My Top 50 Nintendo Switch Games

The Nintendo Switch is my first console since the Nintendo GameCube back in 2001. I have played on various early Sega and Spectrum consoles, PCs and recent Xbox and Playstation consoles. None compare to the joy of the Switch and its portability. I was gifted the Switch a few years ago after I had a series of severe panic attacks leading to generalised anxiety disorder. Part of my recovery has been gaming, and contributes to the wealth of games I have whizzed through over the last few years.

Most of these games have helped me in times of crisis, and I have highlighted those which had a significant calming affect on me during periods of heightened anxiety.

Mental health and mindfulness aside, these games are ultimately fun. It's this that makes the console, and access to so many great indie games, my personal favourite bit of hardware. I still have hundreds of games to play and I'm sure this list will change on a weekly basis. If you are interested in trying any of these games I recommend you add them to your Wishlist and check when they go on sale. My favourite way to discover new games is on the wonderful SwitchUp channel, hosted by Mark and Glen. Go subscribe and make sure you check out their weekly eShop Sale episodes.

(This list alphabetical and is therefore not constructed in preference)

Icon guide

A game which is good for relaxing and improving mental health and anxiety

A game rated in my Top 10 of all time

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A Short Hike [eShop]

A wonderful short game that is best played in one sitting with a cup of tea or two. Simple, mindful, relaxing and a perfect game that exceeded my expectations. In my top 20 for sure.

"Follow the marked trails or explore the backcountry as you make your way to the summit. Along the way, meet other hikers, discover hidden treasures, and take in the world around you."

Abzu [eShop]

I was hesitant about this game as I'd never played a short linear game before and felt that it wasn't something that I thought I'd be into. Two minutes into the game and I was submerged into a beautiful world I didn't want to leave. Such a rich and relaxing experience. I look forward to playing this again in the near future.

"ABZÛ is a beautiful underwater adventure that evokes the dream of diving. Immerse yourself in a vibrant ocean world full of mystery and bursting with colour and life. Perform fluid acrobatics as the Diver, using graceful swimming controls."

Alwa's Legacy [eShop]

This was a real surprise to me. Such a simple game. I enjoyed the minimalism of the first Alwa, but this stepped things up nicely with better visuals and level design. A calming and fun adventure with a medium level of challenge. I love the block generation mechanic.

"Alwa’s Legacy is a modern retro game full of dangerous dungeons, mystic items and ancient secrets. Upgrade your magic and choose your own path in this non-linear adventure game brimming with exploration."

Astalon: Tears of the Earth [eShop ]

There are some similarities between this and the aforementioned game. This is a very straightforward platformer but the level design and pacing of difficulty and ability unlock is just wonderful. This was a game I was happy to spend time unlocking 100% of the content. This is very high on my list and came at a time when I needed something chilled with a hint of challenge.

"Astalon: Tears Of The Earth is an action-platformer set in a dying world where life is cruel, but death can be a stepping stone to victory! Use the unique skills and weapons of Arias the fighter, Kyuli the rogue, and Algus the wizard, to surmount the mysterious tower and find the answers to their survival."

Astro Aqua Kitty [eShop]

This is a recent acquisition and one I wouldn't usually go for as I'm not a fan of side-scrolling shooters. This is much more. It's has RPG elements and a very addictive gameplay style. It has that perfect challenge structure where you think "This is impossible", and then you go level up, rethink your strategy and kick ass. I have one more level to go, and I would happily reboot and start again right away. This is so much better than its silly name!

"The Aqua Kitty cats have launched into space in an all new action RPG shoot-em-up adventure! Pick your crew, then blast off to investigate mysterious water filled asteroids. Battle bizarre enemies, mine magnificent gems, grab new weapons, install enhancing devices, and unlock your crews' unique skills as you level up XP."

Axiom Verge [eShop ]

I needed to scratch that Metroid itch in a simple way. This did that and more. This is in my top 10 and for good reason. It's a developer's vision made real with great effort and love and you feel it at every turn. This is an incredible game and offers so much more than your first experience. Keep playing and delving deeper and you will unlock an unparalleled gem in this oversaturated genre. I'm not complaining - I love this genre so the more the merrier!

