Best Nintendo Switch Games Of 2017: A Look Back

Hey guys! It's hard to believe it's been several years since the Nintendo Switch first hit the scene, but 2017 was a monumental year for the hybrid console. Nintendo absolutely killed it with their launch lineup and subsequent releases, giving us a treasure trove of unforgettable gaming experiences. If you're a Switch owner, or even just contemplating diving into the Nintendo ecosystem, revisiting the best Nintendo Switch games of 2017 is an absolute must. These games not only defined the early days of the Switch but also set a high bar for what the console could achieve, offering incredible versatility and sheer fun that still holds up today. We're talking about titles that spanned genres, catered to different playstyles, and proved that gaming could be both portable and incredibly powerful. So, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in, and let's take a trip down memory lane to celebrate some of the absolute gems that made 2017 a legendary year for the Nintendo Switch. These aren't just games; they're experiences that many of us bonded over, shared with friends and family, and that became cornerstones of our gaming libraries. The impact of these early titles cannot be overstated, as they laid the groundwork for the Switch's continued success and cemented its place as a unique and beloved console in gaming history. Get ready to reminisce and maybe even discover a title or two you might have missed back in the day!

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - A Masterclass in Open-World Adventure

When we talk about the best Nintendo Switch games of 2017, it's impossible to start anywhere else. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild wasn't just a game; it was a revelation. This wasn't your typical Zelda fare. Nintendo took the beloved franchise and completely reinvented it, presenting players with a vast, open-world Hyrule that felt truly alive and brimming with possibilities. From the moment Link awakens on the Great Plateau, you're given an unprecedented sense of freedom. You can go anywhere and tackle objectives in almost any order you choose. This non-linear approach was groundbreaking for the series and a massive departure from its more structured predecessors. The physics engine was also a huge talking point, allowing for emergent gameplay and creative problem-solving. Need to cross a chasm? Why not chop down a tree to make a bridge, or use your paraglider to glide across? The sheer amount of interactivity and environmental storytelling packed into Hyrule is astounding. Exploration is rewarded at every turn, whether you're discovering hidden shrines that offer challenging puzzles and Spirit Orbs, finding Korok Seeds to expand your inventory, or stumbling upon ancient ruins that hint at the kingdom's tragic past. The combat, while perhaps not the deepest, is engaging, and the weapon durability system, though controversial for some, encouraged constant adaptation and experimentation with different armaments. The art style is gorgeous, the orchestral score is hauntingly beautiful, and the sense of discovery is unparalleled. Breath of the Wild set a new standard for open-world design, influencing countless games that followed. It's a title that encourages curiosity, rewards ingenuity, and provides an emotional journey that resonates long after you've put the controller down. For many, it was the reason to buy a Switch on day one, and it remains an absolute masterpiece that everyone should experience.

Super Mario Odyssey - Pure Joy in 3D Platforming Perfection

Next up on our list of best Nintendo Switch games of 2017 is another absolute titan: Super Mario Odyssey. If Breath of the Wild redefined open worlds, Odyssey took the beloved 3D Mario formula and injected it with an insane amount of creativity and pure, unadulterated fun. This game is a celebration of everything that makes Mario great, but with a fresh, exciting twist. The star of the show, of course, is Cappy, Mario's sentient hat. Cappy introduces the 'capture' mechanic, allowing Mario to possess enemies and objects, essentially granting him their abilities. This mechanic is not just a gimmick; it's woven into the fabric of the gameplay, leading to incredibly diverse and imaginative level design. Want to fly like a bird? Capture a specific creature. Need to break through obstacles? Possess a tank. The sheer variety of gameplay scenarios this opens up is mind-boggling. Each kingdom in Odyssey is a sandbox brimming with Power Moons to collect. These Moons are the game's collectibles, and they're scattered everywhere, encouraging exploration, skillful platforming, and often, a bit of playful experimentation. Unlike the more linear progression of some previous Mario titles, Odyssey gives you a lot of freedom to explore and discover Moons at your own pace. The movement controls are incredibly tight and responsive, allowing for a vast array of acrobatic maneuvers that feel incredibly satisfying to pull off. The game is packed with charm, humor, and catchy music that will have you humming along for days. From the bustling urban landscape of New Donk City to the desert plains of Tostarena, each kingdom is visually distinct and full of secrets. It's a game that constantly surprises you with its inventiveness and sheer joy. Super Mario Odyssey is a masterclass in 3D platforming, offering accessibility for newcomers while providing depth and challenges for seasoned players. It’s a game that will make you smile, laugh, and feel like a kid again.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - The Definitive Kart Racer

