So, you've just snagged yourself a shiny new Nintendo Switch, huh? Awesome! But now you're staring at that crisp screen wondering, "What games should I dive into first?" Don't worry, my friend, I’ve got your back. Let's break down the absolute best Nintendo Switch launch games that'll get you started on your hybrid gaming journey. These aren't just any games; they're titles that really showcase what the Switch is all about: fun, versatility, and a whole lot of Nintendo magic. Let's jump in!

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Okay, let’s be real. No discussion about the best Nintendo Switch launch games is complete without mentioning The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game isn't just good; it's a masterpiece. From the moment you step out of that Shrine of Resurrection and gaze upon the vast, open world of Hyrule, you know you're in for something special. Breath of the Wild completely reinvented the Zelda formula, trading linear dungeons for a sprawling, interactive world filled with secrets, challenges, and endless possibilities. You can literally go anywhere you see. Want to climb that massive mountain in the distance? Go for it. See a suspicious-looking rock formation? Bet there's something cool hidden there. The sense of freedom is unparalleled, and it makes every playthrough feel unique.

But it's not just the open world that makes Breath of the Wild so amazing. The gameplay is incredibly polished, with a physics engine that allows for some truly emergent and hilarious moments. You can use fire to create updrafts, electricity to shock enemies, and even metal objects to attract lightning during a storm. The combat is challenging but fair, and the enemy variety keeps things interesting. And let's not forget the story. While it's more understated than in previous Zelda games, the narrative of Link's struggle to regain his memories and defeat Calamity Ganon is deeply moving and emotionally resonant. Plus, the characters you meet along the way are all charming and memorable. Whether you're a longtime Zelda fan or a newcomer to the series, Breath of the Wild is an absolute must-play on the Nintendo Switch. It's a game that will stay with you long after you've rolled credits, and it's a perfect example of what makes Nintendo games so special. So, if you're looking for an epic adventure to kick off your Switch experience, look no further.

1-2-Switch

Alright, let's switch gears (pun intended!) from epic adventures to something a little more… unconventional. 1-2-Switch might not be the first game that comes to mind when you think of best Nintendo Switch launch games, but it's definitely one of the most unique and memorable. This game is all about showcasing the Switch's innovative Joy-Con controllers and their motion-sensing capabilities. Instead of focusing on what's happening on the screen, 1-2-Switch encourages you to look at your opponent and react to their movements. It's a social game through and through, designed to be played with friends and family in the same room. Imagine a wild west duel where you have to quickly draw your "gun" (aka the Joy-Con) and fire before your opponent does. Or a cow-milking competition where you have to precisely mimic the motions of milking a cow. These are just a few of the bizarre and hilarious minigames that 1-2-Switch has to offer.

Now, I know what you're thinking: "This sounds kind of silly." And you're right, it is! But that's part of its charm. 1-2-Switch isn't trying to be a deep or complex game. It's meant to be a lighthearted and fun experience that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their gaming skills. It's the perfect party game to break the ice and get people laughing. Plus, it's a great way to show off the Switch's unique features to your friends who might be on the fence about getting one. Of course, 1-2-Switch isn't for everyone. If you're looking for a single-player experience or a game with a lot of depth, you might be disappointed. But if you're looking for a fun and quirky party game that will get you and your friends laughing, then 1-2-Switch is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared to look a little silly while you're playing it!

Snipperclips: Cut it Out – Together!

Looking for a best Nintendo Switch launch game that's both charming and brain-bending? Snipperclips: Cut it Out – Together! is your answer. This delightful puzzle game is all about cooperation, communication, and a whole lot of creative problem-solving. You and a friend (or family member) take control of Snip and Clip, two adorable paper characters who can cut each other into different shapes. The goal is to use these shapes to solve a variety of puzzles, from popping balloons to guiding basketballs into hoops. What makes Snipperclips so special is its emphasis on teamwork. You and your partner need to communicate effectively and coordinate your actions to succeed. It's not enough to just cut each other randomly; you need to think strategically about how your shapes will interact with the environment and with each other. This requires a lot of communication, experimentation, and sometimes a little bit of trial and error. But that's all part of the fun!