"After destroying an entire research facility on Earth with a failed experiment, rookie scientist Trace awakens in a strange, bio-mechanical world called Sudra. This nightmarish realm is a surreal meld of disturbing, corrupted lifeforms and towering technological structures, left behind by an incredibly advanced alien race long ago."

Axiom Verge 2 [eShop]

This is a very different beast from its predecessor. It's a compact game in comparison and left me feeling short-changed. However, on repeat playthroughs and reflection I saw its beauty and magic. Not as good as the first game but a unique and unforgettable experience.

"The long awaited sequel to Axiom Verge, Axiom Verge 2 expands on the universe with completely new characters, abilities, and gameplay."

Blasphemous [eShop ]

Gold medal for this on its pixel art alone. The bosses in this game are the greatest visuals I have ever experienced in a game. It's grotesque and beautiful in equal measure. This is how you do pixel art that has an emotive impact. The gameplay can seem a little stiff after playing something as smooth as Dead Cells, but this is a different beast entirely. Once you learn the rhythms its gold. It's so much more than a hellish vision. It's a work of art.

"Explore this nightmarish world of twisted religion and discover its many secrets hidden deep inside. Use devastating combos and brutal executions to smite the hordes of grotesque monsters and titanic bosses. Locate and equip relics, rosary beads and prayers that call on the powers of the heavens to aid you in your quest to break your eternal damnation."

Blue Fire [eShop]

I had played Super Meat Boy and Breath of the Wild to death. Then this landed. And it delivered. With nods to Zelda and brutal platforming, with silky smooth 60fps - Blue Fire floored me. Some of the later bosses were far too punishing for my liking but the overall experience was glorious. Those 3D platforming challenges are so well done, it made me remember my elation and fury playing Mario Sunshine for the first time.

"Travel through the perished world of Penumbra to explore unique areas filled with diverse enemies, sharp 3D platforming challenges, quests, collectibles and more."

Carrion [eShop]

Another one that narrowly missed the top 10. This is so good and the controls are like running silk between your fingers. It's so fluid, never has a game felt so natural. The very nature of this sensation is what drives motivation to keep growing, shredding, and devouring. Brutal in content, but not the toughest of games, it's a pretty mellow and joyous journey from start to finish.

"Carrion is a reverse horror game in which you assume the role of an amorphous creature of unknown origin. Stalk and consume those that imprisoned you to spread fear and panic throughout the facility. Grow and evolve as you tear down this prison and acquire more and more devastating abilities on the path to retribution."

Celeste [eShop]

I'd heard this game was tough. I'd heard it tackled themes of depression and mental health. It does all of this. It's a game that can frustrate you to distraction, but it's so fair. Once you get the hang of it the buzz of completing sections is untouchable. This is in my top 20 for sure. I was blown away once I completed it. It was a total trip. Maybe this should be in my top 10? Who cares - it's awesome, moving and challenging.

"Help Madeline survive her inner demons on her journey to the top of Celeste Mountain in this super-tight, hand-crafted platformer from the creators of multiplayer classic, TowerFall."

Dandara [eShop]

I had heard that this was hard. Frustratingly hard. It's tough, but it's well paced and the challenge level is spot on for me. The unique mechanism employed to traverse the world is incredible. You dart from wall to wall and have to charge every shot. So in short you have to make very quick and crucial decisions. There is no down time when you are hit. If you hit - you need to get out the way as you have a split second before being vulnerable again. I'm still playing through this and I can imagine once I have completed it it will rise to a higher spot. Another astonishingly good indie game and a reason why I love this console. Plays best handheld.

"A unique 2D metroidvania platformer, full of mystical creatures and boundless exploration. Defy gravity as you jump across floors, walls, and ceilings alike. Discover the mysteries and secrets hidden throughout the world of Salt and its diverse array of characters. Empower Dandara for combat and survival against enemies bent on oppression."

