Pure Nintendo's Scores

  • Games
For 2,168 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 48% higher than the average critic
  • 21% same as the average critic
  • 31% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 4.1 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 71
Highest review score: 100 Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury
Lowest review score: 10 Garage Mechanic Simulator
Score distribution:
2168 game reviews
    • 96 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The House in Fata Morgana: Dreams of the Revenants Edition is a long and finely constructed visual novel. It promises an intricate plot of suspense, intrigue and revenge for anyone willing to commit forty or more hours to the story.
    • 96 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I know I’ve spent a lot of time discussing my qualms with this new formula for Zelda games but I did still enjoy myself. Don’t get me wrong, everyone should play Tears of the Kingdom. The new outfits to find are fun and varied, the caves are really interesting and Ultrahand has some fun uses. It is an incredible achievement but it’s just not what I’m looking for in Zelda games. That’s a shame for those of us that want those classic elements back. I don’t think the Zelda ‘formulas’ are mutually exclusive. I think there’s a better balance they can strike but they’re not there yet. I can only hope Nintendo takes stock of the sincere critiques of these two Zelda games and find ways to accommodate all Zelda fans moving forward.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Tetris is Tetris, so well known and broadly adored. And even if Tetris Effect: Connected is familiar, it’s still great fun. The refinements make it a worthy addition to your Switch library, even if some of the tunes can be hit or miss. It’ll scratch that Tetris itch, offering rewarding challenges you can return to time after time, even for those who’ve been manipulating shaped blocks since Alexey Pajitnov’s original.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Metroid Prime Remastered is an amazing return of Metroid Prime and one of the best video games released for Nintendo Switch. Its masterful remaster takes an already amazing game and enhances every detail for modern audiences. Its amazing graphics, improved environmental and character details, smooth gameplay presentation and modern control scheme make Metroid Prime Remastered perfect for anyone wanting to get into the series or longtime fans looking to get back into its high point. There’s really nothing bad to be said about Metroid Prime Remastered. It’s one of the best remastered games Nintendo’s ever done and at $40, it’s an absolute steal for the high quality experience you’re going to get. Don’t hesitate for a moment, go out and buy Metroid Prime Remastered.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Braid, Anniversary Edition is the definitive version of a terrific platformer. This classic title has been enhanced with improved graphics, along with a detailed commentary integrated into the game itself. A lot of effort has been put into building something special, from 2008 until today.
    • 93 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Hades is a complete package. The writing will make you laugh, the gameplay will make you smile, the bosses will frustrate you, and the art will make you stare in awe. All of which combined makes Hades a must-play, and once you start, you won’t want to stop.
    • 93 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a gorgeous game with fast-paced action, an enormous, beautiful world to explore and a solemn story crafted very well.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Super Mario Bros. Wonder is the Mario game we didn’t know we wanted. This long-running series is no stranger to new mechanics and Wonder adds to the list with a completely fresh take while staying true to its roots. Simply put, it’s a joy to play.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed is an absolutely essential component of the Xenoblade Chronicles trilogy. Combat and exploration are tightly refined to keep things moving along, so there’s never a dull moment unless you choose to take a breather. The story relies heavily on nostalgia for its emotional moments, but fans will be pleased that some of the loose ends are finally tied together, albeit with knots they likely didn’t expect.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dead Cells: Return to Castlevania DLC is an absolute triumph that everyone should play. It’s one of the few times we get a DLC to a modern game that absolutely nails the classic gaming franchise it took inspiration from. The game looks, sounds, and absolutely plays like a classic Castlevania adventure. The soundtrack will leave you jamming in your head for hours at iconic Castlevania tunes. Its overall shorter game length will ultimately disappoint you, as the DLC is so good you wish it didn’t end as soon as it does.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    OneShot: World Machine Edition is an awesome game with memorable characters and an interesting story that will challenge your brain and make you think. If you like Undertale, puzzle games, or a great story, then I highly recommend checking out OneShot!
    • 91 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Unavowed is a solid retro adventure game. The story is not always evenly paced, but it is compelling with plenty of twists and surprises. The gameplay is simple, and the parts all work together to make a coherent whole.
    • 91 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If you haven’t made room in your crowded wish list for DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age, do so now. You don’t need to take my word that it’s one of most enjoyable Switch releases of the year, you can hit up the eShop for the demo and let the game’s first 10 hours speak for themselves.
