Hey guys! Are you looking for the absolute best games the Nintendo Switch has to offer? Well, you've come to the right place! The Nintendo Switch is an amazing console with a massive library, so picking just ten games is tough, but I've done my best to narrow it down to the must-play titles that showcase the system's versatility and sheer fun factor. So, grab your Joy-Cons and let's dive in!

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an absolute masterpiece and a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner. This game completely redefined the Zelda franchise, offering a massive open world to explore, filled with secrets, puzzles, and engaging combat. From the moment you step out into Hyrule, you're given the freedom to go anywhere and do anything. This sense of freedom is incredibly empowering and makes every playthrough unique.

The game's physics engine is phenomenal, allowing for emergent gameplay moments that are both surprising and rewarding. Want to start a forest fire to clear out enemies? Go for it! Want to use a metal weapon to attract lightning during a thunderstorm? Be careful, but it's possible! This level of interactivity makes the world feel truly alive and responsive. The storyline is compelling, with a great blend of adventure, friendship and overcoming adversity to save Hyrule from the evil Calamity Ganon. The memories scattered around the world provide emotional depth and offer insight into Zelda and the Champions, adding layers to the narrative that make it all the more memorable. Beyond the main story, there are hundreds of side quests and shrines to discover, providing hours upon hours of gameplay. Each shrine presents a unique puzzle or challenge, testing your skills and creativity. The sense of accomplishment you feel after completing a particularly difficult shrine is incredibly satisfying. Graphically, Breath of the Wild is stunning, with a beautiful art style that perfectly captures the vastness and wonder of Hyrule. The soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of orchestral scores and ambient melodies that enhance the game's atmosphere. Whether you're a long-time Zelda fan or new to the series, Breath of the Wild is an experience you won't want to miss. It's a true testament to the power of video games as a form of art and entertainment, and it's easily one of the best games ever made.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is a joyous celebration of everything that makes Mario great. It's a 3D platformer that's bursting with creativity, charm, and pure, unadulterated fun. The game introduces Cappy, a sentient hat that allows Mario to "capture" enemies and objects, giving him their abilities. This mechanic opens up a whole new world of possibilities, allowing you to control everything from a Goomba to a T-Rex! The level design in Super Mario Odyssey is simply brilliant. Each kingdom is a unique and vibrant world, filled with secrets to discover and challenges to overcome. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of New Donk City or traversing the sandy dunes of the Sand Kingdom, there's always something new and exciting to see.

The controls are tight and responsive, making it a joy to move Mario around the environment. The game encourages exploration, rewarding you for venturing off the beaten path and discovering hidden areas. There are hundreds of Power Moons to collect, each cleverly hidden throughout the kingdoms. Collecting them is addictive and satisfying, and it's a great way to extend the game's lifespan. The boss battles are imaginative and memorable, each requiring you to use Cappy's abilities in creative ways. From battling a giant robot dragon to taking on a crew of Broodals, the game keeps you on your toes. Super Mario Odyssey is a game that will put a smile on your face from beginning to end. It's a perfect example of why Mario is one of the most beloved characters in video game history, and it's a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner.

3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ultimate escape. This life simulation game allows you to create your own idyllic island paradise, filled with adorable animal villagers, charming decorations, and endless possibilities. From fishing and bug catching to designing your dream home and crafting furniture, there's always something to do in Animal Crossing. The game's relaxing and non-competitive gameplay is a breath of fresh air in today's fast-paced world. You can play at your own pace, focusing on the activities you enjoy most. There's no pressure to achieve anything, just pure, unadulterated fun.

The social aspect of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is also a major draw. You can visit your friends' islands, trade items, and participate in special events together. The game fosters a sense of community and connection, making it a great way to stay in touch with friends and family. The game's seasonal events are always a highlight, bringing new items, activities, and villagers to your island. Whether you're celebrating Halloween, Christmas, or Bunny Day, there's always something special to look forward to. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a game that you can play for hours on end, and it's a perfect way to relax and unwind after a long day. It's a charming, addictive, and endlessly enjoyable experience that's sure to bring a smile to your face.

