10. Monster Hunter Rise
It’s Monster Hunter, but not as we know it. Much like recent games in the franchise, Rise streamlines the combat mechanics to be much more welcoming to new players. You still overcome mighty beasts in over the top action, only now you don’t have to sift through 20 menus to do so. The other big addition is the Wirebug, a tool that lets you zip around the world map like a feudal Spider-Man, making traversal much faster. This helps to make the world feel much more connected, and despite technically being a smaller game than previous entries, the series feels grander than ever.
9. Mario Tennis Aces
Mario Tennis Aces is an absolute blast. The gameplay is as fast-paced and as fluid as a Mario Kart title, with enough power-ups and special moves to do what Wimbledon never could… make tennis exciting! Mario themed sports titles are often overlooked gems, and Mario Tennis Aces is no exception. Online tournaments are a definite highlight, providing hours of delightfully addictive gameplay.
8. Super Mario Maker 2
Super Mario Maker 2 doesn’t change the winning formula of its predecessor too much, after all, there’s a certain satisfaction achieved from building your dream level that can’t be replicated by any other type of game. Test your mettle on courses created by people from around the world, either solo or with friends online.
7. FIFA 20
Unlike other consoles, the Switch’s Fifa 20 is actually just a reskin of Fifa 19, with updated rosters and kits. That’s not to say this version is any less fun, with all the fan favourite modes, including Ultimate Team, Pro Clubs and more! Take football action on the go with the most realistic sim to ever be released on a handheld console.
6. Crash Team Racing Nitro Fuelled
This remaster of the cult classic kart racer has managed to retain all of the charm and fun of the original CTR, making it a great game for local co-op or tearing up the leaderboards online. But this isn’t just cheap nostalgia bait, and developers Beenox has added more than a graphical update. Brand new unlockable kart parts, character skins and customisation items mean there’s even more incentive to be the fastest on the track.
5. 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. You can also share your island with up to 7 friends, making it a great place to hang out even if you can’t be in the same room.
4. Ark: Survival Evolved
Dumping you on a beach with little more than a dirty loincloth, you’ll soon be tested against dinosaurs, dragons and most annoyingly of all, other players. After hours of crafting and grafting, you’ll progress from your prehistoric beginnings to a futuristic master of your domain. Although Ark plays better as a multiplayer experience, there is a surprisingly deep and satisfying single-player campaign to tackle as well.
3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The king of the kart racers, nothing comes close to Mario Kart on the Switch. With the near-perfect balance between pick-up-and-playability and challenge, MK8D truly does cater for everyone. Whether entertaining your grandparents or duking it out with the best online, you’ll find a satisfying experience no matter what you’re looking for.
2. Dragon Ball FighterZ
The Dragon Ball series has inspired some great fighting games over the years, but FighterZ has got to top them all. With gorgeous animations that make you feel like you’re playing through an episode of the anime, deep but accessible movesets and an original story written by Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama, there’s plenty for both the hardcore and filthy casuals to enjoy with this entry into the franchise.
1. Splatoon 2
A multiplayer shooter game that’s suitable for kids and not insufferable like Fortnite - whodathunkit? Splatoon 2 definitely fits the bill, replacing blood and gore with vibrant paint without scrimping on the excitement and addictive gameplay. It takes the formula of its predecessor and builds on it with the inclusion of a single-player campaign as well as a smorgasbord of new multiplayer modes. Whether you're flying solo or squadding up, you’re bound to have a good time!
