MOST ANTICIPATED SWITCH GAMES OF 2021
January 8, 2021
The Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X are the new kids on the console block, but they’ve got some very stiff competition to deal with. Nintendo’s Switch may be nearing its 4th anniversary, but it’s selling better than ever. 2020 was the best year yet for Switch, with 20+ million units sold and an insane amount of software to go with that. That momentum will no doubt carry into 2021, as Nintendo and third parties are cooking up some blockbusters for fans. While games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2 and Metroid Prime 4 still don’t have solid dates, there are plenty of amazing titles locked in for 2021.
Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Super Mario 3D World originally launched on the Wii U, but as most know, that platform didn’t find much success. Loyal fans enjoyed Super Mario 3D World on Wii U, but the Switch’s huge install base will no doubt bring in millions more. Super Mario 3D World aims to be an experience that bridges the worlds of 2D and 3D Mario games. There are 3D environments to play in, but with less freedom and a more linear approach than what you’d see in games like Super Mario Odyssey. The real selling point is multiplayer, as three other friends can join either locally or online. There’s even a whole new mode available for those considering a double-dip, but Nintendo hasn’t shared specifics on that yet.
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Bravely Default II
If you like RPGs that hearken back to the old days, Bravely Default II is one you won’t want to miss. The Bravely series made a name for itself on the 3DS, where traditional RPG fans found brutal difficulty and classic storytelling in the adventures. Now a third installment is on the way to Switch, giving us a brand-new cast of characters to go with a fresh setting and unique journey. Longtime fans will be happy to know that the Brave and Default battle system makes a return, which puts an interesting twist on classic turn-based combat. This will be an adventure for the ages!
Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter finally had its breakthrough moment outside of Japan with Monster Hunter World, which quickly became the franchise’s best-selling entry, and Capcom’s biggest selling game ever. Now the successor to World is on the way, and it’s a Switch exclusive. Monster Hunter Rise is the next true installment in the Monster Hunter franchise, and it looks to marry some new mechanics from World with classic stylings of older Monster Hunter games. You’ll have new companions to take on your journey, a Wirebug mechanic that lets you fly around the map, and plenty of fresh monsters to take on. Just remember to bring some friends with you for the battle!
Balan Wonderworld
It’s not often you see a brand-new 3D platformer in today’s day and age, as the gaming landscape is dominated by first-person shooters and sports titles. That said, when the creator of Sonic comes knocking with a new idea, you don’t want to pass it up! Square-Enix has decided to team with none other than Yuji Naka for Balan Wonderworld, a 3D platformer set in the fantastical Wonderworld. In this mix of the real world and imagination, you’ll have access to over 80 different costumes, each of which gives you a unique ability. Use these costumes to combat enemies, solve puzzles, and reach new heights on your journey through the Wonderworld!
No More Heroes III
Suda51 might be the most eccentric game developer there is. He marches to the beat of his own drum and is never afraid to create the experiences he wants. He’s put out a ton of titles over the last few decades, but Suda51 really had his breakthrough moment with the No More Heroes franchise. The first two installments of this assassin adventure were originally released on Wii, and now the franchise is finally returning with a third entry on Switch. Travis Touchdown and his beam katana are back once again, but this time the action will be out of this world…literally. Travis will have to take on a group of intergalactic assassins to save the human race. Hopefully, his quick wit, sharp sword skills, and repertoire of wrestling moves will make him an unstoppable opponent!
Rune Factory 5
Rune Factory fans have been waiting a very long time for a new installment in this series. Rune Factory 4 launched on the 3DS all the way back in 2012, and we’ll finally see the follow-up in 2021. While much of this new title remains a secret, we do know that it’ll provide the mechanics franchise fans enjoy. That means lots of farm work to be done, plenty of dungeons filled with monsters to explore, and a cast of eligible bachelors and bachelorettes! We’ll be hearing a lot more on Rune Factory 5 in the very near future, including details on new mechanics and other first-time features.
Sky: Children of the Light
The team behind award-winning games like Flower and Journey moved away from console releases for their latest game, Sky: Children of the Light. As of right now, the game can only be played on iOS and Android devices, but thatgamecompany is going to make their Nintendo hardware debut by bringing Sky: Children of the Light to the Switch. In this title, players get to glide through 7 different kingdoms that are themed around stages of life. You’ll be able to join with other real-life players around the world in order to journey together and build bonds you’ll never forget. Prepare for some beautiful visuals, stunning music, and more than a few teary-eyed moments when Sky: Children of the Light launches in Spring 2021.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Hollow Knight is easily one of the best Metroidvania titles ever created. Gorgeous visuals and a haunting soundtrack help to envelop you in an unforgettable adventure through the dark and mysterious land of Hallownest. The first game was a major hit on all platforms, but it reached new heights when the Switch version launched. That’s why it’s no surprise to see the sequel coming to Switch as well. This time around players will get to take control of Hornet, the princess-protector of Hallownest, as she sets off on an adventure of her own. Take on over 150 enemies, explore brand-new areas, and craft unique items to help you take back your kingdom. You’ll need them, as this is sure to be even more challenging than the original Hollow Knight!
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
Monster Hunter is a big enough franchise to get some spin-offs, which is exactly what Monster Hunter Stories was. That title was released on 3DS and mobile devices and took a more RPG-like approach to the gameplay by utilizing a rock-paper-scissors battle mechanic and mixing it with a deep story. Fans of that offshoot were both excited and surprised to learn that a follow-up is in the works, and it’s coming to Switch later this year. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin will once again have you play as a Monster Rider who forms a bond with a monster through a Kinship Stone. You and your partner monster will team up for a sprawling adventure where you’ll meet new friends and foes, battle ferocious enemies, and grow closer together.
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Kevin Cassidy has been covering all things Nintendo for over 15 years now and has been leading the weekly GoNintendo Podcast for just as long. Kevin is also quite passionate about pro wrestling, anime, comic books, and more! Follow Kevin on Twitter via @GoNintendoTweet.
