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While we patiently await the next iteration of the Nintendo Switch, expected to be revealed very soon, considering the hardware is now almost seven years old and has started to show its age in newer titles, the current console has shown no signs of slowing down.
The Nintendo Switch is still impressive for a device released in 2017, offering a much different gaming experience than any other console, being the home to the more casual and family-friendly gaming genres.
2023 was another significant year for the hybrid console since it soared beyond 132 million units sold. With a slew of new releases, Nintendo also had the biggest first-party games of the year, and here are the top 5 that stood out.
5. Sea Of Stars
An indie retro-inspired RPG that takes influence from classics like Chrono Trigger, Sea of Stars is everything fans of Chrono Trigger would want to see with a modern take.
This release is the direct sequel to 2018’s The Messenger and features two playable characters in addition to a beautiful interactive world. The game received a rating of 91 on Metacritic.
4. Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed
Nintendo fans need no introduction to the Xenoblade games, with the franchise being one of the best RPGs on the platform. Future Redeemed is the third and latest DLC for Xenoblade Chronicles 3, which marks the end of the decade-long trilogy.
Future Redeemed, however, is a prequel of the game set years before the current events and features an entirely new cast to play with, including some familiar faces. While the continuity of Future Redeed may be difficult to grasp due to the confusing nature of the Xenoblade timelines, it is still a solid DLC with a Metacritic score of 92.
3. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Arguably the most recognizable video game series, a franchise built alongside the Nintendo brand, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is the latest venture of the mascot in the 2D sidescroller genre.
Featuring over eight playable characters, Super Mario Bros. Wonder takes place in the Flower Kingdom, where, weirdly enough, Bowser is a living castle. Dubbed the best 2D Mario game by many, this entry garnered a score of 92/100 on Metacritic.
2. Metroid Prime Remastered
The current decade has been rich in remasters, bringing classic video games to a newer audience with improved gameplay and keeping the same core that made them so special in the first place. Metroid Prime might be the perfect example of that.
If any game truly deserved a remaster, it was Metroid Prime. With unique storytelling and impressive visuals that truly make the original game’s essence even more polished, Metroid Prime Remaster is a cut above the average remaster.
This release marked one of the best games of 2023 during the initial part of the year and earned an astonishing score of 94/100.
1. The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom
This one isn’t a major surprise. Zelda became a huge element in building the modern catalog for Nintendo exclusives and is one of their most prized franchise.
Just when we thought the franchise couldn’t get any better, Tears of the Kingdom managed to top the formula laid in Breath of the Wild, pushing the Nintendo Switch’s hardware to the fullest with a massive open world and physics that shocked everyone.
Tears of the Kingdom revolutionized the franchise in no way. Instead, it took it to new levels by already improving upon its strengths. Tears of the Kingdom is the perfect example of a sequel nailed right.
Going down as the best-rated game of 2023, Tears of the Kingdom ended up tied with Baldur’s Gate 3. It also sold nearly 19 million units in 2023 alone, making it hard to argue with the near-perfect score of 96/100 on Metacritic.
Another notable title that didn’t make it into the top 20 was Pikmin 4, released a decade after the previous entry. Batman Arkham Trilogy was also ported to Nintendo Switch recently. However, Arkham Knight’s port wasn’t the best.
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[News Reporter]
Shaheer is currently pursuing a Business degree while also working as a part-time Content Writer. With his deep passion for both writing and video games, he has seamlessly transitioned into a role as a Journalist. Over the past two years, Shaheer has contributed as a freelancer to various websites and landed positions on acclaimed platforms like Gamerant. Currently, his role at Tech4gamers is as a Features Writer, but he also covers News occasionally. Shaheer’s favorite gaming franchises are Assassin’s Creed and the God of War series.
Get In Touch: shaheer@tech4gamers.com
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