4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate truly lives up to its name. It's the ultimate crossover fighting game, featuring every single character from the entire Super Smash Bros. series, plus a host of new additions. With over 80 playable characters, there's someone for everyone to enjoy. The gameplay is fast-paced, chaotic, and incredibly fun. Whether you're playing with friends or competing online, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is guaranteed to provide hours of entertainment. The game's World of Light mode is a massive single-player adventure that pits you against an army of spirits, each based on a different video game character. It's a great way to unlock new fighters and spirits, and it offers a unique and challenging experience. The game's online mode is robust and allows you to compete against players from all over the world. Whether you're a casual player or a seasoned pro, there's a place for you in the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate online community. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a celebration of video game history, and it's a must-have for any fighting game fan. It's a game that you can play for years to come, and it's always a blast to pick up and play.

5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive Mario Kart experience. It's a kart racing game that's easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master. With a huge roster of characters, a wide variety of tracks, and tons of customization options, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has something for everyone. The game's local multiplayer mode is a blast, allowing you to race against your friends and family in the same room. The game's online mode is also excellent, allowing you to compete against players from all over the world. The game's battle mode is a fun and chaotic alternative to racing, offering a variety of different game types. Whether you're popping balloons, collecting coins, or chasing each other with piranha plants, the battle mode is always a good time. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a game that's perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a casual night in. It's a fun, accessible, and endlessly replayable game that's sure to bring a smile to your face.

6. Pokémon Sword and Shield

Pokémon Sword and Shield are the latest installments in the beloved Pokémon series. These games introduce a new region, new Pokémon, and new gameplay mechanics, offering a fresh and exciting experience for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. The Galar region is a beautiful and diverse land, inspired by the United Kingdom. It's filled with rolling hills, bustling cities, and mysterious ruins, just waiting to be explored. The new Pokémon are equally impressive, ranging from adorable creatures to powerful beasts. Catching and training Pokémon is still the core of the Pokémon experience, and Sword and Shield offer plenty of opportunities to do so. The game's Dynamax and Gigantamax mechanics add a new layer of strategy to battles, allowing you to temporarily enlarge your Pokémon for devastating attacks. Pokémon Sword and Shield are a great entry point into the Pokémon series, and they're sure to provide hours of fun for fans of all ages.

7. Splatoon 2

Splatoon 2 is a unique and innovative shooter that's unlike anything else on the market. Instead of shooting bullets, you shoot ink! The goal is to cover the map in your team's ink, while also splatting your opponents. The game's Turf War mode is a fast-paced and chaotic battle for territory, while the Ranked Battles offer a more competitive experience. The game's single-player mode is also surprisingly good, offering a challenging and engaging campaign. Splatoon 2 is a game that's easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master. It's a refreshing and original take on the shooter genre, and it's a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner.

8. Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a tactical role-playing game with a deep and engaging story. You play as a professor at a military academy, where you must choose one of three houses to lead. Each house has its own unique characters, story, and challenges. The game's combat is turn-based and strategic, requiring you to carefully plan your moves and utilize your units' strengths. The game's social elements are also important, as you must build relationships with your students and help them grow. Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a game that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. It's a challenging, rewarding, and emotionally resonant experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

9. Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is a stunning Metroidvania game with a beautiful art style and challenging gameplay. You explore a vast and interconnected world, filled with secrets, enemies, and bosses. The game's combat is precise and demanding, requiring you to master your character's abilities and learn enemy patterns. The game's story is mysterious and intriguing, slowly unfolding as you explore the world and uncover its secrets. Hollow Knight is a game that will test your skills and reward your perseverance. It's a masterpiece of the Metroidvania genre, and it's a must-play for any fan of challenging and rewarding games.

10. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a charming and addictive farming simulation game. You inherit your grandfather's old farm and must rebuild it into a thriving business. You can plant crops, raise animals, go fishing, explore mines, and befriend the local townsfolk. The game's relaxing and non-competitive gameplay is a breath of fresh air in today's fast-paced world. You can play at your own pace, focusing on the activities you enjoy most. Stardew Valley is a game that will steal your heart and keep you coming back for more. It's a perfect escape from reality, and it's a must-have for any fan of simulation games.

So there you have it, guys! My top 10 must-play Nintendo Switch games. Of course, there are tons of other amazing games on the system, but these are the ones that I think everyone should experience. Happy gaming!