Chasm doesn’t quite have its own identity, as it borrows so much from other games and while it does them decently, it’s not best in class. The randomly generated level layout, which is the games one unique feature, actually ends up being its biggest weakness. Maybe I am being a little too unkind, as I did have fun playing, but I just feel like it could have been so much more and that’s what bothers me the most. It’s a decent enough tribute to those games of yesteryear, but that’s its problem, as it ends up being yet another Metroidvania title.

No one can deny how well Nidhogg 2 suits the Nintendo Switch. While the controversial new art direction may split the fan base and the lack of kill count record comes across as a strange absence, this stabby sequel’s healthy amount of new stages and a fun weapon system still makes it an absolute must for couch competition.

For anyone that owned a Game Boy back in the day, Christophe Galati’s Save Me Mr Tako will very likely tug at the old nostalgia stings with its visual sincerity towards the long-reigning handheld console. While the gameplay itself can come across as a little humdrum at times, there’s no denying that there’s still a fun puzzle-platformer to be found here with plenty to see and do. If you’re looking for a simulated trip down memory lane, then Save Me Mr Tako happens to be one of the better replications of a new Game Boy game released for a modern day console.

Whether you’re fresh to the series or already experienced Valkyria Chronicles 4 on Switch earlier this year, it’s still worth checking out the original. What it might lack in visual polish it more than makes up for with a rich story, affable characters and satisfying and strategic gameplay. Here’s hoping we see the second and third game make the leap to Switch too.

DERU: The Art of Cooperation is a simple but beautiful puzzler that really shines when two players are involved. It’s an easy recommendation if you’re after a head scratcher and perfect for couples looking for a way to spend a couple of afternoons. Playing alone? It’s functional but far from the true way to experience the game.

Game Freak’s understandable pursuit of accessibility means that this journey doesn’t have everything that veteran fans have come to expect, with that lack of longevity and depth to become a sticking point. But, what counts above all else is that it is a fun and memorable experience for all.

With more than 800 Pokémon scurrying around in tall grass and hundreds of moves to consider in battle, it’s easy to forget how daunting the Pokémon series can be for newcomers. That makes Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Pokémon Let’s Go, Eevee! the perfect adventure for those that want to explore the Kanto region for the first time, resulting in a game that’s for everyone – whatever your age.

When it works, it clicks into place and offers something more than so many racing games on the market. It’s an ideal game to dip in and out of through handheld as races don’t take long and you won’t lose any skill from taking a brief break. With a little patience, Road Redemption is a hell of a ride.

Sinner: Sacrifice for Redemption is a hellish ordeal that proves that patience is a virtue, as the game will test your persistence throughout this quest for atonement. Fans of Dark Souls or the structure of the early Mega Man titles will find a lot to enjoy with this Nintendo eShop release; however, the challenge may prove to be too much for those looking for a more casual affair.

It doesn’t take a genius to see that the SNK 40th Anniversary Collection isn’t for everyone. Many of the games here really haven’t aged quite as well as others developed for the same generation. If rummaging through the nostalgia of gaming history does appeal to you though, then this mid-range priced time capsule could very well be worth your investment.

Digital Dreams Entertainment plays a dirty game of football with Mutant Football League: Dynasty Edition for the Nintendo Switch; but the use of vulgarities, complete lack of concern for player safety, and hard-hitting defenses make it a blast to play. There is something strangely satisfying about mutilating an opposing QB and then murdering a referee. If Madden is the NFL, then one could say that Mutant Football League is arena football. It’s unconventional but it is entertaining and it’s the best football game for Switch.

Pinstripe is a game that isn’t without its problems. For me, what kept me going was the story and the characters. It feels like it’s a game that accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do and doesn’t try to be anything more. Its simple gameplay might put some off, as will some of the dodgy design flaws such as the backtracking that takes place, but stick with it and you will find an adventure that will stay with you for a long time to come.

Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate is like buying a vinyl record of your favourite album. It’s a little dated, a bit niche and to be honest, newer versions are more accessible and easier to interact with. But there’s love there, what it does, is done incredibly well and while the series is moving on over on other platforms, this is the classic formula distilled into a version that can be played at home on a 40” TV or on the bus. You can play it on your own or call in some friends for the tougher G-Rank quests. Being a hunter has never been tougher, but if you’re persistent, it’s never been more rewarding either.

Taiko no Tatsujin: Drum ‘n’ Fun! is a dizzyingly weird but wonderful rhythm game that’s both easy to pick up but ever so tough to master. Those playing with the drum set will undoubtedly have the best time but even if you opt for its more traditional control scheme there’s still enough fun to be had making your way through the game’s unique song list or facing off against your friends in its party games.

