Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2022: IGN's Picks
Hey guys! Let's dive into the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022, according to IGN. 2022 was a fantastic year for the Switch, filled with amazing titles that kept us glued to our screens. From epic adventures to cozy indie gems, there was something for everyone. IGN, known for its in-depth reviews and expert opinions, has compiled its list of the top games, and we're here to break them down. So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's explore the must-play titles that made 2022 a memorable year for Nintendo's hybrid console. Get ready to discover some awesome games you might have missed! We'll cover a variety of genres, from action-packed RPGs to creative puzzle games, ensuring a diverse and exciting overview of the year's best offerings. The Nintendo Switch continued to prove its versatility, offering a blend of both handheld and docked experiences that catered to a wide range of gaming preferences. The best games of 2022 on Switch not only showcased the platform's capabilities but also highlighted the creativity and innovation of developers across the industry. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the Switch scene, this list is your ultimate guide to the essential experiences of 2022. So, buckle up; it's going to be a fun ride through the highlights of the year, bringing you everything you need to know about the top Switch games from 2022 as per IGN's reviews and ratings. Prepare yourself to update your game library with some of the best titles you can find. Let's start with a look at what made these games stand out from the crowd and why IGN chose them as the best.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Alright, let's kick things off with a big one: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. If you were following gaming news in 2022, you know this was a major release. While this game actually released in 2023, the buzz and anticipation started brewing in 2022. Tears of the Kingdom took everything we loved about Breath of the Wild and cranked it up to eleven. IGN and countless other reviewers raved about its expansive open world, filled with secrets and possibilities. The gameplay is so much fun that you can literally spend hours just experimenting with the new mechanics and building crazy contraptions. The story? Deep, engaging, and worthy of the Zelda legacy. The world design is impeccable, providing players with an unparalleled sense of freedom and exploration. The ability to traverse the vast landscapes and discover hidden areas kept players engaged for hundreds of hours. IGN's review likely highlighted the game's innovative approach to puzzles, combat, and exploration, cementing its status as a must-play title for Switch owners. The game is more than just a sequel; it's an evolution, improving upon its predecessor in almost every way. The sense of discovery and the sheer scale of the game world are enough to make this a standout title. The amount of detail and the sheer creativity in the game is hard to ignore. It is easy to say that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a masterpiece that will be talked about for years to come. The game's impact on the gaming world has been huge, and it has set a new standard for open-world games. Even before its release, it was one of the most anticipated games of the year, and it absolutely lived up to the hype, as IGN recognized in their reviews.
Why IGN Loved It
IGN's review probably praised the game's incredible depth and freedom. The new abilities Link gains, like the ability to fuse objects together and build vehicles, opened up a whole new world of creative problem-solving. They likely highlighted the game's stunning visuals, especially considering the Switch's hardware limitations. The story, while being a bit complex, was likely a major draw for IGN. The way it tied into the existing Zelda lore and expanded upon the world created in Breath of the Wild was certainly commendable. The exploration aspect, with its secrets, hidden locations, and unique challenges, would have been another key point in IGN's review. The sense of adventure and discovery is unmatched, making it a truly immersive experience. Basically, IGN would have highlighted that Tears of the Kingdom is not just a game; it's an experience. The level of detail and the innovative gameplay mechanics made it a clear winner in their eyes. This game isn't just a game; it's a testament to the power of imagination and the dedication of the developers. The way that the game pushes the Switch hardware to its limits is nothing short of impressive, showcasing what the console can do when pushed. The game's success is a testament to the hard work and creativity of the developers, who have delivered a gaming experience that will stay with players long after the credits roll. The game continues to receive praise from both critics and gamers alike.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Next up, we have Xenoblade Chronicles 3. If you're into epic RPGs with massive worlds and deep stories, then this game was definitely on IGN's radar. The Xenoblade series is known for its incredible scope, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is no exception. It features a vast open world to explore, complex combat systems, and a rich narrative that will keep you hooked for hours. The character development is excellent, and the relationships between the characters add a layer of emotional depth to the already engaging gameplay. IGN likely appreciated the game's intricate battle mechanics, which allow for strategic team-based combat. The ability to switch between different classes and customize your party members provides a great deal of flexibility in how you approach battles. The soundtrack is also amazing, enhancing the overall experience. The graphics are impressive for the Switch, and the world is filled with beautiful landscapes and diverse environments to discover. The story's themes of life, death, and friendship resonated with reviewers and players alike. The sheer amount of content in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is staggering, making it a great value for your money. You can easily spend over a hundred hours exploring the world and completing side quests. IGN's review would have highlighted how the game masterfully blends classic RPG elements with modern design. The combination of a compelling narrative, strategic combat, and vast exploration makes Xenoblade Chronicles 3 a standout title on the Switch. It is a game that truly deserves to be played by anyone who loves RPGs. It sets a high bar for RPGs in the genre, and IGN would have surely taken notice of its strengths.
