Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best Nintendo Switch games that graced our consoles back in 2020. It was a pretty awesome year for gaming, especially for Switch owners. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let’s dive into the titles that made 2020 a standout year for the Nintendo Switch.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons was, without a doubt, the game of 2020 for many Switch owners. Launching right as the world was grappling with lockdowns, this game offered a much-needed escape to a serene island life. You could design your own island paradise, invite adorable animal villagers to live with you, and engage in a variety of activities like fishing, bug-catching, and crafting. The beauty of Animal Crossing: New Horizons lies in its simplicity and endless possibilities. There's no real end-game; instead, you're encouraged to create, explore, and socialize (even if it’s just with virtual animals).

The social aspect of Animal Crossing was huge. Players visited each other's islands, shared designs, and even held virtual events. It became a way for people to stay connected during a time when physical gatherings were impossible. The game's charming graphics, relaxing soundtrack, and wholesome gameplay made it a hit with both longtime Animal Crossing fans and newcomers alike. New Horizons didn't just offer a game; it offered a community and a sense of normalcy in a very abnormal year.

Moreover, Animal Crossing: New Horizons continued to evolve throughout 2020 with regular updates, adding seasonal events, new characters, and fresh items. This kept the gameplay experience dynamic and ensured players always had something new to look forward to. Whether it was celebrating Halloween with spooky costumes and candy or decorating for the winter holidays, Animal Crossing embraced the changing seasons and brought people together in the process. It was more than just a game; it was a cultural phenomenon that defined much of 2020 for the gaming world.

The Last of Us Part II

Okay, so The Last of Us Part II technically isn’t on the Switch (it’s a PlayStation exclusive), but hear me out! It was such a defining game of 2020 that it deserves a mention. The Last of Us Part II is a gripping, emotionally charged action-adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic world. Players navigate through intense combat scenarios and explore complex themes of revenge, justice, and morality. The game is known for its stunning graphics, realistic character models, and a deeply immersive storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

What made The Last of Us Part II stand out was its willingness to take risks with its narrative. The story is told from multiple perspectives, challenging players to empathize with characters who make difficult choices. The game delves into the consequences of violence and the cycle of revenge, forcing players to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature. This bold storytelling approach sparked a lot of discussion and debate within the gaming community, making it one of the most talked-about games of the year.

The gameplay in The Last of Us Part II is both brutal and strategic. Players must scavenge for resources, craft weapons and supplies, and use stealth to avoid enemies. The combat is visceral and unforgiving, emphasizing the desperation and brutality of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. Despite its dark themes, The Last of Us Part II also features moments of hope and connection, highlighting the importance of human relationships in the face of adversity. Its compelling narrative and intense gameplay made it a must-play title for many gamers in 2020.

Hades

Now, back to the Switch! Hades is an amazing rogue-like dungeon crawler that took the gaming world by storm in 2020. Developed by Supergiant Games, Hades combines fast-paced combat with a compelling story and stunning art style. Players take on the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, as he attempts to escape the Underworld. Each run through the Underworld is different, with randomly generated levels, enemies, and power-ups, ensuring that no two playthroughs are ever the same. The gameplay is incredibly addictive, and you'll find yourself wanting to jump back in for just one more run, even after hours of playing.

What sets Hades apart from other rogue-like games is its focus on storytelling. The game features a rich cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. As you progress through the game, you'll uncover more about Zagreus's past and his relationships with the other gods of Olympus. The voice acting is superb, and the dialogue is witty and engaging, making every interaction a joy to experience. Even when you fail a run, you're still making progress in the story, which helps to keep you motivated to keep playing.

Hades also boasts a fantastic progression system. As you play, you'll earn resources that can be used to upgrade Zagreus's abilities and unlock new weapons. This allows you to customize your playstyle and experiment with different builds. The game is also incredibly replayable, with multiple difficulty levels and hidden secrets to discover. Whether you're a fan of rogue-like games or just looking for a great action game with a compelling story, Hades is definitely worth checking out on the Nintendo Switch.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant platformer that made its way to the Nintendo Switch in 2020. This game is a sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest and continues the story of Ori, a white guardian spirit. The game features breathtaking hand-painted graphics, fluid animation, and a beautiful soundtrack that perfectly complements the gameplay. Players explore a vast and interconnected world, solving puzzles, battling enemies, and platforming through challenging environments. The gameplay is tight and responsive, and the game offers a good balance of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps expands on the gameplay mechanics of its predecessor, introducing new abilities and combat options. Ori can now use a variety of weapons and skills to defeat enemies, and the game features a more robust combat system than the first game. The platforming is also more challenging, with intricate level designs that require precise timing and skillful execution. But despite its difficulty, the game is always fair, and you'll feel a great sense of accomplishment when you overcome a particularly challenging obstacle.

What truly sets Ori and the Will of the Wisps apart is its emotional storytelling. The game tells a touching story about friendship, sacrifice, and the importance of protecting the natural world. The characters are well-developed, and their relationships feel genuine and heartfelt. The game also tackles some heavy themes, such as loss and grief, but it does so in a way that is both sensitive and uplifting. Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a must-play for anyone who appreciates beautiful graphics, tight gameplay, and emotionally resonant storytelling.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

For all you Legend of Zelda fans, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity was a fantastic addition to the Switch library in 2020. This game is a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and tells the story of the Great Calamity that occurred 100 years before the events of Breath of the Wild. Players take on the roles of Link, Zelda, and other iconic characters from the Zelda universe as they battle against hordes of enemies in a Musou-style action game. The gameplay is fast-paced and chaotic, with players unleashing powerful attacks and combos to defeat their foes.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity does an excellent job of capturing the look and feel of Breath of the Wild. The characters, environments, and enemies are all faithfully recreated in the game's art style. The game also features a compelling story that sheds light on the events leading up to the Great Calamity. You'll learn more about the characters' backstories and their relationships with each other. The game also features some surprising twists and turns that will keep you engaged from beginning to end.

While Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is primarily an action game, it also incorporates elements of strategy and resource management. Players must manage their characters' health and stamina, as well as collect resources to upgrade their weapons and abilities. The game also features a variety of side quests and challenges that will keep you busy for hours. Whether you're a fan of Hyrule Warriors games or just a Legend of Zelda enthusiast, Age of Calamity is a must-have for your Nintendo Switch collection.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a look back at some of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2020. From the relaxing island life of Animal Crossing: New Horizons to the action-packed battles of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, there was something for everyone on the Switch that year. These games not only provided hours of entertainment but also helped us stay connected and cope with the challenges of 2020. What were your favorite Switch games from 2020? Let us know in the comments below!