Dead Cells [eShop]

I mentioned the fluidity of Carrion earlier, but the prize goes to Dead Cells (and a bit to Hades). This game quickly becomes an extension of your thought. You don't even think about your thumbs, you simply become the game and move with grace and deadly accuracy. Never has doing the same thing again and again been so gloriously morish. The pixel art is sublime, the randomly spawning levels are perfection and the gameplay exquisit. I love how much content and attention is delivered by the developers. This game is a phenomenon.

"Explore a vast, ever-changing island filled with secrets, branching paths and challenging foes. Silky smooth controls, fast-paced combat and undeniably enjoyable game-feel make each run more addictive than the next as you progressively unlock permanent upgrades. Multiple difficulty modifiers will help you find the challenge that’s right for you as you discover the characters and lore of the island."

Death's Door [eShop]

The look of this game and little latency that often comes with these isometric topdown slashers was a big signal to avoid this one. Yet I found myself having some of the best sessions with it, comparable to Link's Awakening and Hades. I feel this may drop off the list as I still have a love/hate relationship with it. But it gave me such joy I had to put it on. Maybe I should have replaced this with the latest Kirby? Oh well. Also some of the bosses are so hard they make you want to scream!

"Talon Sharp Combat: Utilise melee weapons, arrows and magic to overcome a fantastic array of beasts and demigods. Mistakes are punished and victory is rewarded. Gain an edge by customising your character stats and mastering the abilities and upgrades you obtain."

Fez [eShop]

Fez is a joy from start to finish. The reason it's not in my top ten is purely because it quickly becomes very difficult to navigate and find where you need to be. However, it is a joy to play and I'm so glad this landed on the Switch. Its novel use of 2D/3D is a joy to play with and makes the puzzles so much richer. This is a good game to relax too, although you will get stuck. If so, exit and put on Slay the Spire.

"When the existence of a mysterious 3rd dimension is revealed to him, Gomez is sent out on a journey that will take him to the very end of time and space. Use your ability to navigate 3D structures from 4 distinct classic 2D perspectives."

Golf Story [eShop]

I hate golf. Watching it, playing it, people that play it and the tight trousers. However, I do like a bit of crazy golf and a cute pixel art RPG. This is a blissful game. It's fun, silly and has that great feeling that you only got with early golf games on the PC. I totally dig the multiplayer too, but since grabbing Mario Golf, this rarely comes out. One of a kind and well worth the price of admission.

"Golf Story combines the sheer excitement of golf with a serious story that plays out over eight different courses. Play the story of a golfer who is forced to give up all that he holds dear for one last shot at accomplishing his dreams."

Graveyard Keeper [eShop]

I was sold this as an alternative to Stardew Valley and it is most definitely that. It is not as good but has some great mechanisms that set it apart and a wonderful theme with a great sense of humour. It does get a little lost in terms of narrative and you can get frustrated after many hours of play, but there is a rich game that allows it to shine beyond this. I wish there were more games like this with interesting themes. I would love a fantasy game set in the Tolkien world, or a cool sci-fi game with the humour of A Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.

"Graveyard Keeper is the most inaccurate medieval cemetery management sim of the year. Build & manage your own graveyard while finding shortcuts to cut costs, expand into entertainment with witch-burning festivals, and scare nearby villagers into attending church. This is a game of capitalism and doing whatever it takes to build a thriving business."

Gris [eShop]

Oh my this is special. My heart leapt at the beauty of this game. There are scenes which leav you breathless. This would be my go-to recommendation for anyone experiencing anxiety or stress. The visual art and music are 10/10. It's linear gameplay is the only thing that holds it back for me, but it wouldn't work any other way. Go play this, it's glorious.

"Gris is a serene and evocative experience, free of danger, frustration or death. Players will explore a meticulous designed world brought to life with delicate art, detailed animation, and an elegant original score. Through the game light puzzles, platforming sequences, and optional skill-based challenges will reveal themselves as more of Gris’s world becomes accessible."

