With the state of the worlds as it is, we need to escape now and then. The Nintendo Switch is probably the gaming console that benefitted most from the various lockdowns, as people were and still are looking for a means to escape from this world. The beauty of this console is that you have a variety of addictive games to choose from. Whether you want a relaxing island-hopping experience, explore vast kingdoms, or combat focused action, this post will cover five games you must play on the Nintendo Switch.

1. Hades

Hades is the game for lovers of Greek mythology. It’s visually striking with a rich narrative and is frustrating as hell. It’s all about Zagreus, the son of Hades desperate to escape his life in Tartarus. With the help from allies within the House of Hades and his estranged family on Olympus, Zagreus must battle through the halls of Tartarus, the pits of Asphodel, fields of Elysium, and face the deadliest of foes. The catch? Once you die, you go back to the house of Hades and start from scratch. It’s a game that forces you to accept the loss but is also a message of never giving up. Every death is a learning opportunity as you get stronger, deepen relationships with ancient heroes in Greek mythology, and eventually escape the House of Hades. For the readers, this game will remind you of the beautiful tragedy that was The Song of Achilles.

2. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is the platforming game for explorers. A game you can easily spend 50+ hours of your time exploring new regions and unlocking the mystery behind the infected ancient kingdom of Hallowsnest. You are the Knight and, upon arriving in the town of Dirtmouth, you uncover a once flourishing kingdom, one with plenty of secrets and path to follow. As the Knight explores this kingdom, he is met with countless foes and challengers, becoming strong in his abilities along the way, and harnessing charms to boost combat skills, allowing you to explore more of this vast kingdom. The story of Hollow Knight is deliberately subtle, if not vague. However, through the artwork, the haunting music, and snippets of dialogue from characters we meet along the way, we come to understand the tragic history of this once shining kingdom. It’s one of the most atmospheric games you will ever encounter, one that subtlely unlocks a deep sense of history within this tale.

3. Pokémon Sword and Shield

Sometimes, you just need a timeless classic. The Pokémon games are a childhood staple for many, this reader included, and it’s incredible to see how much this franchise continues to develop and adapt. Pokémon Sword and Shield offers plenty of adventure and challenges as you explore the UK inspired Galar region. Of course, as with any Pokémon game, you find and catch Pokémon from new and previous generations, while also developing the connection between trainer and Pokémon through its camping feature as you journey to become the best Pokémon trainer in the region.

4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

For so long, I have resisted the call to buy Animal Crossing. Yet, as a new Wales-wide lockdown is in place, the inevitable is bound to happen, and once this game is in hand, any hopes of real-life productivity will be crushed. When you think of life simulation games, this one will always top the list. Who doesn’t want to move to a deserted island and spend those days exploring, gathering, and building a community? No wonder it’s one of the best-selling games of all time.

5. Undertale

Don’t underestimate this gem of a game. It’s undoubtedly one of the quirkiest and charming games you will ever encounter with a story that will punch you in feels with its endearing characters. It’s a game that oozes charm as you travel through the Underground to make it back to the surface of the Earth. Along the way, you will naturally encounter some monsters. However, the difference in combat is that you can choose to kill or take the pacifist road and spare them. Your choice has consequences and will determine the course of the journey as told in the dialogue, character relations, story progression. Undertale is the definition of quirky, fun, heartfelt, and a game that has plenty of character.

What’s your favourite video game?
Have you playes any of these games?