    • 91 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Donkey Kong Bananza is one of the most creative and fun titles. Ever. The smashing, music, co-op, upgrades. The smashing. This must-play Switch 2 title has set the bar for years to come. Do yourself a favor and play Donkey Kong Bananza as soon as possible.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Animal Crossing: New Horizons hit every checkbox for me. It’s clear in their handling of New Horizons that Nintendo truly cares about this series and understands its value to its audience.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Tents and Trees is a phenomenal logic puzzler with a never-ending amount of content.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Don’t look at Chained Echoes as a throwback to the 16-bit JRPGs of yesteryear, just look at it as an amazing game with an engaging battle system and wonderfully paced story. You can also look at it as one of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Despite a few bugs and oversights, The Making of Karateka has become one of my favorite releases in 2023 and should be considered unmissable. Playing this interactive documentary, packed with history and fun remastered works, can’t help but make one wonder what Digital Eclipse plans next. How about a deep dive into Mechner’s later work, The Last Express?
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    A stunningly well-executed game, Cocoon takes you on a physics-bending adventure that has you leaping between worlds to solve puzzles that guide an endearing little alien home. It absorbs you fully into its unique and beautiful corner of space until its orb-based mechanics make more sense than reality.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    I have yet to play a game that needed a Definitive Edition as much as Xenoblade Chronicles, and it fully delivers. It’s a game no JRPG fan should miss, and a version that no JRPG fan should bypass for a second or third play-through.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Neva is a stunningly beautiful game, with jaw-dropping artwork, a heartbreaking yet hopeful narrative, and incredibly creepy enemies that are very satisfying to destroy.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Unicorn Overlord is one of the best tactical strategy RPGs to have been released for the Nintendo Switch. Maybe one of the best games, period. No matter which series first made you a fan of the genre, Unicorn Overlord will help you discover that thrill all over again.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Pokémon Pokopia is cuteness overload with low-stakes, but still an intriguing story. You’ll never run out of anything to do and put hours of fun into this game.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The massive world and intricate real-time battle system of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 may seem daunting even by JRPG standards, but both are easy to get into. It’s not my favorite Xenoblade Chronicles game, but I can say with certainty I enjoyed nearly every battle, plot twist, and Nopon I encountered in the 140+ hours I’ve put into it (so far).
    • 89 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Opinions on what the best 3D Mario titles are varied and polarizing. Is 3D World the best 3D Mario outing? For a game that came out nearly a decade ago, it still feels fairly new, which is not something that can be said of other recently released Mario ports. And while Bowser’s Fury may not be a full-fledged game, I almost cried when it was done, aching for more open-world Mario goodness. With all due respect to Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is the definitive Mario experience available on the Switch right now.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic kick, curious to check out rare titles, or looking to bone up on games of a bygone era, Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration has you covered. Yes, some odd omissions, seemingly from something other than licensing, leave you wondering. And there are numerous redundant and “one time is enough” games. But the rare gems are worth finding, playing, and replaying.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    This May Madness Lies blends JRPG elements with the world of William Shakespeare. It has a lot going for it, from a humorous story to a wonderful 16-bit styling that smacks of classic ‘90s titles. It’s not the toughest or longest title, but fans of anime, Shakespeare, or JRPGs in general, will find much enjoyment here.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Fire Emblem: Three Houses was a long time in the making and, thankfully, was well worth the wait. It’s impossible to put down, bringing a deep story that involves true character development across a diverse cast, all voiced to perfection. It looks glorious and has epic turn-based battles to boot. This is a must-own game for every Switch owner.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Overall, Ball X Pit is one of the most fun games I’ve played this year. The bouncing-ball mechanic is a game-changer. Couple the addictive gameplay with the upgradeable characters and light sim elements, and Ball X Pit is easy to recommend.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Death’s Door is a fun and unique action-adventure game with appealing scenery and music. You can pick it up and play on the go, and although the controls require skill, it’s easy to master.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Absolum is a strong roguelite with enough content to keep you busy for hours and fun characters to try out. If you’re a fan of beat ‘em up games with challenging bosses, then certainly pick this game up.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    A Short Hike is a game the whole family can love. It’s an homage to classics while still very much it’s own release. There is much to explore, fun characters to interact with, and the entirety of the title just had me smiling. Carve out a couple of hours in your day, curl up with some ‘Strawberries and Toast,’ and give A Short Hike a play. You won’t regret it.