The puzzles in Snipperclips are cleverly designed and progressively challenging. As you advance through the game, you'll encounter new mechanics and obstacles that will test your problem-solving skills. But even when the puzzles get tough, the game never feels frustrating. The charming visuals, the delightful music, and the satisfying feeling of solving a puzzle together make Snipperclips a joy to play from beginning to end. Plus, the game's simple controls make it easy for anyone to pick up and play, regardless of their gaming experience. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a complete newbie, you'll find something to love in Snipperclips. It's the perfect game to play with a friend, a partner, or even your kids. So, if you're looking for a cooperative puzzle game that will challenge your mind and warm your heart, look no further than Snipperclips: Cut it Out – Together!

Super Bomberman R

Ready for some classic, chaotic fun? Super Bomberman R is a best Nintendo Switch launch game that brings the beloved Bomberman series to the Switch with a fresh coat of paint. This game is all about blowing up your friends (and enemies) in a series of explosive arenas. You control Bomberman, a cute little character who can lay bombs to destroy obstacles and defeat opponents. The goal is simple: be the last Bomberman standing. But achieving that goal is easier said than done. The arenas are filled with obstacles, power-ups, and other hazards that can quickly turn the tide of battle. You'll need to use your wits, your reflexes, and a healthy dose of luck to survive. Super Bomberman R features a variety of game modes, including a story mode, a battle mode, and a grand prix mode. The story mode takes you on a journey through a series of colorful worlds, each with its own unique challenges and enemies. The battle mode is where the real fun begins, as you compete against your friends (or the CPU) in a variety of customizable arenas. And the grand prix mode pits you against other players in a series of ranked matches.

One of the best things about Super Bomberman R is its accessibility. The controls are simple and easy to learn, making it a great game for players of all ages and skill levels. But don't let its simplicity fool you; Super Bomberman R is also a surprisingly deep and strategic game. You'll need to master the art of bomb placement, power-up management, and arena awareness to truly excel. Plus, the game's chaotic nature means that anything can happen at any time, keeping you on your toes and ensuring that every match is unique. Whether you're a longtime Bomberman fan or a newcomer to the series, Super Bomberman R is a blast to play. It's the perfect game to pick up and play for a quick burst of fun, or to sink hours into with your friends. So, if you're looking for a classic multiplayer experience on your Nintendo Switch, look no further than Super Bomberman R.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Last but definitely not least, we have Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. While technically not a launch title (it came out a couple of months after the Switch), it's such an essential game for the console that it deserves a spot on this list of best Nintendo Switch launch games. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive version of Mario Kart 8, which was originally released on the Wii U. It includes all the tracks, characters, and features from the original game, plus a bunch of new additions, such as new characters, new items, and a revamped battle mode. If you've never played a Mario Kart game before, the premise is simple: you race against other players (or the CPU) in a variety of colorful and chaotic tracks, using items to gain an advantage and sabotage your opponents. The tracks are filled with twists, turns, jumps, and obstacles that will test your driving skills. And the items are where the real fun begins. From the classic banana peel to the devastating blue shell, each item has the potential to completely change the outcome of the race.

What makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe so great is its accessibility and its depth. The controls are easy to learn, making it a great game for players of all ages and skill levels. But the game also has a surprising amount of depth, with a variety of techniques and strategies that can give you an edge over your opponents. You'll need to master the art of drifting, boosting, and item management to truly excel. Plus, the game's online multiplayer mode allows you to compete against players from all over the world. Whether you're playing with friends on the couch or racing against strangers online, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is always a blast. It's the perfect game to pick up and play for a quick race, or to sink hours into with your friends. So, if you're looking for a fun, accessible, and endlessly replayable racing game on your Nintendo Switch, look no further than Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, folks! My picks for the best Nintendo Switch launch games. These games really capture the essence of what makes the Switch so special: its versatility, its accessibility, and its ability to bring people together. Whether you're looking for an epic adventure, a quirky party game, or a classic multiplayer experience, there's something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, grab your Switch, pick up a few of these games, and start your gaming journey today. You won't regret it!