Top Nintendo Switch Games For Beginners: A Gamer's Guide
So, you've just snagged a Nintendo Switch and are ready to dive into the world of gaming? Awesome! But with a massive library of titles, figuring out where to start can be a bit overwhelming. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered. This guide is designed to walk you through some of the best Nintendo Switch games for beginners, ensuring your first experiences are fun, engaging, and set you up for a long and happy gaming journey.
Why the Nintendo Switch is Perfect for New Gamers
Before we jump into specific titles, let's talk about why the Nintendo Switch is such a fantastic console for beginners. First off, it's incredibly versatile. You can play it on your TV like a traditional console, or you can take it on the go in handheld mode. This flexibility means you can game whenever and wherever you want, making it perfect for busy lifestyles or those moments when you just want to chill on the couch.
Another reason the Switch is great for beginners is its user-friendly interface. The menu is clean and easy to navigate, and the eShop (where you buy digital games) is well-organized. Plus, the Joy-Con controllers are comfortable and intuitive, even for those who haven't held a game controller before. The motion controls add an extra layer of accessibility, allowing for simpler and more interactive gameplay. Think swinging a sword in The Legend of Zelda or throwing punches in ARMS.
Finally, Nintendo has a long history of creating games that are accessible to players of all skill levels. Many of their titles feature adjustable difficulty settings, helpful tutorials, and forgiving gameplay mechanics. This means you can learn the ropes without getting frustrated or overwhelmed. You'll be a pro in no time, I promise you.
Top Nintendo Switch Games for Beginners
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the best Nintendo Switch games for beginners, broken down by genre to help you find something that suits your interests.
Adventure/RPG
- 
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: This is an absolute must-play for any Switch owner, and it's surprisingly beginner-friendly. While it's a massive open-world game, you're given a lot of freedom to explore at your own pace. The combat is simple but satisfying, and the puzzles are challenging but not impossible. Plus, the world is just beautiful and begging to be explored. You'll easily lose hours just wandering around, discovering new secrets and completing side quests.
- Why it's great for beginners: The game offers a gentle learning curve, allowing players to gradually master its mechanics. The open-world design encourages exploration and discovery at your own pace. The story is engaging and accessible, making it easy to get invested in the game's world and characters. The vibrant visuals and immersive sound design create a captivating experience that will draw players in. There is a lot of guides that you can read to make your gameplay better.
 
 - 
Animal Crossing: New Horizons: If you're looking for a relaxing and stress-free game, Animal Crossing is the perfect choice. You move to a deserted island and build your own little paradise, decorating your house, catching bugs, and making friends with the adorable animal villagers. There's no pressure to do anything in particular, so you can just relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of island life.
- Why it's great for beginners: The game's casual gameplay and lack of pressure make it easy to pick up and play. The intuitive controls and user-friendly interface ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The charming characters and vibrant world create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. The game's daily tasks and events provide a sense of routine and accomplishment, while also allowing for creative expression.
 
 - 
Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! and Let's Go, Eevee!: These games are remakes of the original Pokémon games, but they've been streamlined and simplified for a modern audience. The catching mechanic is now based on Pokémon Go, which is much easier than the traditional battling system. And with adorable partner Pokémon following you around, you'll have a constant companion on your journey.
- Why it's great for beginners: The simplified catching mechanic and streamlined gameplay make it easy for newcomers to get into the Pokémon series. The adorable partner Pokémon and charming visuals create a fun and engaging experience. The game's focus on exploration and collection encourages players to discover new Pokémon and locations. The co-op mode allows for shared adventures with friends and family.
 
 
Platformers
- 
Super Mario Odyssey: Mario is a classic for a reason, and Super Mario Odyssey is one of his best adventures yet. The controls are tight and responsive, and the levels are packed with creative challenges and secrets. Plus, the Cappy mechanic adds a whole new dimension to Mario's moveset, allowing you to possess enemies and use their abilities.
- Why it's great for beginners: The game's forgiving difficulty and abundance of checkpoints make it easy to recover from mistakes. The intuitive controls and varied level design provide a stimulating and rewarding experience. The Cappy mechanic adds a unique twist to the traditional Mario gameplay, opening up new possibilities for exploration and problem-solving. The game's vibrant visuals and upbeat soundtrack create a cheerful and engaging atmosphere.
 
 - 
Kirby and the Forgotten Land: This is Kirby's first foray into 3D platforming, and it's a huge success. The levels are colorful and imaginative, and Kirby's copy abilities are as fun as ever. Plus, the game is surprisingly challenging, with plenty of secrets to discover and bosses to defeat. I like the world-building here.
- Why it's great for beginners: The game's straightforward gameplay and accessible difficulty make it easy for players of all ages to enjoy. The colorful visuals and charming characters create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. The copy abilities provide a diverse range of gameplay options, allowing players to experiment and find their favorite playstyle. The game's co-op mode allows for shared adventures with friends and family.
 
 
Party Games
- 
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: No Switch library is complete without Mario Kart. This game is easy to pick up and play, but it's also incredibly competitive. With tons of tracks, characters, and items to unlock, you'll be playing this one for years to come. Whether you're racing against friends or family, or playing online against the world, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is guaranteed to provide hours of fun.
- Why it's great for beginners: The simple controls and accessible gameplay make it easy for anyone to jump in and start racing. The wide range of characters, karts, and tracks provides plenty of variety. The items add a layer of unpredictability and excitement to the races. The game's online multiplayer mode allows for competitive fun with friends and players from around the world.
 
 - 
Super Mario Party Superstars: If you're looking for a game to play with friends and family, Super Mario Party Superstars is a great choice. It features classic minigames from throughout the Mario Party series, as well as new boards and characters. It’s easy to learn, and it offers endless replayability.
- Why it's great for beginners: The simple rules and accessible gameplay make it easy for anyone to join the party. The wide range of minigames provides plenty of variety and excitement. The charming characters and colorful boards create a festive atmosphere. The game's local and online multiplayer modes allow for shared fun with friends and family.
 
 
Tips for New Nintendo Switch Gamers
Okay, so you've got your game(s) picked out. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your Nintendo Switch experience:
- Explore the eShop: The Nintendo eShop is full of hidden gems, including indie games, demos, and free-to-play titles. Take some time to browse and see what catches your eye.
 - Consider Nintendo Switch Online: For a small monthly fee, Nintendo Switch Online gives you access to a library of classic NES and SNES games, as well as online multiplayer for many Switch titles. It's a great value if you plan on playing online.
 - Experiment with different control schemes: The Switch offers a variety of control options, including the Joy-Con controllers, the Pro Controller, and even motion controls. Experiment with different schemes to find what works best for you.
 - Don't be afraid to ask for help: The gaming community is generally very welcoming and helpful. If you're stuck on a particular game, don't be afraid to ask for help online or from friends. And I am more than happy to help!
 
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch is a fantastic console for gamers of all ages and skill levels. With its versatile design, user-friendly interface, and massive library of games, it's the perfect way to dive into the world of gaming. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up one of these beginner-friendly titles and start your adventure today! Have fun, guys, and happy gaming!