Best New Nintendo Switch Games Of 2023

Alright guys, let's dive into the absolute best new Nintendo Switch games that dropped in 2023! This year was absolutely stacked, and if you're a Switch owner, you've had a feast of incredible titles to sink your teeth into. From epic adventures that pulled at our heartstrings to fast-paced action that had us glued to our screens, 2023 delivered the goods. We're talking about games that pushed the boundaries of what the Switch can do, offering stunning visuals, engaging storylines, and gameplay mechanics that kept us coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just hopping onto the Switch train, this list is your ultimate guide to the must-play titles of the year. So, grab your Joy-Cons, get comfy, and let's explore the gaming world of 2023 on the Nintendo Switch!

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Okay, let's start with the one everyone was talking about: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Seriously, guys, this game wasn't just a sequel; it was a monumental leap forward for open-world adventures. Building on the already incredible foundation of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom threw us back into Hyrule, but with so much more to explore and do. The sky islands were a game-changer, adding a whole new vertical dimension to exploration that felt both awe-inspiring and challenging. But the real magic? The Ultrahand and Fuse abilities. These mechanics completely transformed how you interact with the world. Building contraptions, vehicles, and even weapons from scratch felt incredibly empowering and led to some truly hilarious and ingenious solutions to puzzles and combat encounters. Remember that time you fused a rocket to a shield? Yeah, that kind of creative freedom is what made this game so special. The story also delved deeper into Hyrule's history, offering more lore and emotional weight than we expected. We got to see familiar characters in new light and witness the unfolding of a truly epic saga. The sheer scale of the game is mind-boggling; you could spend hundreds of hours just discovering every nook and cranny, solving every shrine, and defeating every boss. And the bosses themselves were more varied and challenging, requiring you to truly master the new abilities. Even the music and sound design were top-notch, creating an immersive atmosphere that pulled you right into the heart of Hyrule's struggle. It’s not just a game; it’s an experience, a testament to Nintendo's commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering unforgettable adventures. This is easily one of the best new Nintendo Switch games of 2023, a title that will be remembered for years to come.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Next up, we have a splash of pure, unadulterated Mario fun: Super Mario Bros. Wonder. If you've been craving that classic 2D Mario feel but with a fresh, innovative twist, this is it, guys! Nintendo absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one. What makes Wonder so special are the Wonder Flowers. These little power-ups completely transform the levels in unpredictable and delightful ways. One moment you're running through a standard platforming challenge, the next the screen is doing all sorts of crazy things – pipes might come alive, gravity could shift, or you might transform into a Goomba! It’s pure, chaotic joy that keeps you on your toes and constantly guessing what’s coming next. The new Elephant Mario power-up is also a blast, letting you stomp through enemies and carry water, which opens up some really cool puzzle opportunities. Plus, the introduction of Badges adds a whole new layer of customization to Mario's moveset. Want to float longer? Need a boost? There's a badge for that! This allows you to tailor your playstyle to specific challenges or just have some extra fun. The visual style is also a major upgrade, with vibrant, expressive animations that make every character and environment pop. It feels like a true evolution of the 2D Mario formula, offering enough familiarity to feel comfortable but enough innovation to feel brand new. The co-op mode is as fun as ever, perfect for playing with friends or family, adding to the overall sense of shared wonder and discovery. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a masterclass in 2D platforming, proving that even a classic genre can be reinvented with creativity and charm. It’s a must-play new Nintendo Switch game for anyone who loves a good platformer and wants to experience some pure, unadulterated fun. It captures that magical feeling of playing a Mario game for the first time all over again.

Pikmin 4

For something a bit different but equally charming, we've got Pikmin 4. This game is an absolute gem, guys, and a fantastic entry point for newcomers to the Pikmin series. Nintendo really refined the real-time strategy elements here, making them more accessible and engaging than ever before. The core gameplay loop of commanding your adorable Pikmin to gather resources, battle creatures, and solve environmental puzzles is incredibly satisfying. What sets Pikmin 4 apart is the introduction of Olimar's trusty dog, Oatchi. This furry companion isn't just for show; Oatchi can carry Pikmin, break obstacles, and even rescue you, adding a whole new strategic layer to your expeditions. Plus, the Night Expeditions are a brilliant addition, offering a different kind of challenge where you have to defend Dandori bases from aggressive creatures under the cover of darkness. The visual presentation is also stunning, with lush, detailed environments that make exploring the alien planet feel like a genuine adventure. The sense of scale is always impressive, as you feel like a tiny explorer in a giant world, surrounded by dangers and wonders. The Pikmin themselves are as charming as ever, each with their own unique abilities that you'll need to master to overcome different obstacles. Whether it's the rock Pikmin for breaking tough materials or the ice Pikmin for freezing enemies, teamwork is key. The game encourages creative problem-solving and rewards strategic thinking, making every mission feel rewarding. It’s a game that's both relaxing and mentally stimulating, offering a unique blend of strategy, exploration, and charming characters. If you're looking for a new Nintendo Switch game that's strategic, adorable, and incredibly fun, Pikmin 4 is definitely the one for you. It’s a delightful surprise that proves the Pikmin series still has plenty of life left in it.

