Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is as close to gaming perfection as you’ll get on the Nintendo Switch. If the story doesn’t grip you, the combat, landscapes, mechanics, or soundtrack surely will. Monolith Soft, take a bow!

The Lion’s Song is a masterful collection of independent yet interconnecting tales of individuals determination to succeed in their respective craft. This is accompanied by beautiful pixelart and the wonderful titular Lion’s Song. These tales will stay with you for some time.

This isn’t a game for the faint-hearted. It’s a challenging action adventure which forces you to use physical and mental dexterity in equal measure. It wields nostalgia and innovation with laser precision, creating one of the most fun and inspiring games that you will have the chance to play. If you want an excellent adventure platformer, then it would be a disservice not to own this game.

Monster Train First Class earns its seat as one of the best card battlers on Nintendo Switch. Its complex mix of mechanics and systems are initially overwhelming, I’ll admit, yet seeing it all come together can be absolute bliss.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a highly polished Nintendo Switch port of a game that should already be considered as one of the best modern metroidvanias. Running at a smooth 60fps both docked and in handheld, this is a forest adventure well worth exploring.

One of the most original modern JRPGs of all time, and beatable at the fraction of the time. Once you get over its primitive aesthetic, you’ll soon realise why everyone else has been so captivated by Toby Fox’s creation.

Divinity: Original Sin 2 Definitive Edition boasts a living, breathing world, with Larian Studios appearing to have perfected the formula of the RPG. From the moment-to-moment gameplay, this was an absolute joy to play through, and it’s hard to see where the developers can go next.

No game is perfect, but Enter the Gungeon is currently the pinnacle of Switch indie titles. It displays beautiful pixelated visuals, addictive twin-stick gameplay and outrageous rewards around every corner. A must buy!

Monster Hunter Rise is a success built on years of gradual improvements, but it also takes some giant Wirebug leaps forward to deliver an unforgettable and endlessly thrilling adventure. This is a new contender for the best game on Switch.

It may offer nothing new from past ports, but even in its creaky age, Resident Evil 4 remains a stone-cold classic. From its terrifyingly opening to the final getaway, it’s a hell of a ride that most AAA single-player campaigns only wish they could be.

Astral Chain is one of the most confident, stylish and satisfying third-person action games we've played in quite a while. While its narrative might be melodramatic, battles and enemy encounters always deliver a thrilling but balanced challenge.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a work of art in every way imaginable. In combining the core ethos of the Zelda series with fresh, modern sensibilities, Nintendo has crafted not only the greatest game in the history of the franchise but perhaps, the greatest game in history.

Metroid Prime Remastered marks one of Nintendo’s best efforts at revitalising an old classic. The updated controls, pristine visuals, and atmospheric soundtrack all work alongside gameplay that remains stellar to this day to create an unforgettable experience.

Playdead's INSIDE is masterful in what it sets out to achieve. It might not be Breath of the Wild in terms of its scope, or Super Mario Odyssey in terms of its level variety, but it provides a visceral and beautiful three hour long experience that is difficult to forget.

Once you get past its daunting and archaic systems, Monster Hunter Generations Ultimate continuously challenges you with the most thrilling gameplay and rewarding loop few games can match. Meanwhile, veterans will also feel at home - ‘G rank’ awaits you!

Whatever you're playing right now, drop it immediately and buy Bayonetta 2 - this is a game of dizzying quality. Can a port win Game of the Year? Hmm... Food for thought.

While the nineteen-year hiatus was a difficult one, Metroid Dread delivers what fans have waited for and more, building a familiar yet unique experience with brand new ideas to help push the genre forward.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses repetitively and competently shows a clear understanding in how to deliver in not only each individual mechanic, but how they are all intrinsically linked to create an expertly crafted end-product. From the varying storylines available throughout to the engaging, deep and – surprisingly – approachable combat, Intelligent Systems have yet again created a must-have title.

Splatoon 3 has something to offer everybody, regardless of what type of games you usually play. It excludes no one and keeps on giving long after the credits have rolled on its chaotic shooter action.

You might not be going to Luigi’s Mansion 3 for Halloween frights but with so many inspired set-pieces, mechanics and secrets, this is the ghost-gusting adventure at its charming best. But this time Luigi deserves to share his limelight with his green gooey doppelganger.

