The Nintendo Switch was a breakthrough in handheld gaming. Kids, teens, and adults loved the newest addition to the Nintendo family the moment it came out. Although it's getting old, and the Switch 2 is coming out this year, there are tons of great games for teens. Wondering what to play next on your Switch? Here are some of my favorite games right now.
The Legend of Zelda Series
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was a remarkable breakthrough in video games because of its graphics and open-world gameplay. Enough talk about the technology behind it - let's move to the amazing storyline. You are the royal swordsman Link, who has sworn an oath to protect the land of Hyrule and its princess, Zelda. When Calamity Ganon corrupts the castle and summons monsters to help him take over Hyrule, Princess Zelda stays in the castle, holding him back with her light powers. You must free the four divine beasts from Ganon's control and aid the four races of Hyrule, then head to the castle to aid Princess Zelda in the final showdown.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is set after the events of Breath of the Wild. The graphics, map, and gameplay mechanics are the same, but Link gets two new areas to explore - the Sky Islands and the Depths. After Calamity Ganon is defeated, there is a newfound peace in Hyrule. But a newfound threat soon emerges. Ganondorf raises Hyrule Castle into the sky and creates Chasms that lead under the Depths of Hyrule. Sky Islands come into view and Hyrule is left in a state of disaster. Princess Zelda disappears and Link must find her so that they can defeat Ganondorf.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom has a completely different style than Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom. It has a more relaxed gameplay with adorable graphics and is meant to reintroduce dungeons and top-down gameplay from the earliest games in the series. As always, the storyline is pure perfection, and even I, a long-time Legend of Zelda nerd, was surprised by the plot twists. When mysterious rifts appear around Hyrule, trapping people inside and causing a multitude of annoying side quests due to all the problems, Princess Zelda must find out the cause and get rid of the rifts. With the help of the fairy Tri, Zelda sets off on her journey to save Hyrule. The twists in the storyline completely baffled me, and I was so happy to be able to play Zelda finally. This game is shorter and more relaxed than the other two, perfect for those who want a simpler game to play.
Set in a vast fantasy land filled with wonders and monsters, the Legend of Zelda series is perfect for fantasy and action fans. The graphics and gameplay mechanics are very smooth and the storyline is engaging, making the $60 price justifiable.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a cozy game. It has very chill and relaxed gameplay, smooth graphics, and doesn't have a set end to it. In this game, you create a character and get a deserted island getaway all to yourself! You meet animal friends (as the name suggests) and create a beautiful island community. Some unique features that I love are being able to design your clothes pixel by pixel, invite your real-life friends to come to your island, and celebrate holidays (including your birthday!). This game is great for people new to gaming or looking for something calming.
Fortnite
Fortnite originally started as a third-person shooter game for people to play online and “party up” with their friends, but it has evolved to include new game modes including Lego Fortnite, Rocket Racing, and Fortnite Festival. There's also a nearly infinite number of user-made modes. Fortnite is popular among younger teens and can be very competitive.
Note: Fortnite is rated T (Teen), and you should always be careful online.
Super Smash Bros: Ultimate
Super Smash Bros: Ultimate is a fun free-for-all battle that you can play with your friends. Play as your favorite character from Nintendo and get ready for action! Keep on spamming your best move and eventually use your Final Smash! The last one standing wins the match. Super Smash Bros: Ultimate is perfect for those who love gaming with friends and family.
Nintendo Switch Sports
Nintendo Switch Sports is a very interactive virtual sports game. Nintendo Switch Sports has interactive digital versions of Soccer, Bowling, Golf, Volleyball, Badminton, Tennis, and Chambara (a sword-fighting game). Play online to unlock cosmetics for your character, and attempt to beat the "Powerhouse" level AI if you're up for the challenge. I loved how cute the characters looked. This game is perfect for teens who like competing in sports.
Just Dance Games
The Just Dance games are just amazing. You can dance to the year's top songs with friends and family and get a workout in! Each edition of Just Dance has trendy songs teens love. There is a wide variety of songs and difficulties, and you might find your new favorite song through this game. If you enjoy music or dance, this game is a must-have.
Image Credits - Nintendo, Nintendo Everything, IGN, Hyrule Blog, Screen Rant, Epic Games, IMDb, Hypertext, Sportskeeda, Tasta
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