Guacamelee! 2 [eShop]

I must admit the theme of this game was not an attraction. But the visual style and gameplay won me over. It's cheeky, funny and childish like the best cartoons of the 90s. But it is very tough and will give you very sore thumbs. Some of the later levels are truly punishing. This is one of the few games I haven't finished, however, I loved the trip. I need to complete this beast. It throws you in at the deep end and never lets go. The powerups and level design are incredible.

"Luchador Juan Aguacate is out of retirement for a stunning new Metroidvania-style adventure. Explore a huge, hand-crafted world inspired by Mexican culture and folklore, filled with sassy new villains and weirdos (and a few old friends!). Learn bone-crunching wrestling moves to fend off skeletal hordes and overcome skillful platforming challenges... and who said anything about a Chicken Illuminati? Certainly not us!"

Hades [eShop]

Who would have thought groundhog day set in antiquity would be so much fun? Well it bloody is. The first time I completed a run of this I punched the air. It was awesome. For me it has less going for it than Dead Cells, but it's not far behind. The story is fun and the runs are always awesome. For me Slay the Spire and Dead Cells are better, but I can't recommend this enough.

"Hades is a god-like rogue-like dungeon crawler that combines the best aspects of Supergiant's critically acclaimed titles, including the fast-paced action of Bastion, the rich atmosphere and depth of Transistor, and the character-driven storytelling of Pyre."

Hollow Knight [eShop]

The soundtrack alone would get this a gold star. Not sure why I prefer Axiom Verge at the moment, but maybe because it's less frustrating? Visually this is incredibly stunning. The controls are on point and the level design incredible. This must be my number 11. I can't wait for the new one. Can't say anything new about this but you have to play it. Had me cheering as much as it did wanting to throw my Switch across the room.

"The surreal world of Hollow Knight is expertly brought to life with a stunning hand-drawn art style, traditional 2D animation and a captivating original score. With incredibly detailed backgrounds and otherworldly character designs, the gloomy, dream-like environments of Hallownest positively drip with atmosphere at every turn, while a pensive, melancholic soundtrack accompanies Hollow Knight on his lonesome journey."

Hotline Miami [eShop]

Twin-stick shooter? No thanks. Play this? OK... Well I am glad I did. So much fun and perfectly paced. I love the gore, the high octane gameplay and the saturated colours. For me this is better than Katana ZERO. The story is also great. Dive in and have a blast.

"Hotline Miami Collection contains both legendary games in the neon-soaked, brutally-challenging Hotline Miami series from Dennaton Games."

Hyper Light Drifter [eShop]

This is an odd one that reminded me of some of the earliest games I played back on the Spectrum. But it looks like a million dollars in comparison and plays like a dream. It's tough but a glorious journey. I've only played through once but I need to play again. Some of the best minimal pixel art I've seen.

"Explore a beautiful, vast and ruined world riddled with dangers and lost technologies. Echoes of a dark and violent past resonate throughout a savage land, steeped in treasure and blood. Hyper Light Drifter is an action adventure RPG in the vein of the best 16­bit classics, with modernized mechanics and designs on a much grander scale."

Iconoclasts [eShop]

This could definitely fall into the average pixel art indie camp. At first I enjoyed it but thought it was just OK. Then as it unfolded and the difficulty ramped up I fell in love. This is so well crafted and an underrated gem. Some fantastic powerups really push this above the many genre clones.

"Join renegade mechanic Robin and uncover the secrets of a dying planet. Explore a big world filled with intricate puzzles, interesting characters and menacing bosses in a beautiful platform adventure that tells a personal story about faith, purpose and the challenge of helping people."

Immortals Fenyx Rising [eShop]

'It's a Zelda BOTW clone' is what you always hear. It's an open-world 3D action epic with puzzle 'rooms' and you can climb, glide and ride animals... OK. But it is a ton of fun. I have sunk so many hours in this and love it almost as much as I do BOTW. Great voice acting, a lovely adventure and it's so, so, so much fun. Always on sale - but I'd happily shell out full price for this. Only UbiSoft game I like on the Switch and it's a top 20 for sure. Runs like a dream now too.

