Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2021: Must-Play Titles
Hey everyone! Let's dive into the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021. This was a fantastic year for the Switch, filled with incredible titles that kept us glued to our consoles. Whether you're into action-packed adventures, immersive RPGs, or quirky indie gems, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's get started!
1. Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread marked the triumphant return of Samus Aran in a thrilling 2D adventure. As one of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021, it masterfully blends exploration, suspense, and heart-pounding action. The game picks up after the events of Metroid Fusion, with Samus investigating the mysterious planet ZDR. What makes Metroid Dread stand out is its perfect balance of classic Metroidvania elements with new, innovative features. The E.M.M.I. robots, which relentlessly hunt Samus, add an intense layer of stealth and fear, forcing players to think strategically and use their abilities creatively to survive. The level design is intricate and rewarding, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny to uncover hidden upgrades and secrets. Visually, the game is stunning, with detailed environments and smooth animations that bring the world of ZDR to life. The atmosphere is thick with dread, perfectly capturing the isolation and danger that Samus faces. Metroid Dread isn't just a great Metroid game; it's a masterclass in game design, showcasing how to create a compelling and immersive experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The tight controls, challenging boss battles, and constant sense of discovery make it a must-play for any Switch owner. Whether you're a long-time Metroid fan or new to the series, Metroid Dread is an unforgettable adventure that you won't want to miss.
2. Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise brought the thrill of monster hunting to the Nintendo Switch with unprecedented flair. This action RPG quickly became one of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021, thanks to its addictive gameplay loop, stunning visuals, and a host of new features that streamline the hunting experience. Set in the vibrant and colorful Kamura Village, players take on the role of a hunter tasked with protecting the village from rampaging monsters. What sets Monster Hunter Rise apart is its innovative use of the Wirebug, a versatile grappling hook that allows players to traverse the environment with ease and perform spectacular aerial attacks. This adds a new dimension to the combat, making it more dynamic and engaging than ever before. The game also introduces Palamutes, canine companions that join the hunt, providing support and allowing players to ride them across the map quickly. The roster of monsters is diverse and challenging, each requiring different strategies and gear to defeat. The sense of progression is incredibly rewarding, as players craft new weapons and armor from the materials they gather, constantly improving their hunter's abilities. Monster Hunter Rise is not just a game; it's a social experience, with online multiplayer allowing players to team up with friends and tackle even the toughest challenges together. The community is active and welcoming, making it easy to find hunting partners and share strategies. With its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and robust multiplayer, Monster Hunter Rise is a must-have for any Switch owner looking for an action-packed adventure.
3. Super Mario 3D World + Bowserâs Fury
Super Mario 3D World + Bowserâs Fury is a fantastic package that combines a beloved Wii U title with an all-new adventure. As one of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021, it offers a delightful mix of classic Mario platforming and innovative gameplay. Super Mario 3D World is a multiplayer-focused adventure that allows up to four players to team up and tackle colorful and creative levels together. The game introduces the Super Bell, which transforms Mario and his friends into cat-like creatures with unique abilities, such as climbing walls and performing powerful claw attacks. The level design is inventive and full of surprises, with hidden secrets and collectibles to discover around every corner. Bowser's Fury, on the other hand, is a standalone adventure that takes place in a vast, open world. Mario must team up with Bowser Jr. to stop Bowser, who has been transformed into a colossal, rampaging monster. The gameplay is a mix of exploration and combat, with Mario collecting Cat Shines to power up lighthouses and weaken Bowser. The dynamic weather system and the ever-present threat of Bowser's Fury add a sense of urgency and excitement to the experience. Together, Super Mario 3D World and Bowser's Fury offer a wealth of content that will keep players entertained for hours on end. Whether you're playing solo or with friends, this is a must-have for any Switch owner who loves platforming games.
4. Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is a spectacular action-adventure game that showcases the power of the PlayStation 5. While it's not on the Switch, its influence and innovation deserve recognition when discussing the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021 because it pushes the boundaries of what's possible in the genre. The game follows Ratchet and Clank as they travel through dimensions, encountering new characters and facing off against a nefarious emperor. What makes Rift Apart stand out is its groundbreaking use of dimensional rifts, which allow players to seamlessly jump between different worlds in real-time. This creates a visually stunning and incredibly dynamic gameplay experience. The weapons are inventive and fun to use, each with its unique abilities and upgrade paths. The characters are charming and well-developed, and the story is engaging and full of humor. While Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is not available on the Nintendo Switch, its impact on the gaming landscape is undeniable. It's a benchmark for what can be achieved with next-generation hardware and a testament to the creativity and innovation of Insomniac Games. Hopefully, someday we'll see games with this level of technical achievement on the Nintendo Switch.
5. Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil Village delivers a chilling and unforgettable horror experience that captivated players in 2021. Even though it wasn't a Switch exclusive, its impact on the gaming world makes it worth mentioning when discussing the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021 because of its Cloud Version release. This first-person survival horror game follows Ethan Winters as he searches for his kidnapped daughter in a mysterious and terrifying village. What makes Resident Evil Village so compelling is its atmosphere, which is thick with dread and suspense. The village is filled with grotesque creatures and unsettling environments that will keep players on the edge of their seats. The game introduces a cast of memorable villains, each with their unique quirks and motivations. Lady Dimitrescu, the towering vampire lady, quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to her imposing presence and captivating design. The gameplay is a mix of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, with players scavenging for resources and fighting off hordes of enemies. The story is engaging and full of twists and turns, keeping players guessing until the very end. Resident Evil Village is a masterclass in horror game design, showcasing how to create a truly terrifying and immersive experience. Although the Switch version is a cloud version, it still provides a solid experience for horror fans on the go.
6. Forza Horizon 5
Forza Horizon 5 is a breathtaking open-world racing game that set a new standard for the genre in 2021. Although it's not on the Switch, its sheer quality and innovation warrant a mention when discussing the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021 because it showcases the pinnacle of racing game design. Set in the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Mexico, the game allows players to explore a vast open world, participate in races and challenges, and collect hundreds of cars. What makes Forza Horizon 5 so special is its stunning visuals, which are among the best in the industry. The environments are incredibly detailed and realistic, from the lush jungles to the arid deserts. The game also features a dynamic weather system that affects the driving experience, adding a new layer of challenge and realism. The gameplay is accessible and fun, with a wide range of cars to choose from and plenty of customization options. The online multiplayer is robust and engaging, allowing players to compete against friends and strangers in a variety of events. Forza Horizon 5 is a triumph of game design, showcasing the power of modern hardware and the creativity of Playground Games. While it's not available on the Nintendo Switch, it's a game that every racing fan should experience.
7. It Takes Two
It Takes Two is a charming and innovative co-op adventure that stole the hearts of players in 2021. While not a Switch title, its unique gameplay and focus on collaboration make it relevant when considering the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021 as it exemplifies exceptional game design. The game follows Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce, who are magically transformed into dolls and must work together to return to their human forms. What makes It Takes Two so special is its emphasis on teamwork, with each player controlling a different character with unique abilities. The levels are designed around this co-op dynamic, requiring players to communicate and coordinate to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles. The game is full of surprises, with each level introducing new mechanics and gameplay styles. The story is heartwarming and relatable, exploring the challenges of relationships and the importance of communication. It Takes Two is a masterpiece of co-op game design, showcasing how to create a fun and engaging experience that brings players together. While it's not available on the Nintendo Switch, it's a game that every couple should play.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! The best Nintendo Switch games of 2021 offered a diverse range of experiences that kept us entertained throughout the year. From thrilling adventures to charming co-op games, there was something for everyone on the Switch. Here's to more amazing games in the years to come! Happy gaming!