Nintendo Switch Games 2021: The Ultimate Guide
Hey everyone! 2021 was a massive year for the Nintendo Switch, wasn't it? We saw a ton of amazing games drop, and if you're anything like me, your backlog probably exploded. I'm here to give you the lowdown on the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021. Whether you're a seasoned Switch veteran or a newbie just diving in, this guide will help you sort through the titles that made the year so awesome. We'll be looking at everything from the huge blockbusters to the hidden indie gems that you might have missed. So, grab your Joy-Cons, get comfy, and let's dive into the year of epic adventures, unforgettable stories, and a whole lot of gaming fun. The Nintendo Switch really hit its stride in 2021, and there's a good chance you missed some incredible titles. This guide will help you catch up on the must-play games from that year, so you can experience the best of what the Switch had to offer. Prepare to rediscover some amazing titles! We will see some exciting Nintendo Switch games that defined the gaming landscape that year. Let's get started, shall we?
The Blockbusters: Must-Play Nintendo Switch Games of 2021
Alright, let's kick things off with the big guns: the games that everyone was talking about and that dominated the charts. These are the titles that defined 2021 on the Nintendo Switch, the ones that you absolutely couldn't afford to miss. First up, we've got Metroid Dread. This game was a long time coming, and man, was it worth the wait! It perfectly captured the classic Metroid formula while adding a fresh, terrifying atmosphere. The exploration is incredibly rewarding, and the E.M.M.I. robots kept me on the edge of my seat constantly. If you're into action-adventure games with a focus on exploration and a creepy vibe, Metroid Dread should be at the top of your list. Then there's Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. These remakes took us back to the Sinnoh region, and while they might not have been perfect, they were a nostalgic trip for many of us. Whether you grew up with the originals or were new to the series, this was a solid experience that brought the classic Pokémon gameplay to the Switch. The graphics were updated, and there were quality-of-life improvements that made the experience even better. And let's not forget The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD. This was a remaster of a Wii classic, and it brought the game to a whole new audience. With improved controls and visuals, it was a great way to experience this chapter in the Zelda saga. The motion controls are still present, but they are more refined and give it a fresh look. Overall, these blockbusters are the reason why 2021 was an amazing year for Nintendo Switch games. They provided a variety of different experiences that appealed to all kinds of players.
Indie Gems That Shined in 2021
Okay, now let's talk about the hidden treasures: the indie games that might have flown under your radar but were absolute gems. These are the titles that often offer unique gameplay experiences and that showcase the creativity of independent developers. First up, we have Hades. This game was a massive hit across multiple platforms, and for good reason! It's a roguelike dungeon crawler with an engaging story, fantastic combat, and incredible replayability. You'll keep coming back for "just one more run", and trust me, it's worth it. The art style is gorgeous, the music is amazing, and the characters are memorable. Hades is the kind of game that truly defines the indie space. Next, we've got Eastward. This is an adventure RPG with a beautiful pixel art style and a heartwarming story. You follow two characters on a journey through a post-apocalyptic world, solving puzzles, and battling enemies. The music is absolutely stunning, and the world is full of charm. Eastward is a perfect example of how indie games can be incredibly immersive and emotionally resonant. Then there's Unsighted, a top-down action RPG with a cool mechanic: your characters have a limited lifespan. You have to manage your time carefully as you explore a ruined world, fight enemies, and solve puzzles. The gameplay is challenging but rewarding, and the story is thought-provoking. It's a unique take on the action-RPG genre that’s well worth checking out. These indie games prove that 2021 was full of amazing and innovative experiences on the Nintendo Switch. They offer a wide range of genres and unique gameplay mechanics that are a must-try. You should definitely check them out!
