Nintendo Switch Games That Defined 2022

Hey gaming enthusiasts! Let's rewind the clock and dive into the amazing world of the Nintendo Switch games released in 2022. It was a year packed with fantastic titles, from breathtaking adventures to cozy, relaxing experiences. We're talking about games that not only entertained us but also left a lasting impression on the gaming landscape. So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's explore the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022, highlighting their impact, what made them special, and why they're still worth playing today! Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the Switch scene, this is your ultimate guide to the titles that defined the year.

The Blockbuster Titles: Must-Play Games

2022 was a goldmine for Nintendo Switch games, especially in terms of high-profile, AAA titles that instantly became must-plays for anyone owning the console. These weren't just games; they were experiences that set the bar high for what the Switch could achieve. Let's start with the big one, the titan of the year: Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. The latest installments in the beloved Pokémon series brought a fully open-world experience to the franchise for the first time on the Switch. This bold move was a significant step for the series, offering players a vast, explorable region filled with unique Pokémon, trainers, and challenges. While the games had their share of technical hiccups at launch, the sheer scale and ambition of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet captivated fans worldwide. The ability to freely roam the Paldea region, battle and catch Pokémon with friends, and explore diverse environments made it a landmark release, offering hundreds of hours of gameplay. Its impact extended beyond gameplay, sparking conversations about the future of the Pokémon franchise and what players could expect. Even with its flaws, the game's popularity proved that the core gameplay loop of Pokémon, with its exploration, collection, and battling, remains a powerful draw, evolving the series into a more modern open-world format.

Next up, we have Kirby and the Forgotten Land. This game was a breath of fresh air for the Kirby series. It took Kirby's adorable adventures into a fully 3D world, a first for the main series, and it was a smash hit! Players controlled Kirby as he explored a post-apocalyptic world, rescuing Waddle Dees and using Kirby's iconic ability to inhale enemies and copy their powers. The game's vibrant visuals, clever level design, and accessible gameplay made it a perfect fit for the Switch and appealing to both seasoned gamers and newcomers to the series. What really stood out was the sense of discovery and the sheer joy of playing. Kirby and the Forgotten Land also introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the Mouthful Mode, where Kirby could inhale large objects and transform, adding a creative twist to the gameplay. This innovation, combined with its charming visuals and delightful music, made it a critical and commercial success, proving that the pink puffball still had plenty of tricks up his sleeve, and it set a new standard for 3D platformers on the Switch, showing how charm and engaging gameplay can create a fun experience.

Finally, we can't forget Splatoon 3. This vibrant and chaotic third-person shooter brought its unique blend of ink-based combat to the Switch. Splatoon 3 expanded on the formula, offering new maps, weapons, and customization options. Players engaged in Turf Wars, where they covered the environment in their team's ink color, or participated in Ranked Battles to climb the competitive ladder. The game's online multiplayer experience was polished and addictive, providing hours of fun with its fast-paced gameplay. Splatoon 3 also introduced a compelling single-player campaign, offering a creative and engaging experience for those who preferred playing solo. The game's colorful aesthetic, quirky characters, and deep gameplay mechanics ensured that it became another hit for Nintendo and cemented the series' place in the online multiplayer genre. Its lasting success demonstrated the power of consistent updates, a passionate community, and a gameplay formula that keeps players coming back for more, cementing the Splatoon franchise as a key player in the Nintendo lineup, adding innovation and competitive gameplay.

Indie Gems That Shined Bright

Beyond the big-budget titles, 2022 was also a fantastic year for indie games on the Nintendo Switch. These smaller, often more innovative titles added a ton of variety and depth to the Switch's already impressive library. They offered unique gameplay experiences, bold artistic styles, and stories that often left a lasting impact. One of the standout indie titles of 2022 was Stray, although it wasn't exclusive to the Switch. This adventure game put players in control of a cat navigating a cyberpunk city. The game's stunning visuals, atmospheric sound design, and heartwarming story captured the hearts of many gamers. The unique perspective of playing as a cat, exploring the city, solving puzzles, and interacting with the environment, was an experience that was both innovative and memorable. The game was a huge success, showing the gaming world that even a simple concept can be incredibly effective when executed with skill and heart. Its success was a major win for indie developers, proving that a unique premise and strong execution can resonate with a broad audience. Stray's popularity demonstrated that players are hungry for fresh perspectives and innovative gameplay experiences.

