At its core, Windjammers is an addictive, colorful, and vibrant experience that is worth investing time and effort in. The online could be better, but this is a great, faithful port of the 1994 original updated to today’s standards. It’s definitely worth a look for both local multiplayer and retro enthusiasts alike.

I enjoyed playing more of the horror movie-tinged puzzles I loved from Slayaway Camp, but Friday the 13th: Killer Puzzle wasn’t quite as enjoyable as its predecessor. Maybe it’s because my affection for horror movies is more broad and not specific, but whatever the case, I wish there was more than just Jason present in the sequences and puzzles. That being said, Killer Puzzle has staying power and longevity, mostly thanks to the daily puzzles. I might prefer Slayaway Camp in a direct comparison, but both games are well made and fun.

All in all, I can say that without a doubt this is one of the best co-op puzzle platformers to hit the eShop’s digital shelves. If you’re looking for a good game to spend playing with your sibling, cousin, friend, or family member, definitely add this one to your Switch’s library and prepare for the laughs and challenges to come.

Since Into the Breach hit at the end of August, there has been a barrage of quality strategy games on the Switch, so it can be tempting to skip Valkyria Chronicles. But don’t do it. It’s a brisk game, and there are some things like the graveyard for fallen troops that I wish were carried into future titles. War may be hell, but Valkyria Chronicles is a little slice of heaven.

If you liked NBA Playgrounds then this game will surely be a solid improvement you enjoy. If the first game was too buggy, or there were too many issues, then Playgrounds 2 fixes many problems. There are still reasons to be cautious with things like roster unlocks and limitations in the game modes, but it is overall a solid package.

Nickelodeon Kart Racers has no online function, and its unlockable Grand Prix cups are just different combinations of tracks from the base cups. There is a decent progression and cart customization system here, but bland visuals and uninspired gameplay mean you can probably sit this race out.

They say never to judge a book by its cover and with Yomawari: The Long Night Collection that’s certainly the case. At first glance you might expect something much more family friendly, but will instantly be welcomed by a sinister set of events. Behind the cuteness of the main protagonists are a pair of creepy games filled with grotesque and downright strange monsters. With the focal point of exploration in lieu of combat, the pace of each game is on the slower side, but it helps to build the feeling of isolation and helplessness as you wander the dark streets aiming to uncover their mysteries.

In many ways, The Missing feels like an experiment in what kind of stories a game can tell, and it can be tough to get into. If the graphic subject matter doesn’t turn you away, then the rigid controls and poor performance on Switch might. But despite the rough edges I loved journeying across the eponymous island of memories to learn J.J.’s story while solving puzzles and crossing obstacles in ways I’ve rarely had to think about before. It’s a game that touched me on a personal level and one I’ll be thinking of for a long time to come.

The gameplay is neat and the flow from battle to battle is rather solid, but the problems drag the experience down harshly. The story is take it or leave it and Warriors Orochi 4 isn't too welcoming to newcomers in general. If you are a fan of the Orochi games and have a need for this on the go, I guess the Nintendo Switch is the only way you can go. However, in every other instance, there would be other versions of the same game I would recommend more.

I’m excited to see more Williams tables, as they are consistently praised, but of these four initial releases, I only fell in love with Medieval Madness. Hilariously, you cannot escape Fish Tales, because it will be distributed for free to anyone who already has Pinball FX3. Perhaps they knew nobody would actually buy it?

Hot Springs Story is thoroughly average for 2018. On one had, it’s an easygoing, simple game that kept me entertained for a while. But it’s not particularly difficult, and there were plenty of moments during gameplay where I just people watched instead of playing or really doing anything of note. I think this is good for people who want something to do and enjoy while being occupied with other matters, but otherwise there really isn’t much to say here other than it was a nice looking game that was fun for a while.

A lot of the recent releases have been in genres that have been oversaturated in recent months so it’s nice to get something fresh and fun. Pizza Titan Ultra is a fun and colorful break when you’ve got the blues from playing too many dark and serious titles in a row.

Although Debris Infinity lacks originality and creativity, it’s still a competently made game with solid controls, addicting gameplay and high replay value. If you’re currently seeking a game that can be played in short bursts, or if you need something to scratch that Geometry Wars itch, then Debris Infinity is one of the best arcade-style shooting titles on the Nintendo Switch. It’s also worth noting that the game’s programming, art and design was all done by one person. While it may not be the most ambitious game on the eShop, it’s definitely an admirable effort.

The main thing to be said about Oh My Godheads: Party Edition is that it is a party game to the core and those who are looking for a mix of both single and multiplayer fun will be sorely disappointed by this game. While I did get a kick out of it when playing with some of my friends, it’s best to look elsewhere for a party game that will please you and the crowd.