"Take on mythological beasts, master the legendary powers of the gods, and defeat Typhon, the deadliest Titan in Greek mythology, in an epic fight for the ages."

Katana ZERO [eShop]

This is tough. Story is awesome. Art direction is stunning. Never punishes you too much. Then it comes at you with a massive sword. A total blast from start to finish.

"Katana ZERO is a stylish neo-noir, action-platformer featuring breakneck action and instant-death combat. Slash, dash, and manipulate time to unravel your past in a beautifully brutal acrobatic display."

Mario Golf: Super Rush [eShop]

I can't believe I have two golf games on this list. I just need a decent football game - Pro Evo anyone? This is so much fun. I wish there were more multiplayer games on the Switch that interested my family. I love the story mode and have had a blast playing with my wife and daughter. Plus it's Mario and Mario is king. You can stick your PGA Tour up your fanny pack.

"Tee off with family and friends in the speediest Mario Golf Yet! Join your favourite Mushroom Kingdom characters on the fairway for a super speedy round of golf in Mario Golf: Super Rush, only for Nintendo Switch."

Mario Kart 8 [eShop]

Impossible not to have this in my top 10. So many glorious memories of playing this with family and friends. Plus I love the tease of the new tracks coming out over time. No more binging - await the satisfaction and look forward to something. I'm down with that. The best racing game I've played since Sega Rally arcade. I love it. As a group of family and friends, we have clocked in over 200 hours! Plus the online global play is amazing and even better when a bit drunk. My favourite Mario Kart but hundreds would disagree.

"Up to eight players can connect for local multiplayer fun via Wireless Play. If you're playing in TV mode or tabletop mode, up to four players can enjoy split-screen multiplayer."

Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom [eShop]

This is a great platformer that breaths like into an old IP. It's illustrated beautifully and feels like playing a cartoon. The gameplay and level design are solid, and the shape-shifting abilities are so much fun. Solid puzzles, and ramps up the difficulty beyond expectations. I want to spend more time with this.

"Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom borrows the best from the classic series to deliver a fresh, modern adventure with fun gameplay, memorable music and gorgeous hand drawn animations."

Monster Sanctuary [eShop]

Pokemon meets a side-scrolling adventure. Count me in. This is made with love. It feels like a fan-made effort executed by an expert in game design. I usually hate turn-based battles but this is ingenious. The tech trees and leveling up are also flawless. This was such a surprise. I hope they do a sequel.

"Embark on an epic adventure using the powers of the monsters you collect, and the team you build, to unlock an ever-expanding world. On your quest to become the ultimate Monster Keeper you’ll unravel the cause of a mystery that threatens the peace between humans and monsters."

Ori and the Blind Forest [eShop]

I really like this. I hated it the first time I played. I find the artwork really offputting and don't like the aesthetics at all. Thank goodness the gameplay is on point. This is very well respected so not much to say. It won me over and I really need to play the other one!

"Winner of several prestigious awards, Ori and the Blind Forest tells the tale of a young orphan destined for heroics, through a visually stunning actionpPlatformer crafted by Moon Studios. Featuring hand-painted artwork, meticulously animated character performance, a fully orchestrated score and dozens of new features in the Definitive Edition, Ori and the Blind Forest explores a deeply emotional story about love, sacrifice and the hope that exists in us all."

Owlboy [eShop]

This wins the soundtrack award. It's simply stunning. The sprite design is also the best of the best. It has a wonderful buddy mechanic and the mute Owlboy is an incredibly sweet lead. This is one of the best platformers out there and I need to get this on physical. The art edition releases are amazing. It has an intricate world I look forward to exploring again soon.

"Owlboy is a story-driven platform adventure game, where you can fly and explore a brand new world in the clouds! Pick up your friends, and bring them with you as you explore the open skies. Overcome obstacles and greater enemies, in one of the most detailed adventures of this era."

