Top Nintendo Switch Games Released In 2021
Hey guys! Let's dive into some of the best Nintendo Switch games that graced us in 2021. It was a fantastic year for gaming on the Switch, with a diverse lineup that catered to all sorts of players. Whether you're into action-packed adventures, immersive RPGs, or quirky indie titles, 2021 had something special for everyone. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's take a nostalgic trip back to some of the standout games from that year!
Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise absolutely dominated the charts and captured the hearts of Switch gamers worldwide. Released in March 2021, this action RPG took the beloved Monster Hunter formula and added some incredible new features that made it both accessible to newcomers and deeply engaging for veterans of the series. The introduction of the Wirebug mechanic revolutionized traversal and combat, allowing players to zip around environments with unprecedented agility and execute spectacular aerial attacks. The game's setting, inspired by Japanese folklore, was visually stunning and packed with intricate details, creating a world that felt both vibrant and immersive. The monster designs were top-notch, ranging from fearsome dragons to quirky, memorable creatures that added a unique charm to the experience.
Monster Hunter Rise also excelled in its multiplayer component, allowing up to four players to team up and tackle challenging hunts together. Coordinating strategies, combining different weapon types, and working together to take down colossal monsters created unforgettable moments of camaraderie and excitement. The game's post-launch support was also noteworthy, with Capcom regularly releasing new monsters, quests, and features to keep players engaged for months after its initial release. This commitment to ongoing content updates solidified Monster Hunter Rise as a must-have title for any Nintendo Switch owner, offering hundreds of hours of thrilling gameplay and a thriving online community.
Beyond the core gameplay, Monster Hunter Rise introduced several quality-of-life improvements that streamlined the hunting experience. The ability to ride Palamutes, canine companions, across the map made traversal faster and more convenient, while the customizable Buddy system allowed players to tailor their hunting party to their preferred playstyle. The game's user interface was also more intuitive than previous entries in the series, making it easier for new players to navigate menus, craft equipment, and manage their resources. These refinements, combined with the game's stunning visuals and addictive gameplay loop, made Monster Hunter Rise a standout title in the Monster Hunter franchise and a shining example of what the Nintendo Switch is capable of.
Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread was another monumental release in 2021, marking the return of the classic Metroid series after a long hiatus. This game was a direct sequel to Metroid Fusion on the Game Boy Advance, and it delivered a gripping, suspenseful adventure that fans had been eagerly anticipating for nearly two decades. Metroid Dread masterfully blended classic Metroidvania exploration with a newfound emphasis on stealth and horror, creating a uniquely tense and atmospheric experience. Players once again stepped into the boots of Samus Aran, the legendary bounty hunter, as she ventured into the unknown depths of Planet ZDR, a hostile world filled with dangerous creatures and terrifying robotic pursuers known as E.M.M.I.
The E.M.M.I. robots were a central element of Metroid Dread's gameplay, introducing a sense of constant vulnerability and dread. These virtually indestructible machines patrolled specific zones, and encountering them triggered intense stealth sequences where Samus had to evade their relentless pursuit. The feeling of being hunted by these relentless robots was genuinely terrifying, and it added a thrilling new dimension to the Metroidvania formula. The game's level design was also exceptional, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny in search of upgrades, secrets, and new pathways. As Samus gained new abilities, she could access previously inaccessible areas, gradually unraveling the mysteries of Planet ZDR and uncovering the truth behind the Metroid's origins.
Metroid Dread was not only a critical and commercial success, but it also served as a testament to Nintendo's commitment to reviving beloved franchises. The game's stunning visuals, tight controls, and expertly crafted atmosphere made it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch, and it reminded players why the Metroid series is considered one of the pillars of the action-adventure genre. Whether you were a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a challenging and rewarding experience, Metroid Dread was a must-play game that showcased the Nintendo Switch's capabilities and delivered a truly unforgettable adventure.
Shin Megami Tensei V
Shin Megami Tensei V emerged as a standout JRPG, captivating players with its dark and compelling narrative, intricate demon fusion system, and challenging turn-based combat. Set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, the game follows a high school student who merges with a mysterious being and becomes a Nahobino, a powerful entity capable of wielding supernatural powers. As the protagonist, players must navigate a world torn apart by war between angels and demons, making difficult choices that will ultimately determine the fate of humanity.
