The Best Nintendo Switch Games of 2024: Zelda, Mario Party, and More

As we approach 2024, it was expected that the year would conclude with the launch of games for the Nintendo Switch 2. The idea was for the last exclusive titles of the console to bid it farewell in style, anticipating a sparse selection of major releases. However, expectations were challenged. Contrary to what was thought, 2024 would not mark the end of the Switch's lifespan. Although rumors suggest that the Switch 2 is near, Nintendo has kept its focus on the current console instead of conserving its resources for a major launch in 2025.

This year, the company surprised everyone with a new Zelda game, the first original RPG of Mario & Luigi in nearly a decade, and a major Mario Party title, thus enriching its prominent lineup for the holidays. Beyond the last few months, Nintendo delivered one of its most eclectic years. It is remarkable to see how they revived a 35-year-old NES franchise and turned it into an adult-rated visual novel of horror. These bold moves are characteristic of the final stages of a console's life.

The variety in the game library made the Nintendo Switch once again the most exciting console of 2024. Here are some of the standout exclusives from an unpredictable year in Nintendo's history:

• Emio — The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club: This title appeared with a mysterious teaser, marking a quirky project for Nintendo, both for its genre and its M rating. The cool visual novel tells a mature story about violence in a small town, revealing not only a supernatural mystery but also the childhood trauma many suffer in silence.

• Splatoon 3: Side Order: The year began with new downloadable content for Splatoon 3, introducing an innovative roguelite mode. Players use their painting skills to navigate battle arenas, enjoying temporary upgrades, resulting in an exciting and dynamic experience.

• Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble: This game stands out among third-party titles presented on the Switch. It is a welcome return for the series, offering challenging levels where players must guide a rolling monkey to the finish line, incorporating a boost feature for speedsters.

• Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door: As one of the most acclaimed remakes, this classic GameCube game remains as creative and fun as it was decades ago, complemented by visual updates and quality-of-life improvements.

• Super Mario Party Jamboree: This installment reignited interest in the series, featuring an enhanced board game with additional modes that encourage strategic play. Even with some minigames that sometimes feel inferior, it demonstrates that the series still has plenty of fresh ideas.

• The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom: This title returns the franchise to its top-down roots, blending elements from the successful Breath of the Wild. It presents charming gameplay that incorporates innovative mechanics without sacrificing classics like dungeons.

• Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition: While not necessarily a major game, it became an obsession this summer. Players must complete micro-challenges based on NES classics, which becomes addictive as they try to master each challenge.

• Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer: This fitness game installment combines boxing exercises with music, offering an invigorating experience to stay fit. Its precision in motion controls and daily tracking makes it one of the best exercise offerings for the Switch since Ring Fit Adventure.