Time apart can be good for the soul and New Horizons is proof of just that. Seven years in the making, this is the definitive Animal Crossing experience. This is as close as it gets to Animal Crossing perfection.

Donkey Kong: Tropical Freeze is as impressive now as it was back in 2014. Displaying gorgeous visuals, fantastic level design and a steep difficulty curve that seasoned players will appreciate, it's a game that fully deserves a spot in your Switch collection.

Dragon Quest XI S is a quintessential JRPG that celebrates the series, and yet somehow is still accessible. The world is rich, the gameplay is satisfying, and with a free 10-hour demo, you have no excuse not to play it.

Whether it's your Pokémon entry point or you're returning to Kanto yet again, Pokémon Let's Go is for everyone. The lame motion controls aside, this is adventure perfection, not once feeling jaded after dozens of hours' play.

Whether it's your Pokémon entry point or you're returning to Kanto yet again, Pokémon Let's Go is for everyone. The lame motion controls aside, this is adventure perfection, not once feeling jaded after dozens of hours' play.

Absolutely essential for Switch owners who love fun, racing, and didn't buy it on the Wii U. Packed with content, this is the definitive Mario Kart experience - and it's hard to see how it will be topped.

While other open world games offer a path you may stray from only slightly, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild offers a path that is as wide and far-reaching as the eye can see. In this way, it stands apart from almost the entirety of its genre - and it does so in a way that makes it more than just a game. Breath of the Wild is simply more akin to the breath of life; after which you can live in their world however you like...Breathe in, and let your heart(s) guide you where they may... I know I did.

Fast RMX is a blistering fast racer with a very balanced set of vehicles and a nice selection of tracks. It's perfect for some single player score chasing or some multiplayer competition, and it looks great while doing it - though it could've used a few more options here and there. That doesn't really hinder what we've been offered however, and Fast RMX is a racing game I'm happy to recommend to absolutely anyone who might be looking for one. It's just that good.

Thumper offers an extraordinary rhythm experience on the Nintendo Switch, and is heightened by its well-oiled reactionary gameplay, haunting soundtrack, and unique aesthetic. As one of the most enjoyable games on the console there's very little it does wrong, but it must be noted that there's not much staying power for those uninterested in chasing S-ranks.

SteamWorld Dig 2 is everything that you may want for a sequel. It takes the digging formula of its predecessor and makes it more fun to play, prettier to look at, and more pleasant to listen to. Fans of both platform and Metroidvania genres will be pleased by its enjoyable gameplay and, even if you’re not into those style of games, it may be worth a try - as it is one of the best indie games released on the Switch.

A mash-up seemingly made in heaven, Puyo Puyo Tetris is a delight to play in almost any manor - depending on your taste. The bonus here is that the Switch version of the game adds to that mantra via two immediately available controllers wherever you go, making this the version best suited for including others in the fun. If you like Puyo Puyo, Tetris, or just puzzle games in general, then this is simply a must have.

More than ten years after its first release, Cave Story+ still holds its ground as the apex of its genre. There is hardly anything left to be improved upon regarding its gameplay, visuals, or soundtrack - and this plus version is truly the definitive release of the game. You'd be doing yourself a disservice by not adding it to your library.

If you had to describe Splatoon 2 in a single word, it would simply be "fun". Pure, unadulterated fun that will last you a significant amount of time. With competent single player mode, addictive multiplayer modes and the promise of regular content it's another top quality - and essential - Switch release. Just make the Salmon Run more frequent, Nintendo.

ARMS is what Nintendo franchises thrive to be on the whole; a fun, outside the box take on something that's close to many of their fans' hearts. They've done to fighting what Mario Kart has done to racing, and Splatoon has done to third-person shooters - they've given the genre something shiny, addictive, and new. Forget the Midas touch, ARMS has the Nintendo touch... and it makes every punch you throw that much sweeter.

Pokkén Tournament DX is a thoroughly enjoyable experience that undoubtedly deserves your time. The game impressed on every level; the core fighting gameplay is superb and incredibly extensive, the customisation options are truly staggering, and the attention to detail is abundantly clear. Not entirely faultless, but very close to it, this game is the Switch's next must-buy.