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Personally, I’ve always enjoyed a nice dialogue choice-based storytelling game, on the road! Another thing worth mentioning is: Many can find enjoyment in Dream Daddy, no matter the sexuality you possess — though depending on it, one might enjoy such more. Hence my scoring, as a genre enthusiast. I haven’t played a meaningful dialogue selection game in awhile, so this was a refreshing change in pace.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a splendid return to form for the series. The developers have done a terrific job with an original story and a visually impressive title that’s well implemented on the Switch. The smooth gameplay, terrific map system, and satisfying combat and exploration make this a must-play for genre fans.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It’s hard to knock the Delicious Last Course on anything other than I just didn’t find it very fun — as was the case with the base game. Everything else though, from performance to visuals and music, is top notch. If you’re a bit of a glutton for punishment and want some more bosses to fight, the Delicious Last Course might be up your alley. And, for only $7.99, it’s pretty easy on the wallet.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Overall though, Metroid Dread is excellent. MercurySteam has more than proven themselves to be a worthy steward of the 2D Metroid games. They understand the genre and what fans are looking for from Nintendo’s bounty hunter extraordinaire. Metroid Dread is simply a must-play title for newcomers and fans alike.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    I expected Super Mario Maker 2 to be an outstanding sequel but instead, it’s simply good. It takes steps forward and back in near equal measure, having significant post-launch shortcomings that go beyond mere nitpicking. Namely, the inferior online implementation at present, especially the, at times, borderline-unplayable online multiplayer. I certainly don’t expect perfect, but I also don’t expect a selling point this flawed from the Big N. It forfeits the right to a higher score, but I’m absolutely confident the game will continue to improve with updates. Meanwhile, it still offers a ton of creative potential and courses to play, representing good value for the cost.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door lives up to the hype as a “page-turning adventure.” It’s also a long adventure, so be sure to pencil in the time, especially if you’re a completionist. With memorable bosses, much to find, and plenty of extras, this game will keep Switch players busy.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dave the Diver is successfully combines two very different genres. The deep-sea diving is action packed, full of exploration and a great soundtrack. The restaurant-sim side is put together in a way that’s challenging without being overwhelming. I highly recommend this title!
    • 88 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    What it lacks in an actual narrative, FILMECHANISM makes up for in everything else. With its addictive puzzles, simple yet thought-provoking mechanics, catchy soundtrack, and retro but modern 8-bit world, you have the complete package when looking for a 2D puzzle-action game.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Turn off the lights and go into your play of Inscryption knowing you will experience a narrative like no other. The gameplay is well done, but the story that lies under it is perfect. If you are a horror fan, do not skip this one.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I certainly don’t regret my time spent with Cuphead, but also I don’t know when I’ll pick up the game again. There’s too much rinse and repeat and rote memorization of bosses to be fun for me after a while. That being said, if you’re looking for a steep challenge, Cuphead will certainly satisfy. The game is definitely a huge accomplishment–I just wish it was more universally accessible and fun for everyone.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Astral Chain is a wonderfully fun and ambitious action title with a great gameplay hook that improves the more you master the basics. It’s yet another example of why PlatinumGames continues to be one of the best in crafting a unique action-adventure hack-and-slash.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Pikmin may be a somewhat overlooked Nintendo franchise, but it’s also consistently one of their best. Pikmin 4 is arguably the best game in the series, making it a perfect place for newcomers to start. And if you’ve played the previous games, it’s a fantastic reward for your patience between releases.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Melatonin is a dreamy rhythm game that hits all the right notes. It’s compelling yet relaxing, with an addictive quality that will have you yearning for more.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 are still out of this world. This pair of classic adventures remind us why we love Mario’s 3D outings in the first place. For existing fans, the temptation to replay in this enhanced form is strong. For new players, this is a must-own title.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Despite its modest handheld origins, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is a true console experience. With updated aesthetics and superior controls (especially for inventory), it’s shaping up to carry on the Game Boy legacy and be both a critical and commercial hit. An innovative, generally light-hearted installment that’s full of surprises, Zelda enthusiasts won’t want to overlook this game. Link’s Awakening is also an ideal entry for those who aren’t Zelda fans.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    The pitching mechanics have improved, the base-stealing is light-years better than before (it actually takes good timing and skill to execute), and the game’s performance is excellent. There were only a couple hiccups I experienced, but that was in online play which could’ve just been connection related. If you’ve been looking for a great baseball game to play on the Switch, Super Mega Baseball 3 should be your first choice. They’re also offering a free demo that allows you to play the online Pennant Race mode, play the Exhibition games, and access to player customizations. Hope to see you in-game sometime soon!
