Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2022: IGN's Picks

Hey gaming fanatics! Let's dive into the amazing world of Nintendo Switch games released in 2022! You know, 2022 was a fantastic year for the Switch, with a bunch of incredible titles that kept us glued to our screens. IGN, the ultimate authority on all things gaming, has meticulously curated a list of the best games. We're going to explore some of the gems that earned a spot on their prestigious list. So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's journey through the best Switch games of 2022, as per IGN's expert opinion.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – A Masterpiece

Alright, guys, let's kick things off with a bang! No surprises here, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom undoubtedly snagged a top spot. This game isn't just good; it's a monumental achievement in game design. Building upon the already stellar foundation of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom takes players on an unforgettable adventure through Hyrule and the skies above. The sheer scale of the game is mind-blowing. Imagine a world where you can explore vast landscapes, construct crazy contraptions, and unravel a captivating story that keeps you hooked for hours on end. The freedom this game offers is unparalleled. You can literally go anywhere and do almost anything. If you can dream it, you can probably build it or explore it in Tears of the Kingdom.

IGN's review showered the game with praise, and for good reason. The game features an expansive open world brimming with secrets, challenges, and endless possibilities for exploration. The gameplay mechanics are incredibly innovative, allowing for creative problem-solving and unique approaches to combat. The story is rich and emotionally resonant, pulling players deep into the world of Hyrule and its inhabitants. The game is a true testament to the power of imagination and the magic of video games. If you're a fan of open-world adventures, action, and puzzle-solving, this game is a must-play. Tears of the Kingdom isn't just a game; it's an experience, a journey, and a testament to the boundless creativity of the developers. Trust me, you'll be spending a lot of time in Hyrule, and you won't regret a single second of it. This game has set a new standard for open-world games, and it's a must-have for any Switch owner. The level of detail, the engaging gameplay, and the immersive world make this game a true masterpiece. You can't miss this game. You'll understand why it is considered one of the best games ever made. For those who love the Zelda series, this is one of the biggest releases in history.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet – A Bold New Direction

Next up, we have Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Guys, the Pokémon franchise always delivers, but these games took a slightly different approach. These games introduced players to the Paldea region, a vibrant open world filled with Pokémon to catch, battles to win, and stories to experience. One of the biggest changes in Scarlet and Violet was the shift to a truly open-world environment. Players are free to explore the region in any order, tackling the various challenges and objectives as they see fit. This freedom is a major departure from the more linear structure of previous Pokémon games and adds a new dimension of exploration and discovery. The gameplay revolves around catching and training Pokémon to battle against other trainers and wild Pokémon. The battles themselves have been refined over the years, and Scarlet and Violet offer a satisfying and strategic combat system. The game features a variety of Pokémon to catch, train, and battle with. Each Pokémon has unique abilities and strengths, so building a strong team requires strategic thinking and careful planning. The game includes multiplayer features that allow you to battle and trade Pokémon with friends and other players from around the world. These features enhance the social aspect of the game, making it a fun and engaging experience for Pokémon fans of all ages.

The graphics received some criticism, but the core gameplay, the new Pokémon designs, and the open-world exploration make it a worthwhile experience for Pokémon fans. IGN praised the game's ambition, the new features, and the fun of exploring the new region. It’s a bold step forward for the series, even with its shortcomings. For Pokémon enthusiasts, it's a must-play. The fact that the game is so open world and free to explore is a huge step forward for the franchise. The freedom to explore and experience the world in your own way is a highlight of the game. It is a very immersive world where you will spend a lot of time to have fun.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Epic JRPG Adventure

For all you RPG fans out there, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a true gem! This game is an epic JRPG that takes players on a grand journey through a vast and beautiful world. The gameplay is deep and engaging, with a focus on strategic combat and exploration. The story is a captivating tale of war, friendship, and self-discovery. The graphics are stunning, and the soundtrack is a masterpiece. The game has a complex and compelling storyline that kept IGN and its players engrossed for hours on end. The combat system is deep and engaging, offering a variety of strategic options and abilities to master. The world of Aionios is vast and beautiful, filled with secrets to discover and challenges to overcome.