For anyone looking for pure, unadulterated multiplayer fun, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, released in 2017, is an absolute no-brainer and easily one of the best Nintendo Switch games from that year. This wasn't just a port of the Wii U version; it was the definitive edition, packing in all the DLC from the original and adding new characters, a revamped Battle Mode, and other quality-of-life improvements. The core gameplay remains as addictive as ever: race iconic Nintendo characters around vibrant, imaginative tracks, using power-ups to gain an edge or hinder your opponents. The introduction of the anti-gravity sections in the original Mario Kart 8 was a stroke of genius, adding a fresh visual flair and unique racing dynamics, and they are all here in full force in the Deluxe version. What truly makes Deluxe shine, however, is the sheer amount of content. With 48 tracks (including the DLC), a massive roster of characters, and multiple kart customization options, there's an incredible amount of racing to be had. The Battle Mode, which was a bit of a weak point in the original, received a significant overhaul, offering multiple balloon-fight variants and arena-style maps that make for chaotic and incredibly fun showdowns. Whether you're playing solo, against friends locally, or taking on the world online, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe delivers consistent thrills. The tracks are brilliantly designed, offering multiple paths, shortcuts, and opportunities for skillful drifting and item usage. It's accessible enough for casual players to pick up and enjoy immediately, yet deep enough for hardcore racers to master. It’s the perfect party game, the ultimate couch co-op experience, and a testament to Nintendo's ability to refine a beloved formula to near perfection. If you own a Switch, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is practically mandatory. It’s the go-to game for spontaneous get-togethers and a surefire way to inject some friendly competition and laughter into any gathering.

Splatoon 2 - Ink Your Way to Victory

If you're looking for something a little different, something fresh and unique, then Splatoon 2 is a fantastic addition to the list of best Nintendo Switch games of 2017. This game took the innovative concept of the original Splatoon on the Wii U and expanded upon it, offering more weapons, more modes, and more of that signature, stylish ink-flinging action. The core premise is brilliantly simple yet incredibly engaging: teams of squid-like Inklings battle it out by covering the arena with their team's colored ink. The goal isn't just to splat your opponents (though that's certainly fun); it's to cover more turf than the other team within the time limit. This objective creates a unique blend of offense and defense, requiring strategic thinking and coordinated teamwork. The movement mechanics are also a huge part of the fun. In your squid form, you can swim through your own ink at high speed, allowing for quick repositioning, escape, and stealthy ambushes. Transforming between Inkling and Squid form is fluid and intuitive, making traversal and combat feel incredibly dynamic. Splatoon 2 introduced a wealth of new weapons, gear, and special abilities, offering even more customization and strategic depth. The single-player campaign, while perhaps not the main draw for many, provides a solid challenge and introduces players to the game's mechanics in a fun, engaging way. The online multiplayer is where the game truly shines, with regular updates, special events called 'Splatfests,' and a dedicated community that keeps the action lively. The game's aesthetic is also a major highlight – it's incredibly stylish, vibrant, and full of personality, from the fashion-forward Inklings to the catchy, punk-inspired soundtrack. Splatoon 2 is a breath of fresh air in the shooter genre, offering a family-friendly experience that is anything but shallow. It's a game that rewards creativity, strategic play, and a willingness to get messy with ink. It proved that Nintendo could innovate even within established genres, offering a truly unique multiplayer experience that remains popular to this day.

Conclusion: A Stellar Year for the Switch

Looking back at the best Nintendo Switch games of 2017, it's clear that Nintendo truly knocked it out of the park. They didn't just release a new console; they launched it with a bang, delivering titles that were not only system-sellers but also groundbreaking in their respective genres. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild set a new benchmark for open-world design, Super Mario Odyssey offered unparalleled 3D platforming joy, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe solidified its place as the ultimate kart racer, and Splatoon 2 brought its unique, ink-filled chaos to the masses. These games, and many others released that year, showcased the versatility of the Switch – capable of delivering epic, immersive adventures at home and quick, fun bursts of gameplay on the go. The impact of these titles cannot be understated; they built a strong foundation for the Switch's incredible success and continue to be played and loved by millions. If you're a fan of Nintendo, or even just a gamer looking for high-quality experiences, diving into the best Nintendo Switch games from 2017 is an absolute must. These games are more than just digital entertainment; they represent a pivotal moment in Nintendo's history and are a testament to the company's enduring commitment to innovation and fun. So, whether you're a veteran gamer rediscovering these classics or a newcomer experiencing them for the first time, prepare to be amazed by the quality and sheer enjoyment these 2017 Switch titles offer. They truly made 2017 an unforgettable year for gaming!