Metroid Prime Remastered

Alright, let's talk about a blast from the past that got a glorious modern makeover: Metroid Prime Remastered. This isn't technically new in terms of content, but the remastering is so phenomenal that it absolutely deserves a spot on our best new Nintendo Switch games list for 2023. Nintendo took a beloved GameCube classic and brought it to the Switch with breathtaking visuals and incredibly refined controls. Seriously, playing Metroid Prime on the Switch feels like experiencing it for the first time all over again, but better. The graphical upgrade is nothing short of spectacular. Samus Aran's suit, the alien environments of Tallon IV, and the enemy designs are all sharper, more detailed, and more atmospheric than ever before. The lighting effects and particle effects add a new layer of immersion that truly makes the world come alive. But the real star of the show here is the improved control scheme. You can now aim with motion controls, use dual-stick controls, or a combination of both, allowing you to find the perfect setup for your playstyle. This makes the already fantastic first-person exploration and combat feel even more fluid and responsive. For those who never had the chance to play the original, this is the definitive way to experience one of the greatest games ever made. And for long-time fans, it’s a nostalgic trip that holds up incredibly well. The sense of isolation, the environmental storytelling, and the satisfying progression as you gain new abilities and explore deeper into the planet are still as compelling as ever. It's a masterclass in atmospheric design and first-person adventure. If you're looking for a single-player experience that's rich in exploration, challenging combat, and a palpable sense of discovery, Metroid Prime Remastered is a new Nintendo Switch game you absolutely cannot miss. It's a perfect example of how to do a remaster right.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Let's switch gears to something incredibly charming and accessible: Kirby and the Forgotten Land. While it technically launched in early 2022, its impact and continued popularity in 2023 make it a must-mention, and it's a game that truly showcases what the Switch is capable of in terms of pure fun and imaginative gameplay. This was Kirby's first full foray into 3D platforming, and Nintendo absolutely nailed it. The world is vibrant, colorful, and full of secrets to discover, creating a delightful playground for Kirby to explore. What really shines here are the Mouthful Mode abilities. Instead of just inhaling enemies to copy their powers, Kirby can now inhale large objects, transforming him into things like a car, a vending machine, or even a traffic cone! These transformations lead to some incredibly creative and hilarious gameplay moments, from racing across the map as a car to using a vending machine to shoot soda cans. It’s pure, unadulterated fun that constantly surprises you. The core platforming is solid, and the variety of Kirby’s classic copy abilities are back in full force, each offering unique ways to navigate the environment and defeat enemies. The game also features a great sense of progression, with tons of collectibles and optional challenges that encourage you to revisit levels and perfect your platforming skills. The visuals are absolutely gorgeous, with a painterly art style that makes the world feel inviting and full of life. It’s a game that’s designed to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of skill level. The difficulty is approachable, but there’s enough depth for more experienced players to find enjoyment. It’s a testament to Nintendo’s ability to create joyful and engaging experiences that appeal to a broad audience. If you’re looking for a new Nintendo Switch game that’s bursting with creativity, charm, and pure fun, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is an absolute winner. It’s a fantastic adventure that will leave you with a smile on your face.

Conclusion: A Stellar Year for Switch Gamers

So there you have it, guys! 2023 was an absolutely phenomenal year for new Nintendo Switch games, and this list is just scratching the surface of the incredible experiences available. From the groundbreaking open-world freedom of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom to the pure, unadulterated platforming joy of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Nintendo and its partners have truly outdone themselves. We saw strategic depth and charm in Pikmin 4, a breathtaking revival with Metroid Prime Remastered, and endless creativity with Kirby and the Forgotten Land. These titles represent the best of what the Nintendo Switch has to offer: innovation, charm, and sheer fun. Whether you're looking for an epic adventure that will consume hundreds of hours, a quick burst of colorful platforming, or a strategic challenge, there’s something here for everyone. The Switch continues to prove itself as a versatile and enduring console, and the quality of its exclusive titles in 2023 is a testament to that. So, if you haven't picked up any of these yet, what are you waiting for? Dive in and experience some of the best new Nintendo Switch games that this incredible year has to offer. Happy gaming, everyone!