Portal Companion Collection [eShop]

I love Valve. Please port all the Half-Life games to Switch as they are my favourite of all time (alongside Deus Ex) back from my PC days. For some reason I missed Portal 1 & 2. This release is priced perfectly and is delivered in a flawless manner. It's worth the price alone for Stephen Merchant's narration on the second game. These are perfect and miss out on a top 10 place for a reason I can't explain. Maybe it's my love of pixel art and having to include Mario Kart and BOTW.

"In Portal, you’ll use a highly experimental portal device to solve physical puzzles and challenges. Maneuver objects--and yourself--through space to puzzle your way through the mysterious Aperture Science Laboratories."

Record of Lodoss War - Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth [eShop]

This game deserves a place here for its title alone. A Symphony of the Night clone they say. I haven't played SOTN and really hope they port it soon. This is a quality metroidvania with a great artstyle and level design. I rushed through this but it's so good I want to play it again and again. Like SteamWorld Dig 2 it is a game that warrants multiple playthroughs.

"Record of Lodoss War -Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth- is a 2D action-exploration "Metroidvania"-style game developed under the close supervision of original creator Ryo Mizuno, depicting the previously unknown story of Deedlit and the events leading up to Record of Lodoss War: Diadem of the Covenant."

Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin [eShop]

Farming rice with a side-scrolling 2D/3D beat-em-up journey? Erm... Hell yes! One of the best games I played this year. I love all the characters, the fighting is the best thing I've played since Streets of Rage and the farming is a chore but a wonderful addtion to the experience. This game has no comparrison. It's totally unique and should be in everyone's collection. Some of the character interactions are dull but you can skip through them. This aside it has an almost arcade mechanic which makes it a total winner.

"Developed by Edelweiss, the indie team behind the acclaimed Astebreed, Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin combines side-scrolling action with deep crafting and farming simulation in a powerful tale about finding one's place in the world."

Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse [eShop]

The Shantae games are an example of how to create a platformer with a great central character with an awesome power-up arch. I love every entry in this long-running series but number three is my favourite. If someone loaded a console with just the Shantae series I'd be content. Can't recommend these enough. Warts and all these beat most platformers I've played. You can stick your Sonic up your dojo!

"The third Shantae game is the biggest yet! Beyond Sequin Land lie cursed islands and labyrinths each hiding a new piece of Pirate Gear - Flintlock Pistol, Pirate Hat, Scimitar, Risky's Boots, and even a Cannon. Upgrade Shantae's hair and weapons or unlock advanced Fighter's Moves. Locate maps, return lost Heart Squids, collect rare loot, and laugh out loud at the weird, wild, and wonderfully humorous cast of characters."

Slay the Spire [eShop]

I erred on this one for a while. Then I bought it on sale. Then I played it and thought, 'what's all the fuss about?' Then I played it again... and again. Then I did my first run. Then I fell in love. This is one of the best games I have ever played. My only criticism is it looks pretty shit. However, it plays so perfectly that I don't care. This helps me when I'm anxious, and satisfies me when I want a challenge. Happy to play this for 15 mins or 2 hours. It's just awesome. Cards done right.

"We fused card games and roguelikes together to make the best single player deckbuilder we could. Craft a unique deck, encounter bizarre creatures, discover relics of immense power, and Slay the Spire!"

Spiritfarer [eShop]

I have bought this game three times so that my whole family can play. This game stopped my wife from buying any more Switch games as she said this couldn't be beaten. She is devastated this is it for Spiritfarer. It combines elements of Stardew Valley, platforming and exploration to make a deep and moving experience exploring family, death and relationships. If I was hosting an award for the best game based on its emotional impact this would win. What makes this extra special is the fact it is so much fun to play. Please please make Spiritfarer 2!

"You play Stella, ferrymaster to the deceased, a Spiritfarer. Build a boat to explore the world, then befriend and care for spirits before finally releasing them into the afterlife. Farm, mine, fish, harvest, cook, and craft your way across mystical seas. Join the adventure as Daffodil the cat, in two-player cooperative play."

