Best Nintendo Switch Games For Beginners: A Guide
So, you're a newbie to the Nintendo Switch or maybe you're buying one for someone who is? Awesome! The Switch is an incredible console with a massive library of games, but that can also be overwhelming. Don't worry, guys! This guide is here to help you navigate the Nintendo Switch landscape and find some amazing games that are perfect for beginners. We'll break down genres, suggest specific titles, and give you some tips to get started. Whether you're into adventure, puzzles, or something completely different, there's a Nintendo Switch game out there for you.
Why the Nintendo Switch is Great for Beginners
The Nintendo Switch is particularly appealing to beginners for several reasons. First, its hybrid nature makes it incredibly accessible. You can play it on your TV like a traditional console, or you can take it on the go in handheld mode. This flexibility means you can squeeze in gaming sessions whenever and wherever you have a few spare moments. The controls are also relatively straightforward. The Joy-Con controllers are comfortable to hold and easy to learn, and the system's user interface is intuitive and simple to navigate. Furthermore, the Nintendo Switch boasts a fantastic library of family-friendly games, making it a great choice for players of all ages. From colorful platformers to engaging puzzle games, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Many Nintendo Switch games also offer adjustable difficulty settings, allowing beginners to ease into the gameplay at their own pace. This ensures that new players won't feel overwhelmed or discouraged, and they can gradually increase the challenge as they become more confident. Ultimately, the Nintendo Switch provides a welcoming and enjoyable gaming experience for beginners, making it an excellent starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of video games. The diverse range of titles available ensures that there's always something new and exciting to discover, keeping players engaged and entertained for hours on end.
Top Nintendo Switch Games Perfect for New Players
Alright, let's dive into some specific game recommendations! These games are chosen for their accessibility, engaging gameplay, and overall fun factor, making them ideal for beginners.
1. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is an excellent starting point. It's a 3D platformer with a gentle difficulty curve and adorable visuals. You play as Kirby, who can inhale enemies and copy their abilities. This mechanic is super fun and allows for creative problem-solving. The game is also very forgiving, with plenty of health and easy-to-understand objectives. The world is vibrant and charming, making it a joy to explore. This title is a perfect introduction to 3D platformers and action-adventure games. One of the key reasons why Kirby and the Forgotten Land stands out as a great beginner game is its forgiving nature. The game provides ample health, ensuring that players have plenty of opportunities to recover from mistakes. Additionally, the objectives are clearly defined and easy to understand, minimizing any confusion or frustration. The colorful and whimsical world is also incredibly inviting, encouraging exploration and discovery. With its accessible gameplay and charming atmosphere, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a fantastic choice for anyone new to the Nintendo Switch or the world of video games in general. The game also offers a cooperative mode, allowing a second player to join in the fun as Bandana Waddle Dee, providing assistance and support to the main player. This feature can be particularly beneficial for beginners who may appreciate having a more experienced player by their side. Overall, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a delightful and engaging game that is sure to captivate players of all skill levels.
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a chill, relaxing life simulation game where you build your own island paradise. There's no pressure, no real objectives, and you can play at your own pace. It's all about collecting items, decorating your house, and befriending adorable animal villagers. The controls are simple, and the game is very forgiving. Animal Crossing is a great way to unwind and escape from the stresses of everyday life. The game's open-ended nature allows players to express their creativity and customize their island to their heart's content. Whether you enjoy fishing, catching bugs, or designing your dream home, Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a wide range of activities to keep you entertained. The game also features a robust social component, allowing you to visit your friends' islands and share your creations. This sense of community adds another layer of enjoyment to the game and makes it even more engaging. With its relaxing gameplay and charming atmosphere, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a perfect choice for beginners who are looking for a calming and rewarding gaming experience. The game's lack of strict objectives and time limits allows players to play at their own pace and focus on the activities that they enjoy the most. Whether you prefer to spend your time gardening, crafting furniture, or simply chatting with your villagers, Animal Crossing: New Horizons provides a welcoming and stress-free environment for players of all ages.
3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a classic kart racing game that's easy to pick up and play. While mastering the drifting and item usage takes time, the core gameplay is simple: race around tracks and try to win. The game has tons of characters, tracks, and customization options. It's also incredibly fun to play with friends and family, making it a great party game. Even if you're not a racing game expert, you can still have a blast with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The game offers a variety of assist features, such as auto-steering and acceleration, which can help beginners stay on the track and focus on the fun. Additionally, the game's item system adds an element of randomness and excitement to each race, ensuring that even less experienced players have a chance to win. With its colorful graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The game also features a robust online multiplayer mode, allowing you to race against players from all over the world. This adds even more replay value to the game and provides a constant stream of new challenges. Whether you're a seasoned racing game veteran or a complete beginner, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-have title for the Nintendo Switch.
