Best Nintendo Switch Games Of 2021: A Gamer's Guide

Hey gaming fanatics! Let's rewind the clock and dive into the glorious year that was 2021 for the Nintendo Switch. It was a year packed with amazing games, from groundbreaking adventures to cozy indie gems. If you're a Switch owner, or even just a curious gamer, this article is your go-to guide for the absolute best Nintendo Switch games of 2021. We're talking about the titles that had us glued to our screens, the ones we couldn't stop talking about, and the ones that truly defined the gaming landscape of that year. So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's take a trip down memory lane. I'll break down the games by category and highlight what made each one so special. Get ready to rediscover some favorites and maybe even find your next obsession.

Before we jump in, a quick shout-out to the Nintendo Switch itself. This little console that could, has completely revolutionized the way we play games. Its portability and versatility made it a hit, and it continues to be a favorite among gamers of all ages. 2021 was a fantastic year for the Switch, with plenty of titles that pushed the console's limits and provided hours of entertainment. So, let's get started.

Action-Adventure Games: Big Worlds, Bigger Adventures

Alright guys, let's kick things off with the action-adventure genre, because who doesn't love a grand adventure? In 2021, the Nintendo Switch was home to some truly epic adventures, and here are the standouts. First up, we have Metroid Dread. This game was a long time coming, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait. Metroid Dread is a masterpiece of suspense and exploration. The return of Samus Aran to a 2D environment was celebrated by fans, and this time, the game was better than ever. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and the gameplay is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Every encounter with the E.M.M.I. robots is heart-pounding, and the feeling of uncovering new areas and upgrading your abilities is pure gaming bliss. If you're a fan of the Metroid series, or just a fan of good action-adventure games, then Metroid Dread is an absolute must-play. The art style is gorgeous and runs incredibly smoothly on the Switch. It's a testament to how far the console has come. The game perfectly blends action, platforming, and exploration, creating an unforgettable experience. The level design is brilliant, guiding you through a series of interconnected environments that keep you on the edge of your seat. The story is engaging and builds on the rich lore of the Metroid universe, making it a treat for fans and newcomers alike.

Next, we have Monster Hunter Rise. This game took the Monster Hunter formula and brought it to the Switch in all its glory. If you're into slaying massive monsters and crafting amazing gear, this is the game for you. With its vibrant visuals, fluid combat, and tons of content, Monster Hunter Rise provided hundreds of hours of gameplay. The addition of the Wirebug, which lets you zip around the environment, completely changed the way we approach combat and exploration. It's truly a game that you can get lost in. The game's world is teeming with life, from the lush forests to the soaring cliffs. The monsters themselves are incredibly detailed and challenging to take down. Mastering the different weapon types is a blast, and the satisfaction of finally taking down a tough monster is unmatched. Plus, the multiplayer aspect of the game allows you to team up with friends and tackle even bigger challenges together. This sense of cooperation adds another layer of enjoyment to the game, and makes for some truly memorable gaming moments. You'll find yourself laughing with friends over epic fails and celebrating hard-fought victories. All in all, Monster Hunter Rise is a standout in the action-adventure genre. The quality is a must-try for any Switch owner.

RPGs: Embark on Epic Quests

Alright, let's move on to the RPGs! If you're into deep stories, character development, and a ton of things to do, the Switch had you covered in 2021.

Shin Megami Tensei V is definitely a top pick. This game is a hardcore JRPG with a post-apocalyptic setting, challenging battles, and a dark, compelling story. If you're into demons, turn-based combat, and a world where your choices truly matter, Shin Megami Tensei V is a must-play. The combat is strategic and requires you to learn the strengths and weaknesses of your enemies. The story is rich and thought-provoking, and the characters are complex and well-developed. The world is also beautifully rendered, creating a sense of immersion. The game's atmosphere is gripping from start to finish. You'll find yourself making tough decisions and wondering what the consequences will be. The demon fusion system adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, allowing you to create a powerful team. This game is not for the faint of heart, but for those who are brave enough to embark on this journey, Shin Megami Tensei V is an unforgettable experience. It's a game that will stay with you long after the credits roll. If you love a great story, challenging gameplay, and a world you can get lost in, give this game a shot. You won't regret it. It's a game that will stay with you long after the credits roll, and a must-have for RPG fans.

Next up, we have Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. While some fans had mixed feelings about the graphics, there's no denying the nostalgia factor of these remakes. Going back to the Sinnoh region and reliving the adventure was a blast for many. The games brought the beloved Pokémon Diamond and Pearl to a new generation. Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl are faithful remakes of the original games, with updated graphics and a few quality-of-life improvements. The gameplay is classic Pokémon, with turn-based battles, exploring the world, and catching Pokémon. The story is engaging and the characters are endearing. The game's new features are a welcome addition and make the experience even more enjoyable. The updated visuals and the inclusion of modern features make these remakes a great way to revisit the Sinnoh region or experience it for the first time. The game's ability to capture the spirit of the original games is also a win. It brought the spirit of the originals to a whole new audience. These games are a love letter to the Pokémon fans. This makes it a great choice for both newcomers and returning fans. All in all, this is a heartwarming adventure that will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Indie Gems: Hidden Treasures on the eShop

Now, let's shine a light on the indie scene. The Nintendo eShop is a treasure trove of amazing indie games, and 2021 was no exception. These titles often bring fresh ideas and unique experiences.