Another must-mention indie title of 2022 is Tunic. This action-adventure game was heavily inspired by classic Zelda games but with a unique twist. The player controlled a small fox who explores a mysterious world, fights monsters, and solves puzzles to uncover the secrets of the game's world. Its gorgeous art style, clever puzzles, and challenging combat made it a favorite among critics and players alike. Tunic also had a unique mechanic where players had to decipher an in-game manual to progress, adding a layer of mystery and immersion. Its challenging difficulty curve and rewarding gameplay loop kept players engaged for hours. The game showed how well-crafted gameplay, a distinct art style, and clever puzzle design can create a truly unforgettable experience. The success of Tunic proved that there's still a market for games that embrace classic adventure elements while bringing a unique twist to the formula.

Finally, we have Cult of the Lamb, a unique blend of roguelite dungeon crawling and town management simulation. Players take on the role of a lamb who must start a cult to repay a mysterious deity. It's a game that offers a blend of intense combat, resource management, and social simulation. The game's cute art style contrasts with its dark themes, creating a unique and addictive gameplay loop. This game was a surprise hit, proving that creative gameplay mechanics and a unique premise can lead to a great game. The game's popularity showed that players enjoy innovative games that mix different genres. The game also provided players with a unique experience, showing the creative and diverse world of indie games. Its success was a testament to the creativity and innovation of independent game developers, showing how they can bring fresh and engaging experiences to the gaming world.

Hidden Gems and Underrated Titles

While the blockbusters and indie darlings got most of the attention, 2022 also had its share of hidden gems and underrated titles on the Nintendo Switch. These games, though perhaps not as widely recognized, offered unique experiences and deserve a shout-out for their innovation and quality. For those looking for an engaging RPG experience, Triangle Strategy was a standout. The game's intricate political story and tactical combat system were a big hit for fans of the genre. With its deep customization options and challenging gameplay, it provided an incredibly rewarding experience for players willing to invest time in its mechanics. It wasn't just a game; it was an experience, offering players the chance to make choices that would deeply affect the story, giving a sense of agency that's rare in the tactical RPG genre. Despite a more niche appeal, it was a testament to the power of a well-crafted narrative and innovative gameplay. Triangle Strategy proved that there is still a strong audience for tactical RPGs on the Switch and that developers can bring unique experiences to players. The game's intricate storyline and tactical combat system offer a complex gameplay experience for all players. This title proved that even without a huge marketing push, a game with a strong concept and detailed execution could gain a dedicated following.

Then there's Neon White, a fast-paced first-person action game with a unique card-based combat system. Players are tasked with clearing levels as quickly as possible using a deck of cards that grant weapons and abilities. It's a game about speed and precision, offering a satisfying gameplay loop that keeps you coming back for more. Its unique style and fast-paced gameplay create an incredibly addictive experience for players. Its blend of speedrunning mechanics with a card-based combat system made it stand out from the crowd. The game was an excellent choice for gamers who are looking for a unique and high-octane experience on the Switch. The popularity of Neon White demonstrated that unique gameplay mechanics and innovative level design could create a fun experience for the player.

Lastly, Live A Live, a remake of a Super Famicom classic, brought a classic JRPG experience to a new audience. The game's unique storytelling format and tactical combat system provided an engaging experience for both returning fans and newcomers to the genre. Its presentation and accessible gameplay made it an amazing entry point for those new to the genre, and its innovative storytelling approach showed the versatility of the JRPG formula. The remake proved that classic titles could be successfully updated for a modern audience, adding new life to classic gaming experiences. The popularity of Live A Live showed how nostalgia and updated gameplay mechanics can lead to amazing titles, which is a testament to the lasting appeal of its gameplay.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of 2022

As we wrap up our look back at the Nintendo Switch games of 2022, it's clear that it was a year rich with fantastic titles, a true testament to the platform's versatility and the creativity of developers. From the massive open worlds of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet to the charming adventures of Kirby and the Forgotten Land, the Switch offered something for every type of gamer. The indie scene thrived, bringing us unique experiences like Stray, Tunic, and Cult of the Lamb, expanding the Switch's diverse library even further. Moreover, underrated titles like Triangle Strategy, Neon White, and Live A Live added a depth that gave players more gaming choices.

The year 2022 also demonstrated the Switch's strength in attracting both massive blockbusters and independent gems. The Switch has become a hub for all types of gaming. Its popularity shows that it continues to thrive by supporting a broad audience of players. Its portability, combined with a diverse game library, makes it one of the best consoles. So, whether you're a long-time Switch owner or just getting started, be sure to revisit these amazing titles. These games have left a lasting impact on gaming, and their appeal will endure for years to come. The variety and quality of the games released in 2022 made it a year to remember, so grab your Switch and get ready to play! The future of the Switch is bright, and we can't wait to see what amazing games are in store for us in the future! Happy gaming, and we'll catch you on the next adventure!