The demon fusion system is a hallmark of the Shin Megami Tensei series, and Shin Megami Tensei V takes it to new heights. Players can recruit demons to their party by negotiating with them during battles, and then fuse them together to create even more powerful allies. This system allows for a high degree of customization and experimentation, as players can tailor their demon party to suit their preferred playstyle and exploit enemy weaknesses. The game's combat is also notoriously challenging, requiring players to carefully plan their attacks, manage their resources, and exploit enemy vulnerabilities to survive.
Shin Megami Tensei V is not for the faint of heart, but its dark and compelling narrative, intricate gameplay systems, and challenging combat make it a rewarding experience for JRPG fans. The game's post-apocalyptic setting is visually stunning, with detailed environments and grotesque demon designs that create a sense of unease and dread. The story is filled with moral ambiguities and difficult choices, forcing players to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the nature of good and evil. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Shin Megami Tensei series or a newcomer looking for a challenging and thought-provoking JRPG, Shin Megami Tensei V is a must-play title on the Nintendo Switch.
Mario Party Superstars
Mario Party Superstars brought back the nostalgic fun of the classic Mario Party games. It’s a delightful collection of minigames and boards from the Nintendo 64 era, all spruced up with modern graphics and online multiplayer. This game was a fantastic way to relive those classic Mario Party moments with friends and family, whether you were in the same room or playing remotely. The selection of boards was excellent, featuring fan-favorite locations like Peach's Birthday Cake and Woody Woods, each with its own unique events and challenges.
The minigames were the heart of Mario Party Superstars, and this collection delivered some of the best from the series' history. From the frantic button-mashing of Tug o' War to the strategic chaos of Bombs Away, there was a minigame for everyone to enjoy. The updated visuals made these classic games look better than ever, while still retaining the charm and simplicity that made them so addictive in the first place. The addition of online multiplayer was a game-changer, allowing players to compete with friends and strangers from around the world. This feature greatly extended the game's lifespan, providing endless opportunities for fun and competition.
Mario Party Superstars was a celebration of the Mario Party series, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. Whether you were a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer looking for a fun party game to play with friends, this title had something to offer. The game's vibrant visuals, simple controls, and addictive gameplay made it a hit with players of all ages, and its online multiplayer ensured that the party never had to end. If you were looking for a lighthearted and enjoyable gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch, Mario Party Superstars was definitely a title worth checking out.
New Pokémon Snap
New Pokémon Snap offered a unique and relaxing experience, taking players on a photographic safari through the Pokémon world. This long-awaited sequel to the Nintendo 64 classic allowed players to explore lush environments, capture stunning photos of Pokémon in their natural habitats, and compile their findings into a comprehensive Photodex. The game's premise was simple but incredibly engaging: ride along on the NEO-ONE vehicle, observe Pokémon behavior, and snap the perfect shot. The better the photo, the higher the score, encouraging players to experiment with different angles, compositions, and timing.
The environments in New Pokémon Snap were beautifully crafted, ranging from tropical beaches to dense jungles to underwater reefs. Each location was teeming with Pokémon, and players had to use their observation skills and a variety of tools to capture the best possible photos. Throwing fluffruit to lure Pokémon, playing music to trigger unique behaviors, and using Illumina orbs to make Pokémon glow were just some of the ways players could interact with the environment and create memorable photo opportunities. The game's progression system was also well-designed, rewarding players for their efforts with new areas to explore, new Pokémon to discover, and new tools to use.
New Pokémon Snap was a delightful and relaxing game that offered a fresh perspective on the Pokémon world. Its focus on observation, photography, and exploration made it a unique and rewarding experience for players of all ages. Whether you were a longtime fan of the Pokémon series or simply looking for a calming and enjoyable game to play, New Pokémon Snap was definitely worth checking out. The game's stunning visuals, charming Pokémon, and addictive gameplay made it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch, and it showcased the console's ability to deliver diverse and engaging experiences.
Wrapping Up 2021's Gems
So, there you have it, guys! 2021 was an awesome year for Nintendo Switch games, filled with unforgettable titles that kept us glued to our screens. From the thrilling hunts of Monster Hunter Rise to the suspenseful exploration of Metroid Dread, and the nostalgic fun of Mario Party Superstars. There was seriously something for everyone. These games not only entertained us but also showcased the versatility and power of the Nintendo Switch. What were your favorite Nintendo Switch games from 2021? Let us know in the comments below!