Best Nintendo Switch Games Of 2021: Top Picks!

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the awesome world of Nintendo Switch games that hit the shelves in 2021. It was a fantastic year for gaming on the go (or on the couch!), and we saw some truly memorable titles. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let’s jump right into the best Nintendo Switch games released in 2021!

Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread was, without a doubt, one of the most anticipated and highest-rated games of 2021. Serving as the fifth main installment in the Metroid series, it marked the return of the classic 2D side-scrolling gameplay that fans had been craving for years. The game follows the iconic bounty hunter Samus Aran as she investigates a mysterious signal on the planet ZDR. What makes Metroid Dread stand out is its perfect blend of exploration, action, and stealth. The introduction of the E.M.M.I. robots, which relentlessly hunt Samus, added a thrilling layer of tension to the gameplay. Players had to carefully navigate environments, use stealth tactics, and utilize Samus's evolving abilities to survive. Graphically, Metroid Dread is stunning, with detailed environments and smooth animations that showcase the power of the Nintendo Switch. The game's level design is intricate and rewarding, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny to uncover secrets and upgrades. The boss battles are epic and challenging, requiring players to master Samus's moveset and exploit enemy weaknesses. The storyline is engaging, filled with twists and turns that keep players invested from beginning to end. Metroid Dread is a must-play for fans of the Metroid series and newcomers alike, offering a perfect blend of classic gameplay and modern design. Its critical acclaim and commercial success cemented its place as one of the best games of 2021. Ultimately, Metroid Dread not only lived up to the hype but exceeded expectations, delivering an unforgettable gaming experience that will be remembered for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned Metroid veteran or new to the franchise, this game offers something for everyone, making it a true standout title in the Nintendo Switch library. For those who appreciate a blend of action, exploration, and a touch of horror, Metroid Dread is an essential addition to your collection.

Monster Hunter Rise

Monster Hunter Rise brought the thrill of monster hunting to the Nintendo Switch in a big way. As a flagship title for the console, it introduced a wealth of new features and improvements that made it both accessible to newcomers and engaging for long-time fans of the series. The game takes place in the vibrant and colorful Kamura Village, inspired by feudal Japan. Players assume the role of a hunter tasked with protecting the village from rampaging monsters. Monster Hunter Rise introduced the Wirebug, a versatile tool that allows players to grapple and swing through the environment, adding a new dimension to exploration and combat. The Wirebug also enables special attacks and maneuvers, giving hunters even more options in battle. Another standout feature is the introduction of Palamutes, canine companions that hunters can ride to quickly traverse the vast landscapes. Palamutes are not only adorable but also provide valuable support in combat. The monster roster in Monster Hunter Rise is diverse and challenging, featuring both returning favorites and brand-new creatures to hunt. Each monster has its own unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their strategies and gear accordingly. The game's multiplayer mode allows up to four players to team up and tackle challenging quests together, making it a fantastic option for cooperative play. The sense of camaraderie and teamwork is a key part of the Monster Hunter experience, and Rise delivers on this front. Graphically, Monster Hunter Rise is impressive, with detailed environments and smooth animations that showcase the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch. The game's performance is also solid, maintaining a stable frame rate even during intense battles. The post-launch support for Monster Hunter Rise has been excellent, with Capcom regularly adding new monsters, quests, and features to keep players engaged. This ongoing support has helped to solidify the game's place as one of the best Monster Hunter titles in recent years. In summary, Monster Hunter Rise is a triumph for the Monster Hunter series, offering a compelling blend of action, exploration, and customization. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the franchise, this game is sure to provide countless hours of enjoyment. Its innovative features, engaging gameplay, and robust multiplayer mode make it a standout title in the Nintendo Switch library.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury was a delightful package that combined a beloved Wii U title with a brand-new adventure. Super Mario 3D World is a multiplayer-focused platformer that allows up to four players to team up and tackle colorful and creative levels together. The game features a variety of unique power-ups, such as the Super Bell, which transforms Mario and friends into cats, and the Double Cherry, which creates multiple clones of the characters. The level design in Super Mario 3D World is inventive and charming, with each world offering a fresh and exciting challenge. The game's multiplayer mode is chaotic and hilarious, encouraging teamwork and friendly competition. Whether you're racing to the flagpole or helping each other overcome obstacles, Super Mario 3D World is a blast to play with friends and family. The addition of Bowser's Fury is a significant upgrade, offering a large, open-world environment to explore. In Bowser's Fury, Mario must team up with Bowser Jr. to stop a giant, rampaging Bowser who has been corrupted by a mysterious black goop. The gameplay in Bowser's Fury is a blend of classic Mario platforming and open-world exploration. Players can collect Cat Shines to unlock new areas and power-ups, and they must battle Bowser at regular intervals to keep him from destroying the environment. The scale of Bowser's Fury is impressive, with a seamless world that is filled with secrets and challenges. The game's dynamic weather system and day-night cycle add to the sense of immersion, and the ever-present threat of Bowser keeps players on their toes. Graphically, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury looks stunning on the Nintendo Switch, with vibrant colors and smooth animations. The game's performance is also solid, maintaining a stable frame rate even in the most chaotic moments. Overall, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a fantastic package that offers hours of fun for players of all ages. Whether you're a fan of classic Mario platforming or looking for a new and exciting adventure, this game has something for everyone. Its multiplayer mode, inventive level design, and impressive open-world environment make it a standout title in the Nintendo Switch library. This game is a must-have for any Mario fan, offering a perfect blend of classic gameplay and modern innovation.

