Nintendo Switch: Your 2021 Games Reviewed
What's up, gamers! If you're anything like me, your Nintendo Switch has been glued to your hands for the past year, and 2021 was an absolute banger for the little hybrid console. We saw some truly epic releases, from mind-bending adventures to heart-pounding action, and it's time we dive deep into what made this year so special for Switch owners. So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's talk about the best of what 2021 brought to the Nintendo Switch in this epic year in review!
The Heavy Hitters: Must-Play Titles of 2021
Alright guys, let's kick things off with the absolute juggernauts that landed on the Nintendo Switch in 2021. These are the games that had everyone talking, the ones we poured countless hours into, and the titles that truly defined the year for the console. First up, we cannot talk about 2021 without mentioning The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD. Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "Isn't that an older game?" And you're right! But this HD remaster breathed new life into a classic, giving us a chance to experience Link's earliest adventure in glorious high definition. The updated controls were a game-changer, making those motion-control sword fights feel so much more intuitive and, frankly, way more fun. Plus, the sheer amount of content, the engaging story, and the classic Zelda charm were all there, making it a must-play for any Zelda fan, old or new. It’s a testament to how great games can be revisited and appreciated all over again. The world-building is just chef's kiss, and exploring the Skyloft and the surface world below felt both familiar and fresh. If you missed it the first time around or are looking for a nostalgic trip, this is absolutely the version to play. The art style, even with the graphical upgrade, retains its unique charm, and the music? Absolutely divine. It’s a game that reminds you why The Legend of Zelda is such an enduring and beloved franchise.
Next on our list of heavy hitters is Metroid Dread. Oh man, where do I even begin with this one? After years of waiting, fans finally got the 2D Metroid game they had been dreaming of, and wow, did it deliver. Samus Aran's return was spectacular, featuring intense stealth sequences, challenging boss fights, and that signature Metroid exploration that keeps you hooked. The E.M.M.I. robots were terrifying, adding a new layer of tension and dread (fitting name, right?) to the already thrilling gameplay. The level design is intricate, the atmosphere is thick, and the sense of accomplishment after overcoming a difficult section or defeating a tough boss is incredibly rewarding. This game wasn't just good; it was a masterclass in 2D action-adventure design. It proved that Nintendo could still deliver on classic franchises with fresh ideas and execute them flawlessly. The sense of isolation and vulnerability as you’re hunted by the E.M.M.I. is palpable, making every encounter a nail-biting experience. The new abilities you acquire are not only fun to use but also essential for progression, creating a satisfying gameplay loop. Metroid Dread isn't just a great game; it's a vindication for fans who have patiently waited for the continuation of the Metroid saga. It’s a game that respects its roots while confidently forging a new path forward, making it an instant classic and a cornerstone of the Nintendo Switch library for 2021. The subtle environmental storytelling and the chilling sound design further immerse you in this alien world.
And of course, we have to give a massive shout-out to Mario Party Superstars. While maybe not as critically acclaimed as the others, this game was the ultimate party starter for so many of us. Bringing back classic boards and minigames from the N64 era was a stroke of genius. It’s pure, unadulterated fun, perfect for getting together with friends and family. The updated visuals and online play make it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Sometimes, you just need that simple, chaotic fun that only Mario Party can deliver, and this collection absolutely nailed it. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane with enough modern polish to feel relevant and exciting today. The sheer variety of minigames ensures that there’s always something new to learn and master, keeping the gameplay fresh even after multiple playthroughs. It's the kind of game that can lead to epic rivalries and hilarious moments, solidifying its place as a go-to for game nights. Mario Party Superstars is a celebration of everything that makes the series great, distilled into one perfect package. It’s proof that sometimes, going back to the classics is exactly what we need, and Nintendo absolutely delivered on that front. The competitive spirit it ignites is infectious, making every star count and every dice roll a moment of suspense. It truly embodies the spirit of friendly competition and shared laughter, making it an indispensable addition to any Switch owner's collection, especially for those who grew up with the original titles.
Indie Darlings and Surprise Gems
But 2021 wasn't just about the big-name franchises, guys. The Nintendo Switch continued to be a haven for incredible indie games, and this year was no exception. We saw some truly innovative and charming titles that deserve all the love. One standout for me was Eastward. This beautifully pixelated adventure game offered a heartwarming story, engaging puzzles, and a fantastic sense of atmosphere. The characters were memorable, the world felt alive, and the gameplay was a delightful blend of exploration and light combat. It’s the kind of game that stays with you long after you’ve finished it, reminding you of the power of good storytelling in video games. The art style is absolutely gorgeous, and the soundtrack is just perfect, perfectly complementing the emotional journey of the protagonists. Eastward is a prime example of how indie developers can create experiences that rival, and sometimes even surpass, those from larger studios. It’s a game that’s crafted with so much care and passion, and it truly shines through in every aspect of its design, from the intricate environmental details to the nuanced character interactions. The narrative tackles mature themes with a surprising amount of sensitivity and grace, making it a deeply resonant experience for players seeking more than just simple entertainment. It’s a journey that’s both visually stunning and emotionally impactful, leaving a lasting impression.
