Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2017

What's up, gamers! Let's talk about the Nintendo Switch, the console that totally shook up the gaming world back in 2017. Seriously, it was a game-changer, blending home console power with on-the-go portability like nothing we'd ever seen. And the games? Oh man, the games that dropped in its launch year were chef's kiss! If you're looking to dive into some of the absolute best experiences the Switch offered right out of the gate, or maybe you're just feeling nostalgic, then this is the list for you. We're going to break down some of the most iconic and beloved titles that defined the Nintendo Switch's incredible debut. Get ready, because we're about to revisit some absolute classics that still hold up today.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Alright guys, let's kick things off with the undisputed king of 2017, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game wasn't just a launch title for the Switch; it was a masterpiece that redefined open-world adventure. From the moment Link awakens and steps out into the vast, beautiful world of Hyrule, you know you're in for something special. The sheer freedom this game offers is unparalleled. You can go literally anywhere and climb almost anything. Forget linear paths; this is all about exploration, discovery, and forging your own legend. The physics engine is incredible, allowing for creative solutions to puzzles and combat that constantly surprised me. Need to cross a chasm? Maybe you can build a raft, use a gust of wind, or just paraglide. Facing a tough enemy camp? You could sneak in, use the environment to your advantage, or charge in headfirst with a well-timed flurry rush. The game respects your intelligence, never holding your hand too much, which makes every accomplishment feel earned. The story, while more subtle than in previous Zeldas, unfolds through memories and environmental storytelling, adding layers of depth to a familiar tale. And the sense of wonder? It's constant. Stumbling upon a hidden shrine, finding a Korok seed, or just watching the sunrise over a majestic landscape – these moments are what make Breath of the Wild an unforgettable journey. It’s a title that set a new benchmark for open-world design and remains a must-play for any Switch owner. Seriously, if you haven't played this yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest games of all time.

Super Mario Odyssey

Next up, we absolutely have to talk about Super Mario Odyssey. If Breath of the Wild was the epic, sprawling adventure, then Odyssey is the pure, unadulterated joy of platforming perfection. Nintendo took Mario, threw him into a bunch of incredible, diverse kingdoms – from bustling cityscapes to spooky forests – and gave him a magical hat named Cappy. This isn't just any hat, guys; Cappy allows Mario to possess enemies and objects, leading to some of the most creative and hilarious gameplay mechanics I've ever experienced. Imagine controlling a T-Rex, a Bullet Bill, or even a tiny frog! Each kingdom is packed with secrets, challenges, and moons to collect, encouraging you to explore every nook and cranny. The movement is so fluid and responsive; Mario feels better to control than ever before. You can perform an incredible array of jumps, dives, and Cappy throws, chaining them together for amazing aerial acrobatics. The boss fights are unique and fun, often requiring you to think outside the box with your Cappy abilities. And the music? It's pure Nintendo magic – catchy, energetic, and perfectly fitting each environment. Super Mario Odyssey is a celebration of everything that makes Mario great: inventive level design, charming characters, and that signature Nintendo polish. It’s a game that will make you smile from ear to ear, a true testament to the enduring appeal of the Mushroom Kingdom and its most famous plumber. It’s simply one of the most delightful and inventive 3D platformers ever made, and a fantastic showcase for the Switch's capabilities.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Okay, let's switch gears a bit – literally! Mario Kart 8 Deluxe might not have been a brand-new game in 2017, but its release on the Switch was huge. This was the definitive version of an already incredible game, packed with all the DLC from the Wii U version and then some. For those who haven't played, it's the ultimate go-kart racing experience. You pick your favorite Mario characters, trick out your kart, and race on some of the most imaginative and visually stunning tracks you'll ever see. What makes Mario Kart 8 Deluxe so special is its accessibility. It's easy for anyone to pick up and play, whether you're a seasoned gamer or just dipping your toes into the hobby. But don't let that fool you; there's a surprising amount of depth for those who want to master drifting, item management, and track shortcuts. The Deluxe version added a revamped Battle Mode, which was a huge improvement over the original, giving players more ways to duke it out. Plus, with the Switch's portability, you could take those chaotic races anywhere – on the bus, at a friend's house, or just on the couch. It's the perfect party game, guaranteed to bring out the competitive spirit (and maybe a little friendly rivalry) in everyone. The sheer amount of content, combined with the timeless fun of Mario Kart, makes this an essential addition to any Switch library. It’s the kind of game you’ll keep coming back to, again and again, for years of fun.

