5 Most Underrated Games For Switch (& 5 That Are Overrated)
With over 3 years and hundreds of unique games under its belt, the Nintendo Switch's library is looking stronger than ever. With such a vast and diverse library ranging from huge Nintendo IPs to obscure indies, there are bound to be a plethora of hidden gems, as well as games whose merits may be a bit overinflated.
Many titles have simply gotten lost in the shuffle amidst this massive lineup, or may have been overshadowed by the heavier hitters wielding Master Swords or wearing overalls. Perhaps their appeal is more limited, or take deeper playthroughs to truly appreciate.
Whatever the reason, there's no shortage of underrated software on Switch. Though there are also examples of overrated titles whose gameplay doesn't quite live up to the brand name or overall hype.
With this list, we'll highlight 5 of the most prominent examples of each.
10 Overrated: 1-2 Switch
The idea of controlling a sandwich-eating minigame with your mouth, or milking a cow with nuanced motion controls may have been a cool novelty during the Switch's launch. And indeed, it does make for a good demonstration of the sharp gyro controls and HD rumble. But at the end of the day, that's really what 1-2 Switch is - a demonstration featuring simple, bite-sized romps rather than a fully-realized game.
The software relies on its intuitive interface, along with the strength of its local multiplayer for the crux of its enjoyment. Yet, even when stressing these traits, it fails to really hold up in the long run.
9 Underrated: MUSYNX
It's odd how unknown this musical romp is, given that it can arguably be considered one of the best rhythm games for Nintendo's hybrid console. In fairness, this indie game's appeal isn't the broadest, being totally centered around rhythmic gameplay to the tune of mostly obscure techno tunes.
Still, those who do appreciate a good Guitar Hero-style music game are likely to find enjoyment in this entrancing game. Not only is it a rare example of a Switch title that uses the touchscreen well, but it's loaded with content - thanks to its various difficulty tiers and huge playlist spanning several genres.
8 Overrated: Octopath Traveler
It's rather easy to be dazzled by an original Square Enix RPG on Switch, especially one that has such a uniquely charming retro art style and rich soundtrack. Ultimately though, many have found it tough to get into this lengthy adventure, with its turn-based battle grinding and random encounters.
Octopath Traveler's unique twist is its slew of diverse characters, each of which comes with their own gripping backstory and abilities. This is interesting on a certain level, though it also forces the player to go through each of the 8 characters' narrative beats in segmented chapters; a slow-paced affair that simply won't be for everyone.
7 Underrated: Yooka-Laylee And The Impossible Lair
It's easy to see why this slipped under the radar - as we're dealing with a spin-off to a 3D platformer that's regarded as a flawed homage to Banjo-Kazooie. Yet, this 2D offshoot actually adheres more to the style of classic Donkey Kong Country games, while also injecting its own fun twists. It's not too surprising since studio Playtonic is comprised of some of the creators of that renowned franchise.
Aside from an occasionally cumbersome overworld, there's much to love about Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair. From the majestic settings to the solid mechanics and satisfying abilities, this is a delightful 2D platformer that's criminally overlooked.
6 Overrated: Luigi's Mansion 3
Getting past the hype that comes with the Mario branding and GameCube nostalgia of Luigi's Mansion, this Switch sequel tends to feel more lukewarm than it lets on.
Luigi's Mansion 3 certainly looks pretty, and the array of new multiplayer options are a welcome addition. Yet, aside from a new vacuum-slamming mechanic and a co-op feature, the core gameplay still doesn't venture far beyond its "suck up ghosts" formula after two decades. Even if Luigi is doing his ghost-hunting in a larger, more lavish setting this time around, the tedium of going room to room still tends to crop up.
5 Underrated: SteamWorld Dig 2
The first SteamWorld Dig was, in part, condemned to obscurity - and through no fault of its own. Largely being considered a tepid "Terraria-lite" for the 3DS, one can see how the sequel to this exploration romp would get somewhat buried in terms of hype.
But Image & Form's SteamWorld Dig 2 is definitely worth giving a look, particularly for those who like to plunder and craft Minecraft style, or enjoy a good Metroidvania journey. Though it's still a fairly short game, this sequel adds depth on both a figurative and litteral level, as your underground adventures greatly eclipse the first game. The steampunk theme is charming and enjoyable, as you'll be playing with gadgets like large drills and water-powered jetpacks.
4 Overrated: Mario Kart 8: Deluxe
Mama mia! Just how can one of the most fun and robust kart racers of the modern era be considered "overrated?" Well, as they say - context can be everything, and in the scheme of things, this latest console rendition of Mario Kart is little more than a remaster with included DLC from the Wii U original.
As is typical for Mario Kart, much of the entertainment value comes from its multiplayer options, including its solid online mode. Though it would have been nice to see a true solo campaign experience, along with some additional new elements rather than yet another retreading of already-explored terrain.
3 Underrated: Puyo Puyo Tetris
While the chaotic BR game Tetris 99 has hogged much of the spotlight in terms of classic puzzlers, this Sonic Team bundle offers arguably one of the best puzzle experiences on Switch.
The addictive qualities and replay value are off the charts here, thanks to the solid offerings of two puzzle classics - both of which provide thrilling gameplay and fun challenges to mix things up. You also get seamless online functionality and a surprisingly in-depth story mode. This campaign allows you to experience Puyo Puyo and Tetris in unique ways, strung together by an amusing storyline.
2 Overrated: Pokémon Sword & Shield
Since its release in November 2019, this latest rendition of Pokémon has received some scorn; not so much from the critics, but certainly a contingent of fans.
Though it does offer more of that familiar Pokémon RPG gameplay, it's been knocked for being perhaps a bit too familiar and safe. The tepid experience, average visuals, and slow-paced gameplay don't exactly ring as stellar as the critics' Metacritic score of "80" would suggest.
It doesn't help that the game still feels a bit hindered with its linearity, some absent monsters, and other restrictions that some of its predecessors didn't even have. Given the hype and potential surrounding the first home console Pokémon experience, Sword & Shield feels lukewarm and "unevolved."
1 Underrated: Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle
Let's face it - Ubisoft's shrieking Rabbids can have something of a repellent nature to them. Additionally, a nuanced tactical strategy game doesn't exactly scream "mainstream." But those who take the 20 or 30 minutes to learn the ropes with this interesting Mario crossover project will find a surprisingly deep, addictive romp.
Despite its Mario-meets-Rabbids premise, this title diverts from the formula of both franchises. Instead, it feels more like a whimsical offshoot of XCOM, with its isometric layout, precision-based shooting, and satisfying abilities.
This is certainly one of the stronger third-party efforts on Switch, and it's one that deserves a look.
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