Buying guide for best nintendo switch games
Since its release in the spring of 2017, the Nintendo Switch has taken the gaming community by storm. A unique hybrid of traditional console and portable gaming unit, the Switch offers an experience unlike any other for gamers.
One of the main selling points of the Switch is the inclusion in its games of beloved Nintendo characters that you can’t find on any other system. Mario and Link have already made their debuts, and fan favorite faces from Metroid, Pokemon, Animal Crossing, and the rest are sure to follow.
But just because you know the names doesn’t mean you’ll like the games. That’s where we come in. Since the Nintendo Switch is a fairly new console, you may be wondering where to start in your search for fun, entertaining games.
Check out the product list above to learn about our five favorite Nintendo Switch games. And for more information about Nintendo Switch games, keep reading. We’ll give you pointers on what to look for when shopping for games for your new console.
Top selling points
Portability
One of the top selling points of the Nintendo Switch is its ability to easily transform from a traditional gaming console into a handheld, portable one. You can dock your unit to access HD gaming on your television screen, or you can play anywhere by switching to handheld mode.
Multiplayer gaming
The Switch is great for multiplayer games since you can stand up the screen and split the controller between players. In fact, up to eight controllers can be used with one console. Speaking of the controller – which Nintendo calls “Joy-Con” – it can be used vertically or sideways with traditional buttons, motion control, or a combination of the two.
Advanced sensors and feedback
The Joy-Con is more than just a fancy controller. In addition to the amazing configurability, the Joy-Con boasts IR sensors that detect shape, motion, and distance of objects around the player. The HD rumble technology takes vibration feedback to the next level. All told, the Joy-Con produces an immersive experience that is remarkable for the relatively low cost.
Parental controls
For families with young children, the Switch comes equipped with parental controls. Parents can choose which games the kids have access to, keep track of what they play, and monitor the amount of time their kids play. An alarm can be set to signify the end of screen time, and there is even a game-suspension feature that can be activated remotely.
Did you know?
Mario’s brother and BFF Luigi was originally colored green because of the technical limitations of the arcade game.
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Game genres
Even though the Nintendo Switch is less than a year old, there are many games to choose from – and more are on the way.
The popular Super Mario adventures are referred to as platform games. This type of game genre follows a character as it runs and jumps in its digital environment. Other genres include shooters like Metroid, role playing games (RPG) such as The Legend of Zelda series, and racing games, like the ultra-popular Mario Kart. There are also puzzle games, sports games, and simulators. Truly, there is something for everyone in the world of Nintendo Switch games.
Compatibility
The Nintendo Switch is a monster unto itself. There’s no backwards compatibility to WiiU or 3DS games. That means you’ll need to buy games specifically made for the Switch. Also, the lack of a virtual console (for now) means there’s no access to your favorite Nintendo games from the past.
Amiibo support
Amiibos – in the form of fun little character figures – are Nintendo’s wireless communications and storage system. They interact with software and allow data to be transferred over multiple platforms. Popular with both the 3DS and the WiiU, amiibos can now be used to access fun extras in compatible games on the Nintendo Switch.
FAQ
Q. Are all Nintendo Switch games offered digitally as well as on game cards?
A. While new Switch-specific games are available for download, there is no digital archive where popular games from previous Nintendo consoles can be purchased.
Q. I know that some video games have regional lockout. Does this apply to games for the Nintendo Switch?
A. No. Nintendo Switch games are completely region-free.
Q. What comes in the box when I buy a Nintendo Switch?
A. When you open your new Nintendo Switch, you’ll find the Nintendo Switch unit, the Nintendo Switch dock, the Joy-Con, the Joy-Con grip, the Joy-Con safety strap, an HDMI cable, and an AC adapter.
