Top Switch EShop Games You Need To Play In 2024
Hey there, fellow gamers! Looking for the best Nintendo Switch eShop games to dive into in 2024? You've come to the right place. The Nintendo Switch eShop is an absolute treasure trove of incredible games, from indie gems to AAA masterpieces. This year promises to be another fantastic one for Switch owners, with a plethora of exciting titles already available and many more on the horizon. So, grab your Switch, get comfy, and let’s explore the top eShop games that should be on your radar this year. We're going to cover a variety of genres to ensure there's something for everyone, whether you're into action-packed adventures, brain-teasing puzzles, or immersive RPGs. Let's jump in and discover some must-play games!
Must-Have Indie Gems on the Switch eShop
The indie game scene on the Nintendo Switch is thriving, offering unique and innovative experiences that you simply can't find anywhere else. These games often bring fresh ideas, charming aesthetics, and engaging gameplay that can keep you hooked for hours. From captivating narratives to inventive mechanics, the indie titles on the eShop are a testament to the creativity and passion of independent developers. Let's highlight some of the standout indie gems that are worth every penny.
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is an absolute masterpiece and a must-play for any Switch owner. This metroidvania title boasts stunning hand-drawn visuals, a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, and incredibly tight gameplay. You'll explore the vast and interconnected world of Hallownest, battling creepy-crawly creatures, uncovering secrets, and upgrading your abilities. The lore is deep and mysterious, drawing you further into its melancholic atmosphere. The sense of accomplishment after defeating a challenging boss is unparalleled, making it a truly rewarding experience. If you're a fan of exploration, challenging combat, and immersive storytelling, Hollow Knight should be at the top of your list. Its sprawling world and demanding gameplay offer countless hours of entertainment, ensuring that you'll be engrossed from start to finish. This is one game that truly deserves all the praise it receives. Its combination of stunning visuals, captivating sound design, and intricate level design makes it an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the metroidvania genre, Hollow Knight is an essential addition to your Switch library.
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is more than just a farming simulator; it's a life simulator that's incredibly relaxing and addictive. You inherit your grandfather's dilapidated farm and set out to restore it to its former glory. Grow crops, raise animals, befriend the townsfolk, and explore the mines – there's always something to do in Stardew Valley. The game's charm lies in its simplicity and the freedom it gives you to play at your own pace. Whether you want to focus on maximizing your farm's yield or building relationships with the characters, the choice is yours. The pixel art is delightful, and the soundtrack is soothing, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s a perfect game to unwind with after a long day, offering a sense of accomplishment as you watch your farm flourish. The depth of gameplay is surprising, with seasons, festivals, and a plethora of secrets to uncover. Stardew Valley is a testament to the power of indie development, showcasing how a single person's vision can create a truly special and memorable gaming experience. If you're looking for a game that's both relaxing and engaging, look no further than Stardew Valley.
Celeste
Celeste is a challenging platformer with a surprisingly heartfelt story. You play as Madeline, a young woman attempting to climb Celeste Mountain, facing both physical and emotional obstacles along the way. The gameplay is tight and precise, demanding pixel-perfect jumps and dashes. However, the game is also incredibly forgiving, with quick respawns and a generous assist mode for those who need it. What sets Celeste apart is its narrative, which deals with themes of anxiety, depression, and self-acceptance. The game's difficulty mirrors Madeline's struggles, making the journey all the more impactful. The soundtrack is phenomenal, perfectly complementing the game's emotional tone. Celeste is a powerful and moving experience that will stay with you long after you finish it. Its combination of challenging gameplay and poignant storytelling makes it a standout title on the Switch eShop. Whether you're a seasoned platformer fan or someone looking for a game with a meaningful message, Celeste is an absolute must-play.
Top Action and Adventure Games
For those who crave adrenaline-pumping action and thrilling adventures, the Switch eShop has plenty to offer. These games will take you on epic journeys, battling formidable foes and exploring vast and diverse worlds. Whether you prefer fast-paced combat, intricate puzzles, or engaging storylines, there's an action-adventure game on the eShop that's perfect for you. Let's take a look at some of the best.
Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition is a visual masterpiece and a joy to play. This metroidvania title features stunning hand-painted graphics, a beautiful orchestral score, and fluid, responsive controls. You play as Ori, a guardian spirit who must restore the forest of Nibel after a cataclysmic event. The game's platforming is challenging but fair, and the combat is satisfying. The story is emotionally resonant, and the world is filled with secrets to discover. The Definitive Edition includes additional areas, abilities, and difficulty options, making it the ultimate way to experience this incredible game. If you're looking for a game that's both beautiful and engaging, Ori and the Blind Forest is a must-have. Its combination of stunning visuals, captivating sound design, and intricate level design makes it an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a fan of the metroidvania genre or simply appreciate a well-crafted game, Ori and the Blind Forest is sure to impress.
SteamWorld Dig 2
SteamWorld Dig 2 is a delightful metroidvania that combines mining, platforming, and exploration into a compelling package. You play as Dorothy, a steambot who sets out to find her missing friend, Rusty. Dig deep beneath the surface, uncovering resources, upgrading your abilities, and battling enemies. The game's world is beautifully designed, and the gameplay is incredibly addictive. There's a constant sense of progression as you upgrade your gear and delve deeper into the earth. The story is charming, and the characters are memorable. SteamWorld Dig 2 is a perfect example of how to create a simple yet engaging game that's hard to put down. Its blend of mining, platforming, and exploration creates a unique and addictive gameplay loop. Whether you're a fan of the original SteamWorld Dig or new to the series, SteamWorld Dig 2 is a must-play.
Axiom Verge
Axiom Verge is a metroidvania title that pays homage to classic games like Metroid while adding its own unique twists. You play as Trace, a scientist who wakes up in a strange and alien world. Explore a vast and interconnected map, battling bizarre creatures and uncovering ancient secrets. The game's most unique feature is the ability to "glitch" the environment, altering its properties and opening up new paths. The story is intriguing and mysterious, and the world is filled with atmosphere. Axiom Verge is a must-play for fans of classic metroidvanias who are looking for something a little different. Its combination of retro-inspired gameplay and unique mechanics makes it a standout title on the Switch eShop. Whether you're a seasoned metroidvania fan or new to the genre, Axiom Verge is sure to provide a challenging and rewarding experience.
Engaging Puzzle Games on the eShop
If you enjoy brain-teasing challenges and intricate puzzles, the Nintendo Switch eShop has you covered. These games offer a wide range of puzzle mechanics, from logic-based challenges to spatial reasoning and pattern recognition. Perfect for exercising your mind and providing hours of entertainment, these puzzle games are a great addition to any Switch library. Here are a couple of standout titles.
Baba Is You
Baba Is You is a mind-bending puzzle game that will challenge your perception of logic and language. The game's central mechanic involves manipulating rules written as blocks to change the properties of objects in the level. For example, you can change the rule "Rock Is Push" to "Baba Is Push," allowing you to move Baba instead of rocks. The puzzles start off simple but quickly become incredibly complex, requiring you to think outside the box and experiment with different rule combinations. Baba Is You is a unique and innovative puzzle game that will keep you hooked for hours. Its mind-bending puzzles and inventive mechanics make it a standout title on the Switch eShop. If you're looking for a game that will truly challenge your brain, Baba Is You is a must-play.
The Witness
The Witness is a beautiful and mysterious puzzle game set on a deserted island. The island is filled with hundreds of interconnected puzzles, each requiring you to draw lines on a grid. The puzzles start off simple but gradually become more complex, introducing new mechanics and challenging your perception. The game's beauty lies in its minimalist design and the sense of discovery as you explore the island and uncover its secrets. The Witness is a challenging and rewarding puzzle game that will keep you engaged for hours. Its stunning visuals and intricate puzzles make it a standout title on the Switch eShop. If you're looking for a game that will truly test your puzzle-solving skills, The Witness is a must-play.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch eShop is a treasure trove of incredible games, and 2024 is shaping up to be another fantastic year for the platform. Whether you're into indie gems, action-packed adventures, or brain-teasing puzzles, there's something for everyone on the eShop. So, grab your Switch, explore the store, and discover your next favorite game. Happy gaming, everyone!