IGN's review highlighted the game's rich story, the engaging combat system, and the stunning visuals. If you're looking for a deep and rewarding RPG experience, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a must-play. The gameplay is deep and the game's story is one of the best in the genre. You’ll be captivated by the incredible characters, their complex relationships, and the vast world they inhabit. The game is a true masterpiece of its genre, and it's a must-have for any RPG fan. The game will keep you entertained for countless hours. Its huge open world and complex combat system are highlights. Get ready for an adventure you won't soon forget! The story is well-written and engaging, and the characters are memorable. This game is a true masterpiece of storytelling and game design, and it’s a must-have for any Switch owner. It will captivate you from beginning to end.

Splatoon 3 – Inklings Ink It Up!

Let’s get a little messy with Splatoon 3. This game keeps the ink-splattering fun going, offering a unique and vibrant multiplayer experience. Splatoon 3 is a third-person shooter that sets itself apart with its unique gameplay mechanics, colorful art style, and family-friendly approach. Players control Inklings, humanoid creatures who can transform into squids, and use ink to cover the environment. The primary objective in many game modes is to cover the most ground with your team's ink. The gameplay is fast-paced, strategic, and incredibly fun. The game features a variety of different game modes, each offering a unique twist on the ink-splattering action. The single-player campaign offers a solid and engaging experience with a variety of challenging levels and bosses. Splatoon 3 offers a unique and satisfying gameplay experience that's unlike anything else on the market.

IGN's review praised the game's addictive multiplayer, the new weapons and maps, and the overall polish. If you're looking for a fun and competitive multiplayer experience, Splatoon 3 is a must-play. This game is perfect for those who want a fun and colorful multiplayer experience. It's a great choice for both casual and competitive players, offering a unique and engaging experience that's hard to put down. The game has been a massive hit, and it continues to grow with new content and updates. Splatoon 3 is a must-play for anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable multiplayer experience on the Nintendo Switch. If you like colorful, action-packed fun, you will like this game. The gameplay is innovative and refreshing. It's a must-play for any Switch owner. You’ll be hooked from the start.

Bayonetta 3 – Witchy Action at its Finest

And for those who love stylish action, Bayonetta 3 is a must-play. This game continues the series' tradition of fast-paced, over-the-top combat and a charismatic protagonist. Bayonetta 3 offers an exhilarating and over-the-top action experience. The game is known for its incredibly fast-paced combat, flashy visuals, and a captivating story. Players take control of Bayonetta, a powerful witch who can unleash a variety of devastating attacks. The combat system is deep and rewarding, allowing for a variety of creative and stylish combos. The game also features a variety of different enemies and bosses, each with their own unique challenges.

IGN's review lauded the game's incredible combat, the stunning visuals, and the overall fun factor. If you're a fan of action games, Bayonetta 3 is a must-play. This game is an absolute blast from start to finish. The combat system is deep, the visuals are stunning, and the story is captivating. It’s an easy recommendation for any action game fan. It's an absolute blast to play, and it's sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. The game is a true masterpiece of the action genre, and it's a must-have for any Switch owner. The game will leave you wanting more. Bayonetta 3 is a must-play for any fan of the action genre.

Other Notable Mentions

While IGN highlighted those titles, the Nintendo Switch in 2022 had other amazing games, such as Kirby and the Forgotten Land, which offered a charming 3D platforming adventure. Also, the critically acclaimed Triangle Strategy for all the turn-based strategy fans, provided an engaging and tactical experience. These games show that the Switch's game library is extremely rich and has something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of platformers, RPGs, or strategy games, the Switch has you covered. It's a testament to the Switch's versatility and its ability to cater to a wide range of gaming tastes. So don't hesitate to check out these great titles. There is something for everyone.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! IGN's picks for the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022. This year was a testament to the Switch's ability to host a wide variety of amazing games. From open-world adventures to action-packed shooters, the Switch offered something for every gamer. We hope this list has given you some inspiration for your next gaming adventure! Remember to keep an eye out for more great games on the Switch. The Switch continues to be a fantastic platform for gaming, and with new releases coming out all the time, there's always something new to play. Happy gaming!