Overall, Passpartout: The Starving Artist is a title to unwind with. While the presentation is fun, the real star is the artwork you create. I found it hilarious to make some silly art, and see how the inhabitants of Paris would react. The situations that came of that are enjoyable, and it kept me engaged. I do think it is a shame that the story built around this tool set doesn't go any deeper. The game really guides from point A to B without you having a say in the matter. That isn't the worst thing, but I do reckon it will put those looking for something deep off.

Aside from some small control issues mostly stemming from the fact that multiple functions are tied to the same button, Mark of the Ninja Remastered is excellent. It’s a smartly-made stealth game that oozes style while being packed with gameplay variety and depth. Playing this 2012 release today made me wary that it might show its age, but the amazing thing is that in 2018, this game feels extremely fresh. This ninja has been hiding in the shadows, waiting to strike on Switch, and the results are fantastic.

Overall, this is a classic puzzle and strategy game with a wealth of content to keep the prison escapes interesting. While it does need some improvements to make it truly great, I’d still recommend fans of the genre to give it a spin and see if they have what it takes to be an escapist.

While the arena segments and shooting remind me of arcade classics like Smash TV or Robotron, I have never played a game like that with such heartfelt characters and story, pieces that didn’t just feel like an afterthought. I won’t go so far as to say Zarvot has the wit and soul of a poet, but the writing gives the game life, and it’s a title that will stand out this year as having the types of genuinely touching moments we don’t often see in video games. I can’t give anymore, so check out Zarvot and fall in love with these cubes.

What I’ve played of Black Bird I’ve enjoyed; it’s just somewhat disappointing and primarily a high score chase with some hard-to-obtain bonuses. I wish there was more to it, or at the very least that it was a little more forgiving. The style of Black Bird is masterful as the mixture of the peculiar soundtrack, dour pixel art, and elegantly simple gameplay makes for a fun yet fleeting experience. It’s just over too soon for everyone except shoot-’em-up savants.

WILL: A Wonderful World has some effective, albeit dark, storytelling and a neat hook, but the gameplay is severely lacking. It also randomly crashed on more than one occasion, but fortunately there is frequent auto-saving. I did enjoy how the stories intertwined with one another, but there were also times when I wouldn’t get a letter from one character for hours and it would be hard to pick up where his or her story left off. Before picking this one up, be aware that it’s essentially a novel with multiple characters and various endings to discover to move the overall story forward. I’m thinking to myself: it is a wonderful world, but not necessarily a wonderful game.

Not everyone is going to find the soul-crushing difficulty as therapeutic, but amidst the rollercoaster of rage, frustration and depression, I learned the importance of perseverance and patience, and just how good it feels to accomplish something that you once thought impossible.

Playing Game Dev Story is a very passive experience, and that can be disappointing for many people. It won’t challenge you, and it doesn’t give rewarding feedback based on your skill. What it will do is let you chill out, sit back, and watch passionate pixel people work hard on games that get more polished, more beloved, and more successful. It’s a good reminder that sometimes you just need something simple and cute to pass the time.

I’m all for a good challenge, but sometimes enough is enough. Unfortunately oOo: Ascension falls into the category of ramping it up to the point that it drains the fun out of some clever level design. Early stages hit a nice balance of tough but rewarding, however later stages stack too many different ideas to the point of being downright infuriating. I’m sure there are some masochists out there that will find enjoyment in the brutal difficulty, but those looking for a more approachable challenge, you may want to look elsewhere.

While it’s a short journey, it’s one very worth playing. Oh, and did I mention the game is littered with pop culture (especially video game) references? I won’t spoil them for you, but never thought I’d see a Super Mario RPG reference ever again.

If you’re looking for something better for lighter concentration, Jackbox 5 doesn’t have the variety of some of the earlier bundles. I came away impressed by the five games here; I don’t think any of them are even close to being a dud. You just need to make sure everyone’s up for the long haul with these games.

Trying to fight both the bosses of SINNER as well as the controls of the warrior is just an overwhelmingly painful experience. I can only recommend SINNER to those looking for an almost insurmountable challenge, and even then, you’re probably better off just sinking those hours into further exploration of Lordran.

Crayola Scoot is a totally fine kid-centric extreme sports video game peppered with some nice touches, like the Splatoon-esque combo system or the gentle progression nestled within a harder series of challenges.

Valtherian Arc is an enjoyable experience that simply needed a bit more polish to be really effective. Unlocking new classes and skills is fun and offers a fresh change in the combat. While there are some frustrating features and gameplay mechanics, Valtherian Arc can still be fun for many players.