Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2022: IGN's Picks

Hey gaming fanatics! Remember 2022? It was a killer year for the Nintendo Switch, packed with amazing games that kept us glued to our screens. IGN, the gaming gurus, put together their list of the best Switch games of 2022, and we're diving deep into those awesome titles. Get ready to reminisce about the adventures, the challenges, and the pure fun that these games brought to our lives. Let's get this show on the road and explore IGN's top picks!

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom: A Masterpiece Unveiled

Alright, guys, let's kick things off with a bang! The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom wasn't just a game; it was an experience. IGN rightly crowned it as one of the best, and honestly, who can argue? Building upon the groundbreaking gameplay of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom expanded the world of Hyrule in mind-blowing ways. Imagine a world where you could build vehicles, craft weapons, and basically bend the laws of physics to your will. That was Tears of the Kingdom. The freedom it offered was unparalleled, allowing players to approach challenges in ways they never thought possible. From soaring through the skies on custom-built contraptions to exploring mysterious depths beneath Hyrule, the game constantly surprised and delighted. The story was epic, the characters were memorable, and the sheer scale of the world was breathtaking. For those who poured hours into Breath of the Wild, this sequel took everything to the next level. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom wasn't just a game; it was a testament to the power of imagination and the magic of open-world gaming. The gameplay was improved and there are many features that players love. The story continues the story of the previous game and adds more fun for the players to enjoy. The game is one of the best-selling games on the Nintendo Switch.

The Allure of Exploration and Discovery

The true beauty of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom lay in its emphasis on exploration and discovery. The world of Hyrule felt truly alive, teeming with secrets, challenges, and opportunities at every turn. IGN highlighted the game's ability to constantly surprise players, offering new mechanics, hidden locations, and intriguing puzzles. The game's physics engine was a marvel, enabling players to interact with the environment in creative and often unexpected ways. Whether it was using the Fuse ability to create powerful weapons or the Ultrahand to construct elaborate vehicles, the possibilities seemed endless. The feeling of pure exploration, of venturing into the unknown and stumbling upon something amazing, was the heart of the experience. Each new discovery was a reward in itself, driving players to push further and uncover more of the game's secrets. The vastness of the world, combined with the game's depth of gameplay mechanics, made it the best game of the year. The players were eager to explore the world and see what secrets it held.

Why Tears of the Kingdom Resonated So Deeply

So, why did The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom resonate so deeply with gamers and earn its place among IGN's best? It wasn't just the stunning visuals or the engaging story, although those certainly played a part. It was the game's ability to empower players, to give them the tools to shape their own adventure. It was the thrill of experimentation, the joy of overcoming challenges in creative ways, and the satisfaction of uncovering the mysteries of Hyrule. The game masterfully balanced a sense of freedom with a compelling narrative, making it an experience that was both expansive and deeply personal. Players felt like they were the architects of their own stories, and that's a powerful thing. With its innovative gameplay, vast world, and engaging story, it's easy to see why The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom earned its place among the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus: A Bold New Direction for Pokémon

Next up, let's talk about Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This game took the Pokémon franchise in a daring new direction, and IGN was right to recognize its innovation. Instead of the traditional turn-based battles and linear progression, Arceus offered an open-world experience with a focus on exploration and catching Pokémon. The game was set in the Hisui region, the ancient setting of the Sinnoh region, and the world was filled with wild Pokémon roaming freely. This shift in perspective was a breath of fresh air for the series, offering a more dynamic and immersive gameplay experience. The gameplay mechanics are good and enjoyable for all players. The game offers more freedom to catch the Pokémon that players want. The graphics are improved and there are new types of Pokémon for the players to catch. The game has a new setting that is fun to explore and many players are enjoying it. The game is one of the best in the series.