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    While the replay value falls short once you’ve beaten the game, Trine 2: Complete Story offers plenty of challenging content to keep you busy for a while.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tinykin is a fun platformer with smooth controls, fun graphics, and stress-free gameplay. It’s a great game to pick up and play on the go.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Mediterranea Inferno is a unique visual novel. Multiple endings allow for replayability, though the drug-induced sequences and unlikeable characters won’t be for everyone. Nor will the explicit content. If you like your indie titles on the more obscure side, though, this one might be worth checking out.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge hits that nostalgic sweet spot while offering something new and challenging. There may be a few glitches and interface issues, but the gameplay is super fun, particularly in multiplayer mode. Fans should be playing this game right now.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    The Cosmic Wheel Sisterhood is an immaculately constructed game, with gorgeous design, realistic characters, rich emotional punches, and choices that genuinely resonate through the narrative.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Two Point Campus is a management sim in which you create and maintain college campuses. Its joint focus on business and provides a fun challenge as you create a great learning environment where your students and staff can thrive.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Overall, Super Mega Baseball 2 is a great package–there is a ton of depth, plenty of customization options for players, teams, and leagues, and online multiplayer. If you can get around the art-style, the poor soundtrack and umpire sound effects, the game is really a ton of fun. If you’re a baseball fan, it’s definitely worth checking out and being able to play on-the-go makes this the definitive version of the game.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Overall, Resident Evil 7 biohazard Gold Edition is a fantastic return to form for the series. Sure, it’s a few years old now. But if you want the true Resident Evil experience ahead of playing Resident Evil 9 this is a great entry that’s well worth your time. Just keep the lights on if you’re playing at night. What was that sound…?
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    There’s no debating that the Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Edition is a great bundle of stellar games. But are there enough improvements and new content here to justify a full purchase so soon after the original releases? That’ll mostly depend upon how much you got out of them the first time (or on how antsy you are for the next Yumia adventure).
    • 87 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    From great musical and visual presentation, to smooth fluid gameplay and unlockable content, bundled with online co-op play, Streets of Rage 4 is an absolute blast to play. Not disappointing in the least, it’s more than just the finest addition to the series; it’s the best in the genre, in my opinion.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is a wonder to behold on the Switch. It looks stunning and features fantastic gameplay. The choppy, largely uninteresting story continues to be a significant drawback, and there are still some lingering issues with general repetitiveness and party management minutiae, but it otherwise shines like a Mira sunrise.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles is a wonderful package that will provide plenty of laughs and thrills for fans of mysteries, adventures, and visual novels. The situations and scenes make a successful leap to the big screen, and there are enough new gameplay elements to engage longtime fans without making them miss their favorite characters from previous Ace Attorney games.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Wave 4 delivers more of that sweet racing goodness to this near-perfect game. It’s hard to criticize something so fun and fresh; in fact, the only obvious negative is that we’re now down to the final two waves. Let’s see what’s next.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Overboard is a charming and darkly funny game, with incredibly well-written characters and a great atmosphere of intrigue, secrecy and 1930s style.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    My gaming acumen recognizes Rakuen: Deluxe Edition as a high-quality release that checks most of the right boxes. At the same time, this is a title I simply never want to play again and am anxious to forget. Its heavy-handed final act is unpleasantly predictable, making a game that felt fresh feel paradoxically clichéd. People grieve differently, and many will meld with this finished product. But I’m left saying it’s a good game that’s not for me: too bitter without enough sweetness to offset it.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Cat Quest III is a fantastic addition to a terrific series. with local co-op and a sea-faring theme, everything feels fresh yet familiar. A humorous story coupled with fast-paced action makes this one a fun time all round.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition does something very right with the series. It features the classic action we know and love and introduces an RPG-like story mode. It looks great, plays well, and even has a happy feel to it. When did fighting become to much fun? Ready? Fight!
