Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2022
Hey gaming fans! 2022 was an absolutely epic year for the Nintendo Switch, wasn't it? Seriously, the amount of amazing games that dropped was insane! So, what were the best Switch games of 2022? Well, that's what we're here to break down. We're talking about the games that kept us glued to our screens, the ones we couldn't stop talking about, and the ones that truly showcased the Switch's incredible versatility. From sprawling open worlds to tight, tactical battles, 2022 had something for everyone. Get ready to dive into the top Nintendo Switch games that defined the year, complete with all the details, thrills, and spills! This list isn't just about sales numbers or hype – it's about the games that delivered an unforgettable experience. So, grab your controllers, settle in, and let's journey through the best of what the Switch had to offer! We're talking about the games that made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned Switch veteran or a newcomer to the console, there's a good chance you missed some of these absolute gems. Let's see which Switch games made the cut, and why they deserve a spot in your gaming library. These games weren't just good; they were game-changers, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the Switch and offering us unforgettable moments. So, are you ready to discover the top Nintendo Switch games of 2022? Let's go!
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Alright, guys, let's kick things off with a real behemoth: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Seriously, if you're a Switch owner, you've probably already heard of this one, and for good reason! This game isn’t just a sequel; it’s an evolution. Imagine everything you loved about Breath of the Wild and then crank it up to eleven. Tears of the Kingdom takes the open-world exploration to a whole new level. The world of Hyrule is back, but this time, it's bigger, better, and with a whole new dimension – the sky! You'll be soaring through the clouds, exploring floating islands, and delving into mysterious underground depths. It's a massive playground just begging to be explored.
What makes Tears of the Kingdom so special? It's the sheer freedom it gives you. You can climb anything, go anywhere, and do anything (well, almost!). The gameplay is centered around experimentation, and the new Fuse, Ultrahand, and Ascend abilities open up a universe of possibilities. You can create crazy contraptions, solve puzzles in mind-bending ways, and generally mess around to your heart's content. This isn't just a game; it's a creative sandbox. The story is epic, the characters are unforgettable, and the sense of adventure is off the charts. Seriously, if you're looking for an all-consuming gaming experience that will keep you busy for dozens, if not hundreds, of hours, then Tears of the Kingdom is a must-have. It’s not just one of the best Switch games of 2022; it's arguably one of the best games of all time. I mean, we're talking about a game that redefined the open-world genre and pushed the limits of what a game can be. It’s a masterpiece that showcases the power and potential of the Nintendo Switch. Whether you're a long-time Zelda fan or new to the series, Tears of the Kingdom is an experience you won't want to miss. It's a true testament to the power of Nintendo's creativity and innovation and a shining example of why the Switch is such an amazing console. The amount of detail, the sheer scale of the world, and the level of player freedom are simply mind-blowing. Honestly, it's hard to put into words just how incredible this game is; you just have to experience it for yourself. So, go on, what are you waiting for? Get ready to lose yourself in Hyrule all over again!
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
Okay, let's move on to another big hitter: Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Yep, the latest entries in the Pokémon franchise made a splash in 2022, and whether you loved them or had some, ahem, minor issues with the technical side, there's no denying that they were a major talking point. For better or worse, these games brought a fresh new take on the Pokémon formula. Instead of the traditional linear path, Scarlet and Violet offer an open-world experience, allowing you to explore the Paldea region at your own pace. You can tackle the Gyms in any order, battle against Titan Pokémon, and uncover the mysteries of the region. It's a bold move for the franchise, and it definitely shakes things up.
What did Pokémon Scarlet and Violet bring to the table? First off, the Paldea region is stunning. From the sprawling plains to the towering mountains, it’s a beautiful place to explore and filled with all sorts of Pokémon to catch. The new Pokémon designs are also fantastic, and the addition of Terastallizing – a unique battle mechanic – adds a new layer of strategy to the battles. You can transform your Pokémon into crystal-like versions of themselves, boosting their power and changing their types. The story is engaging, the characters are memorable, and the overall experience is full of Pokémon charm. Sure, there were some performance issues, especially at launch, but the heart of the game – the Pokémon experience – still shines through. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are not just among the best Switch games of 2022, but they are also a bold step forward for the franchise, proving that Game Freak is willing to take risks and experiment with new ideas. This is especially true given the massive success of the Pokémon games. Whether you are a long-time fan of the franchise or a newcomer, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is a must-play title, and it's a perfect example of what makes the Switch games so loved by the fans. Despite the occasional hiccups, the core Pokémon experience is still there, and it's as addictive as ever. So, if you're looking for a fresh take on Pokémon and want to explore a vibrant, open world, then Scarlet and Violet is a great choice! The ability to travel with friends in the open world adds a level of joy to the gameplay.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Alright, let's switch gears and dive into some epic JRPG goodness with Xenoblade Chronicles 3. If you're a fan of deep stories, massive worlds, and strategic combat, then this is the game for you. This title continued to solidify the Xenoblade franchise as one of the best Switch games of 2022. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 takes the series' signature blend of open-world exploration, intricate combat systems, and captivating storytelling and cranks it up to eleven.
