Best Nintendo Switch Games of 2021

Ever since the Nintendo Switch launched in 2017, it has surprised the gaming industry with just how many great games are on the platform. It is clear they show no sign of slowing down as this year was no different, with an excellent and diverse lineup of exclusive games that prove the Nintendo Switch wants to run with the big dogs. Here are the best Nintendo Switch Games of 2021, as chosen by Pro Game Guides.

Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread sees Samus Aran return as everyone's favorite bounty hunter. Being the first new original Metroid game since 2002, it had a lot to live up to. The game combines familiar elements from classic entries as well as the newer games, that work together to create the perfect hybrid of old and new. The excellent level design, stunning visuals, and demanding combat helped reestablish this franchise as one of the all-time greats.

Mario Party Superstars

Mario Party Superstars invites players back into the beloved Mario-themed virtual board game. The game includes five remade boards from the original three games, as well as 100 minigames from across the entire series. This game successfully brings the series back to its former glory, by reintroducing the use of button inputs for all minigames instead of motion controls. Many fans even go as far as to say it is the best Mario Party in a very long time.

Related: All Boards in Mario Party Superstars

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD

Skyward Sword HD takes players back to the beginning of the known Zelda timeline, exploring the beginning of the battle between good and evil. A remaster of the original Skyward Sword developed back in 2011 for the Wii, this game not only brought a welcome graphical enhancement to the wonderful world of Zelda but also the ability to swap between two different control schemes. This remaster gives players the option to either use improved motion controls that replicate the feel of a Wii remote and nunchuck, or stick with a more traditional analog control setup, allowing players to play in handheld mode or with a Pro Controller.

Monster Hunter Rise

Monster Hunter Rise is the definitive mobile monster-hunting experience. Taking everything good that Monster Hunter World had to offer while adding new features (such as the Wirebug's), Rise improves the popular series' playability. Even though the original content that shipped with the game should keep you busy for weeks, there is also an expansion called Monster Hunter Rise Sunbreak planned for 2022. There has never been a better time to step into this fantastic action-RPG series.

Related: Monster Hunter Rise Updates and Patch Notes (December 2021)

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Super Mario 3D World, though originally developed for the Wii U, is at its best on Nintendo Switch release. With this version's increased speed and easy access to multiplayer, it's never played as well as it does now.

Then you've got Bowsers Fury, the Super Mario Oddysey expansion we never got. You get the great level design of Oddysey mixed with the items and gameplay of Super Mario 3D World, with the short length of the game being its only downside. This undeniably fun bundle is the best decision Nintendo has made in a long time.

Shin Megami Tensei V

Shin Megami Tensei V was nominated for Best Role-Playing Game at the 2021 Game Awards and for good reason. This JRPG boasts great pacing for a game that is 40 hours and features a deep and intricate combat system. Though at often times, the game does test your mettle with its difficulty, those that can make it through receive a well worthwhile experience as well as astonishing visuals.

So there you have it, our picks for the best Nintendo Switch Games of 2021. If these games tell you anything, let it be that Nintendo is committed to providing players with interesting and memorable experiences year after year, even if the Switch isn't the most powerful console on the market.

For more Nintendo content, check out Best Nintendo Switch Holiday Gifts right here on Pro Game Guides.