The Nintendo Switch boasts a vast library of games, but with thousands of titles available digitally and physically, many excellent games inevitably go unnoticed. Players often gravitate towards the biggest releases, leaving many smaller, yet high-quality, titles overlooked. Here are 10 near-perfect Nintendo Switch games that deserve a second chance.
Part Time UFO
Developed by HAL Laboratory, known for the Kirby series, Part Time UFO initially launched on mobile before arriving on the Switch with expanded features. Players pilot a UFO with a claw to complete various jobs, such as moving farm animals or assembling dinosaur skeletons. Its engaging physics-based puzzle gameplay is enhanced by a co-op mode on Switch, making it an appealing option now that its mobile versions are no longer available.
Astral Chain
PlatinumGames' action title Astral Chain places players in a futuristic city as part of a special task force combating monsters. Despite its pedigree and Nintendo's publishing support, which led to over a million sales, the game didn't reach the same widespread recognition as Nintendo's flagship titles. Its blend of intense action and unique mechanics makes it a must-play for fans of the studio.
Demon Throttle
Doinksoft's Demon Throttle offers a scrolling shooter experience reminiscent of classic arcade games. Notably, this title was released exclusively as a physical cartridge by Special Reserve Games, making it unavailable on the Nintendo eShop and a true collector's item. Its retro aesthetic and challenging gameplay appeal to fans of old-school shooters.
Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer
This unique crossover from Brace Yourself Games combines the rhythm-based gameplay of Crypt of the NecroDancer with the characters and world of The Legend of Zelda. Players must move to the beat of the music, a mechanic that offers a surprisingly delightful and challenging experience. It is considered by some to be one of the best Zelda spinoffs ever created.
Shinsekai: Into the Depths
Originally a title for Apple Arcade, Shinsekai: Into the Depths was later ported to the Nintendo Switch. This Metroidvania-style game challenges players to explore underwater ruins, manage oxygen supplies, and battle strange creatures. Its satisfying exploration and atmospheric environments make it a standout title, despite its mobile origins.
Good Job!
Published by Nintendo, Good Job! from Paladin Studios transforms an office setting into a series of physics-based puzzles. Players must find creative and often chaotic solutions to complete tasks, with a charming visual style and humorous take on workplace dynamics. The game also features a multiplayer mode for added mayhem.
Vitamin Connection
WayForward's Vitamin Connection offers a vibrant and engaging experience where players control Vita-Boy and Mina-Girl to destroy pathogens. The game features distinct worlds to explore and an innovative asymmetric multiplayer mode that utilizes the Joy-Cons in unique ways, highlighting the Switch's hardware capabilities.
The Stretchers
Developed by Tarsier Studios, The Stretchers presents a lighthearted, physics-based puzzle game where players, as paramedics, must transport patients. Its cooperative gameplay, pleasant visuals, and unconventional challenges make it an enjoyable experience, particularly when played with a friend.
Fast RMX
As part of the Switch's launch lineup, Fast RMX by Shin’en Multimedia offers a high-speed futuristic racing experience akin to F-Zero and Wipeout. It includes all content from its Wii U predecessor and adds new courses. While the AI can be challenging, the game provides a thrilling sense of speed and a solid racing experience.
Golf Story
Golf Story from SideBar Games blends golf mechanics with RPG elements, telling the story of a golfer seeking to fulfill his dreams. Inspired by classic 16-bit RPGs and games like Mario Golf on Game Boy Color, it offers a unique narrative experience that goes beyond traditional golf simulation.
