Curious about EdEN’s top picks for Nintendo Switch games this year? Dive into the first part of his list and see if your favorite game made the cut!
If you’ve missed out on our previous round-ups of the year’s top games, you can catch up on those right now! We’ve compiled lists for:
- 2024 PS4Blog.net Gaming in Review featuring Ceidz
- 2024 PS4Blog.net Gaming in Review showcasing Best EdEN PlayStation Games
- 2024 PS4Blog.net Gaming in Review starring ThaRaven403
I’ve logged countless gaming hours this year, so a brief list of the top Nintendo Switch games, along with a few honorable mentions, simply wouldn’t suffice. Make sure you check out the full lineup of titles that deserve your attention!
Nintendo Switch Game of the Year: BAKERU
2024 brought us a plethora of contenders for the Game of the Year accolade on the Nintendo Switch. My top choice, crafted from my many hours of gameplay, is the vivid and delightful 3D action game BAKERU. Acting as a spiritual successor to the cherished Goemon series, BAKERU has truly shone brightly on the Switch.
In this game, you journey with Oracle Saitaro and the Festival Troops who are up to some peculiar antics in Japan through a bizarre festival. As Bakeru, your mission is to trot across 47 Japanese prefectures to quell the mischievous spirits. Venture into an alternate version of Japan where modern tales mingle with old folklore, journeying across more than 50 captivating levels. Think of it as a Fairy Tale Japan coming to life.
The team behind BAKERU, Good-Feel, has delivered many gems over the years. From Wario Land: Shake It! on the Wii to Yoshi’s Woolly World on the Wii U, and more recently, Princess Peach Showtime! on the Switch, their track record is impressive. Originally launched in Japan last year, BAKERU is now entering Western territories with a fresh adversary, the Lantern Boss, and two cool new attacks: Hurricane and Spinning Top.
While navigating each level, be on the lookout for Scoop, a Sage ready to enlighten you with interesting tidbits up to five times per stage. For instance, did you know dried bonito is often claimed to be the hardest food in the world? Dried and intentionally left moldy to minimize moisture, it’s a staple in many Japanese meals. Additionally, don’t miss out on collecting up to three souvenirs per stage from each prefecture.
Honorable Mentions for Nintendo Switch
Pepper Grinder
In the 2D action-adventure Pepper Grinder, you’re on a riveting quest to reclaim your lost treasure. Step into the shoes of Pepper, a tenacious seafarer, aided by Grinder, a power-packed drilling tool. Together, they navigate unfamiliar terrains to find the Narlings and reclaim what’s rightfully theirs.
Grinder isn’t just for show; it grants Pepper the ability to swiftly carve through soil and glide through water in this exhilarating Switch adventure. Along the way, unlock new abilities reminiscent of Drill Dozer, the classic from Game Freak and Nintendo. Expect some Donkey Kong Country vibes sprinkled in for good measure!
8-bit Adventures 2
This fresh take on retro-style JRPGs comes packed with some modern flair. Though it sports a ‘2’ in its title, diving into the prequel isn’t necessary to enjoy this outing. The narrative kicks off with a lone hero wandering scorching deserts in search of elusive ruins. But obstacles—living, undead, and quicksand alike—pose a formidable challenge. His fate changes upon facing the enigmatic Glitch. You’ll have to play to uncover the twists and turns awaiting you!
The game artfully blends pixelated aesthetics with streamlined gameplay. Bid adieu to random battles—that’s right, foes are visible as you venture into different areas. Switch allies during combat and unleash powerful team moves, even invoking the mighty Omega ability to decimate opponents. A ZR button press lets you sprint, enhancing your exploration speed.
Broken Sword – Shadow of the Templars: Reforged
Revisit this reimagined version of the iconic point-and-click adventure games, following American tourist George Stobbart in Paris. When a bizarre clown steals a portfolio, leaving behind a ticking accordion, you’re thrust into a mystery interwoven with the legendary Knights Templar. With investigative journalist Nicole Collard by your side, unravel a sprawling enigma sparked by an explosive chain of events.
Under the guidance of creator Charles Cecil, this revamp boasts enhanced visuals, redrawn art, and a newly mastered soundtrack for a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
Thank Goodness You’re Here!
This Rated M comedy slapformer drops you in quirky Barnsworth, playing a traveling salesman roped into helping its eccentric residents ahead of a mayoral meeting. The blend of odd jobs you take up keeps the tone light-hearted throughout.
Hand-drawn visuals shine in both docked and handheld modes, complete with charming voiceovers. If the Yorkshire accent eludes you, subtitles are always an option.
Piczle Cross: Story of Seasons
Dive into a relaxing puzzle adventure with Piczle Cross, set against the charming backdrop of the Story of Seasons universe. It’s a puzzle crossover fans might not have known they needed. The game ties into the Piczle universe while offering a tongue-in-cheek tutorial—skip it if you’re already a nonogram aficionado.
Sam and Max: The Devil’s Playhouse Remastered
Following the humorous escapades from their past endeavors, this season embarks with the duo discovering the potent Toys of Power. These seemingly trivial toys bestow Max with psychic proficiency, essential for thwarting the ominous General Skun-ka’pe’s ploys.
This remastered edition polishes this classic with HD graphics, improved lighting, and more, offering the ultimate Sam and Max experience.
Dicefolk
Step into the role of Alea in Dicefolk, a tactical roguelike RPG. This young Dicefolk discovers her unique connection with Chimeras, setting out to combat the menacing Salem and his corrupted minions. Command both ally and enemy Chimeras using dice, for a distinct and strategic gameplay loop that’s refreshing amid familiar roguelike elements.
Wargroove 2
This turn-based tactical sequel to Wargroove expands upon its predecessor with new factions, commanders, units, and mechanics, enhancing your strategic options. The Campaign Mode narrates your mission in Aurania, while the Custom option invites creativity through map and campaign design, encouraging you to share or explore content from the global gaming community.
Spirit Hunter: Death Mark II
Explore spine-chilling horror in the third entry of the Spirit Hunter series. Continue the saga from Spirit Hunter: Death Mark in this unique sequel that pivots gameplay to a 2D sidescrolling perspective. Embrace the haunting aesthetics and chilling narrative while battling supernatural entities on this engaging, mature-rated adventure.
Europa
Embark on a colorful 3D exploration of one of Jupiter’s moons in Europa. Guide Zee, an inquisitive android, through serene environments to unveil the mysteries of a bygone civilization. Utilizing a jetpack, traverse stunning landscapes reminiscent of iconic studio aesthetics, uncover secrets, and solve puzzles to inch closer to uncovering hidden truths.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of the Best Nintendo Switch games for 2024 tomorrow!
