Top Nintendo Switch Launch Games: A Nostalgic Look

The Nintendo Switch, a hybrid console that seamlessly blends handheld portability with home console power, burst onto the gaming scene on March 3, 2017. Accompanying its arrival was a selection of launch titles, games designed to showcase the Switch's unique capabilities and entice gamers to embrace this new platform. Let's dive into some of the best Nintendo Switch launch games that helped define the console's early days, sparking a wave of excitement and setting the stage for its phenomenal success. These games not only demonstrated the versatility of the Switch but also offered compelling gameplay experiences that captivated players from the get-go. Whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or new to the Switch, these titles are worth revisiting to appreciate the console's initial impact. These launch titles weren't just about filling the release schedule; they were about making a statement, proving that the Switch was a worthy successor to Nintendo's legacy. The innovation and creativity on display were palpable, and the games themselves were a testament to the console's potential. From epic adventures to quirky multiplayer experiences, the launch lineup had something for everyone. So, grab your Switch, dust off those cartridges (or download the digital versions), and prepare to take a trip down memory lane as we revisit the games that started it all.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild undoubtedly stands as the crown jewel of the Nintendo Switch launch titles and one of the best Nintendo Switch launch games. This game isn't just a launch title; it's a masterpiece that redefined the Zelda franchise and open-world gaming. From the moment players stepped into the vast, breathtaking world of Hyrule, they knew they were in for something special. The sense of freedom and exploration was unparalleled, allowing players to chart their own course and discover hidden secrets at every turn. The game's physics engine and interactive environment added a layer of depth and realism that was previously unseen in the Zelda series. You could climb almost any surface, cook meals using foraged ingredients, and use the environment to your advantage in combat. The story, while familiar in its premise of rescuing Princess Zelda and defeating Ganon, was told in a non-linear fashion, allowing players to experience the narrative at their own pace. The characters were memorable, the world was teeming with life, and the challenges were both rewarding and engaging. Breath of the Wild wasn't just a game; it was an experience, one that stayed with players long after they finished the main quest. Its influence can still be felt in open-world games today, and it remains a benchmark for game design. This launch title demonstrated the Switch's capabilities perfectly, showcasing its graphical prowess and its ability to deliver a console-quality experience on the go. For many, Breath of the Wild alone was worth the price of admission for the Switch. The game's impact on the industry and its enduring legacy are a testament to its brilliance. It's a must-play for any Switch owner and a shining example of what a launch title should aspire to be.

2. 1-2-Switch

1-2-Switch was a unique and quirky party game designed to showcase the Nintendo Switch's Joy-Con controllers and their motion-sensing capabilities. While not a traditional single-player adventure, it offered a novel and engaging multiplayer experience that was perfect for parties and social gatherings. The game featured a collection of minigames that required players to interact with each other rather than focusing on the screen. From quick-draw duels to cow-milking contests, the minigames were designed to be simple, intuitive, and hilarious. The emphasis was on physical interaction and reading your opponent's movements, creating a sense of playful competition and camaraderie. 1-2-Switch was a bold move for Nintendo, as it deviated from their typical launch title formula. It was a game that was designed to be played in a group, encouraging players to get up, move around, and interact with each other. While it may not have had the depth or longevity of Breath of the Wild, it served its purpose as a showcase for the Switch's innovative technology. The HD Rumble feature of the Joy-Cons was particularly impressive, allowing players to feel subtle vibrations that added to the immersion of the minigames. Whether you were shaking a virtual soda can or counting imaginary balls, the HD Rumble made the experience more tactile and engaging. 1-2-Switch was a divisive title, with some criticizing its lack of depth and replayability. However, others praised its originality and its ability to bring people together. It was a game that was best enjoyed in short bursts, as a fun and lighthearted way to break the ice and get people laughing. Despite its mixed reception, 1-2-Switch remains a memorable part of the Nintendo Switch's launch lineup. It was a reminder that Nintendo was willing to take risks and experiment with new ideas, even if they didn't always hit the mark. For those who embraced its quirky charm, 1-2-Switch provided countless hours of entertainment and unforgettable moments.

3. Snipperclips – Cut it out, together!

Snipperclips – Cut it out, together! offered a delightful and innovative cooperative puzzle experience that was perfect for the Nintendo Switch's portable nature. This game stood out as a shining example of how to create a simple yet engaging multiplayer game that could be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. The premise was simple: players controlled two paper characters, Snip and Clip, who could rotate, overlap, and cut each other into different shapes. The goal was to use these shapes to solve a variety of puzzles, from popping balloons to guiding basketballs into hoops. The puzzles were cleverly designed and required players to communicate and coordinate their actions. Snipperclips was a game that encouraged teamwork and problem-solving, making it an ideal choice for families and friends. The game's charming visuals and quirky humor added to its appeal. The characters were endearing, and the situations they found themselves in were often hilarious. The game's simplicity was also one of its strengths. It was easy to pick up and play, but the puzzles quickly became challenging, requiring players to think creatively and work together. Snipperclips was a perfect example of a game that was greater than the sum of its parts. Its simple mechanics, charming visuals, and clever puzzles combined to create a truly memorable experience. The game's success also demonstrated the Switch's potential as a platform for indie developers. Snipperclips was a relatively small game, but it made a big impact, proving that innovative and engaging gameplay could triumph over flashy graphics and complex storylines. For those looking for a fun and cooperative puzzle game, Snipperclips – Cut it out, together! was a must-have on the Nintendo Switch. It was a game that could be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels, and it was a perfect example of the Switch's ability to bring people together.

4. Super Bomberman R

Super Bomberman R brought the classic Bomberman gameplay to the Nintendo Switch with a fresh coat of paint and some new features. While it may not have been the most groundbreaking launch title, it offered a familiar and enjoyable experience for fans of the series. The game featured a story mode that followed the Bomberman Bros. as they battled against the evil Emperor Buggler and his five underlings. The story was lighthearted and silly, and the levels were varied and challenging. Super Bomberman R also included a battle mode that allowed players to compete against each other in classic Bomberman fashion. The battle mode was where the game truly shined, offering fast-paced and chaotic multiplayer action. Players could use a variety of bombs and power-ups to defeat their opponents, and the levels were designed to be both strategic and unpredictable. The game's visuals were a mix of 3D models and 2D sprites, which gave it a unique and nostalgic look. The sound design was also well done, with catchy music and satisfying explosion sounds. Super Bomberman R wasn't a perfect game, but it was a solid addition to the Nintendo Switch's launch lineup. It offered a familiar and enjoyable experience for fans of the series, and its battle mode provided countless hours of multiplayer fun. The game's simplicity and accessibility made it a great choice for players of all ages and skill levels. While it may have been overshadowed by some of the other launch titles, Super Bomberman R deserves recognition for bringing the classic Bomberman gameplay to a new generation of players. It was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest games can be the most fun. For those looking for a classic multiplayer experience on the Nintendo Switch, Super Bomberman R was a worthwhile choice. It was a game that could be enjoyed with friends and family, and it was a perfect way to relive the glory days of Bomberman.

These launch games helped solidify the Nintendo Switch as a must-have console. They showcased its versatility, its innovative features, and its ability to deliver both console-quality experiences and unique multiplayer fun. While some of these games may have been overshadowed by later releases, they remain important pieces of the Switch's history, reminding us of the excitement and potential that the console held in its early days. So next time you're looking for a nostalgic gaming experience, consider revisiting these best Nintendo Switch launch games. You might be surprised at how well they hold up.