RPGs and Adventures: Exploring Vast Worlds
2021 was a great year for RPGs and adventure games on the Nintendo Switch. Players got to explore vast worlds, immerse themselves in deep stories, and make impactful choices. One of the standout titles in this category was Monster Hunter Rise. This action RPG was a huge success, offering a beautiful world to explore, challenging hunts, and a ton of customization options. The gameplay is incredibly addictive, and the ability to team up with friends makes it even better. Then, we have Shin Megami Tensei V. This is a dark and challenging JRPG with a post-apocalyptic setting and turn-based combat. The game is known for its intricate demon fusion system and its deep philosophical themes. It's a game that will keep you engaged for hours on end. And for those who enjoy open-world adventures, we had Ruined King: A League of Legends Story. Set in the world of Runeterra, this turn-based RPG features a compelling story, memorable characters, and a unique combat system. It's a great choice for fans of the League of Legends universe or anyone looking for a well-crafted RPG. All these games gave RPG and adventure fans a lot to get excited about, providing a wide variety of experiences. Each title offered a unique world to explore and memorable characters to meet. Whether you're a seasoned RPG player or a newcomer, the Nintendo Switch games had something for everyone. If you love deep narratives, challenging combat, and the thrill of exploring vast worlds, then these games are a must-play. They're a testament to the versatility of the Nintendo Switch and its ability to host a wide range of gaming experiences. These games are a great example of the rich gaming landscape in 2021.
Action and Fighting Games: Get Your Adrenaline Pumping
If you're a fan of action-packed gameplay and intense combat, then 2021 had a lot to offer on the Nintendo Switch. We got some thrilling action and fighting games to get your adrenaline pumping. One of the top titles was Monster Hunter Rise, which, as we mentioned before, had incredible action-RPG elements. The combat is fluid and satisfying, and the monster hunts are incredibly fun. Then, we have Guilty Gear -Strive-. This is a stunning fighting game with beautiful visuals, deep combat mechanics, and a killer soundtrack. It's a must-play for fans of the fighting genre, and it's a great entry point for newcomers as well. Its flashy attacks and complex combos keep players coming back for more. Also, we can't forget NEO: The World Ends with You. This action RPG offers fast-paced combat, a vibrant art style, and a compelling story. It's a sequel to the beloved Nintendo DS classic, and it lives up to the hype. The combat is fast and frenetic, and the world is filled with memorable characters.
Platformers and Family Fun: Fun for All Ages
Platformers and family-friendly games are always a staple on Nintendo consoles, and 2021 was no exception. There was something for everyone to enjoy, whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fun experience with your family. For instance, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury was a great addition to the Switch library. This bundle brought the beloved Wii U game to the Switch along with a brand-new adventure in Bowser's Fury. The game features amazing platforming levels, fun multiplayer, and a ton of content to keep you entertained. It's a must-play for any Mario fan. And for those who enjoy a more relaxed gaming experience, we had Animal Crossing: New Horizons. While this game was originally released in 2020, it continued to be a massive hit in 2021, with new updates and seasonal events that kept players engaged. It's the perfect game for unwinding and spending time with friends. Also, we had Mario Party Superstars. This title brought together classic minigames from the series, with updated visuals and online multiplayer. It is the perfect choice for some lighthearted fun with friends and family. These games prove the versatility of the Nintendo Switch and its ability to provide fun for all ages. They are a testament to the joy of gaming and a reminder that there's always something to discover on the Nintendo Switch. Whether you are looking for solo adventures or group fun, these games are perfect for a wide range of players.
Conclusion: A Year to Remember for Nintendo Switch
2021 was a fantastic year for the Nintendo Switch, with a diverse range of games that catered to all tastes. From blockbuster titles like Metroid Dread and Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl to indie gems like Hades and Eastward, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a fan of RPGs, action games, platformers, or anything in between, the Nintendo Switch had you covered. The games we've discussed are a testament to the creativity and innovation of developers. They provided players with unforgettable gaming experiences. It's clear that the Nintendo Switch is a platform that continues to thrive, delivering quality games for everyone. As we look back on 2021, we can see that it was a pivotal year for the console. It solidified its place as a must-have for gamers of all ages. So, if you missed out on any of these games, now's the time to catch up and experience the best that 2021 had to offer. Happy gaming, and I hope you discovered some new favorites on your Nintendo Switch!