Top Nintendo Switch Launch Games: A Must-Play List

Hey everyone! Thinking about diving into the world of Nintendo Switch or just feeling nostalgic? Let's take a trip back to where it all began – the launch titles! These games were there from day one, setting the stage for the Switch's incredible journey. So, what were the best Nintendo Switch launch games? Let's dive in and explore the titles that made the initial splash!

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Okay, let's be real, could we even start this list with anything else? The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild wasn't just a launch title; it was a system seller. This game redefined the Zelda franchise and open-world gaming as a whole. From the moment you step out into Hyrule, you're greeted with a world brimming with possibilities.

Breath of the Wild isn't your typical Zelda game. It throws out the traditional hand-holding and instead encourages you to explore, experiment, and discover. Want to climb that massive mountain? Go for it! See a suspicious-looking cave? Dive right in! The sense of freedom is absolutely intoxicating. The game is so immersive, that it allows players to interact with the world in a way that was not possible before.

The story is classic Zelda, with Link awakening from a century-long slumber to defeat Calamity Ganon and rescue Princess Zelda. However, the narrative is delivered in a non-linear fashion, allowing you to tackle objectives in almost any order. You can even go straight to Ganon if you're feeling brave (or foolish!). The beauty of Breath of the Wild lies in its emergent gameplay. You'll find yourself creating your own adventures, whether it's cooking up bizarre recipes, taming wild horses, or battling fearsome monsters. Every playthrough feels unique, and that's a testament to the game's brilliance.

Combat is another area where Breath of the Wild shines. Link has access to a wide variety of weapons, from swords and shields to bows and arrows. However, weapons break, forcing you to constantly adapt and experiment with new armaments. This adds a layer of strategy to every encounter, as you need to consider your weapon's durability and your enemy's weaknesses. The game also features a robust physics engine, allowing you to manipulate the environment to your advantage. You can set grass on fire, create updrafts with torches, and even use metal objects to conduct electricity.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild isn't just one of the best launch games on the Nintendo Switch; it's one of the greatest video games ever made. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and sheer sense of freedom make it an unforgettable experience. If you haven't played it yet, do yourself a favor and pick it up. You won't regret it!

1-2-Switch

Okay, let's shift gears from epic adventures to something a bit more… quirky. 1-2-Switch was designed to showcase the unique capabilities of the Nintendo Switch's Joy-Con controllers. It's a collection of minigames that emphasize motion control and social interaction. 1-2-Switch is great for parties and gatherings.

The concept behind 1-2-Switch is simple: look at your opponent, not the screen. The minigames rely on the HD Rumble feature and motion sensors in the Joy-Cons to create a tactile and engaging experience. For example, in the Quick Draw minigame, you and your opponent have to mimic drawing a gun and firing. The first one to react wins. In Milk, you have to try and milk an invisible cow using the Joy-Cons. It sounds ridiculous, but it's surprisingly fun, especially when you're playing with friends.

While 1-2-Switch received mixed reviews upon release, it's undeniably a unique and memorable launch title. It perfectly encapsulates the Nintendo Switch's focus on innovative gameplay and social experiences. It's not a game you'll likely spend hours playing on your own, but it's a fantastic party game that can get everyone laughing and moving.

The key to enjoying 1-2-Switch is to embrace its silliness and not take it too seriously. It's a game that's meant to be played with a group of friends or family, where you can laugh at each other's ridiculous movements and celebrate the unexpected moments of victory. While it may not have the depth or complexity of other launch titles, 1-2-Switch is a charming and entertaining showcase of the Nintendo Switch's unique capabilities.

Super Bomberman R

Who doesn't love a good Bomberman game? Super Bomberman R brought the classic multiplayer mayhem to the Nintendo Switch at launch. With updated graphics, new characters, and a surprisingly robust story mode, it was a welcome addition to the Switch's initial lineup. This game is a blast from the past!

Super Bomberman R stays true to the core Bomberman formula. You navigate maze-like arenas, planting bombs to destroy obstacles and eliminate your opponents. The goal is simple: be the last Bomberman standing. But with power-ups, environmental hazards, and clever opponents, things can get chaotic very quickly.

The game features a Story Mode, which is longer than expected for a Bomberman title. It follows the eight Bomberman Bros. as they try to stop the evil Emperor Buggler and his five henchmen. The story is lighthearted and humorous, with plenty of quirky characters and over-the-top situations. While it's not going to win any awards for narrative depth, it's a fun and engaging way to experience the Bomberman universe.

Of course, the real fun of Super Bomberman R lies in its multiplayer mode. Up to eight players can battle it out in a variety of arenas, each with its own unique layout and hazards. You can customize your Bomberman with different costumes and accessories, and choose from a variety of power-ups to gain an edge over your opponents. The multiplayer is frantic, competitive, and incredibly addictive. Whether you're playing with friends locally or online, Super Bomberman R offers hours of explosive fun.

While Super Bomberman R may not be the most groundbreaking or innovative game on the Nintendo Switch, it's a solid and enjoyable entry in the Bomberman series. It's a great choice for those looking for a classic multiplayer experience with a modern twist. So, grab your friends, plant some bombs, and get ready for some explosive action!

Snipperclips: Cut It Out, Together!

Looking for something cooperative? Snipperclips: Cut It Out, Together! is a charming puzzle game that requires teamwork and communication. It's a perfect example of the kind of innovative and creative gameplay that the Nintendo Switch excels at.

In Snipperclips, you and a friend control two paper characters, Snip and Clip. You can rotate your character and then cut a portion of the other player's character away. This allows you to create different shapes and solve a variety of puzzles. The puzzles range from simple shape-matching challenges to more complex physics-based scenarios.

The key to success in Snipperclips is communication. You need to work together with your partner to figure out the best way to solve each puzzle. This often involves carefully planning your cuts and coordinating your movements. The game is designed to encourage collaboration and problem-solving, making it a fantastic choice for couples, friends, and families.

Snipperclips also features a Party Mode, which includes a variety of minigames that can be played with up to four players. These minigames are more action-oriented than the main puzzles, and they offer a fun and chaotic way to compete with your friends. Whether you're trying to score the most points in a basketball game or racing to pop balloons, the Party Mode is sure to provide plenty of laughs.

Snipperclips: Cut It Out, Together! is a delightful and innovative puzzle game that showcases the Nintendo Switch's focus on cooperative gameplay. Its charming visuals, clever puzzles, and emphasis on communication make it a must-have for anyone looking for a fun and engaging multiplayer experience.

Honorable Mentions

While these were some of the standout titles, let's not forget a few other games that launched alongside the Nintendo Switch:

• Fast RMX: A fast-paced futuristic racing game that's a great alternative to F-Zero. Fast RMX delivered high-octane thrills right from the start.
• Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove: While not exclusive to the Switch, Shovel Knight was a fantastic indie title available at launch, offering classic platforming action.

So there you have it – a look back at the best Nintendo Switch launch games! These titles helped define the Switch's early days and set the stage for its incredible success. Whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or new to the Switch, these games are definitely worth checking out. Happy gaming, everyone!