Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2017: A Gamer's Guide
Hey guys! Let's rewind to 2017, a landmark year for the Nintendo Switch! If you were lucky enough to snag one early, or even if you jumped on the bandwagon later, you were in for a treat. The Switch burst onto the scene with a fresh concept: a hybrid console that could seamlessly transition between your TV and handheld mode. It was a game-changer, and the launch lineup, along with the titles released throughout the year, solidified its place in gaming history. This article is your ultimate guide, a blast from the past, to the best Switch games of 2017. We're talking about the titles that defined the console's early success, the games that made us laugh, cry, and stay up way too late. Prepare to relive the magic and maybe even discover some hidden gems you missed the first time around! So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's dive into the best Nintendo Switch games of 2017!
The Launch Titans: Setting the Stage in 2017
Alright, let's kick things off with the big guns, the games that helped launch the Nintendo Switch into the stratosphere! These titles weren't just good; they were essential. They showcased the console's capabilities and set the tone for the amazing games that would follow. First up, we have The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Dude, this game was a revelation! It wasn't just a Zelda game; it was an open-world masterpiece that redefined the genre. The vast, explorable Hyrule, the freedom to tackle challenges in any order, and the sheer sense of discovery were unlike anything we'd seen before. Breath of the Wild wasn't just a launch title; it was a system seller. It single-handedly convinced many gamers to pick up a Switch, and for good reason! Then, we have 1-2-Switch, a party game that showed off the Switch's unique Joy-Con features. Sure, it wasn't a game for everyone, but it was a perfect demonstration of the console's motion controls and HD rumble. It was a fun way to introduce the Switch to friends and family, and it provided some hilarious moments. These launch titles weren’t just games; they were experiences that encapsulated the spirit of the Nintendo Switch. Breath of the Wild offered a breathtaking single-player adventure, while 1-2-Switch provided immediate, accessible fun for everyone. They were the perfect combo to welcome a new generation of gaming, and they set the bar incredibly high for what was to come. These titles were absolutely critical to the Switch's early success, and they're still worth playing today, even if you just want to relive the nostalgia.
Breath of the Wild: A Masterpiece Unveiled
Let's get into the nitty-gritty of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game is a true masterpiece. From the moment you step out of the Shrine of Resurrection, you're greeted with an absolutely massive world that begs to be explored. Forget the linear paths of previous Zelda games; here, you have the freedom to go anywhere, climb anything, and do almost anything. The world of Hyrule is stunning, with diverse environments, from snowy mountains to scorching deserts. But it's not just the visuals; it's the gameplay. The physics engine is incredibly robust, allowing you to interact with the world in surprising ways. You can cut down trees, cook meals, and even use the environment to solve puzzles. The combat is dynamic and engaging, and the game encourages experimentation. Breath of the Wild isn't just a game; it's an experience. It's a game that respects your intelligence and rewards your curiosity. The story, while a bit more subtle than some other Zelda games, is still incredibly powerful. The sense of mystery and the feeling of uncovering Hyrule's secrets are what kept players hooked for hours. The game's success wasn't just in its open-world design; it was in the way it seamlessly blended exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving into a cohesive and incredibly fun experience. Breath of the Wild is not just one of the best Switch games of 2017 but also one of the best video games of all time.
1-2-Switch: Party Fun with Joy-Con
Okay, let's switch gears and talk about 1-2-Switch. While it wasn't as critically acclaimed as Breath of the Wild, it played a vital role in showcasing the Switch's unique features. This party game was all about showing off the Joy-Con controllers' HD rumble and motion controls. The game featured a series of minigames, each designed to highlight a different aspect of the Joy-Cons. You could duel with virtual swords, milk cows, and even try to guess how many balls were in a virtual box. The focus was on fun, accessible gameplay. 1-2-Switch was all about bringing people together and creating memorable moments. It wasn't about deep gameplay mechanics or complex storylines; it was about the immediate fun and the sheer novelty of using the Joy-Con controllers in creative ways. While it may not have been a game you'd spend hours playing solo, it was a fantastic way to introduce the Switch to friends and family. The HD rumble was a particularly impressive feature. You could feel the virtual ice cubes clinking in your Joy-Con when shaking it to make a drink or feel the tension when opening a safe. These moments of tactile feedback were unique to the Switch and helped make 1-2-Switch a memorable launch title. 1-2-Switch did its job perfectly. It was a fun, accessible showcase for the Switch's unique hardware, and it was a great way to kick off the console's journey.
The Supporting Cast: More Great Games of 2017
Alright, guys, let's move beyond the launch titles and look at some other incredible games that graced the Nintendo Switch in 2017. These titles helped cement the console's reputation and gave players even more reasons to love it. We’re talking about a diverse lineup of genres, from action-adventure to platformers and even some indies that took the world by storm. These games weren’t just great; they added depth and variety to the Switch's library, ensuring that there was something for everyone. Let's start with Super Mario Odyssey. It was a platforming masterpiece, a must-have for any Switch owner. Next up is Splatoon 2, a vibrant and addictive online shooter, which really set the standard for multiplayer fun. Then we have some amazing Indie titles such as Stardew Valley that proved that indie games could thrive on the Switch, and finally Mario Kart 8 Deluxe which was a game that helped to show the amazing capability of the Switch and has to be considered one of the best Switch games of 2017!