Splasher [eShop]

I picked this up as I wanted another Super Meat Boy-style game. This game has the unique mechanic where the colour of your paint allows you to interact with your surroundings in different ways. It's so much fun. It lacks the multiplayer fun of SMB but gives the one-player experience a run for its money. It gets very hard but is a blast.

"Splasher is a 2D platformer with unique arcade-style action gameplay, set in a crazy cartoon universe. Stand up to Le Docteur – the paint factory's evil boss – and save the Splashers. Your prodigious paint cannon grants you colourful superpowers. Put your skills to the test and face whatever the factory throws your way."

Stardew Valley [eShop]

All that can be said about this classic litters the internet. It's sandbox gaming done right. With the addition of local multiplayer, it has become the family go-to again. The three of us have played after building dens in the house, all snuggled together and sharing who we have been dating and what we have been growing. It's a social game even when playing solo. The music is gorgeous and it shows that one person's vision can be so much more than a studio production under commercial demands. We can't wait for the new haunted chocolate-themed game. I think my daughter will be well into her teens when that lands but I know we will all play it and share new stories. This is a rare gem in the world of gaming.

"You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It won’t be easy. Ever since Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared."

SteamWorld Dig 2 [eShop]

The SteamWorld series is wonderful and you should check out all of the games. The next two are my favourite in the series and warrant taking up two spaces. These games focus on fun gameplay and leave everything else to one side. SWD2 feels like an addictive mobile game, but has you invested in the characters and the world on display. This is on my top 10 list as I would never hesitate to recommend this to anyone. It is also perfectly balanced and allows you to play through with a good level of challenge without frustrating the player.

"SteamWorld Dig 2 takes you on a platform mining adventure forged in Metroidvania flames. When an old trading town is struck by mysterious earthquakes, it’s up to a lone steambot and her unlikely companion to uncover what trembling terrors lie beneath."

SteamWorld Heist [eShop]

This is a very different game from the Dig series. But I love it. I'm not a turn-based fan but this took the genre and made it so much fun. I love the character design, the weapon choice and the ability to change your party. The Quest game is also a lot of fun but cowers next to Slay the Spire.

"In SteamWorld Heist: Ultimate Edition, you command robot pirates in epic tactical shootouts, it’s turn-based strategy with a twist: by manually aiming your weapons you'll pull off insane bullet-bouncing trick shots!"

Super Mario Odyssey [eShop]

The last Mario game I really loved was Sunshine on the 64. It has been a long time since I have really enjoyed a solid Mario adventure. The addition of Cappy was such a clever turn on Nintendo's part. My favourite memories of playing this are alongside my daughter as we took turns. There is a multiplayer but it's pretty shit. This is a top notch AAA game and hours of fun. I really hope they do another soon.

"You might be familiar with Mario’s talents when it comes to running and jumping, but now he’s got a whole new set of skills thanks to his trusty pal, Cappy!"

Super Meat Boy [eShop]

This game first came to my attention after watching a documentary years ago. I picked it up in the sale after hearing how brutal it was and it was a catalyst in helping me improve my skills. It also has a wonderful multiplayer setting too. This is another one of our family go to games. It's hard but not punishing and is so much fun to rewatch all your failed attempts. I have nothing bad to say about it. But if you wasted money on the sequel I feel for you. It's one of the worst games I have ever played. I'm so annoyed and confused about how that happened. The devs should be ashamed. However a huge pat on the back for creating one of the best Indie games of all time.

"Super Meat Boy is a tough as nails platformer where you play as an animated cube of meat who's trying to save his girlfriend, who happens to be made of bandages."

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredders Revenge [eShop]

I mentioned Streets of Rage earlier. I haven't played it since the Megadrive. I really need to get on No. 4. I'm not nostalgic, even though I spent a lot of my youth watching and playing Turtles. I was a kid. I have no bloody interest as an adult. However, I heard this was fun and a great arcade experience. My low testicles it certainly is! This is pure fun in a small package. The multiplayer is also incredible, up to about three players. This delivers everything you'd want. It's the best arcade-style game I own and I love that I can play it with friends and family.