The world of Aionios is stunning and vast, offering a huge playground for exploration. The game is absolutely packed with content, and you could easily spend hundreds of hours exploring every nook and cranny. The story is a complex tale of war, friendship, and self-discovery. The characters are well-developed, and the narrative will keep you hooked from start to finish. The combat system is deep and rewarding, allowing you to create complex strategies and master a variety of different classes. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a true JRPG masterpiece, and it’s a must-play for any fan of the genre. It's the kind of game you can really sink your teeth into, with a wealth of content to keep you busy for weeks on end. If you are a fan of JRPGs, then this is one of the best Switch games of 2022 that should be on your list. The depth of the world, the story, and the combat system are all amazing, and the game is a true testament to the strength and potential of the Nintendo Switch as a console that delivers incredible experiences. Whether you are a newcomer to the Xenoblade series or a long-time fan, you will find a lot to love in this game. The combat system is especially deep and strategic, with plenty of options to customize your characters and create powerful team compositions. Overall, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a shining example of a JRPG that truly excels in every aspect, earning its place among the top Nintendo Switch games of the year. This game provides a long and satisfying experience for any player.
Splatoon 3
Time to get your ink on with Splatoon 3! This vibrant and chaotic shooter is one of the best Switch games of 2022, and for good reason. Splatoon 3 takes everything that made the previous games great and amps it up even further. If you're looking for a fast-paced, colorful, and utterly addictive multiplayer experience, then look no further! The gameplay is centered around the turf war mode, where teams battle to cover the arena in their ink color. It's a simple concept, but the execution is brilliant.
The game offers a wide variety of weapons, stages, and customization options, which means you can always find a play style that suits you. The single-player campaign is also a blast, offering a unique and challenging experience. What makes Splatoon 3 so special is the sheer energy and creativity that pours from every pore. The visuals are stunning, the music is catchy, and the gameplay is just plain fun. The online multiplayer is incredibly addictive. The game is easy to pick up but difficult to master, and you will find yourself constantly improving and learning new strategies. Splatoon 3 is a must-have for any Switch owner who enjoys multiplayer games. It's a shining example of how to make a fun and engaging online experience that is accessible to all. Splatoon 3 is a vibrant and colorful experience, full of personality and charm, making it a worthy addition to our list of the best Switch games of 2022. It’s a game that will keep you coming back for more, and it’s a true testament to the quality of games that can be found on the Nintendo Switch. If you enjoy action and the multiplayer experience, then you will love this game. The constant updates and support from Nintendo are also a plus, ensuring that the game stays fresh and exciting. Splatoon 3 is a must-play title for any Switch owner.
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
Let’s finish this off with something a little different: Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. This quirky, tactical adventure game is a brilliant blend of the Mario and Rabbids universes, and it's a must-play for strategy fans. It’s one of the most innovative and best Switch games of 2022. This sequel takes everything you loved about the original and improves it in every way possible. The turn-based combat is deep and engaging, the world is colorful and vibrant, and the story is full of charm and humor.
The gameplay is centered around strategic battles, where you must use your team of Mario characters and Rabbids to defeat enemies, solve puzzles, and complete objectives. The game is easy to learn, but difficult to master, and you'll find yourself constantly experimenting with different strategies and team compositions. Sparks of Hope is a must-play for anyone who enjoys strategy games or is looking for a unique and creative experience. The game is a shining example of how to combine different elements into a cohesive and engaging whole. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is the perfect mix of strategy, humor, and charm. Its colorful world and captivating gameplay make it a must-have for the Nintendo Switch. Overall, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is a great game that deserves its place among the best Switch games of 2022. If you enjoy strategy games or are simply looking for something a bit different, then this game is definitely worth checking out. It offers a fresh and unique experience that’s unlike anything else on the Switch. It’s a shining example of how to take a familiar formula and turn it into something special and unforgettable.
Other Notable Mentions
Okay, before we wrap things up, let's give a shout-out to a few other games that deserve recognition. While they didn't quite make our top picks, they were still fantastic titles that enriched the Nintendo Switch games library in 2022:
- Bayonetta 3: A stylish and action-packed game with over-the-top combat. If you're looking for an action-packed experience, then this is a good choice. This game is also among the best Switch games of 2022. This is one title that is fun and challenging for any Switch owner. The combat in the game is very fun and engaging.
- Triangle Strategy: A tactical RPG with a gripping narrative and challenging gameplay. If you're a fan of strategy games, this is another good option.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land: A charming platformer with a unique 3D perspective. If you love Kirby games, then this is a must-play. This game is known for its incredible level designs.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, guys! These are our picks for the best Switch games of 2022. It was an incredible year for the console, and we're excited to see what 2023 and beyond have in store. Whether you’re looking for a sprawling adventure, an action-packed shooter, a strategic challenge, or a fun-filled multiplayer experience, the Switch has you covered. The variety and quality of the games available are truly remarkable, and the console continues to be a must-have for gamers of all ages. Did your favorite make the list? Let us know in the comments! Happy gaming! The best Switch games of 2022 showcase the system's ability to offer diverse experiences. If you're looking for a new game, you can select one from the list. The games mentioned above can satisfy different types of gamers. These games are not only fun but also engaging. The Switch games mentioned above are a testament to the versatility of the Nintendo Switch. Happy gaming!