Splatoon 2

Now, let's dive into the colorful world of Splatoon 2. This game was a fresh, quirky take on the shooter genre, and it absolutely exploded in popularity on the Switch. Instead of traditional bullets, you're armed with ink! The main goal in the popular Turf War mode is to cover more of the arena with your team's ink than the opposing team. It sounds simple, but it leads to incredibly dynamic and strategic gameplay. You can swim through your own ink to move faster and reload your weapon, making map control absolutely crucial. The game features a variety of unique weapons, from rapid-fire splattershots to heavy-duty rollers and even sniper-like chargers, each offering a different playstyle. Beyond the main multiplayer, Splatoon 2 also offered a fantastic single-player campaign, Octo Expansion (released later, but still worth mentioning), and cooperative modes like Salmon Run, which is a frantic and hilarious wave-based survival mode. The style of Splatoon 2 is also a huge part of its charm. The Inklings and Octolings are incredibly stylish, the music is infectious, and the overall aesthetic is vibrant and energetic. It brought a unique personality to the shooter scene that was desperately needed. If you're looking for a multiplayer game that's competitive, creative, and just plain fun, then Splatoon 2 is an absolute must-play. It’s a game that truly embraces its own identity and offers an experience unlike any other.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

For the JRPG fans out there, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 was a monumental release in 2017. This game is massive, offering an epic story, a sprawling world to explore, and a deep, engaging combat system. You play as Rex, a young salvager who finds himself intertwined with a legendary Blade named Pyra. Together, they embark on an unforgettable journey across the backs of colossal living titans called Titans. The world-building is absolutely breathtaking. Each Titan has its own unique ecosystem, culture, and challenges, making exploration constantly rewarding. The sheer scale of the game is staggering, with hundreds of hours of content if you dive deep into side quests and exploration. The combat system is where Xenoblade Chronicles 2 truly shines. It's a real-time action RPG with a focus on auto-attacks, Arts (special abilities), and Blades. Blades are powerful weapons that can be equipped by Drivers (like Rex) to grant them new abilities and elemental affinities. Discovering and developing new Blades is a core part of the progression, and the synergy between Drivers and Blades creates a truly strategic combat experience. While the story can be complex and takes its time to unfold, the characters are memorable, and the emotional moments hit hard. It’s a game that demands your attention, but the rewards are immense. If you're looking for a deep, story-rich RPG experience to get lost in, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is an absolute gem that showcases the Switch's ability to handle expansive adventures.

Other Notable Mentions

While the titles above are some of the biggest heavy hitters from the Switch's 2017 lineup, there were plenty of other fantastic games that deserve a shout-out. These might not have been system sellers on their own, but they offered unique and enjoyable experiences that contributed to the Switch's incredible first year. It's important to remember the breadth of the library that was built so quickly.

• Super Bomberman R: This was another launch title that, while perhaps not reaching the heights of Zelda, offered classic Bomberman multiplayer fun. It was a great way to get a group together and cause some chaotic explosions. The party mode was particularly addictive, bringing back those nostalgic multiplayer vibes that so many of us love. It’s a simple concept, but executed well, and it was a solid early offering for local multiplayer.
• 1-2-Switch: This game was designed as a showcase for the Switch's innovative Joy-Con controllers. It featured a collection of mini-games that relied heavily on motion controls and social interaction, encouraging players to look at each other rather than the screen. While it was more of a tech demo, it was a fun, albeit brief, experience for parties and introducing new players to the console's unique features. It highlighted the versatility of the hardware.
• ARMS: A brand-new IP from Nintendo, ARMS was a unique fighting game that utilized motion controls with the Joy-Cons. Players controlled fighters with extendable arms, throwing punches and dodging in a 3D arena. It had a surprisingly deep strategic layer beneath its vibrant presentation, and while it didn't become a massive mainstream hit, it cultivated a dedicated competitive community. It was a bold experiment that showed Nintendo wasn't afraid to try new things.
• Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle: This game was a surprise hit that nobody saw coming. Who would have thought a crossover between Nintendo's Mario universe and Ubisoft's Rabbids would result in such a charming and strategically deep turn-based tactical game? It was incredibly well-received for its smart gameplay, humor, and excellent presentation. It proved that innovative collaborations could lead to truly special gaming experiences and was a testament to smart design.

The Legacy of 2017

Looking back at 2017, it's clear that the Nintendo Switch didn't just launch with a few good games; it launched with a statement. The lineup of games, spearheaded by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey, demonstrated a commitment to quality, innovation, and fun that resonated with players worldwide. These weren't just games; they were experiences that defined a console and set a new standard for what a hybrid gaming device could achieve. The success of these titles paved the way for the Switch's incredible ongoing success, proving that bold ideas and masterful execution could captivate an entire generation of gamers. The sheer variety, from epic adventures to charming platformers and competitive multiplayer, ensured there was something for everyone. It was a truly magical year for Nintendo, and these games are a big reason why the Switch remains one of the most beloved consoles today. What were your favorite Switch games from 2017, guys? Let us know in the comments!