The 10 Best Nintendo Switch Games of 2024

As a seasoned gamer with decades of gaming under my belt, I must say that this selection of games has truly piqued my interest. From the nostalgic journey offered by Tetris Forever to the tactical RPG experience provided by Unicorn Overlord, there’s something here for every type of player.

In 2024, more than seven years since its debut, the Nintendo Switch remains one of the top-tier consoles on the market, with the buzz surrounding its upcoming successor only serving to underscore its lasting impact in the gaming industry. For now, the Nintendo Switch maintains its status as a significant milestone in console design, consistently demonstrating its value and earning attention from gamers year after year.

As we approach the end of 2024, it’s fitting to reminisce about this year’s top ten Nintendo Switch games. Although several of these games can also be played on other systems, they have undeniably offered an enjoyable gaming experience on the handheld console throughout the year and are worthy of recognition.

Animal Well

In “Animal Well,” players guide a nameless critter through an enigmatic underground maze, tackling puzzles and dodging hazards. As the Metroidvania genre grows denser, “Animal Well” distinguishes itself by prioritizing exploration and problem-solving over intense combat. Unlike many games in its class, “Animal Well” accommodates a variety of playstyles, from casual to hardcore, with a broader array of gameplay options than most other games in the genre. These elements combine to make “Animal Well” one of the top 2024 Nintendo Switch games.

Balatro

In 2024, Balatro is one of the year’s most exceptional games due to its unique blend of gameplay mechanics. Players find themselves in a deck-building adventure reminiscent of poker, but with a twist of Roguelike challenges. The game challenges players to strategically use special Joker cards to progress and overcome increasingly tough obstacles. What sets Balatro apart is its skillful fusion of classic poker rules with the unpredictable nature of Roguelike games, creating an engaging experience that keeps players on their toes. With its addictive gameplay loop and escalating difficulty level, Balatro is a must-play title in 2024, especially for Nintendo Switch users.

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

In “The Legend of Zelda: Whispers of Ages,” players assume the character of Princess Zelda as she embarks on a mission to save Link and reestablish harmony in Hyrule. This game stands out from previous installments due to its distinct narrative, main character being Zelda, and exclusive gaming features. Among these unique elements, the Tri Rod, a weapon unique to Zelda, is particularly remarkable as it allows her to create echoes – duplicates of items and creatures within Hyrule that can be utilized against foes or for navigating the environment. The innovative echo mechanic, coupled with its compelling plotline and meticulously designed world, positions “The Legend of Zelda: Whispers of Ages” as a valuable expansion to the established series and one of the top Nintendo Switch games in 2024.

Neva

Read Game Rant’s Review of Neva

“Neva” is not just one of the top Nintendo Switch games in 2024, but it’s also one of the most stunning and captivating games overall. It’s definitely worthy of being included in any “best games” list. In “Neva”, players join Alba and her wolf companion on a journey through a world that’s rapidly falling into darkness. As a side-scrolling platformer, it offers numerous environmental challenges and combat that might initially be tough for new players. The narrative revolves around themes of love, loss, and growth, and the game’s soundtrack beautifully enhances these themes. What sets “Neva” apart is its stunning visual art, which along with the music, creates an immersive experience that players are likely to remember fondly for many years.

Nine Sols

2024 sees another Metroidvania game added to the top Nintendo Switch games list, but unlike the relaxed experience of “Animal Well”, “Nine Sols” is a challenging Soulslike Metroidvania designed for experienced gamers. In “Nine Sols”, players become Yi, a vengeful hero seeking to dethrone the rulers of New Kunlun, known as the Nine Sols. The game is set in a “taopunk” world and delivers a fresh perspective on the action-platformer genre with striking visuals and meticulously designed levels that encourage deep exploration. The combat system, which relies on parries similar to games like “Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice”, requires the focus and attention only Soulslikes demand.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door

In “Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door” for the Nintendo Switch, they’ve successfully retained the spirit of the 2004 RPG on GameCube, while elevating it with improved graphics and animations, as well as a finessed battle system. Players embark on an adventure alongside Mario to find the seven Crystal Stars and uncover secrets behind the thousand-year old title door. This remake not only honors the original’s charm, wit, and nostalgia value due to its numerous enhancements, but also stands out as one of the top Nintendo Switch games in 2024.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Read Game Rant’s Review of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

It’s been over fourteen years since “Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands” was unveiled, but only recently has the world seen another significant addition to the series in the form of “Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown”. In this latest installment, gamers find themselves taking charge of the protagonist, Sargon – a young Immortal warrior – embarking on a quest to free Prince Ghassan who has been abducted within the accursed Mount Qaf. “Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown” harks back to the original series with classic combat, platforming, and time-bending mechanics, while also incorporating some novel gameplay aspects.

In typical fashion for the series, levels in Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown present players with an assortment of hurdles to conquer and riddles to unravel, each one becoming increasingly complex. Essentially, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown provides a chance for gamers to reminisce about the original series while also offering a refreshed feel that adds a new dimension to the franchise.

Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance

Read Game Rant’s Review of Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance

Initially not requiring an upgrade, Shin Megami Tensei 5 was re-released this year as Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance. This updated version has garnered even greater praise than the original game. Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance elevates the 2021 RPG experience with a new narrative thread called “Canon of Vengeance,” which explores complex themes like retribution and moral complexity. This fresh storyline provides players with novel paths and decisions to make. The enhanced edition also optimizes the original’s Press Turn combat system by introducing new demons and abilities for increased customization and strategic complexity. The new areas in this version are definitely worth exploring.

Tetris Forever

In 2024, Tetris Forever stands out among Nintendo Switch games, honoring the 40-year history of Tetris with a nostalgic adventure through its rich past. Crafted by Digital Eclipse, Tetris Forever boasts more than 15 classic editions of Tetris, including previously unseen titles from outside Japan. It also presents Tetris Time Warp, a mode that guides players through different epochs of Tetris gameplay.

Beyond just being a game, Tetris Forever serves as a unique interactive chronicle. It features interviews with creators like Alexey Pajitnov and Henk Rogers, along with a carefully assembled timeline demonstrating the significant influence of Tetris on the gaming world since its inception. This presentation not only pays tribute to the iconic puzzle game but also provides an engaging experience that caters to both dedicated fans and newcomers alike.

Unicorn Overlord

Read Game Rant’s Review of Unicorn Overlord

In “Unicorn Overlord”, players assume the role of Prince Alain, a displaced heir to Cornia, who along with his troops, embarks on a mission to regain control of his kingdom from the Zenoiran Empire. Fundamentally, “Unicorn Overlord” is a tactical RPG that amalgamates real-time strategy with role-playing features, offering a unique twist on the genre. The game’s graphics and combat mechanics make it distinctive within the genres it belongs to, yet they are still recognizable enough for fans from both sides to enjoy its offerings.

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2024-12-17 17:05