Death’s Door feeds a nostalgia for Zelda-like adventures while sprucing up nearly every aspect. Graphics, sound, and—not least—combat mechanics are polished to near perfection. Despite some very minor flaws, the final experience is an extremely rewarding challenge.

Chicory: A Colorful Tale is an engrossing adventure that you won’t put down. The main story is enough to pull you in, but it’s the world that you’ll crave more of in the moments you’re unable to play, which is why it’s a good thing this game is finally on Switch.

Astebreed is a masterly crafted shoot-'em'up title that should be experience by fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

The Messenger stands alongside the likes of Shovel Knight as an example of classic platforming mastered. By retrofitting modern sensibilities, fine-tuned controls and deep replay value into the heart of a traditional game formula, it creates an experience that's nostalgic, yet new and exciting.

Overall, Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon is one of the best puzzle and rogue-lites I’ve had the pleasure of playing. Though it’s not without a few faults, this is a must-play for any Shovel Knight fan.

Steamworld Heist maintains the wit, charm, and humour found in the mainline 'Dig' series, swapping spades and shovels for some satisfyingly addictive turn-based action that both newcomers and veterans will enjoy.

Bastion is a thrilling action RPG. Supergiant Games' fans will love it, but it's definitely for those who want a story with incredible music, fascinating characters and incredible gameplay.

Exit the Gungeon is as crazy, manic and ambitious as its predecessor. It has addicting gameplay and the range of guns, items and enemies to experience is overwhelming. I only wish its level design was as great as the original.

Whilst BELOW is a perilous, tense, and dangerous descent into the unknown, Superbrothers is the perfect counterpart for relaxation and pondering on your handheld, or simply the perfect entry point into Capy's games if you don't have access to a Microsoft platform. Not only does it hold up, but it's the best version of this indie gem.

Ever wish you could bring a memory back to life? Tokyo RPG Factory has transplanted the essence of Chrono Trigger and other classic SNES JRPGs into a beautiful modern engine to revivify the Active Time Battle system for a new generation of players in the form of Lost Sphear.

Celeste is a challenging, charming and near-to-perfection game that doesn't only play well, but also tells a poignant story and merges this with all the best qualities you can expect from a platformer.

Pac-Man Championship Edition 2 Plus is a fantastic evolution of the core Pac-Man formula, delivering addictive gameplay at blistering speeds. With such a sharp focus on high scores, I guarantee you'll be coming back to this one again and again.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is the true successor to the original. Monolith has once again demonstrated how refining and innovating RPG elements in a world crafted with quality can continue to push the genre. Like previous entries, a potentially steep learning curve may put off some onlookers, but even the tutorials are welcoming and improved. Not to mention it has one of the greatest soundtracks out there. I would highly recommend this game to anyone regardless of whether they own a Switch or not.

Fez was originally released at a time when indie games were exploding, and it’s a perfect example of why that happened. Fez is a gorgeous work of art, both effortlessly accessible and masterfully complex, and even nine years later, it’s practically perfect.

PHOGS! is a doggone delight to play! The enchanting music, outstanding visuals, and simple yet dynamic gameplay will keep you entertained for hours. Whether you’re looking for some soothing solo action, or want to go for walkies with an online buddy, PHOGS! will scratch your puzzle platforming itch.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is a Double Cherry of entertainment that rejuvenates a Wii U classic while also satiating the appetite of fans looking for a completely new adventure. We’ll never tire of Mario, will we?

Horizon Chase Turbo is an unexpected surprise. A quality arcade racer that builds upon the groundwork of the classic 80s racers and brings it up to date with dazzling visuals and engaging racing action.

There is a genuinely heartfelt story to be told between the self-aware blocks of Thomas Was Alone, married with excellent visual and audio aesthetics. A puzzle game with a heart and soul? That’s a rarity.

Much like the enemy forces within it, Kingdom Rush: Frontiers marches down a well worn path, but the layered mechanics, bright dynamic level design and furiously fast gameplay keep the experience feeling fresh from start to finish.

