game's expansive maps.
The game's world is teeming with diverse and formidable monsters, each with unique behaviors and attack patterns. Hunting these creatures requires careful planning, strategic use of weapons and equipment, and skillful execution. The fourteen weapon types offer a wide range of playstyles, from the rapid strikes of the Dual Blades to the devastating power of the Great Sword. Monster Hunter Rise also streamlines many of the series' traditional mechanics, making it more approachable for newcomers while retaining the depth and complexity that veteran hunters crave. The Rampage events offer a thrilling tower defense-style challenge, where players must work together to defend Kamura Village from waves of monsters. With its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and robust multiplayer options, Monster Hunter Rise is a standout title on the Nintendo Switch.
Monster Hunter Rise is more than just a game; it's a community. The thrill of teaming up with friends to take down a massive monster is unparalleled. The game's online multiplayer is seamless and rewarding, fostering a sense of camaraderie among hunters. The constant updates and events keep the game fresh and exciting, providing new challenges and rewards for players to pursue. Whether you're a seasoned Monster Hunter veteran or a newcomer to the series, Monster Hunter Rise offers an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back for more. The sense of accomplishment after finally defeating a particularly challenging monster is incredibly satisfying, making it a must-have for any Switch owner.
3. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is a delightful package that combines the classic Wii U title with an all-new open-world adventure. Super Mario 3D World is a vibrant and inventive platformer that allows up to four players to team up as Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad. Each character has unique abilities, encouraging players to experiment and collaborate to overcome the game's creative and challenging levels. The game's power-ups, such as the Super Bell, which transforms characters into cat form, add a playful twist to the gameplay. The level design is imaginative and varied, ranging from colorful grasslands to underwater kingdoms, each filled with secrets and surprises.
Bowser's Fury, the new addition to this package, offers a unique open-world experience where Mario explores a vast archipelago dominated by a gigantic, enraged Bowser. This mode introduces a dynamic weather system and a sense of constant threat as Bowser periodically awakens, unleashing fiery attacks and transforming the environment. Mario can team up with Bowser Jr. to collect Cat Shines and ultimately confront the monstrous Bowser. Bowser's Fury is a refreshing departure from the traditional linear structure of Super Mario games, offering a more expansive and exploratory experience. The combination of the cooperative fun of Super Mario 3D World and the open-world excitement of Bowser's Fury makes this package a must-have for Nintendo Switch owners. The game's vibrant visuals, charming characters, and inventive gameplay make it a standout title in the Mario franchise.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is a celebration of creativity and fun. Whether you're playing with friends or exploring the world solo, there's always something new and exciting to discover. The game's attention to detail and its willingness to experiment with new ideas make it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. The feeling of accomplishment after completing a challenging level or defeating a massive boss is incredibly satisfying, making it a must-have for any Mario fan. The game's vibrant visuals and charming characters will put a smile on your face, making it a perfect choice for gamers of all ages.
4. New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap brought a fresh perspective to the Pokémon world, inviting players to become wildlife photographers in the Lental region. This game combines the charm of Pokémon with the thrill of discovery, as players embark on a safari-like adventure to capture the perfect shot of their favorite creatures in their natural habitats. The Lental region is brimming with diverse ecosystems, from lush jungles to volcanic landscapes, each teeming with unique Pokémon behaviors and interactions. Players travel in the NEO-ONE, an auto-driving vehicle, allowing them to focus on observing and photographing the Pokémon around them.
To capture the best photos, players must use a variety of tools, such as Fluffruit to lure Pokémon, Illumina orbs to trigger special reactions, and music to elicit unique dances and poses. The game's photo evaluation system rewards players for capturing Pokémon in dynamic poses, showcasing their unique behaviors, and framing them artfully. New Pokémon Snap also features a robust editing mode, allowing players to enhance their photos with stickers, frames, and filters. Sharing photos with friends and comparing scores adds a social element to the game. With its relaxing gameplay, charming visuals, and endless opportunities for discovery, New Pokémon Snap is a delightful addition to the Pokémon franchise and a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. The game's focus on observation and appreciation of the natural world makes it a unique and rewarding experience for Pokémon fans of all ages.
New Pokémon Snap is a calming and immersive experience. The game's focus on observation and appreciation of the natural world is a refreshing departure from the action-packed battles of the main Pokémon series. The thrill of capturing the perfect shot of a rare Pokémon is incredibly satisfying, and the game's attention to detail is truly impressive. The game's vibrant visuals and charming characters will transport you to a world filled with wonder and excitement. Whether you're a long-time Pokémon fan or a newcomer to the series, New Pokémon Snap offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back for more.
5. Shin Megami Tensei V
Shin Megami Tensei V is a dark and compelling RPG that plunges players into a post-apocalyptic Tokyo overrun by demons. This game is known for its challenging gameplay, complex moral choices, and intricate demon fusion system. As the protagonist, a high school student, you become the Nahobino, a being neither human nor demon, and must navigate the treacherous world to uncover the truth behind the cataclysm and shape the fate of the world. Shin Megami Tensei V features a vast and desolate Tokyo, filled with ruins, hidden pathways, and formidable demons. The game's combat system is strategic and demanding, requiring players to exploit enemy weaknesses and manage their resources carefully.
Demon negotiation is a key element of Shin Megami Tensei V, allowing players to recruit demons to their party by answering their questions and fulfilling their demands. The demon fusion system allows players to combine demons to create more powerful and specialized allies, adding a layer of depth and customization to the gameplay. The game's narrative is complex and thought-provoking, exploring themes of morality, power, and free will. Shin Megami Tensei V is a challenging but rewarding experience for RPG fans, offering a unique and immersive world, a deep and strategic combat system, and a compelling story. The game's dark and mature themes set it apart from other RPGs on the Nintendo Switch, making it a standout title for those seeking a more challenging and thought-provoking gaming experience.
Shin Megami Tensei V is a deep and rewarding RPG experience. The game's challenging gameplay and complex moral choices will test your skills and your conscience. The demon fusion system is incredibly addictive, allowing you to create a team of powerful and specialized demons. The game's dark and mature themes will keep you engaged and invested in the story. Whether you're a long-time fan of the Shin Megami Tensei series or a newcomer to the franchise, Shin Megami Tensei V offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will challenge and reward you in equal measure.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, folks! The best Nintendo Switch games of 2021 that you absolutely need to check out. Each of these games brought something special to the table, whether it was thrilling action, captivating stories, or innovative gameplay. If you're looking to expand your Switch library, these titles are a fantastic place to start. Happy gaming, and here's to many more amazing games in the future!