Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2020: A Gamer's Paradise

Hey guys! Let's dive into the best Nintendo Switch games of 2020. If you're anything like me, you know that the Nintendo Switch is more than just a console; it's a portal to countless adventures, thrilling stories, and unforgettable characters. In 2020, the Switch continued its reign as a gaming powerhouse, delivering a mix of groundbreaking exclusives and stellar ports that kept us glued to our screens.

So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let’s explore the titles that made 2020 a landmark year for Nintendo Switch gamers!

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

When we talk about the best Nintendo Switch games of 2020, it’s impossible not to start with Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This game wasn't just a release; it was a cultural phenomenon. Launching right as the world was grappling with lockdowns, New Horizons provided a much-needed escape to a vibrant, customizable island paradise. The genius of Animal Crossing lies in its simplicity and its endless possibilities.

From the moment you step off the seaplane onto your deserted island, you're in control. You get to name your island, design your home, and befriend a cast of adorable animal villagers. The gameplay loop is deceptively addictive: you spend your days catching bugs, fishing, digging up fossils, and crafting furniture. Each activity is simple on its own, but together they create a deeply satisfying sense of progress and accomplishment. One of the most significant features of New Horizons is its real-time clock. The game mirrors the seasons and time of day, making your island feel alive and dynamic. Cherry blossoms bloom in the spring, fireflies light up summer nights, leaves change color in the fall, and snow blankets the ground in winter. This constant change keeps the game fresh and engaging, even after hundreds of hours of playtime.

Customization is at the heart of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. You can design your own clothes, create custom patterns for furniture, and even terraform the landscape of your island. This level of control allows you to express your creativity and make your island truly unique. Social interaction is another key element of the Animal Crossing experience. You can visit your friends' islands, trade items, and participate in special events together. These interactions foster a sense of community and make the game even more enjoyable. Nintendo regularly updates New Horizons with new content, including seasonal events, characters, and items. These updates keep the game feeling fresh and ensure that there's always something new to discover. The updates in 2020 brought us everything from Bunny Day to Halloween, each with its own unique challenges and rewards.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons isn't just a game; it's a social experience, a creative outlet, and a source of comfort. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with players on a deep, emotional level. If you're looking for a game that will bring you joy and relaxation, look no further than Animal Crossing: New Horizons. It’s a worthy addition to any Switch library and a title that defines the best Nintendo Switch games of 2020.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Alright, so The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild technically came out in 2017, but it remained a must-play title in 2020, and for good reason. This game redefined what an open-world adventure could be, setting a new standard for the genre. If you somehow missed it, trust me, you need to experience this masterpiece.

Breath of the Wild throws you into the vast, ruined kingdom of Hyrule, a century after a devastating calamity. As Link, you awaken from a 100-year slumber with no memories, tasked with defeating Calamity Ganon and saving the land. What sets Breath of the Wild apart is its unparalleled freedom. From the moment you step out of the Shrine of Resurrection, you can go anywhere and do anything. You can head straight to Hyrule Castle to face Ganon, or you can spend hundreds of hours exploring the world, completing side quests, and discovering hidden secrets. The world of Hyrule is incredibly detailed and immersive. Every corner of the map is filled with something interesting to discover, whether it's a hidden shrine, a challenging enemy camp, or a breathtaking vista. The game encourages exploration by rewarding you for venturing off the beaten path.

One of the most innovative aspects of Breath of the Wild is its physics engine. You can use the environment to your advantage in countless ways. You can set fire to grass to create updrafts, use metal objects to conduct electricity, and even freeze enemies with ice arrows. This level of interactivity makes combat and puzzle-solving feel dynamic and engaging. Breath of the Wild also features a robust crafting system. You can collect ingredients from the environment and use them to cook meals and create elixirs. These consumables provide various buffs and effects, making them essential for survival. The game's combat system is challenging but rewarding. You need to master timing and positioning to defeat enemies effectively. You can also find and upgrade a variety of weapons and armor, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The story of Breath of the Wild is told through a series of flashbacks that you uncover as you explore the world. These flashbacks reveal Link's past and his relationship with Princess Zelda, adding emotional depth to the game.