"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge features groundbreaking gameplay rooted in timeless classic brawling mechanics, brought to you by the beat ’em up experts at Dotemu (Streets of Rage 4) and Tribute Games."

The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild [eShop]

This was the first Zelda game I had played since The Wind Waker. I loved that game. I loved the Cube! I have always loved Zelda. My best gaming memories are sat around my best mate's house (Mark) and playing Ocarina of Time in his game room. It was seminal gaming. It was the same room we played Golden Eye and Football Manager. Happy days. BOTW was a different beast. I started to play when I was in the middle of a time of extreme anxiety. This game was part of my journey out of that dark time. There was so much love in this game, I felt the same passion went into it that went into Celeste or Axiom Verge. This is a showstopper but it has heart. I can't wait for part two. Let's hope it isn't a pile of old man poo.

"Explore the landscape of Hyrule any way you like. Climb up towers and mountain peaks in search of new destinations, and use a mysterious tablet called the Sheikah Slate to view a map of Hyrule and scope out points of interest."

The Legend of Zelda Link's Awakening [eShop]

Another Zelda game. How predictable. But common, these are awesome. Every minute playing through this game is full of pleasure. Each puzzle is a nice little slice of comfort. This looks as tasty as it plays. It's no BOTW and thank God. It scratches a different itch.

"Help Link escape a strange land in The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening for Nintendo Switch. Befriend a colourful cast of characters, battle myriad monsters and explore perilous dungeons in this classic adventure – reimagined in a charming new art style!"

The Messenger [eShop]

Most reviews spoiled this game for me. All I'm going to say is your a ninja in a 2D scrolling game full of surprises. It plays flawlessly. That's why it's in my top 10.

"As a demon army besieges his village, a young ninja ventures through a cursed world, to deliver a scroll paramount to his clan’s survival. What begins as a classic action platformer soon unravels into an expansive time-traveling adventure full of thrills, surprises, and humour."

Timespinner [eShop]

Timespinner is a lovely looking game. It also plays like a dream. If like me you like a map, power-ups and pixel art then get involved. This feels like another in the long list of similar games but has a unique voice. Once again I don't want to spoil any surprises. Just go play and fall in love with it.

"Explore an intricate, connected world with beautifully drawn and detailed pixel art environments. Traverse between the barren present and luscious past of Lachiem, collecting elemental magic orbs and combining their power to destroy enemies with blades and spells."

Yoku's Island Express [eShop]

A pinball platformer... You're OK mate. Oh how wrong I was! This is a total classic and one everyone should play. This is a perfect holiday game. Load it up on the plane and smash through the levels. It's novel but feels just right, never giving into its unique mechanic at the risk of gameplay. On paper this is terrible. On the Switch and a few hours to play and you'll be clucking for more.

"Use a unique blend of pinball mechanics, platforming and open world exploration to unlock the secrets of Mokumana Island, help the locals, awaken ancient deities and much more in this amazing new tropical adventure!"

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Just missed out...

Some games that are too new to me or came from series where one was enough for the list.

Live A Live [eShop]

Honourable mention goes to Live A Live. I am very early in the game so I couldn't yet include it on this list. But it's very good indeed.

Shantae - all other games in the series [eShop]

I love the Shantae series of games so much. There wasn't a dud for me. Some were better than others but these are some wonderful games.

Other great games include Kirby and the Forgotten Land, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, Glyph and Luigi's Mansion 3

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Games that made me sick in my mouth

Some of these I felt didn't work on the console, but for the most part they just didn't work for me, or actively annoyed me and made me want to poke my eyes out with a shitty stick (see Baldo).

Assassin's Creed Black Flag

Baldo

Blossom Tales

Cuphead (Looks incredible, just hated the relentless gameplay)

Dex

Elli

Figment

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

Olli Olli

Paper Mario

Rogue Legacy

Spellunky

Super Meat Boy Forever

The Mummy Demastered

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

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