Top Nintendo Switch Games For Adult Beginners
So, you're an adult who's just getting into the Nintendo Switch? Awesome! The Switch is an amazing console with a ton of fantastic games, but it can be a bit overwhelming knowing where to start. Don't worry, guys! We've got you covered. This guide is designed to help beginner adults navigate the vast library of Nintendo Switch games and find titles that are both enjoyable and easy to pick up.
Why the Nintendo Switch is Perfect for Adult Beginners
Before we dive into specific game recommendations, let's talk about why the Nintendo Switch is such a great console for adults who are new to gaming or returning after a long break. Its versatility is a huge plus; you can play it on your TV like a traditional console, or you can take it on the go in handheld mode. This is perfect for busy adults who might only have time for gaming during their commute or in short bursts throughout the day.
Another reason: The Switch has a wide variety of games across all genres. Whether you're into action-adventure, puzzle games, RPGs, or even simulations, there's something for everyone. And unlike some other consoles that focus heavily on hardcore gaming, the Switch has a large selection of family-friendly and casual games that are perfect for beginners. The accessibility of many Switch games is also a major factor. Nintendo is known for creating games that are easy to learn but difficult to master, which means you can jump in and start having fun right away without feeling overwhelmed by complex controls or intricate storylines. Plus, the Switch's online service allows you to play with friends and other players around the world, adding a social element to your gaming experience.
Top Game Recommendations for Beginner Adults
Alright, let's get to the good stuff: the games! Here are some of the best Nintendo Switch games for adult beginners, categorized by genre to help you find something that suits your taste.
Action-Adventure
For those who enjoy exploring, solving puzzles, and engaging in combat, action-adventure games are a great place to start. These games often have compelling stories and offer a good balance of challenge and reward.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Okay, Breath of the Wild is practically a must-have for any Switch owner. It's an open-world masterpiece that gives you the freedom to explore a vast and beautiful Hyrule at your own pace. The story is engaging, the puzzles are clever, and the combat is satisfying without being overly difficult. What makes it great for beginners is that you can approach the game in any way you want. Feel like just wandering around and discovering secrets? Go for it! Want to focus on the main quest? That's fine too. The game does an excellent job of guiding you without holding your hand, allowing you to learn the mechanics and explore the world at your own speed. And trust me, the sense of accomplishment you'll feel after completing your first shrine or defeating a challenging enemy is incredibly rewarding.
Lego Games (e.g., Lego City Undercover, Lego Harry Potter Collection)
Lego games are fantastic for beginners because they're simple, charming, and full of humor. They're also co-op, so you can play with a friend or family member. Lego City Undercover is a particularly good choice, as it's an open-world game with plenty to do and explore. The Lego Harry Potter Collection is also a great option for fans of the books and movies. The gameplay is straightforward, the puzzles are easy to solve, and the stories are faithful to the source material. Plus, the Lego aesthetic adds a layer of lightheartedness that makes these games enjoyable for all ages. These games are designed to be accessible and fun, with simple controls and forgiving gameplay. You can smash things, collect studs, and unlock new characters, all while enjoying a humorous storyline.
Puzzle Games
If you enjoy brain-teasers and problem-solving, puzzle games are an excellent choice. These games can be both relaxing and challenging, and they're perfect for playing in short bursts.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a charming puzzle game that's all about exploring diorama-like levels and finding hidden treasures. The puzzles are clever but not too difficult, and the game is visually appealing. What makes it great for beginners is that it's easy to pick up and play, but it also offers enough challenge to keep you engaged. You control Captain Toad (or Toadette) as they navigate through various levels, rotating the camera to find hidden paths and solve puzzles. The game is full of secrets and collectibles, and it's incredibly satisfying to discover them all. It's a perfect game to unwind with after a long day.
Picross S Series
Picross is a classic puzzle game that involves using logic to reveal a hidden picture. The Picross S series on the Switch is a great way to get into the series, as it offers a variety of puzzles and difficulty levels. These games are fantastic for exercising your brain and improving your logic skills. Each puzzle presents you with a grid of squares, and you must use the numbers along the edges of the grid to determine which squares to fill in and which to leave blank. As you fill in the correct squares, a picture gradually emerges. It's a simple concept, but the puzzles can be surprisingly challenging. The Picross S series is perfect for playing on the go, and it's a great way to keep your mind sharp.
RPGs (Role-Playing Games)
RPGs often involve deep stories, character development, and strategic combat. They can be a bit more complex than other genres, but they also offer a lot of depth and replayability.
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
These Pokémon games are remakes of the original Pokémon Yellow and are designed to be more accessible to newcomers. They feature simplified gameplay mechanics and a focus on catching Pokémon in the wild. What makes them great for beginners is that they're easy to learn and play, but they still offer the core Pokémon experience of exploring, battling, and collecting. You start your journey with either Pikachu or Eevee as your partner, and you travel through the Kanto region, catching Pokémon, battling gym leaders, and uncovering a nefarious plot. The games are visually appealing and full of charm, and they're a great way to get into the Pokémon series.
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a charming and relaxing RPG that combines farming, crafting, and social simulation. You inherit your grandfather's farm and must rebuild it while also getting to know the locals. The game is open-ended, so you can play it at your own pace. What makes it great for beginners is that it's easy to learn, but it also offers a lot of depth and replayability. You can spend your days planting crops, raising animals, fishing, mining, and exploring the surrounding areas. You can also build relationships with the townsfolk, attend festivals, and even get married. Stardew Valley is a perfect game for relaxing and unwinding, and it's easy to lose yourself in its charming world.
Simulation
Simulation games allow you to manage and control various aspects of a virtual world. They can be relaxing and engaging, and they often offer a lot of creativity and customization.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a social simulation game that allows you to create your own island paradise. You can decorate your home, collect items, catch bugs and fish, and interact with adorable animal villagers. What makes it great for beginners is that it's easy to pick up and play, but it also offers endless possibilities for customization and creativity. You can design your island to your liking, build relationships with your villagers, and participate in various events and activities. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a perfect game for relaxing and expressing your creativity, and it's easy to get hooked on its charming world.
Minecraft
Minecraft allows you to build anything you can imagine. While it can seem daunting at first, the game can be very relaxing once you get the hang of it, especially in creative mode where you don't have to worry about survival.
Tips for Beginner Adult Gamers
- Start Slow: Don't feel pressured to jump into complex games right away. Begin with simpler titles and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones.
- Read Reviews: Before buying a game, read reviews and watch gameplay videos to get a sense of whether it's a good fit for you.
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you're stuck in a game, don't hesitate to look up a walkthrough or ask for help from online communities.
- Experiment with Different Genres: Don't limit yourself to one genre. Try out different types of games to see what you enjoy.
- Have Fun! The most important thing is to relax and enjoy yourself. Gaming is a hobby, so don't take it too seriously.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch is a fantastic console for adult beginners, and there are plenty of great games to choose from. Whether you're into action-adventure, puzzle games, RPGs, or simulations, there's something for everyone. Hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point for exploring the world of Nintendo Switch gaming. So grab a console, pick a game, and get ready to have some fun!