Breath of the Wild isn't just a game; it's an experience. Its open-world design, innovative gameplay mechanics, and compelling story make it a true masterpiece. Even years after its release, it remains one of the best Nintendo Switch games and a title that every gamer should play. It's an evergreen title, and it definitely deserves its place on this list.

Hades

Hades is another standout title from 2020 that cemented its place as a modern classic. Developed by Supergiant Games, the creators of Bastion and Transistor, Hades is a rogue-like dungeon crawler that combines fast-paced action with a compelling narrative. If you're a fan of challenging gameplay and rich storytelling, Hades is a game you won't want to miss.

In Hades, you play as Zagreus, the son of Hades, who is determined to escape the Underworld and reach the surface. Each attempt to escape is a run through a series of procedurally generated rooms, filled with enemies and challenges. When you die, and you will die a lot, you're sent back to the beginning, but with new knowledge, upgrades, and a burning desire to try again. What sets Hades apart from other rogue-like games is its emphasis on story and character development. Each time you die, you return to the House of Hades, where you can interact with a cast of memorable characters, including gods, monsters, and other residents of the Underworld. These characters provide you with advice, upgrades, and insights into the game's lore.

The combat in Hades is fast, fluid, and incredibly satisfying. You can choose from a variety of weapons, each with its own unique playstyle. As you progress through the game, you'll receive boons from the Olympian gods, which grant you powerful abilities and modify your attacks. These boons allow you to customize your build and create unique strategies. Hades also features a deep and rewarding progression system. As you play, you'll collect resources that you can use to upgrade your abilities, unlock new weapons, and improve your chances of escape. The game's difficulty is challenging but fair. Each death is a learning experience, and you'll gradually become more skilled and better equipped to face the challenges of the Underworld.

The art style in Hades is gorgeous, with vibrant colors, detailed character designs, and stunning environments. The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of rock, electronic, and orchestral music that perfectly complements the action. Hades is a masterpiece of game design, combining addictive gameplay with a compelling story and unforgettable characters. It's a game that will keep you coming back for more, even after you've finally reached the surface. It unquestionably earns its spot among the best Nintendo Switch games of 2020.

Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant platformer that made its way to the Switch in 2019, but continued to be a fan favorite in 2020. Developed by Moon Studios, Ori and the Blind Forest tells the story of a young spirit named Ori who must save his forest home from a mysterious darkness. The game combines challenging platforming with Metroidvania-style exploration and a heart-wrenching narrative.

The first thing that strikes you about Ori and the Blind Forest is its breathtaking art style. The game's environments are lush, vibrant, and incredibly detailed, creating a world that feels both magical and dangerous. The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, with a beautiful and evocative score that perfectly complements the action. The gameplay in Ori and the Blind Forest is a mix of challenging platforming and exploration. You'll need to master Ori's acrobatic abilities to navigate the game's treacherous environments. As you progress, you'll unlock new abilities that allow you to reach previously inaccessible areas.

The story of Ori and the Blind Forest is a touching tale of loss, sacrifice, and redemption. The game's characters are endearing, and their struggles are relatable. The game's narrative is told through a combination of cutscenes, environmental storytelling, and gameplay, creating a deeply immersive experience. Ori and the Blind Forest is a challenging game, but it's also incredibly rewarding. The game's tight controls, responsive platforming, and beautiful visuals make it a joy to play. It’s a must-have title for any Switch owner and definitely deserves a spot on the list of best Nintendo Switch games of 2020.

Honorable Mentions

• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity: A thrilling action game set in the world of Breath of the Wild.
• Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition: A massive JRPG with a compelling story and deep combat system.
• Paper Mario: The Origami King: A charming and humorous adventure with a unique origami-themed art style.

Final Thoughts

2020 was an incredible year for the Nintendo Switch, with a diverse lineup of games that appealed to all types of players. From the relaxing island life of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to the challenging dungeons of Hades, there was something for everyone. These titles not only entertained us but also provided much-needed comfort and escape during a difficult time. These are, without a doubt, some of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2020, and they continue to be worth playing today. Happy gaming, everyone!