What Made it Stand Out (According to IGN)
IGN likely commended the game's incredible world-building and the depth of its characters. The story delves into complex themes, and the characters are well-developed, adding significant emotional weight. The combat system, which allows players to strategize and make use of a variety of abilities, would have been a significant point in IGN's favor. The ability to swap classes and customize your party's skills adds a layer of depth to the gameplay. The vast amount of content, including side quests and exploration opportunities, ensures that you can spend countless hours in the game world. IGN would have appreciated how the game successfully merges classic RPG elements with innovative gameplay mechanics. The developers took the best elements from the previous games and made a truly unique and compelling experience. The game offers a rich and rewarding experience for anyone who appreciates RPGs. The excellent story, combined with the strategic combat and the vast world, makes this game a must-have for RPG fans. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a testament to the creativity of the developers. The attention to detail is evident throughout the game. It is a game that will be remembered as one of the best RPGs on the Switch. In the eyes of IGN, the game is a triumph.
Bayonetta 3
Alright, let's talk about some stylish action! Bayonetta 3 brought the over-the-top action and the iconic witch back to the Switch in a big way. This game is all about fast-paced combat, stunning visuals, and a story that is as wild as the titular character. Bayonetta's moves are as fluid and creative as ever, and the game introduces new ways to play, keeping things fresh and exciting. IGN and other reviewers would have praised the game's combat system, which is both complex and incredibly satisfying. The ability to chain together combos and unleash devastating attacks keeps you engaged. The story, while being a bit convoluted at times, is full of surprises and over-the-top moments. The visuals are impressive, especially considering the Switch's hardware limitations. The level design is fantastic, with each stage offering unique challenges and opportunities for creativity. The addition of the new Demon Slave mechanic adds a new layer to the combat system, allowing Bayonetta to summon demons to fight alongside her. Bayonetta 3 is a testament to the creativity of the developers, who have delivered a game that is as fun as it is visually stunning. This game is a must-play for fans of action games, and IGN would have certainly recognized its excellence. The game is a true showcase of what the Switch can do, pushing the console's limits to deliver an unforgettable experience. The game is packed with content, and you will not be disappointed. The game offers everything that makes an action game great.
Key Features That Impressed IGN
IGN likely highlighted the game's exhilarating combat system, which is incredibly smooth, responsive, and packed with options. The game's visuals, which are visually appealing and stunning, would have been an area of praise. The new Demon Slave mechanic likely added a unique twist to the gameplay, giving you new ways to engage with enemies and allowing for even more creative combat strategies. The story, while being over-the-top, is a fun, thrilling ride. The level design would have been highlighted as well, with each stage offering a unique challenge. Overall, Bayonetta 3 is a must-have for action game fans and for those looking for a stylish, visually stunning experience. The game is a testament to the creative vision of the developers, who delivered an amazing experience. IGN would have likely praised the game for its unique gameplay. It is an amazing and thrilling game.
Other Notable Mentions
While IGN's list likely includes several other amazing games, here are a few other titles that were big hits in 2022 and are definitely worth checking out:
- Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: Although the performance was a bit rough, the open-world gameplay and new Pokémon made this game a hit with fans. The exploration aspect was a major draw, and the new Pokémon designs were well-received. Despite some technical issues, the game still delivered a fun and engaging Pokémon experience. IGN's review likely highlighted the open-world design, and the improvements in the Pokémon formula. The game's innovative approach to the franchise's traditional gameplay was likely praised as well. This game made a big splash, even with its shortcomings.
- Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope: A turn-based strategy game, this title offered charming characters, engaging gameplay, and strategic depth. The combination of Mario and Rabbids provides a unique and fun experience. IGN would have noted its clever strategy mechanics, and the engaging gameplay. The game's unique approach to the franchise was likely praised as well. It's a great choice if you're looking for something different on the Switch.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land: This game brought Kirby into a 3D world, offering a charming platforming adventure with new copy abilities. IGN would likely have appreciated the game's innovative approach to Kirby's traditional gameplay. The game's world and new copy abilities were surely praised. It is a fantastic game for the whole family, with a simple yet engaging gameplay experience.
Conclusion: 2022 on the Switch
So there you have it, folks! IGN's picks for some of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022. This year provided us with a fantastic array of games, highlighting the Switch's versatility and the creativity of developers. From open-world adventures to action-packed combat and strategic gameplay, the Switch delivered an unforgettable year of gaming. If you missed any of these titles, it's definitely time to catch up. They're all worth playing, and they showcase why the Switch continues to be a must-have console for gamers of all ages. Don't forget to check out IGN's full reviews for more in-depth information and ratings. Happy gaming!