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If you’re a fan of retro action/platformers, then you’re in for a treat with 30XX. It’s a fun game with a good amount of customization and level variety. Play alone or with a friend, and blast your way through ever-changing levels and tough bosses.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Driving for weeks now, I can better sum up my feelings on Mario Kart World post-honeymoon. It’s a great game that looks (and sounds) as outstanding as it plays—speedy, sharp, and smooth on Switch 2. It’s well worth the extra Bundle cost! Still, as a standalone $79.99 game, it’s undeniably lacking compared to its predecessors’ original tracks, overall number of tracks, and other features and polish. Doubtless, some free DLC will add needed content and give some existing content a tune-up. Mario Kart World is a game you don’t want to miss, one that crosses the finish line with its head held high.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    When it’s firing on all cylinders, Bayonetta 3 serves as a confident reminder of why we’ve been looking forward to its release for so long. Unfortunately, the number of misfires can’t be overlooked, making this easily the least enjoyable game in the series.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Zen Studios bring a top-notch level of quality that you’d expect from a company established in video game pinball supremacy. Whether you’re a casual fan or a pinball enthusiast, you’re bound to find enjoyment with Star Wars Pinball. This package is a real bargain on Nintendo Switch too, with replay value as high as Bespin’s Cloud City. Zen Studios has done the Star Wars license proud.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Chaos expands on Pablo’s adventures with interdimensional travel, a new canine companion, exhilarating boss fights, collectibles, and super-satisfying platforming. This is a worthy successor and a must-play for genre fans.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance adds enough new content and fixes enough problems to more than justify this update. It’s a much better experience overall, and is an easy recommendation for JRPG gamers…especially if you lost your way during the original release.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Luigi’s latest adventure. The Nintendo Switch is already home to plenty of great games, but Luigi’s Mansion 3 falls under the “absolutely essential” category. If you own a Switch, you simply have to give this game a whirl.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The Legend of Heroes: Trails to Azure is a great turn-based JRPG that holds up exceptionally well against its modern competitors. The story and combat system are equally deep, allowing the game’s bigger moments to carry players through a fair amount of combat repetition and prolonged narrative dumps.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    While certainly an interesting game, Metro 2033 won’t be for every first-person shooter fan. However, if you enjoy a more thought provoking, story-driven adventure you’ll most likely enjoy yourself. With all of the game’s DLC included, there’s a good amount of content to keep you busy.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Metro: Last Light is included in the ‘Metro Redux’ package for the Switch. While you can certainly buy the games separately from the eShop, I think it’s still good to experience the series from its roots. You’ll notice the improvements that have been made and I believe your time with the game will be that much more satisfying. Just like with Metro 2033, this game features all of the DLC including a ‘Ranger Mode’ that offers a HUD-less, UI-less experience with more powerful enemies and even fewer resources. If you can’t get enough of the Metro experience, you’ll want to give the Ranger Mode a try.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Sumire is a visual novel adventure that should appeal to anyone who has experienced loss or just ever felt disconnected from the world. It’s perhaps over too quickly for the price, but it’s an enjoyable, fulfilling adventure while it lasts.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A fun fighting game with crisp graphics and smooth controls. With various characters and modes, the gameplay seems endless.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Cadence of Hyrule didn’t click with me at first but the Fixed Beat Mode really helped. Without that mode, I don’t think this game would have as much appeal but the developers were wise to include it. With such a great visual presentation and an excellent soundtrack, players need to check out Cadence of Hyrule even if they’re just a little curious. The gameplay may trip you up as it did for me, but check out the Fixed Beat Mode–you’ll be glad you did!