Super Mario Odyssey: A Platforming Masterpiece
Super Mario Odyssey is a game that is just bursting with creativity. This is the best Mario game since the days of Super Mario 64. Mario's adventure to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser takes him across a vast array of unique kingdoms, each with its own distinct theme and gameplay mechanics. The core gameplay revolves around Mario's ability to “capture” enemies and objects using his new hat companion, Cappy. This allows him to take control of various creatures, from Goombas to T-Rexes, and use their abilities to solve puzzles and traverse the environment. The level design is absolutely brilliant, with each kingdom offering a diverse range of challenges and secrets to discover. The game's sense of wonder is infectious, and it's a joy to explore every nook and cranny. Super Mario Odyssey is a testament to Nintendo's creativity. The game is brimming with charm, innovation, and pure, unadulterated fun. It's a must-play for any fan of platforming games and a shining example of what the Nintendo Switch is capable of. From the moment you put it into your Nintendo Switch you will be consumed by the magical world that is the game.
Splatoon 2: Ink-credible Online Fun
Guys, let's talk about Splatoon 2, the vibrant online shooter that brought a unique twist to the genre. Instead of bullets, you're slinging ink, covering the environment to claim territory. The game's focus is on team-based battles, with the goal of covering the most ground in ink. But Splatoon 2 is more than just a shooter; it's a stylish and incredibly fun experience. The game's vibrant visuals and quirky characters create a unique atmosphere, and the gameplay is surprisingly deep. The weapon selection is diverse, offering a wide range of playstyles. The online multiplayer is addictive, and the game's regular updates kept the experience fresh. Splatoon 2 is a testament to Nintendo's ability to create innovative and engaging multiplayer experiences. It's a game that appeals to both casual and competitive players, and it's a must-play for anyone who owns a Switch. It shows that Nintendo can compete with any of the greats. The game still has a large player base today.
Stardew Valley: The Charming Indie Gem
For those of you who love a good dose of charm and relaxation, then Stardew Valley is a game for you. This indie darling took the world by storm, and it's easy to see why. You inherit your grandfather's old farm, and you set out to build a new life in a charming rural town. The game blends farming simulation, RPG elements, and social interaction into a wonderfully addictive experience. You'll plant crops, raise animals, go fishing, explore mines, and befriend the local townsfolk. The game's pixelated graphics and soothing soundtrack create a relaxing and immersive atmosphere. The gameplay loop is incredibly satisfying, and it's easy to lose hours building your farm and getting to know the characters. Stardew Valley is a perfect example of an indie game that excels on the Switch. Its pick-up-and-play nature and its charming visuals make it a perfect fit for the console. If you're looking for a relaxing and engaging game, Stardew Valley is a must-play. It offers something for everyone and provides an endless amount of content.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: The Definitive Kart Racer
Hey, let's get into the game that we all know and love, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This game is more than just a port of the Wii U version; it's the definitive kart racing experience. It's packed with content, including all the DLC tracks and characters from the original game. The gameplay is as smooth and addictive as ever, with a wide range of karts, characters, and tracks to choose from. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a fantastic game for both solo players and multiplayer enthusiasts. The game is easy to pick up but has enough depth to keep you coming back for more. The graphics look fantastic on the Switch, and the online multiplayer is stable and fun. It's a perfect game for playing with friends and family. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have for any Switch owner. The game provides hours of fun, whether you're racing against friends or trying to beat your best time. It's a true classic and one of the best Switch games of 2017.
More Games and Memories: The Rest of the Best
There were so many amazing titles released throughout 2017, and it is hard to put them all in the top games of the year. Some of the honorable mentions include the likes of ARMS, Snipperclips, and Puyo Puyo Tetris, each offering unique and engaging gameplay experiences. From fighting games to puzzle games, the Switch's diverse library continued to grow, providing something for everyone. Each of these games, in their own way, contributed to the Switch's success and added to the already impressive library of games available on the system.
Conclusion: 2017 - A Year to Remember
So, there you have it, guys. Our journey through the best Switch games of 2017 is complete! From the revolutionary launch titles to the diverse and engaging supporting cast, the Nintendo Switch's first year was truly special. The games we discussed here were not just fun; they were a testament to the console's unique design and the passion of the developers who created them. If you missed out on any of these games the first time around, now is the perfect time to give them a try. They're all still just as fun and engaging as they were back then. And if you were lucky enough to experience these games back in 2017, then hopefully, this article brought back some fond memories. The Switch's early success paved the way for even more amazing games in the years to come, making 2017 a year that will always be remembered by Nintendo fans. Thank you for joining me on this trip down memory lane! Keep gaming, and keep enjoying the magic of Nintendo! Which best Switch games of 2017 did you enjoy the most? Let me know in the comments below! I hope you've enjoyed reading this guide as much as I enjoyed writing it!