The year 2024 has proven to be an impressive chapter for Nintendo. With the Nintendo Switch now surpassing the PS2 in U.S. sales, the company has also reported strong revenue through a series of notable first-party releases. Highlights include the eagerly anticipated remake of Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, the new Princess Peach: Showtime, and The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom. However, it is increasingly evident that the Nintendo Switch approaches the twilight of its life cycle, prompting speculation about the announcement of its successor at any moment.
Although Nintendo has confirmed that the new console will support backwards compatibility and integrate with Nintendo Switch Online, specific details surrounding its features and launch titles remain largely unverified. During such speculative phases, revisiting the original Switch’s launch offerings can provide a clearer perspective on what to expect and possibly temper our anticipations.
A Comprehensive Overview of Nintendo Switch Launch Titles
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Regarded as the cornerstone of the Nintendo Switch’s launch lineup, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has earned acclaim as one of the finest games in history. Its availability at launch made the Switch an essential purchase, especially for those not already invested in the Wii U ecosystem.
1-2 Switch
This unconventional party game, 1-2 Switch, was crafted to demonstrate the capabilities of the Joy-Con controllers, featuring their motion sensing and HD Rumble functions. Despite its unique premise, the game faced criticism for a lack of content, minimal replayability, and a steep price point.
Just Dance 2017
Continuing its tradition of console launches, Just Dance 2017 made its debut alongside the Switch. While the title garnered average reviews, many players enjoyed its new tracks, it also received feedback indicating the gameplay formula had begun to feel outdated.
Skylanders: Imaginators
The launch brought Skylanders: Imaginators, the latest installment in the popular toys-to-life franchise. Its port to the Switch added to the collection but was viewed as just another solid entry without significant innovations.
Super Bomberman R
As the first Bomberman title released in two decades, Super Bomberman R provides a glimpse into the Nintendo Switch’s early offerings. It enjoyed commercial success due to its status as one of the few multiplayer options available, despite receiving a mixed critical reception.
I Am Setsuna
This JRPG, originally launched on the PS Vita, draws significant inspiration from Chrono Trigger. Opinions varied, with some players reveling in the nostalgic elements, while others felt it lacked innovation.
Snipperclips
Hailed as one of the standout titles from the Switch’s launch period, Snipperclips is a cooperative puzzle adventure that invites players to tackle challenges using a creative “snip”mechanic to manipulate shapes and solve engaging puzzles.
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove & Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment
Launching in its complete form, Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove encompasses the original game and all its expansions, featuring numerous enhancements. The prequel campaign, Spector of Torment, also debuted as a standalone option on release day.
Fast RMX
A high-octane racing experience reminiscent of titles like F-Zero and Wipeout, Fast RMX surprised players with its dynamic gameplay and polished mechanics, earning praise for its affordability at $20.
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