4. Yoshi's Crafted World
Yoshi's Crafted World is another adorable and accessible platformer. The game features a unique art style that makes everything look like it's made out of cardboard and craft supplies. The gameplay is gentle and forgiving, with plenty of collectibles to find and secrets to uncover. It's a great game for younger players or anyone who enjoys a relaxing and charming experience. One of the standout features of Yoshi's Crafted World is its innovative level design. Each level is cleverly crafted to look like a miniature world made out of cardboard, paper, and other craft materials. This gives the game a unique and charming aesthetic that is sure to appeal to players of all ages. The game also features a two-player cooperative mode, allowing you to team up with a friend and explore the handcrafted world together. This can be particularly enjoyable for beginners who may appreciate having a more experienced player by their side. With its relaxing gameplay, charming visuals, and hidden collectibles, Yoshi's Crafted World is a delightful and rewarding game for the Nintendo Switch.
5. Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!
These Pokémon games are remakes of the original Pokémon Yellow and are designed to be more accessible to new players. The gameplay is simplified, with wild Pokémon encounters streamlined and a focus on catching rather than battling. The games are also compatible with Pokémon GO, allowing you to transfer Pokémon from your mobile game to your Nintendo Switch. Pokémon: Let's Go is a great way to get into the world of Pokémon. These titles offer a simplified and streamlined experience compared to the main Pokémon series, making them more approachable for beginners. The game features a partner Pokémon that accompanies you on your journey, adding a layer of companionship and personalization. The game also incorporates motion controls for catching Pokémon, adding a fun and engaging element to the gameplay. With its familiar characters, iconic Pokémon, and simplified mechanics, Pokémon: Let's Go is a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of Pokémon on the Nintendo Switch.
Tips for Nintendo Switch Beginners
Okay, you've got some games in mind. Here are a few tips to help you get started with your Nintendo Switch:
- Get a Screen Protector: The Nintendo Switch screen is plastic and can scratch easily. A screen protector is a cheap and easy way to keep it safe.
- Consider a Pro Controller: While the Joy-Cons are fine, the Pro Controller is more comfortable for longer gaming sessions, especially for adults.
- Explore the Nintendo eShop: The eShop is where you can buy digital games, download demos, and find free-to-play games.
- Check Out Nintendo Switch Online: This subscription service gives you access to online multiplayer, a library of classic Nintendo games, and cloud saves.
- Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: The Nintendo Switch has a ton of features and games. Don't be afraid to try new things and see what you like.
What About the Nintendo Switch 2?
While there's no official Nintendo Switch 2 yet, rumors and speculation are always swirling! If you're just getting into gaming, don't worry too much about waiting. The current Nintendo Switch has a massive library of games that will keep you entertained for years. Plus, when the new console does eventually come out, it's likely to be backward compatible, meaning you'll still be able to play your Nintendo Switch games on it. The anticipation surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 is certainly palpable, with gamers eagerly awaiting any news or announcements from Nintendo. However, for newcomers to the Nintendo Switch ecosystem, the existing console offers a wealth of content and experiences to explore. The extensive library of games, ranging from family-friendly adventures to immersive RPGs, ensures that there's something for everyone to enjoy. Furthermore, Nintendo's commitment to supporting the current Nintendo Switch with new games and updates means that it will remain a relevant and engaging platform for years to come. Therefore, rather than waiting for the elusive Nintendo Switch 2, beginners can confidently dive into the world of the Nintendo Switch and discover the joy of gaming.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch is a fantastic console for beginners, offering a wide variety of games and a user-friendly experience. Hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point and helped you find some games that you'll love. Happy gaming, and welcome to the Nintendo family! The Nintendo Switch's versatility and accessibility make it an ideal platform for players of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a complete novice, the Nintendo Switch offers a welcoming and enjoyable experience. The console's portability allows you to take your games with you wherever you go, while its diverse library ensures that there's always something new and exciting to discover. With its focus on fun and innovation, the Nintendo Switch is a console that can be enjoyed by the whole family. So, grab your Nintendo Switch, pick up a few games, and get ready to embark on a gaming adventure!