Shin Megami Tensei V on Nintendo Switch retains all the strategic combat elements that the Atlus RPG franchise is known for, but it radically revolutionizes its world design to create an adventure that is completely addicting and flawlessly complements the battle system. It’s a truly remarkable achievement, resulting in easily one of the best games of 2021 and one of the best games on Nintendo Switch in general.

Rewinding back to 2013: Guacamelee! had me hooked from the second I started playing. The comedy in the game is genius-level and the platforming is damn near perfect. It’s the definition of what a great Metroidvania/platformer is. Fast forward to 2018 and Guacamelee! easily sits among some of the best offerings on Nintendo Switch.

Timespinner kept me wide awake in the late hours of the night. I simply couldn’t put it down until I defeated the final boss. Luckily, tons of collectibles and a new game plus mode give me a reason to jump back in. If you’re a fan of Metroidvania games, Timespinner is a must play on Nintendo Switch.

Overall, Pocket Card Jockey is a surprisingly fun title that is definitely worth picking up if you’re a fan of either solitaire or horse races.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus sends the series in a new, bold direction, while also setting the groundwork for future games.

Robonauts is one of the most fun games I have ever played on the Switch. It is very accessible, vibrant, and great for gamers of all skill sets. Also, its character designs are really fascinating and, in some cases, adorable at the same time.

After years of relative obscurity, ToeJam & Earl is back in a big way. Back in the Groove likely won’t push the franchise beyond its cult status, but it is a good game that fans both old and new should check out. Pick up and play this one with a friend for the best experience.

Despite its issues, NBA 2K19 is by far the best installment in the franchise’s history. No matter which team I play as, no matter the late-game situation, it does a tremendous job of pulling me in. Its presentation enriches me with tons of basketball info and insight, plus its gameplay makes me more anxious for the actual NBA season to start (in a good way). There are still improvements that can be made for next year’s game, but 2K Sports and Visual Concepts shows their dominance while also celebrating 20 years of NBA 2K basketball.

Ape Out is simply an outstanding and utterly enjoyable experience. The moment I became that big, angry monkey, I was glued to the screen and never wanted the action to end. The music dropped my jaw, the visuals made my eyes go wide, and the addictive gameplay kept me entranced until I reached the final level. The ape is truly out, my friends.

Overwatch remains a stylish, exciting, and most of all fun game that feels at home on the Switch. While there were some concessions that had to be made to get it there, for most gamers this is a great version of a great game.

It can be really hard to put down, especially if you have some competitive friends over. Not too many games these days can boast having a fun couch multiplayer experience like this. Even if you don’t have three friends, bots can be set with 5 different levels of difficulty to choose from. Otherwise, jam out with your friends and play this.

Little Nightmares II tells an enriching story, through its hauntingly beautiful level design and themes. There are intense moments, with frightening enemies lurking around every corner. Combine all of this with its fantastic audio design, and Little Nightmares II is a very special game that's definitely worth playing.

Affordable Space Adventures is an indie title with a $20 price tag, and that may make some would-be purchasers leery of the investment. I can say with full confidence that the price tag is not only justified, but might even be too low.

Having access to BioShock, BioShock 2, and BioShock Infinite and their associated DLC in BioShock: The Collection makes it well worth the asking price, especially with Switch portability factored in. They’re relatively old titles, but they’re packed full of entertaining content and remastered for an overall better experience. There are three incredibly unique experiences to be had with this collection. Each one is a journey that you’ll remember in its own right for years after you’ve played it. They’ll have you constantly questioning the reality you’re in, both in the games and in real life. Don’t pass up the opportunity to play them.

Diablo III in 2018 is an outstanding game, and the Switch port really does the game justice. This Eternal Collection includes all the content released for the game and all the updates that have refined it into the modern classic it is. I may have put more time into my characters on the Xbox One version, but I really think the Switch will be my platform of choice going forward. Being able to play it on the go just feels so good. Diablo III: Eternal Collection comes very highly recommended.

Mutant Mudds Super Challenge is, for better or worse, more of the same – just a bit harder.

Lego Builder's Journey is a wonderful game from Light Brick Studio that captures the feel of playing with Lego. The feel, story, visuals, and sound are all excellent. However, the game is really short for its price and the controls can be a bit finicky.

ActRaiser Renaissance is a meticulously crafted remake that genuinely improves on the original game in several respects while maintaining the spirit of what made it special in the first place. The simulation and tower defense elements are instantly addicting, and the sidescrolling sections really make you feel like God has come down to smite the wicked. ActRaiser Renaissance is almost the best-case scenario for a remake.

Shovel Knight and its two expansions feature expertly crafted levels and mechanics, as well as music and visuals that will put a smile on your face. Though it is unfortunate that Switch owners are forced to put an extra $10 down to play a “free” expansion, those that do choose to pick up the package will find it well worth playing, no matter the price.

Whether you have played the originals on the 3DS or not, Gunman Clive HD Collection is worth experiencing again on your big screen.

Although nothing here is likely to change your opinion on any of the titles, most people who have played these games don’t need any convincing. Each game holds up very well and shines behind its own compelling strengths. It’s hard to imagine what could have been — a fully revamped Super Mario 64, tweaks to a few of the more painful aspects of Super Mario Sunshine, or some fresh levels in Super Mario Galaxy, for example. But despite some disappointment with how little was done to enhance these games, Super Mario 3D All-Stars is ultimately a convenient, fun collection that enables you to take some of the best 3D Mario games wherever you go and swap between them with ease. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes is a game worth picking up if you have someone you can play with locally. The game is not only fun and fulfilling, but I genuinely think it improved communication between my partner and me. Although I wish the latter levels introduced new modules, the game still does a good job introducing new hazards and variations to keep adrenaline running until the end of the game. At 15 dollars, the game is well worth a purchase for a few nights of wonderful bomb disposal.

On the surface, Oninaki might seem like a rough-around-the-edges action RPG lacking depth to its combat alongside an anime-inspired melodramatic story. However, for those who are patient enough to explore its world, characters, and ability-based battle system, there’s a lot to like an dive into after all. If you have even the slightest curiosity in this title, Oninaki‘s refreshing take on JRPGs is most definitely worth your time.

There Is No Game: Wrong Dimension is a fun, clever little experience that anyone will enjoy. Aside from a moment at the end, the puzzles are smart without being too difficult. The writing is spot-on and well-balanced, and everything can be wrapped up in a single sitting, making it a great title for livestreaming or a long travel day. There Is No Game: Wrong Dimension is certainly one of the best games I’ve played this year, and I encourage you to check it out.

I have to say, I really enjoyed My Memory of Us. It manages to tell a challenging story that reflects the Holocaust and concentration camps, all while maintaining a youthful innocence and focusing on the fun the characters are having together. The music is great and the narration is top-notch. It’s a game that has stayed with me for the last couple of days since I completed it. I will certainly be keeping an eye on Juggler Games to see what they do in the future.

With its high-quality story, gameplay, and delightful protagonist, I want to tell everyone to play CrossCode. However, without a stability patch, the experience is noticeably worse on Switch. At the moment it’s an amazing game, but one plagued by bugs and crashes. Just like every MMO in its opening days.

I can’t recommend it to everyone: the game is short, and it doesn’t really include much challenge in either puzzles nor platforming. But if you can look past that, you’ll find a stunning, unique game that uses the medium to deliver a beautiful story and an incredible world – and that’s worth experiencing.

Twilight Princess HD is yet another must-have for the Wii U library. Considering this game is one of my Top 5 favorite Zelda games, the HD treatment is a true treat to behold.