Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2017: A Nostalgic Look Back

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Top Nintendo Switch Games of 2017: A Nostalgic Look Back

Ah, 2017! A simpler time, wasn't it? Bell-bottoms were making a comeback, fidget spinners were the thing, and most importantly, the Nintendo Switch burst onto the scene, changing the gaming landscape forever. For those of us who were there at the launch, or who joined the party later, let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best Switch games that defined 2017. These games not only showcased the console's unique hybrid nature but also delivered unforgettable experiences that still hold up today. So, grab your Joy-Cons, dust off your Switch, and let's dive in!

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Okay, let's be real, no discussion about the best Nintendo Switch games of 2017 is complete without bowing down to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This wasn't just a game; it was a phenomenon. Launching alongside the Switch, Breath of the Wild completely reimagined the Zelda formula, throwing players into a massive, open-world Hyrule filled with secrets, challenges, and breathtaking vistas. Seriously, guys, the sense of freedom this game gave you was unparalleled. You could climb anything, cook anything (sometimes with disastrous results!), and approach objectives in any order you pleased. Remember the first time you paraglided off a tower and the world stretched out before you? Pure magic! What made Breath of the Wild such a masterpiece was its attention to detail. Every nook and cranny of Hyrule felt handcrafted, filled with environmental puzzles and hidden treasures. The combat system was intuitive yet deep, allowing for creative solutions to defeating enemies. And let's not forget the story, a poignant tale of loss and redemption that tugged at the heartstrings. Beyond the main quest, the game offered countless hours of exploration and side quests. Discovering new shrines, upgrading your gear, and simply wandering through the diverse landscapes kept players hooked for months. Even now, years later, Breath of the Wild remains a benchmark for open-world game design, and its influence can be seen in countless titles that have followed. It's a testament to Nintendo's commitment to innovation and their ability to create games that resonate with players on a deeply emotional level. If you somehow missed out on Breath of the Wild in 2017 (or any time since then!), do yourself a favor and pick it up. You won't regret it.

Super Mario Odyssey

Following closely behind Breath of the Wild was another must-have title: Super Mario Odyssey. This game was a vibrant, joyful celebration of everything that makes Mario, well, Mario! Super Mario Odyssey wasn't just a rehash of familiar tropes; it introduced a brand new mechanic in the form of Cappy, Mario's sentient hat. Cappy allowed Mario to "capture" enemies and objects, giving him their abilities and opening up a whole new world of possibilities. Imagine controlling a T-Rex, a Goomba, or even a taxi! The sheer variety of gameplay mechanics kept things fresh and exciting throughout the entire adventure. What made Super Mario Odyssey truly special was its sense of pure, unadulterated fun. Each kingdom was a unique and colorful playground, filled with secrets to discover and challenges to overcome. The game encouraged exploration and experimentation, rewarding players for thinking outside the box. And let's not forget the music! The soundtrack was infectiously catchy, perfectly complementing the game's whimsical atmosphere. From the jazzy tunes of New Donk City to the soaring melodies of the wooded kingdom, Super Mario Odyssey's music was an integral part of its charm. The game also featured a surprising amount of depth, with a post-game filled with even more challenging moons to collect. Completionists could spend countless hours perfecting their moves and uncovering every hidden secret. Super Mario Odyssey was a masterclass in 3D platforming, proving that Nintendo still knew how to innovate and surprise even after decades of Mario games. If you're looking for a game that will put a smile on your face and remind you why you love video games, look no further than Super Mario Odyssey.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Okay, so Mario Kart 8 Deluxe wasn't technically a brand new game in 2017, but it was such a significant upgrade over the original Wii U version that it deserves a spot on this list. Think of it as Mario Kart 8 but on steroids. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe brought together all the DLC from the Wii U version, added new characters (including the Inklings from Splatoon), and revamped the battle mode, addressing one of the biggest criticisms of the original game. But more than just content, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was the definitive Mario Kart experience. The tracks were gorgeous, the gameplay was tight and responsive, and the sheer amount of content was staggering. Whether you were playing solo, with friends on the couch, or online, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offered endless hours of racing fun. What truly set Mario Kart 8 Deluxe apart was its accessibility. Anyone could pick up a controller and start playing, regardless of their skill level. The game offered a variety of assists to help less experienced players, while still providing a challenge for seasoned veterans. This made it the perfect game for parties and family gatherings. The battle mode was also a major highlight, with a variety of modes and arenas that provided chaotic and hilarious fun. From Balloon Battle to Renegade Roundup, there was always something new to try. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Mario Kart formula. It took everything that made the series great and refined it to perfection. If you're looking for a game that you can play with anyone, anywhere, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the perfect choice.

