10. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
The 15th entry in this long-running tactical RPG series returns to home consoles for the first time in over a decade as a Switch exclusive. Like most JRPGs, the lore is pretty deep, so we’ll sum it up by saying you spend the first half of the game in a school system, building relationships and currying favour with your chosen house. After that, there’s a significant time jump which leads to more battles and higher stakes. Gameplay-wise, expect all the usual turn-based fight mechanics set against a pretty anime backdrop.
9. Pokémon Sword / Shield
Arguably the most popular handheld RPG series ever, Pokemon Sword and Shield prove the franchise is as strong as it’s ever been. Taking the adventure to a pseudo-London setting, it’s one of, if not the prettiest Pokemon experiences ever. Couple this with a great soundtrack, as well as all the classic battles and exploration fun, and you’ve got one of the definitive Pokemon generations.
Arguably the most popular handheld RPG series ever, Pokemon Sword and Shield prove the franchise is as strong as it’s ever been. Taking the adventure to a pseudo-London setting, it’s one of, if not the prettiest Pokemon experiences ever. Couple this with a great soundtrack, as well as all the classic battles and exploration fun, and you’ve got one of the definitive Pokemon generations.
8. Banner Saga Trilogy
If you’re looking for a strategic RPG that’s dripping with rich Norse mythology, look no further than the Banner Saga Trilogy. Combining turned-based combat with sprawling conversation trees, every decision matters as you forge your story in this epic world. Complemented with a memorable cast of supporting characters and a gripping soundtrack, it’s a game that deserves your attention.
7. Civilisation VI
Many a weekend has been lost to a Civ game over the decades, and Civilisation VI continues that legacy. Being that the empire-building strategy game had already been previously ported to tablets and phones, it’s no surprise that it’s nothing short of flawless on the larger, bespoke for a gaming console. If you haven’t picked up a Civ game before, there’s never been a better time.
6. Dragon Quest Builders 2
Originally released in Japan last year, this spinoff of the Dragon Quest series finally sees a worldwide release this July, and it’s about time! It genuinely feels like a prettier version of Minecraft, with plenty of crafting, quests and activities to dive into. Much like Minecraft itself, or indeed Stardew Valley, Harvest Moon or Animal Crossing, it’s a great game to relax and unwind with. Square Enix, you’ve done it again!
5. Octopath Traveler
What’s longer than a game? 8 games! Somewhat of a love letter to the classic JPRGs of the 90s when role-playing meant role-playing, the game is split into 8 distinct stories (hence Octopath) in which you must complete quests, explore dungeons and beat big baddies. The gameplay is a tonne of fun enough and the musical score and visual presentation is nothing short of gorgeous. Definitely worth a playthrough if you’re a fan of the genre.
4. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
As the meme suggests, you can play Skyrim on everything, and the Switch is no exception. Porting the 2011 classic in all its glory, this Special Edition also includes motion controls, meaning if you’re playing with Joy-Cons, you can actually swing your character’s sword. It adds a new dimension to gameplay, meaning fans new and old will find something to enjoy.
3. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
How they managed to fit a game the size of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - arguably one of the biggest and best games of this console generation - into a portable console is a minor miracle. Sure the textures might not pop like that do on a PC, but the entire game functions perfectly on the Switch, and the controls translate just as well to handheld mode. Long live the Switcher!
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
The most complete, immersive and downright best Animal Crossing game to date, playing New Horizons is a joyous experience. There’s so much to see, do and explore as you help build your new home town, and it’s easy to lose several blissful hours doing jobs that would seem mundane in the real world. But such is the magic of Animal Crossing, even the every day is made to feel pleasant. It’s a game you can enjoy whether you play it for 1 hour or 1,000.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - there aren’t enough superlatives to describe how good this game is. Never have we played an open-world game that’s so immersive, so deep and just so gosh darn fun to play. Every aspect of the game is flawless, and the fact it works on a tablet is nothing short of witchcraft. Trust us, it’s worth buying a Switch for this game alone, and expect to sink 100+ glorious hours into this one.