For those that have already wandered the world of Eos, there is little reason to relive the crown prince’s journey in Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition HD. It is, however, the perfect choice for those that haven’t and, fearing the need to grind out levels, would prefer to play this condensed option. It’s not without its shortcomings, and, despite the commendable depth, battles soon descend into repetition. But, all in all, it can still charm and entertain.

Diablo III Eternal Collection is a fantastic dungeon crawler and one that feels right at home on Nintendo’s console. Blizzard’s modern-day classic still shines brightly six years after its initial release on PC and now thanks to the Switch’s portable functionality, your incessant quest for better loot will be able to continue wherever you are. Could this be the best version of Diablo III yet? I’ll just say being able to slay monsters on my commute certainly makes a strong case.

There’s not really much more to be said about SkyScrappers other than that having a vertical Tate Mode is always a nice feature if you happen to own a stand to support it. I suppose the benefit of such an addition along with multiple Joy-Con controllers at the ready does make this particular game somewhat suited for Nintendo Switch. It’s just a shame that there isn’t enough here to keep you coming back for more.

It isn’t often that I would recommend a port of a mobile game, but The Room is an exception. It is a game that simply works on the Nintendo Switch, regardless of whether you play it in Handheld mode or on the TV. The puzzles are clever, unique and engaging. Once you start, you will not want to put your Switch down. Its only real problem is I simply want more.

Swap This! is an adorably cute puzzler that’s quick to pick up but like all smartphone games won’t hold your attention for too long. At less than the price of a cup of coffee though you’ll have a hard time finding a game on the Switch that’s as charming or enjoyable for less.

Lightening Force: Quest for the Darkstar will push you to your absolute limits with its cruel difficulty and chaotic action but it’s a game that rewards just as much as it can punish. If you’re a fan of arcade shooters then it goes without saying this is an essential purchase but even newcomers after a challenge should definitely check it out. Another hit for SEGA AGES.

I had a lot of fun with My Hero One’s Justice. There’s something about the game’s simplicity that felt refreshing in not needing to completely commit myself into learning the ropes. It’s a fun fighter to take on the go, too, allowing for players to split the Joy-Con for a quick, convenient throwdown. It may not have the most robust features in a fighting game, and there is a lot here that could be improved upon, but, despite this, the easy to learn gameplay system and over-the-top combat results in an entertaining score-settler regardless of whether you’re a fan of the series or not.

Luigi’s Mansion has received a decent port to the Nintendo 3DS. Nothing more, nothing less. It isn’t the Nintendo Switch port that I’m sure most of us would have preferred, but that does not deter from the fact that this is still a very good game. It’s just a very good game with the same problems as the original, mainly being the length of the main story. If you missed it back when it was first released and enjoyed the sequel, then I urge you to try this. If you already took a trip to Luigi’s Mansion on the GameCube, then I don’t see any need to revisit it on the 3DS, as you could argue that the original remains the better version.

On the bright side, Nickelodeon Kart Racers is the kind of game you can buy for a nephew that you can’t stand. Just think. On the surface, his parents will give you brownie points for such an appealing looking gift. The nephew, on the other hand, will know full well that you have completely screwed him over. Furthermore, you can shamelessly watch in glee as he gets chastised for being an ungrateful and spoilt little brat after complaining about such a generous present. A win, win situation if you ask me, and well worth your money.

It’s great to see more gamers have the chance to try out the once forgotten arcade gem Windjammers for themselves. The game strikes that perfect balance of simplicity and depth featuring action so fast-paced and on the edge of your seat, you’ll have a tough time putting the controller down. Best of all though, it manages to make playing with a Frisbee look cool, and any game that can accomplish that is okay in my book.

Armello has been created as a brutal and unforgiving game of chance, and, for those that want to plot and scheme to claim the throne, there’s nothing else quite like it on the Nintendo eShop. Underpinned with smart gameplay mechanics that will forever keep you on your toes, it lays an ample foundation for what I hope are many more games in its world to come.

Mark of the Ninja Remastered is a great stealth game that fits nicely as a portable time-killer. The gameplay takes every stealth trick from Metal Gear Solid’s book and translates them into two-dimensions wonderfully well. With that said, if stealth isn’t your bag then this game probably won’t be either as the over-reliance on its wonderfully implemented sneak system may feel a bit too repetitive for some. However, mastering a level with an objective in mind did make me feel like the badass ninja that I’ve always wanted to be.

It’s impressive that even after five packs and twenty-five individual party experiences Jackbox Games are still able to deliver the good times. And to be honest, if they continue to keep up the quality I’m more than happy to keep playing for years to come.

If you groan every time you see another 2D action-RPG on the Nintendo eShop, don’t be dissuaded by Hyper Light Drifter: Special Edition. While it borrows from the Zelda blueprint and games that have followed, it is packaged so perfectly that it stands above the rest. The depth of its vivid world goes beyond what you see on your screen. There’s more lurking there, and you’ll want to discover it all.