Bloons TD 5 is possibly the pinnacle of what tower defence games can offer, with tonnes of content, deep gameplay and more ways to play than you'll ever get through, there's something here for anyone even remotely interested in the tower defence genre.

Crawl is a fantastic experience whether you're playing on your own or with a group of friends. Boasting a wonderfully unique gameplay hook, I'd wager you'll be roaming this dungeon for weeks.

A brutally singular and unexpectedly brilliant subversion of what you know about Tetris and battle royale, if you’re a Switch Online subscriber, you absolutely need to download it.

It's Rocket League, and it's incredibly entertaining. Static screens do not do this game justice; yes it's a little rough visually but you will hardly notice because you will be having so much fun. It's brilliant. If you love fun, football and/or racing you'll love this.

An old classic that’s never quite gotten the audience it deserves, Okami HD’s gorgeous art style and unique brush mechanic is perfect for Switch. Players looking for an equivalent to Zelda with an appreciation of Japanese myths and aesthetics needn’t look further.

Lil Gator Game is a shining example of a game with a brilliant premise realised to its fullest extent. Full of heart, humour, and heaps of fun, this quality release simply cannot be missed.

Not expecting to like Valkyria Chronicles 4, I came away loving it. The turned-based tactical gameplay is constantly engaging, and the water colour visuals look a real treat.

Little Nightmares 2 is one of those games that should only be played at night in the dark. Amazing art design, spine-chilling music, and smooth gameplay. If you like horror, don’t hesitate to pick this one up as soon as you can.

In gameplay terms alone, Super Mario 3D All Stars is a predictable triumph, one which will delight new players and experienced fans alike. The only minor drawbacks are the package’s lack of extras or updates and its limited release.

Dark Souls: Remastered is the improved version of one of the most influential and unforgettable games ever made. It delivers a mysterious and expansive world to be explored, which will reward with many wonders those who brave enough to face its dangers.

Assassin’s Creed: The Rebel Collection on Nintendo Switch is nothing short of a technical marvel, proving what a big-time publisher can achieve with a port on the platform when dedicating enough time and effort.

Picross S2 perfectly encapsulates the alluring one more go feeling that so many like-minded puzzle games aspire for, and does so with such masterful implementation. Jupiter show they are still the master of their craft, as they have always been in their 25 years of releasing Picross titles across Nintendo's hardware.

Oxenfree mixes a spooky story, superb soundtrack and vivid visuals to create an experience that is truly memorable. I cannot recommend this game enough to anyone who enjoys getting lost in an atmospheric adventure.

Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection is the perfect way to celebrate a landmark occasion for the series, the games are as fun as they've always been and the addition of online multiplayer means the collection will keep you coming back for years to come.

The amount of humour, fun and character within West of Loathing is astounding. Repetition in the turn based battles is the only slight in an otherwise amazing game. DLC is on the way too, and I for one cannot wait for it.

Wargroove is a majestic contender, if not outright successor, to Advance Wars, that every turn-based strategy fan should play. Beyond it’s handsome campaign and likable characters, there’s a ton of customisation and content to dig into or create, which makes it a bargain too.

Overcooked 2 is a chaotic, intense, and challenging multiplayer experience that is so brilliant that it offers countless hours of enjoyment that should be played by everyone.

Disgaea 1 Complete is an incredible remake of 2003's uncompromisingly idiosyncratic JRPG breakout hit. Hundreds of hours await, endlessly toiling at copious dungeons and enemy encounters, and the sheer delight that battles manage to produce is never lost on you.

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is a celebration of the Kingdom Hearts that has come before, and a tease at what it next has to offer, albeit not in gameplay form. Addictive, nostalgia-inducing rhythm gameplay is at its fullest in this cohesive and chunky package.

Velocity 2X fires on all cylinders in every way, providing frantic yet fun space shooter action that is always a thrill to jump back into. Get the first game in the series onto the system, stat.

Beautifully animated and a dream to play, Mark of the Ninja: Remastered rightfully stands next to the greats of the stealth genre. Intelligent design choices build the foundation to what is one of this generations best releases, let alone remasters.

Prison Architect is a deep and complex micro-management sim that pays off for putting in the hours. It may be an expensive eShop only title, but it's great fun - do check it out.