New Pokémon Snap

New Pokémon Snap brought a fresh perspective to the Pokémon universe, focusing on exploration and photography rather than battling and training. As a spiritual successor to the Nintendo 64 classic, New Pokémon Snap tasked players with photographing Pokémon in their natural habitats. The game takes place in the Lental region, a diverse archipelago filled with lush jungles, arid deserts, and icy mountains. Players ride in the NEO-ONE, an on-rails vehicle that travels through various courses, allowing them to observe and photograph Pokémon. The goal of the game is to fill out the Photodex by capturing the best possible photos of each Pokémon. Players can use a variety of tools to interact with the Pokémon, such as throwing fluffruit, playing music, and scanning the environment. The Pokémon react differently to these stimuli, creating opportunities for unique and interesting photos. The game's scoring system rewards players for capturing photos that are well-composed, in-focus, and feature Pokémon in rare or interesting poses. The Photodex provides helpful tips and challenges, encouraging players to experiment and improve their photography skills. New Pokémon Snap is a relaxing and immersive experience that allows players to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Pokémon world. The game's graphics are stunning, with detailed environments and lifelike Pokémon models. The game's performance is also solid, maintaining a stable frame rate even with dozens of Pokémon on screen. The post-launch support for New Pokémon Snap has been excellent, with Nintendo adding new courses and Pokémon to keep players engaged. This ongoing support has helped to solidify the game's place as one of the best Pokémon spin-offs in recent years. In summary, New Pokémon Snap is a must-play for Pokémon fans and photography enthusiasts alike. Its relaxing gameplay, stunning graphics, and engaging challenges make it a standout title in the Nintendo Switch library. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or new to the genre, this game is sure to provide hours of enjoyment. Its innovative approach to the Pokémon universe and focus on exploration and observation make it a unique and memorable experience. This game is a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.

Shin Megami Tensei V

Shin Megami Tensei V marked a triumphant return for the Shin Megami Tensei series, delivering a dark and challenging RPG experience on the Nintendo Switch. As the fifth main installment in the series, it built upon the franchise's established formula while introducing new features and improvements. The game takes place in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, where the protagonist, a high school student, is transported to a desolate world known as Da'at. In Da'at, the protagonist merges with a mysterious being to become a Nahobino, a powerful entity capable of fighting demons. The gameplay in Shin Megami Tensei V is a blend of exploration, demon negotiation, and turn-based combat. Players must navigate the treacherous landscapes of Da'at, battling demons and recruiting them to join their party. Demon negotiation is a key part of the Shin Megami Tensei experience, requiring players to carefully choose their responses to persuade demons to join their cause. The combat system is challenging and strategic, requiring players to exploit enemy weaknesses and manage their resources effectively. The game's storyline is dark and complex, exploring themes of morality, religion, and free will. Players must make difficult choices that impact the outcome of the story, leading to multiple endings. Shin Megami Tensei V is a visually stunning game, with detailed environments and striking character designs. The game's performance is also solid, maintaining a stable frame rate even during intense battles. The game's soundtrack is haunting and atmospheric, perfectly complementing the game's dark and foreboding tone. Overall, Shin Megami Tensei V is a must-play for fans of the Shin Megami Tensei series and RPG enthusiasts alike. Its challenging gameplay, dark storyline, and stunning visuals make it a standout title in the Nintendo Switch library. Whether you're a seasoned Shin Megami Tensei veteran or new to the franchise, this game is sure to provide hours of enjoyment. Its innovative approach to the RPG genre and focus on demon negotiation and strategic combat make it a unique and memorable experience. Ultimately, Shin Megami Tensei V is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Shin Megami Tensei series, proving that it remains one of the most innovative and challenging RPG franchises in gaming.

These were just a few of the fantastic Nintendo Switch games released in 2021. With such a diverse lineup, there was something for everyone to enjoy! What were your favorite Switch games from 2021? Let us know in the comments below!