Capturing the Thrill of Pokémon Hunting

One of the most exciting aspects of Pokémon Legends: Arceus was the redefined approach to catching Pokémon. Instead of simply engaging in battles, players could now sneak, hide, and strategize to capture Pokémon in the wild. The game encouraged exploration and observation, rewarding players who took the time to study Pokémon behavior and learn the best ways to approach them. The gameplay was very fun for all players. The players could throw the ball and catch the Pokémon without having to engage in battle. This innovative hunting mechanic added a new layer of excitement to the gameplay. Every encounter felt unique, and every capture was a satisfying achievement. The game also introduced new crafting elements and side quests that kept players engaged and immersed in the world.

Why Arceus Stood Out

Pokémon Legends: Arceus distinguished itself by challenging the conventions of the Pokémon series. IGN recognized this bold move, highlighting the game's fresh approach to gameplay and its commitment to exploration. The game's open-world setting and emphasis on player agency made it stand out. It provided a different way to play the game and the players were happy about the new features. The innovative hunting mechanics, the compelling side quests, and the rich world-building contributed to its success. By daring to try something new, Arceus revitalized the Pokémon formula and proved that the franchise could evolve and still be incredibly fun. The game's success was proof of the demand from players for the game to improve. This game is one of the best in the series, because the gameplay is great and very fun.

Metroid Dread: A Masterclass in Atmospheric Horror

Now, let's dive into some spooky territory with Metroid Dread. This game was a stunning return for the iconic Metroid series, and IGN correctly praised its intense atmosphere and challenging gameplay. The game delivered a masterclass in atmospheric horror, with a focus on stealth, suspense, and exploration. The game follows Samus Aran as she explores a dangerous planet and confronts the deadly E.M.M.I. robots. The atmosphere of the game is scary and the players have to be careful when exploring the world. The gameplay features many new features that players love. The game is a fun adventure for all players.

The Tension of Exploration and the Thrill of Survival

Metroid Dread created a sense of tension that kept players on the edge of their seats. The E.M.M.I. robots were relentless pursuers, forcing players to use stealth and cunning to survive. The game's environments were beautifully designed, with a focus on creating a sense of dread and isolation. The challenge was high, and the players were scared when they would encounter the enemies. The game offered a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat, creating a balanced and engaging gameplay loop. This mix kept the players interested and wanting to play more. The game's use of sound and visuals created a genuinely unsettling atmosphere, making every encounter with the E.M.M.I. robots a heart-pounding experience. The players love the experience that the game provided.

Why Metroid Dread Impressed

Metroid Dread earned its place among IGN's best Switch games of 2022 because it delivered a masterfully crafted experience. The game's commitment to atmosphere, its challenging gameplay, and its stunning visuals made it a standout title. The game met all the expectations and more. The intense atmosphere, combined with the thrill of exploration and survival, created a memorable gaming experience. By delivering a thrilling and immersive adventure, Metroid Dread proved that the series could still captivate audiences. The game is one of the best games in the Metroid series and will continue to be a fan favorite.

Other Notable Contenders

While The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Pokémon Legends: Arceus, and Metroid Dread were the shining stars, 2022 was filled with other amazing Switch games. IGN likely highlighted titles like Xenoblade Chronicles 3, which offered a sprawling JRPG experience, and Splatoon 3, which delivered colorful and chaotic multiplayer fun. These titles, along with many others, contributed to the Switch's impressive library and solidified its place as a must-have console for gamers of all kinds. The players were eager to see which games would win the awards. The games that were mentioned were the top games that people enjoyed playing.

The Nintendo Switch: A Year of Gaming Excellence

In conclusion, 2022 was a fantastic year for the Nintendo Switch. IGN's list of the best games showcases the console's incredible versatility and the diverse range of experiences it offers. From the epic adventures of Tears of the Kingdom to the innovative gameplay of Arceus and the atmospheric thrills of Metroid Dread, the Switch had something for everyone. If you're looking for recommendations on what to play on your Switch, you can't go wrong with these titles. Happy gaming, and enjoy the adventures that await you!