    • 85 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    I don’t give many games a score of ten. That is reserved for experiences that are so gripping and mechanics that change the landscape of a franchise. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope does just that. Every moment I wasn’t playing Sparks of Hope, I was thinking about it. And for a studio to take a proven formula, shake it up, and try something new is risky but rewarding. I can’t recommend this game enough.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Overall, the Switch 2 edition of Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a lovely update that provides plenty to do. While some fans will lament the lack of much content for solo players, remember this is basically DLC. I, too, want a new Mario outing; for now, this is a pretty fun addition to a wonderful game.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is the first brand-new top-down adventure in almost a decade. Fans might be used to long pauses between outings, but Echoes was worth the wait. It not only introduces Zelda’s first canonical solo adventure, but merges familiar and new to create an incredibly creative and beautiful experience. Despite some graphical load issues, let’s just say Zelda’s first adventure presents a strong contender for 2024’s Switch game of the year.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    This 15-year-old game has aged well, with new cutscenes and other enhancements contributing to an epic, movie-like quality to the action. This prequel makes the perfect first entry for the Switch 2.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Legend of Heroes: Trails From Zero takes us back to the formation of the SSS, an organization Switch gamers will know from the Trails of Cold Steel games. It also takes us back to a relatively simpler system that’s perfectly sized for JRPG adventuring on the go.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    All of this comes together for a mostly engaging strategic experience that is just long enough to not wear out its welcome. You’re not going to sink hundreds of hours into it like you did with Breath of Wild and Xenoblade Chronicles 2, but that’s a good thing in this case. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac age chugs along at a decent speed (albeit sometimes slowed by long, repetitive environments and the micromanagement of the gambit system), with story elements dropped in just often enough to keep you intrigued.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    So maybe Nintendo will never make a truly great Paper Mario ever again. Lucky for us, Moonsprout Games may have cracked the chemistry of what many fans actually want from the series in Bug Fables. If you’re still mad about Sticker Star, or you’re still reeling about Color Splash, do yourself a favor and nab this masterpiece as soon as possible, and see what all the buzz is about. Rest assured, that even if Origami King turns out to be a dud, 2020 will see at least one great game with Paper Mario mechanics…even if it doesn’t bear its name.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Overall, qomp2 is simple yet thought-provoking. It’s challenging but not unforgiving. With its smooth controls and accessibility options, you can play this game however you want.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2!! Is the ultimate food tycoon-management game, and the best one on the platform to date. I would recommend to anyone looking for a game like this to ignore those cheap budget food tycoon titles springing onto the Eshop as of late, and instead, save up a few more dollars to purchase this game instead.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Monster Train First Class combines a fun story with cool designs, challenging strategic gameplay and the excitement of unlocking and making the most of epic new features at a dream pace.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Roots of Pacha is a single player or co-op farming/life simulator in which you build relationships, a village, and human history. Taking place during the stone age, you and your clan settle on new land and work together to make a village. Farm, cook, fish, craft, and more in this fun and relaxing game that’s sure to keep you entertained for hours.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The latest, though not greatest from Digital Eclipse (due to some lapses in storytelling), Llamasoft The Jeff Minter Story, still offers a good experience. For a certain demographic of gamers, it could be a nostalgic-filled romp. Those with an appreciation for gaming history will be entertained, even if the shortage of content makes this package feel more like a volume 1.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Loddlenauts is one of those satisfying games that balances a clear and important message with fun gameplay and a population of adorable creatures that it is all too easy to become deeply attached to.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    You can see the attention to detail and love put into Loco Motive. It’s a high-quality game that respects its point-and-click predecessors while carving out its own identity as a graphic adventure. Juggling three characters does lead to occasional pacing hiccups, a few less satisfying puzzles, and a couple of other minor issues. Still, this talkie adventure is great fun with a rewarding payoff.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    This game holds a fun, mysterious narrative with quirky characters. Expelled! will keep your attention for many hours.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf is a story driven puzzle platformer that focuses on atmosphere and character connection. The puzzles are varied but generally easy, keeping the experience smooth and well-paced. While it’s polished and engaging, its short length and light challenge may leave some players wanting more.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The mature content and somber approach of The Witcher III: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition may put off some gamers, but it’s a can’t-miss game for those seeking an RPG with more bite and consequence (not to mention playable characters above the age of 15) than we normally get on Nintendo systems.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    It takes a bit to get into the puzzle-solving flow of Dungeons of Dreadlock 2: The Dead King’s Secret, but it offers an approachable level-based challenge once you do. Fans of the original should appreciate this second adventure, while newcomers will find themselves similarly hooked.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Sometimes you want a game to play while watching TV or just needing to kill time. The $39.99 price I feel is too much, especially with the crashes. But if it goes on sale, give Two Point Hospital a shot.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Talk of double-dipping aside, Pikmin 3: Deluxe is one of the best games available for the Nintendo Switch. Local co-op play in story mode, however, is the only addition that helps it stand out from the original Wii U version. If you’re not playing with a partner, view this only as an expensive stopgap as we await the ever-elusive Pikmin 4.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    For anyone who loved Ender Lilies, or enjoys Metroidvania games in general, Ender Magnolia is a must-play. It includes a good amount of exploration, a great story and beautiful hand drawn graphics.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Lil Guardsman is a delightful game that draws you into the complex and nuanced story of a well-constructed fantasy world and explores its political turmoil. The characters and dialogue are wonderfully written, with a great sense of humor and clear indication that your choices, no matter how small, make an impact.

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