Splatoon 2

Speaking of Inklings, Splatoon 2 was another standout title for the Switch in 2017. Building upon the foundation of the original Splatoon on the Wii U, Splatoon 2 brought its unique brand of ink-based warfare to a wider audience. For the uninitiated, Splatoon 2 is a team-based shooter where players control Inklings, humanoid creatures who can transform into squids. The objective is to cover the map in your team's ink color, using a variety of weapons and abilities. But Splatoon 2 was more than just a shooter; it was a fashion statement. The game featured a constantly evolving selection of clothing and gear, each with its own unique abilities. Players could customize their Inkling to create a truly unique look, expressing their personality through their in-game avatar. What made Splatoon 2 so addictive was its sense of constant progression. Players were always unlocking new weapons, gear, and abilities, giving them a reason to keep playing. The game also featured regular Splatfest events, where players could choose a side in a themed competition and battle it out for supremacy. Splatoon 2 wasn't just a game; it was a community. The game fostered a vibrant online scene, with players from all over the world coming together to splat ink and have fun. The single-player campaign was also surprisingly engaging, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for those who preferred to play solo. If you're looking for a unique and stylish shooter that's unlike anything else on the market, Splatoon 2 is definitely worth checking out.

ARMS

Let's not forget ARMS, a unique fighting game that showcased the Switch's motion controls. ARMS was a departure from traditional fighting games, replacing punches and kicks with extendable arms. Players could customize their fighter with a variety of different ARMS, each with its own unique properties and abilities. The game utilized the Switch's Joy-Cons to allow players to control their fighter's punches and movements. By flicking the Joy-Cons, players could curve their punches and dodge incoming attacks. ARMS was surprisingly deep, with a complex combat system that rewarded skillful play. Players had to master the timing of their punches, the spacing of their movements, and the use of their ARMS' unique abilities. The game also featured a variety of different modes, including a Grand Prix mode, a versus mode, and a party mode. ARMS was a unique and innovative fighting game that showcased the Switch's versatility. While it may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of the other games on this list, it was a memorable and enjoyable experience that's worth revisiting.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, 2017 had more to offer than just these five games. Here are a few honorable mentions that deserve a shout-out:

  • Xenoblade Chronicles 2: A sprawling JRPG with a complex story and a vast world to explore.
  • Stardew Valley: A charming farming simulator that's perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
  • Golf Story: A unique blend of golf and RPG elements that's surprisingly addictive.
  • SteamWorld Dig 2: A Metroidvania-style platformer with a charming steampunk aesthetic.

Final Thoughts

2017 was a stellar year for the Nintendo Switch, filled with unforgettable games that helped define the console's identity. From the open-world adventure of Breath of the Wild to the joyful platforming of Super Mario Odyssey, these games showcased the Switch's versatility and its ability to deliver unique and engaging experiences. Whether you were a day-one adopter or joined the Switch family later on, these games are essential additions to any Switch library. So, what are you waiting for? Go back and revisit these classics, or discover them for the first time. You won't be disappointed! These best switch games really set the bar high and provided a fantastic start for the console. What were your favorite switch games from 2017? Let us know in the comments below! Also, tell us what you think about the best Nintendo Switch games of all time.