The Nintendo Switch is this the current generation’s most unique console. It not only functions as a home console but also as a handheld device. Since its debut in 2017, there has been a slew of new releases and ports added to the system’s library. With so many to choose from, it’s hard to know where to get started. Today we will be focusing on games that are perfect for lounging on the couch or on the go. As a bonus, you can even use the D-Pad on all the games on this list instead of the Joycon Stick for an even more classic feel! Without further ado, let us begin.
Undertale
The first game on this list is the legendary Undertale! Undertale is a story of a child who falls from the surface into the world of the Underground. Here, monsters dream of one day escaping to the surface world by breaking down a magical barrier that keeps them locked away. Undertale was a monumental hit when it was first released and since then it has seen its way onto the Playstation as well as the Nintendo Switch.Â
Undertale’s gameplay revolves around encountering monsters and some light puzzle solving. Whether you choose to fight or spare the many residents of the underground is up to you. Your choices will affect the ending so do be careful out there. Undertale is not your typical RPG. You will have to maneuver your soul (presented as a red heart) around the screen during fight sequences to evade attacks. So stay determined and go confront Asgore.
One of Undertale’s biggest strong points is its writing. If you’ve never played it before I won’t spoil anything. However, characters are memorable, funny, and have their own backgrounds to explore as you get to know them.
Celeste
Celeste is a platformer where your goal is to reach the top of Mt Celeste. You play as a young redheaded girl named Madeline who travels to the mountains on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, she’ll meet some interesting characters that help her come to terms with her troubled past.Â
Celeste is all about timing and precision. One wrong jump and you’ll have to start the challenge all over again. As you progress you’ll be given some new abilities as well as different environmental assistance to help you climb. However, the game will also become way more challenging as well.Â
The game gives you plenty of incentives to keep playing after the main game is over. Strawberries are scattered all over the different levels, each with a platforming puzzle to solve in order to obtain them. Celeste also features two additional post-game chapters that can be unlocked by collecting crystal hearts. If you thought that was plenty to chew on, then add the entire original Pico-8 version of the game as a bonus mode.
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a Metroidvania with a bug theme. Here you play as “The Knight” who ventures into the now ruined kingdom of insects. What happened down there? Why have all the insects gone mad? These are some of the questions you will find answers to as you venture deeper through the ruins.
Hollow Knight has a beautiful 2D art style that really makes the setting feel mystical. It also has a vast array of areas to explore, each with its own unique set of enemies and NPCs. On your journey, you will venture through grassy tunnels to the darkest depths of spider-infested caverns.Â
At its core, Hollow Knight has some Souls-like mechanics. Killing enemies will reward you with coins that can be used to purchase items. Don’t get too cocky. Dying means losing all the coins you have collected. As you progress you’ll discover new abilities which will make progressing easier. Check your map and explore the area. There are dangers at every corner.
Axiom Verge
The next game on this list is Axiom Verge. When a scientist named Trace gets into a fiery accident in his lab, he wakes up on a strange planet known as Sudra. Confused and disoriented he must fight his way through the labyrinth with his newly acquired Axiom Disruptor. Guided by Elsenova, a giant mechanical head, he learns that balance must be restored to the planet. However, all might not be as it appears.
Axiom Verge borrows many elements from titles such as Metroid, Contra, Blaster Master, and others. You will need to find new weapons and tools to progress further on the map. Revisiting areas is vital to your success. Enemies all have their own resistances and weaknesses so experiment with your weapons for the best results.
Cave Story
Before Undertale, Cave Story was the monster mega-hit about a protagonist exploring a world underground. Cave Story is a run and gun where you play as Quote, a robot with amnesia. There are many characters to interact with and enemies to fight as you try to remember who you are. Along the way, you will encounter the Mimiga, a race of rabbit-like creatures who are being threatened by a man known as “The Doctor”.
Cave Story on Nintendo Switch is the enhanced version of the original game. This means better visuals and animations. However, the core gameplay is the same. Defeat enemies without taking damage to upgrade your arsenal. Most importantly, don’t forget to save your game.
Cave Story has already had some experience being ported on handhelds such as the “PSP” and the “Nintendo DS”. It also got a 3D Remake for the “Nintendo 3DS”. Now it finds itself on Nintendo Switch. Cave Story is still a great experience 16 years after its initial release.
Cuphead
Finally, we reach the end of the list. However, we won’t go out without a bang. Cuphead became world-famous after its debut in 2017. It even spawned an upcoming Netflix animated series. Cuphead’s story revolves around 2 naive characters, Cuphead and Mugman, who take a gamble a bit too far. Now, they owe The Devil their souls! In order to free themselves from this debt, they are sent out to collect the souls of other residents around inkwell island who have skipped out on their dues.
Cuphead features run and gun gameplay against dozens of unique and creative bosses. Each one is themed after cartoons from the 1930s with colorful backdrops and fluid movements. There are a vast array of abilities and weapons to help you collect the contracts. So choose wisely what you bring into a fight and you just might be able to fulfill your end of the deal! If you need an extra player to help out, you can pass a Joy-con to a friend on the standard Nintendo Switch for co-op action!
Conclusion
There you have it. Hopefully, these Nintendo Switch games will satisfy your craving for handheld experiences. You can experience all these titles from the comfort of your home or on the go. So get them when you can and have some good old fashion fun.
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