Hades is a roguelike dungeon crawler with an incredible story, addictive gameplay, and beautiful art. If you missed this one, do yourself a favor and check it out. Hades is a standout in the roguelike genre. It has won many awards and it's easy to see why. The game is all about escaping the Underworld. You play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, and you must battle your way through hordes of enemies. The gameplay is fast-paced and challenging, but the sense of progression keeps you hooked. Each run offers a unique experience, with different weapon upgrades and special abilities. The story is also one of the game's biggest strengths. The characters are well-developed and the voice acting is superb. The narrative unfolds as you play, revealing more about Zagreus's relationships with the other gods. The game's art style is gorgeous and really adds to the atmosphere. It's a perfect example of how a well-crafted game can captivate players. The game's soundtrack is also phenomenal, perfectly complementing the action on screen. In short, Hades is a must-play for anyone who enjoys fast-paced action games and exciting stories. This title is a masterpiece of the indie scene, and an absolute must-play for any Switch owner. It will have you hooked from the first run. The game's replayability is also extremely high, thanks to its procedural generation and diverse weapon options. This combination ensures that no two runs are alike. If you are looking for a fun and addictive experience, this is the one.

Eastward is a pixel-art adventure game with a heartwarming story, charming characters, and a beautiful world. If you're looking for something unique and emotionally engaging, this is it. Eastward is a love letter to classic adventure games, with its stunning pixel art, engaging story, and memorable characters. You play as John and Sam, who embark on a journey through a post-apocalyptic world. The gameplay involves a blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The story is filled with emotion, and the characters are endearing. The game's art style is simply gorgeous and the music is absolutely beautiful. The world is filled with secrets and hidden areas, encouraging exploration. The puzzles are clever and challenging, and the combat is satisfying. Eastward is a truly unforgettable experience, and a great way to escape to a different world. The developers have crafted a game that's both visually stunning and deeply moving. It's the perfect game for those who enjoy story-driven adventures and a bit of emotional depth. The game's atmosphere is also something to behold, perfectly capturing the feeling of loneliness and hope that pervades the post-apocalyptic setting. The game's soundtrack is equally stunning, adding another layer of emotion to the already captivating story. In short, Eastward is a must-play for anyone seeking a unique gaming experience. The game is a true testament to the power of indie game development, and an example of the kind of creativity and heart that can be found in the indie scene. This game is a hidden gem that will steal your heart.

Fighting Games: Get Ready to Rumble!

And for all you fighting game fans out there, 2021 had a few treats for the Switch.

Guilty Gear -Strive- is a fighting game that offers stunning visuals, deep gameplay, and a rocking soundtrack. If you're into fighting games and want something that looks and sounds amazing, give this one a shot. Guilty Gear -Strive- is the latest installment in the long-running Guilty Gear series, and it's easily one of the best fighting games on the Switch. The game features stunning visuals, with detailed character models and environments. The gameplay is fast-paced and technical, with a focus on combos and strategic thinking. The roster of characters is diverse, each with their own unique fighting styles and moves. The game's soundtrack is a headbanger's dream, featuring heavy metal and rock tracks that get your blood pumping. The game is known for its intricate combat system. It's a treat for fighting game fans. The developers have refined the gameplay. This makes it more accessible to newcomers while still providing a challenge for experienced players. The online multiplayer is robust, and the game has a strong competitive scene. The visual presentation is gorgeous, with fluid animations and stunning special effects. This makes it an absolute visual treat. This game is a must-have for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a fighting game that's both visually stunning and mechanically deep, Guilty Gear -Strive- is the perfect choice. This game is a true masterpiece of the genre.

Sports and Party Games: Fun for Everyone

Let's get the whole gang together. The Nintendo Switch is also known for its fantastic sports and party games, making it the perfect console for multiplayer fun.

Mario Golf: Super Rush is a fun and accessible golf game with a unique speed golf mode. This one is great for both casual players and golf enthusiasts. Mario Golf: Super Rush brought the familiar Mario charm to the golf course. The game has a vibrant art style, smooth gameplay, and a bunch of different modes to keep you entertained. Speed Golf, where you race to hit the ball, is a particularly fun addition. The game's intuitive controls make it easy to pick up and play. You can also get competitive with friends and family. The game has a solid single-player mode, with a variety of courses and challenges. The online multiplayer is also a blast, and you can play against other players from around the world. The characters are charming and have unique abilities that add to the gameplay. This one is a great addition to the series. The game is perfect for both casual players and golf enthusiasts, offering a fun and accessible experience for everyone. The gameplay is easy to learn but hard to master. The courses are well-designed and the online multiplayer is stable. In short, Mario Golf: Super Rush is a must-have for fans of the Mario series. This game is sure to keep you entertained for hours on end.

Conclusion: The Year in Review

So there you have it, folks! A look back at some of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2021. This was a year filled with fantastic titles that offered something for every type of gamer. Whether you were into action-adventure, RPGs, indie gems, fighting games, or sports/party games, the Switch had you covered. These games helped shape the Switch's library. Each game contributed to the console's success. It shows how versatile and entertaining the Nintendo Switch can be.

What were your favorite Switch games of 2021? Let me know in the comments below! Happy gaming, and I'll see you in Hyrule!