Top Treats for Nintendo Switch Owners!
Although the Nintendo Switch is entering its twilight years, the hybrid console has not lost any momentum. 2023 has seen an array of incredible games that keep the spotlight firmly on the device. With a litany of accessories and grips available, it can be difficult to determine what to get a Switch owner for Christmas. No need to worry as I narrow down the extensive number of ideas to give you a list of top treats to level up your holiday season!
Hori Split Pad Pro
Joycon drift is one of the most frustrating things that has plagued the console. When it occurs, your character will wander off making you wrestle with them to go where you want them to. Rather than forking out on another pair of Joycons which could get the same problem, why not try out the Hori Split Pad Pro? The controllers are comfortable and with these attached, your Switch can still smoothly slide into the dock. Since I picked up mine, I have never removed them.
CRKD Nitro Deck
The CRKD Nitro Deck is a chunky shell for your Switch. Due to the in-built hall effect analogs, you will never experience drift! Although a well-crafted, quality product, the placement of the second analog is a little low which means that it isn’t ideal for first-person shooters. However, if you mainly play platformers and games that barely utilize the second stick, then this is for you.
Satisfye Grip
If you prefer your Joycons and love that HD Rumble then the Satidfye Grip is the best one on the market to suit your needs. The slick design perfectly fits the Switch and makes the console extremely comfortable to hold. Their new designs are now dockable which means you never have to remove it. For those who enjoy long handheld sessions, this is a must.
Pro Controller
If you prefer to play with the Switch docked then you have to get yourself a Pro Controller. Wonderfully designed and with a ridiculously long battery life, the Pro Controller is by far the best way to play the Switch on the big screen. If you don’t own this essential accessory, make sure it is high on your Christmas list. You won’t regret it!
Physical Games – Super Mario Bros. Wonder
The New Super Mario Bros. games have been a little lackluster. Sure they are fun and make for a good co-op experience but they are nowhere near the same level of quality of the plumber’s 8 and 16-bit adventures. Fortunately, Nintendo realized this and threw everything in Wonder. Full of surprises, the game is an absolute joy from start to finish. Not only is this the best side-scrolling platformer since Super Mario World, it is also a Game of the Year contender. Make sure you get this for an incredible family experience.
Physical Games – The Legend of Zelda: Tears of a Kingdom
Breath of the Wild changed the landscape of open-world games. While it must have been daunting to create a sequel for the iconic title, Fujibayashi and co. manage to evolve it. With the new sky island and the depths to explore, the game is huge with more to see and do. A remarkable game that is perfect to get lost in over the winter months.
Physical Games – Pikmin 4
Although it took Nintendo an age to create Pikmin 4, it was definitely worth the wait! The new open design allows you to explore and tackle areas at your discretion. New to the series, dungeons and challenges are now in the game and offer some excellent moments. Cute and full of character, the family-friendly game will appeal to people of all ages and is not to be overlooked.
Physical Games – WarioWare: Move It!
The holiday season allows you to spend quality time with the family and I can’t think of a better game to play together than WarioWare: Move It! The fast-paced, absurd micro-games get you on your feet and perform ridiculous activities. Not only is this hilarious, it is genuinely addictive and massively accessible. Anyone from a toddler to your grandma can pick up a Joycon and make an absolute fool of themselves.
Physical Games – Mario RPG
Mario RPG is considered the best release in the genre featuring the plumber. So after over 25 years, Nintendo has remade the classic allowing a new audience to play the lauded title. Well-written and full of interesting quirks, this is a great game for people looking for a different style of game featuring the iconic mascot.
Digital Games – Disney Illusion Island
While it is easy to overlook digital games during this period, Disney Illusion Island deserves your attention. The co-op Metroidvania platformer is a joy. Featuring Disney’s fab four, you venture across a delightful world in an adventure that is accessible for all the family. You can tweak your health to either create challenge or help engagement. A lovely feature that should make this a title for you to enjoy over the holidays.
Digital Games – Dave the Diver
Only available on PC and the Switch, Dave the Diver is a game about underwater escapades and restaurant service. While it may sound odd, the game includes an addictive loop that will keep you hooked through the Christmas period. If you want something a little different, then this is definitely worth checking out.
That’s my list of top treats for Switch owners this Christmas. Is there anything on the list that you’ll be picking up? Have I missed an essential release? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube for more great video game content.
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