So, you've got yourself a Nintendo Switch, huh? Awesome! Now, you're probably wondering, "What are the best Nintendo Switch games I should be playing?" Don't worry, my friend, I've got you covered. This isn't just some random list; it's a carefully curated selection of games that showcase the Switch's versatility and sheer fun factor. Whether you're into epic adventures, mind-bending puzzles, or just some good ol' couch co-op, there's something here for everyone.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Okay, let's kick things off with a masterpiece. When we talk about the best Nintendo Switch games, it's impossible not to mention The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Seriously, this game is a system seller for a reason. From the moment you step out into the vast, open world of Hyrule, you're hit with a sense of freedom and adventure that's hard to match. You can literally go anywhere and do almost anything. Want to climb a mountain? Go for it. Want to paraglide across a massive canyon? You got it. Want to cook a questionable meal using ingredients you found in a monster camp? Well, you can do that too. What makes Breath of the Wild so special is its emergent gameplay. The game doesn't hold your hand; instead, it encourages you to experiment and discover things for yourself. The physics engine is incredible, allowing for all sorts of creative solutions to puzzles and combat encounters. Need to take down a group of Bokoblins? Try setting the grass on fire and watching them panic. Or maybe use a metal weapon to attract lightning during a thunderstorm. The possibilities are endless, and that's what makes this game so replayable. Beyond the gameplay, the world of Hyrule is simply stunning. The art style is beautiful, the music is enchanting, and the sense of scale is breathtaking. Each region is distinct, with its own unique environments, creatures, and challenges. And then there's the story, which is both epic and personal. You play as Link, a hero who must awaken from a century-long slumber to defeat Calamity Ganon and save Princess Zelda. Along the way, you'll meet a cast of memorable characters, uncover ancient secrets, and piece together the history of Hyrule. Breath of the Wild isn't just a game; it's an experience. It's the kind of game that stays with you long after you've finished it, and it's a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. If you haven't played it yet, what are you waiting for? Seriously, go get it now! You won't regret it.

Super Mario Odyssey

Next up, we have another absolute gem: Super Mario Odyssey. If Breath of the Wild is about freedom and exploration, Super Mario Odyssey is about pure, unadulterated joy. This game is a celebration of everything that makes Mario, well, Mario. It's colorful, it's creative, and it's packed with surprises around every corner. The big twist in Odyssey is Cappy, Mario's new hat-shaped companion. Cappy allows Mario to "capture" enemies and objects, essentially taking control of them and using their abilities. This opens up a whole new world of gameplay possibilities. You can capture a Goomba and stack it on top of other Goombas to reach new heights. You can capture a T-Rex and stomp around like a giant lizard. You can even capture a taxi and drive around New Donk City. The capture mechanic is incredibly versatile, and it's used in clever and inventive ways throughout the game. But Super Mario Odyssey is more than just a collection of cool mechanics. It's also a beautifully designed and meticulously crafted game world. Each kingdom is unique, with its own distinct theme, challenges, and secrets. You'll explore bustling cities, lush forests, sandy beaches, and even the moon. And everywhere you go, you'll find hidden collectibles, challenging platforming sections, and memorable characters. The game is also packed with references to past Mario games, which will delight longtime fans. From the classic 8-bit sprites hidden throughout the levels to the remixed music tracks, Odyssey is a love letter to the entire Mario franchise. But even if you're new to Mario, you'll still find plenty to enjoy. The game is accessible and easy to pick up, but it also offers a surprising amount of depth and challenge for those who want it. Whether you're a seasoned platformer or a complete beginner, Super Mario Odyssey is a game that will put a smile on your face. The best Nintendo Switch games will always include this one for its innovative gameplay and incredible level design.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Alright, let's slow things down a bit with a game that's all about relaxation and community: Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This game came out at the perfect time, offering a much-needed escape during the early days of the pandemic. But even now, it remains one of the best Nintendo Switch games for its chill vibes and endless possibilities. In New Horizons, you move to a deserted island and build a new life for yourself. You can fish, catch bugs, decorate your house, and make friends with the local animal residents. There's no real objective or goal; you're free to do whatever you want at your own pace. And that's what makes it so appealing. It's a game that you can play for 15 minutes or 5 hours, and you'll always find something to do. One of the key features of New Horizons is its real-time clock. The game's seasons and events mirror the real world, so there's always something new to discover. You'll celebrate holidays, participate in fishing tournaments, and watch the leaves change color in the fall. This makes the game feel alive and dynamic, and it encourages you to keep coming back for more. The game also has a strong focus on customization. You can design your own clothes, create your own furniture, and even terraform the island to your liking. This allows you to create a truly unique and personalized experience. And of course, no discussion of Animal Crossing would be complete without mentioning the villagers. These adorable animal characters are the heart and soul of the game. Each villager has their own personality and quirks, and you'll quickly develop favorites. You can chat with them, give them gifts, and even invite them to live on your island. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a game that's all about building connections and creating a sense of community. It's a perfect game to play with friends and family, and it's a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. If you're looking for a game that's wholesome, charming, and endlessly replayable, look no further than Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