Bloodroots is one of the most confident indie games to release on Nintendo Switch, sure to appease players with a fetish for violence, score-chasing and an enticing narrative. It’s the complete package.

Mega Man Legacy Collection is a seriously comprehensive celebration of the classic NES series, with a total of six games and a healthy sprinkling of brand new challenges. The dip in quality in the latter titles hold it back from a perfect score, but this is otherwise an essential purchase!

Wylde Flowers takes a tried and somewhat tired formula and sprinkles its magic over it for an experience that really sticks with you. Its blending of two genres is a challenge, but one that pays off entirely.

With simple controls but difficult to master, OlliOlli: Switch Stance is a terrific bundle giving you the best modern skating games around. Even if you manage to ace all of its challenges, competing against players on daily leaderboards will be sure to keep you hooked.

Monster Hunter Stories 2: The Wings of Ruin is a delightful addition to the Monster Hunter franchise. A compelling story, colourful cast of characters, and a cacophony of cute, cuddly, customizable monsties to befriend make this game a must-have for any Switch collection.

With the body of an AAA title and the soul of an independent game, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice presents a poignant narrative about mental illness. It is one of the most impressive games on Switch, both due to its visuals and its one-of-a-kind experience.

Doraemon: Story of Seasons really pulls you into its story and makes you invested in what happens to its characters. Its perfect pacing and easy to understand play make it all the easier to lose yourself in.

Paradise Killer is an exploration game like no other. There is a mystery to be solved, but you can spend ages soaking in the wonderful sights and sounds of the island. This one will stay with you for some time.

What What Comes After lacks in length, it more than makes up for with engaging character dialogue and a willingness to discuss lofty themes in a balanced and emotional way. This is a visual novel worth flicking through.

One of the best 2D platformers of the last decade, Super Meat Boy lands on the Nintendo Switch and delivers, arguably, the best version of Team Meat's game yet. The Race Mode is a fantastic addition provides a riotous multiplayer experience to what was already a superb package. If you're a fan of challenging platformers and have never played Super Meat Boy before, this is essential. If you've already played it, it's still as awesome as ever - with the added bonus of Race Mode.

Rush Rally Origins demands a place in your Switch starting line-up. It’s second only to its Rush Rally counterpart, and is far and away the best racing game to release on the Switch in the last couple of years.

80 Days almost makes you feel as if you’re fighting the clock as you come across a whole manner of complications while attempting to circumnavigate the globe. It’s a perfect fit for the Switch, whether you’re playing docked or handheld.

Blade Strangers is full of character, style and impressive visuals all while delivering a solid fighting videogame experience with some of the most accessible controls going. Play it now!

Pinstripe is a deliciously dark 2D adventure that places heart at the centre of hell.

Beautiful, graceful and full of charm. Transistor is a gem that should be in everyone's collection.

Flipping Death is a truly unique experience. Boasting beautiful art design, stellar voice work and gameplay like no other, it's a game that will have you in fits of laughter. If only it lasted just a bit longer.

Cue the sirens and smooth jazz and prepare for a wild ride: from car chases to burning boats, femme fatales to hard-boiled detectives, Chicken Police – Paint It RED! is the game you didn’t know you needed, but you definitely do.

You won’t understand just how much you need a pixelated tentacle monster in your life until you play Carrion. The smooth controls, stellar soundtrack, and slick graphics will provide several hours of top-notch entertainment.

The four games contained in Mega Man X Legacy Collection are arguably some of the strongest in existence. Whilst there's little to differentiate the first three titles, you owe it to yourself to experience them at least once.

Advance Wars finally gets a deserved appearance on Switch! This package is ideal for both newcomers to turn-based strategy and experienced players. There are endless hours of brain-stimulating entertainment here, with army units as perfectly pitched as chess pieces.

Night in the Woods is a special game and a must-have for the Switch in 2018. With some of the most well executed, naturalistic dialogue I've ever seen in a game, it's an experience that is different, but up there alongside some of the greats on the platform so far.

The Darkside Detective is a successful spin on the classic point-and-click adventure, delivering an engaging narrative, funny characters and one of the strongest soundtracks in a good while. I sincerely hope a sequel is in the works.