Top 10 Must-Play Tactics Games on Nintendo Switch You Can’t Miss!

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Summary

  • Some top Nintendo Switch tactics games are exclusive, like Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope and Fire Emblem: Three Houses.
  • Each game offers unique gameplay, engaging stories, and deep tactical combat.
  • From battles to character customization, games like Unicorn Overlord and XCOM 2 provide challenging and satisfying experiences.

Tactics games have gained immense popularity and belong to a thriving category, constantly producing fresh and high-quality entries almost annually. These must-play gaming experiences can be indie gems or part of established and well-liked franchises. Many of these essential gaming experiences often find their way onto Nintendo’s best-selling hybrid console, with some even being exclusive to the Switch.

Due to the abundance of excellent strategy games available for the Nintendo Switch, it was necessary to leave out some highly recommended titles from this list. However, this only underscores that these are the absolute best of the best on the hybrid console, as they have been ranked based on a blend of their overall quality and player popularity.

10. Disgaea 5 Complete

Deep And User-Friendly Battles

The Nintendo Switch version of the main game “Disgaea 5: Alliance of Vengeance” along with all its additional content is referred to as “Disgaea 5 Complete.” In this game, your objective is to vanquish Void Dark, a malevolent demon who has annihilated multiple Netherworlds using his massive army of over one million, known as The Lost.

In this game, adventurers journey through diverse Netherworlds aiming to enlist Overlords for their team, making party-building an immensely gratifying experience. The game offers a rich selection of playable character classes, each with unique weaponry and combat styles, which might seem complex but is surprisingly accessible even to novice players.

9. Valkyria Chronicles 4

An Engaging Story With Enhanced Gameplay

In the wake of the triumphant launch of the initial three games in the series, Valkyria Chronicles 4 introduces a fresh Grenadier class to provide gamers with an additional strategic advantage during combat. Players find themselves leading Commander Claude Wallace and his comrades, as they engage in fierce battles against adversaries that include inclement weather and formidable foes boasting divine abilities.

In the “Last Stand” mechanic, a defeated unit may still contribute to the battle, either by launching a counterattack or bolstering an ally, before ultimately meeting their end. The gameplay is engaging, the visuals are lively, and the characters are appealing, making this game arguably the finest in its series.

8. Into the Breach

Chess With Mechs

In a grid of eight rows and eight columns, and frequently likened to chess, the game “Into the Breach” is rich with strategic aspects for enthusiasts to explore. Situated in the distant future, players engage in turn-based battles against massive space creatures called the Vek using colossal mechs. These combats incorporate roguelike elements.

In this game, making hard choices is crucial during battles. This could mean letting mechs be damaged or demolished, or even watching important structures crumble. As players progress through the levels, they must adapt their strategies quickly because the game is fast-paced and the situations on various battlefields keep changing.

7. Invisible, Inc.

Tactical Stealth And Espionage

In the game named Invisible, Inc., the essential element is stealth, given its importance in this spy-themed adventure that bears similarities to XCOM. Players are given three days to ready themselves for their ultimate mission, and they must select tasks meticulously on their way to the end goal, as both distance and mission complexity can significantly reduce their most precious resource: time.

Enhancing the strategic aspect, you’ve got resource shortage and the distinct talents of operatives. Certain agents can be enlisted to offer exclusive skills, providing an additional advantage during confrontations or infiltration missions. Since levels are randomly created, gameplay remains fresh and challenges the tactical intelligence of players at every turn.

6. XCOM 2 Collection

The Measuring Stick Of Turn-Based Tactics

It’s no surprise that all strategy games are often likened to the XCOM series, and gamers were thrilled about playing XCOM 2 portably on Nintendo’s versatile console. With the complete game, additional DLC, and the War of the Chosen expansion campaign included, fighting off invading aliens in that challenging yet rewarding combat style has earned a large following for good reason.

This game ranks high mainly because of the technical issues it encountered, particularly during its launch. Although it experiences occasional lagging and crashes, many players are willing to endure the graphical compromises to savor this masterpiece on portable devices. The compelling narrative, robust combat system, and extensive squad customization options make it a worthy choice despite the glitches.

5. Tactics Ogre: Reborn

Character Class Variety And A Deep Story

Back in 1995, I stumbled upon a gem titled “Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together.” Fast forward to today, it’s been revitalized and brought to modern platforms like the Switch as “Tactics Oge: Reborn.” Known for being the precursor to “Final Fantasy Tactics,” this game offers a unique experience with its branching paths and various endings. The decisions I make as Denam, my character, can significantly alter the world of Valeria.

A significant difference from the initial version is that all cutscenes now feature dialogue, and enemy artificial intelligence has been enhanced to adapt its strategies as needed. This, along with the overhauled character class system, ensures that combat remains engaging, allowing players to customize their characters in numerous ways, resulting in a distinct experience for each playthrough.

4. Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp Edition

Tough But Fair And Family Friendly

The revamped version of two exclusive titles for Game Boy Advance, titled “Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp Edition“, offers an engaging experience of rapid, turn-based strategy set amidst continental warfare. Each Commander originates from distinct regions on the map, bringing unique strengths and vulnerabilities to the table, while their special abilities can significantly alter the course of combat.

Efficiently utilizing resources and teams is crucial for achieving victory, and it’s equally important to seize control of bases and structures while also safeguarding them. The gameplay can be surprisingly tough but balanced and incredibly engaging. Additionally, the visual style is lively and visually appealing, making Advance Wars an inviting choice for players of all ages.

3. Unicorn Overlord

Compelling Story And Captivating Combat

Although some players might disregard it because of its name, “Unicorn Overlord” stands out as one of the finest tactical games ever created. While Alain’s story and the power struggle within the Zenoiran Empire may seem commonplace to some, the later plot developments and side stories received considerable acclaim. This appreciation extends beyond just the gameplay, which is already top-notch.

Engaging in this game offers a rich, satisfying experience as it combines aspects of strategic planning, resource management, and rapid decision-making. It can be challenging, but the sense of accomplishment when you get it right makes it all worthwhile. The battles are massive, featuring more than 60 distinct characters such as humans, angels, and colossal beasts, ensuring that every combat encounter remains fresh and exciting.

2. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope

Deep Strategy With That Signature Mario Charm

Continuing in the lineage of Kingdom Battle, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is a fusion of the worlds of Mario and Rabbids, offering turn-based combat. Distinct from its predecessor, this new installment offers a more expansive battlefield layout that’s not confined to a grid system, and includes environmental weapons that introduce real-time elements into the gameplay.

New additions to playable characters are Bowser, an Rabbidd resembling Rosalina named Edge, and Rayman in the DLC. Building your roster and enhancing characters remains satisfying, while the unexpected complexity comes from teamwork through synchronized jumps and tactical positioning, making this game appealing for all ages.

1. Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Very Tactical And Massively Replayable

Nestled on the continent of Fodlan, the game titled Fire Emblem: Three Houses stands out as one of the finest in the Fire Emblem collection. In this engaging narrative, you assume the role of a professor at the academy and a former soldier, facing a crucial choice later on – to align yourself with one of the three noble houses for the rest of your gameplay.

In this game, every element, from social interactions to strategic battles, matters significantly. Since each playthrough offers distinct paths and endings, coupled with a diverse cast of characters, an extensive library of combat skills, and numerous weapon choices, mastering all aspects is crucial for a unique gaming experience.

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2025-02-10 04:36