No list of the best Nintendo Switch games would be complete without Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This is the definitive version of the already-amazing Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U, and it's a must-have for anyone who enjoys racing games or just wants to have some fun with friends. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is all about fast-paced, chaotic racing action. You'll race on a variety of colorful and creative tracks, using power-ups to gain an advantage over your opponents. The game is easy to pick up and play, but it also offers a surprising amount of depth and strategy. You'll need to master drifting, item usage, and track knowledge to truly excel. One of the things that makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe so special is its accessibility. The game offers a variety of control options and assists, making it easy for players of all skill levels to jump in and have fun. You can even turn on automatic steering and acceleration, which is great for younger players or those who are new to the series. But don't let the accessibility fool you; Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is also a highly competitive game. The online multiplayer is thriving, and there are plenty of opportunities to test your skills against other players from around the world. Whether you're playing with friends on the couch or competing online, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is always a blast. The game also includes all of the DLC tracks and characters from the original Mario Kart 8, as well as a few new additions. This means there's a huge amount of content to explore, and you'll never get tired of racing on the same tracks. And of course, no discussion of Mario Kart would be complete without mentioning the iconic characters. You can play as Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, and a whole host of other Nintendo favorites. Each character has their own unique stats and abilities, so you can choose the one that best suits your play style. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a game that's guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. It's fast, it's fun, and it's endlessly replayable. If you're looking for a game that's perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a solo gaming session, look no further than Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Last but definitely not least, we have Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This game truly lives up to its name, offering the ultimate Smash Bros. experience. It features every single character from every previous Smash Bros. game, as well as a host of new additions. That's over 80 playable characters! If you're a fan of fighting games or just a fan of Nintendo, you'll find something to love in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The gameplay is fast-paced and chaotic, with up to eight players battling it out on a variety of stages. The goal is to knock your opponents off the stage, and you can use a variety of attacks, items, and special moves to do so. The game is easy to pick up and play, but it also offers a surprising amount of depth and strategy. You'll need to learn the strengths and weaknesses of each character, master the timing of your attacks, and use the environment to your advantage. One of the things that makes Super Smash Bros. Ultimate so special is its sheer amount of content. The game features a massive single-player campaign, a variety of multiplayer modes, and a seemingly endless supply of unlockable content. You can spend hundreds of hours playing this game and still discover new things. The game also has a thriving online community, with players of all skill levels competing against each other. Whether you're a casual player or a competitive gamer, you'll find a place to belong in the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate community. And of course, no discussion of Super Smash Bros. would be complete without mentioning the music. The game features a massive soundtrack, with hundreds of tracks from throughout the history of Nintendo. You can even customize the music for each stage, allowing you to create your own personalized Smash Bros. experience. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a game that's a celebration of all things Nintendo. It's a must-have for any fan of the company, and it's a great way to experience the history of video games. If you're looking for a game that's packed with content, endlessly replayable, and just plain fun, look no further than Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. These best Nintendo Switch games are sure to bring endless hours of entertainment.

So there you have it, folks! My top picks for the best Nintendo Switch games. Of course, there are many other great games on the Switch, but these are the ones that I think are essential for any Switch owner. Happy gaming!