Top Nintendo Switch Games 2023

And while

You could likely beat Shantae: Half-Genie Hero in a couple of sittings, but the platforming action is so varied, and the levels so explorable, it’s worth playing well beyond that. While it's neither innovative nor high-concept, its hand-drawn look and toe-tapping music successfully channel a joy and enthusiasm that has become far too rare in modern video games.

Pokkén Tournament takes a lot of what we know from old fighting gaming favorites and sticks them into a blender, delivering a unique take on both Pokémon and on fighting games in general. Sometimes all those ingredients spill over a container that’s a little too full - there is a surprising amount to learn beyond the beginner’s level, and that may alienate some Pokémon fans without fighting game experience. Pokkén Tournament does do a good job, though, at alleviating this bloat of mechanics with single-player modes to help ease into the action.

Grim Fandango Remastered is hilarious, gorgeous and sure to delight adventure fans, but it can also feel dated and frustrating.

Treasure Tracker takes the core concept of Captain Toad and runs wild with it. It’s a smart, adorable puzzle game that presents some awesome locales and really rewards you for taking the time to unpack them. Despite the control issues and menu problems, Captain Toad Treasure Tracker proves that you can still be great without being Super.

Defense Grid 2 offers tight strategic gameplay with a wealth of options and a story that's much better than it needs to be.

With dozens of hours of gameplay (and the option of playing well after the story ends) Rune Factory 4 is definitely a good time. Just be prepared to pack your patience and reign in your expectations of what wearing a crown means. You'll still be toiling in the fields like everybody else, but at least you can do so with a smile on your face.

I absolutely thoroughly enjoyed my more than 50 hours with Monster Hunter Stories so far. It effectively eliminates the oh-so-common boring RPG grind, implements a novel turn-based battle system, and sincerely surprises me with seemingly limitless customizability. Though wrapped in a pleasant, sugary coating, Monster Hunter Stories did all of this while retaining the spirit of the Monster Hunter world with some small yet enjoyable nods to fans. I can’t wait to dive back into the endgame and hatch myself a Kirin.

”’Platform: PSP”’

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3: The Black Order on the Nintendo Switch isn’t the latest MCU superhero epic. It doesn’t have a huge, emotional storyline that impacts various facets of the massive Marvel universe. Instead, it offers something much simpler: the chance to create the superhero team of your dreams and enjoy some deliciously mindless action.