Top Nintendo First-Party Games Of 2023: A Must-Play List

Nov 3, 2025 by Admin 57 views

Hey everyone! 2023 was an amazing year for Nintendo fans, and if you're anything like me, you were glued to your Switch for most of it. Let's dive into some of the best first-party Nintendo games that dropped in 2023. These are the titles that really showed off what Nintendo does best: innovative gameplay, captivating stories, and that special Nintendo magic. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's get started!

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Okay, let's be real, we had to start with The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. This game was HUGE. It's not just a sequel; it's an evolution. The sheer scale of Hyrule, both on the ground and in the skies, is mind-blowing. If you thought Breath of the Wild was big, Tears of the Kingdom takes it to a whole new level – literally, with the floating islands! The gameplay mechanics are so creative, giving you the ability to build vehicles, weapons, and contraptions using the new Fuse, Ultrahand, Ascend and Recall abilities. I mean, who didn't spend hours just experimenting with different combinations? The story is compelling, diving deeper into Hyrule's history and lore. The characters are well-developed, and the mysteries surrounding the ancient civilization add so much depth to the world. Plus, the dungeons are back and better than ever, offering challenging puzzles and epic boss battles. Seriously, the sense of accomplishment after completing a dungeon is just chef's kiss. What really sets Tears of the Kingdom apart is the freedom it gives you. You can approach objectives in so many different ways, and the game encourages experimentation and creativity. Whether you're building a flying machine to reach a distant island, crafting a powerful weapon to take down a tough enemy, or simply exploring the vast landscapes, there's always something new and exciting to discover. It's a game that respects your intelligence and allows you to play your way, which is something I always appreciate. And let's not forget about the little details that make the game so immersive, like the dynamic weather system, the diverse ecosystems, and the charming characters you meet along the way. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a masterpiece that will be talked about for years to come, and it's definitely a must-play for any Nintendo fan. This game has definitely cemented itself as one of the best first-party Nintendo games ever created.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Next up, we have Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which injected a whole lot of fresh air into the classic 2D Mario formula. Honestly, I didn't know how much I needed a new 2D Mario game until I played this one. The Wonder Flowers are a game-changer, introducing unexpected and hilarious transformations that completely change the way you play each level. One minute you're a Goomba, the next you're a giant bouncing ball – it's pure, unadulterated fun. The art style is vibrant and colorful, with a whimsical aesthetic that perfectly captures the spirit of the Mario universe. The new characters, like the talking flowers, add a lot of charm and personality to the game. And let's not forget about the online multiplayer, which allows you to play with friends and other players from around the world. It's chaotic, it's hilarious, and it's a great way to experience the game together. But what really makes Super Mario Bros. Wonder stand out is its level design. Each level is packed with secrets, challenges, and surprises, and the Wonder Flowers keep you on your toes. You never know what's going to happen next, which makes every playthrough feel fresh and exciting. Whether you're a seasoned Mario veteran or a newcomer to the series, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this game. Plus, the new power-ups are a blast to use, like the Elephant Fruit that turns you into a giant elephant Mario. Who wouldn't want to play as elephant Mario? Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a joyful and inventive game that reminds us why we love Mario in the first place. It’s another solid entry and deserves its place among the best first-party Nintendo games of 2023.

Pikmin 4

Don't even get me started about Pikmin 4! This game took the Pikmin formula and made it even more accessible and enjoyable. For those who aren't familiar, Pikmin are these adorable little plant-like creatures that you can command to explore, fight enemies, and solve puzzles. In Pikmin 4, you play as a customizable character who crash-lands on an unknown planet and must team up with the Pikmin to rescue other stranded explorers. One of the biggest changes in Pikmin 4 is the addition of Oatchi, a space dog that you can ride and command. Oatchi is a game-changer, allowing you to traverse the environment more quickly and take on tougher enemies. He’s super useful and adds a lot of personality to the game. The Dandori Challenges are so fun, they really test your strategic thinking and time management skills. Managing your Pikmin effectively is key to success, and the game rewards you for planning ahead and making smart decisions. The night expeditions are a new addition that add a sense of tension and excitement to the game. You have to defend your base from waves of enemies, and the stakes are high. The graphics are also gorgeous, with lush environments and detailed character models. The Pikmin themselves are more expressive than ever, and it's hard not to fall in love with their quirky personalities. Whether you're a long-time Pikmin fan or a newcomer to the series, Pikmin 4 is a must-play. It's a charming, challenging, and endlessly rewarding game that will keep you hooked for hours on end. It’s a standout title and a great example of the best first-party Nintendo games we saw in 2023.

Metroid Prime Remastered

Alright, let's talk about Metroid Prime Remastered. This wasn't a new game per se, but it was a fantastic remaster of a GameCube classic, and it deserves a spot on this list. The updated visuals are stunning, bringing the world of Tallon IV to life like never before. The improved controls make the game feel much more modern and intuitive. Even if you've played the original Metroid Prime, this remaster feels like a completely new experience. The atmosphere is incredible, with haunting sound design and a sense of isolation that perfectly captures the spirit of the Metroid series. Exploring the alien landscapes, scanning for clues, and battling creepy creatures is just as thrilling as it was back in 2002. The story is still captivating, with a compelling narrative that unfolds through environmental storytelling and scanned logs. Samus Aran is a badass protagonist, and her journey through Tallon IV is one of the most iconic in gaming history. If you never had the chance to play Metroid Prime on the GameCube, this remaster is the perfect opportunity to experience it for the first time. And if you're a long-time fan of the series, it's a great way to revisit a beloved classic with updated visuals and improved controls. It reminded us why Metroid Prime is considered one of the best first-party Nintendo games of all time.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, 2023 had more to offer than just these heavy hitters. Here are a few honorable mentions that are definitely worth checking out:

Fire Emblem Engage: While opinions were divided, its core strategic gameplay still shined through.
Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe: A delightful co-op adventure that's perfect for families.
Detective Pikachu Returns: A charming and lighthearted mystery game that's fun for all ages.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, folks! My rundown of the best first-party Nintendo games of 2023. It was an incredible year for Nintendo fans, with a mix of new IPs, long-awaited sequels, and fantastic remasters. Whether you're a fan of adventure, platforming, strategy, or mystery, there was something for everyone to enjoy. And with the Nintendo Switch still going strong, I can't wait to see what Nintendo has in store for us in the years to come. What were your favorite Nintendo games of 2023? Let me know in the comments below!