Another indie gem that shone brightly in 2021 was Loop Hero. This game is addictive! It’s a roguelike deck-builder with a twist – you place down tiles to build the world around your auto-battling hero. The strategic depth is immense, and the constant loop of building, fighting, and upgrading keeps you coming back for more. It’s a perfect example of a game that’s easy to learn but incredibly difficult to master, offering endless replayability. The minimalist art style is surprisingly effective, and the gameplay loop is incredibly compelling. Loop Hero is a testament to innovative game design, proving that you don't need AAA graphics to create an incredibly engaging and rewarding experience. The sense of progression, even in failure, is brilliantly handled, ensuring that each run feels meaningful. It's a game that rewards strategic thinking and careful planning, making each decision critical to your survival and success. The emergent gameplay, where the world you build directly influences the challenges you face, creates unique and unpredictable scenarios every time you play. It’s a truly original concept that captivated players with its unique blend of strategy, RPG elements, and roguelike mechanics, making it an instant classic in the indie scene.
We also saw some fantastic ports and smaller titles that made a big splash. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin offered a more accessible and story-driven take on the Monster Hunter universe, focusing on collecting and battling alongside monsters. It was a charming RPG that appealed to both newcomers and series veterans alike, with a rich world to explore and a satisfying progression system. The art style was vibrant, and the turn-based combat was engaging. Shin Megami Tensei V arrived with a bang, offering a deep and challenging JRPG experience with its signature dark themes and complex demon-collecting mechanics. This game is hardcore, demanding your attention and rewarding your dedication with a truly epic and thought-provoking narrative. The sheer amount of customization and strategic depth in its combat system is astounding, offering hundreds of hours of gameplay for those willing to dive in. The dark, atmospheric world of Tokyo infused with demonic entities is brilliantly realized, and the intricate turn-based combat system requires careful planning and strategic execution. SMT V is not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate deep RPG mechanics and a mature, compelling story, it’s an absolute must-have. It's a game that truly respects the player's intelligence and willingness to engage with its complex systems, delivering a powerful and unforgettable experience that stands as one of the defining JRPGs of the year. The character designs are iconic, and the soundtrack is hauntingly beautiful, adding layers of depth to the already rich experience. It’s a journey through a post-apocalyptic world that is as challenging as it is rewarding, solidifying its place as a monumental achievement in the genre.
The Continued Strength of the Switch Library
What 2021 really showed us, guys, is the unwavering strength and versatility of the Nintendo Switch library. It's not just about the big first-party titles; it's about the incredible variety of experiences available. From sprawling open-world adventures to tight, challenging indies, there's something for literally everyone. The Switch continues to prove itself as the ultimate gaming device, offering both portability and powerful performance for a wide range of games. The ability to seamlessly transition from playing on your TV to playing on the go is still a game-changer, and it’s something that no other console quite replicates. This hybrid nature means that your gaming time is never truly interrupted, fitting perfectly into any lifestyle. Whether you have a few minutes to spare or an entire afternoon, the Switch is ready when you are. The continued support from both Nintendo and third-party developers, releasing both major titles and niche gems, ensures that the Switch’s library only gets richer and more diverse with time. It’s this commitment to variety and accessibility that makes the Switch such a beloved platform for so many players around the world. The console’s ecosystem thrives on this diversity, offering everything from the latest AAA blockbusters to the most innovative indie titles, all playable on a single, versatile device. This makes the Nintendo Switch a truly unique proposition in the current gaming landscape, appealing to a broad audience with its wide array of offerings and its unparalleled flexibility. The ongoing success of the Switch is a testament to Nintendo's innovative spirit and their deep understanding of what makes gaming fun and engaging for players of all types. It’s a platform that consistently delivers, year after year, with an ever-expanding library that caters to every taste and preference imaginable.
As we look back on 2021, it's clear that the Nintendo Switch had an outstanding year. We got incredible new experiences, fantastic remasters, and a continued influx of amazing indie titles. The console proves time and time again why it remains a must-have for any gamer. So, what were your favorite Switch games from 2021? Let us know in the comments below! Keep on gaming, folks!