Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2022: IGN's Picks

Hey there, gaming enthusiasts! If you're anything like us, you probably spent a good chunk of 2022 glued to your Nintendo Switch, right? And honestly, who could blame you? The year 2022 was an absolutely stellar period for Nintendo's hybrid console, delivering a fantastic array of titles that catered to every kind of gamer out there. From epic RPGs that swallowed hundreds of hours of your life (in the best way possible!) to charming platformers that brought pure joy, and competitive online shooters that kept your reflexes sharp, the Switch truly had it all. We've compiled a rundown of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022, taking cues from IGN's critical acclaim and general fan reception, to highlight the titles that truly defined the year. So, grab your Joy-Cons, get comfy, and let's dive into the amazing games that made 2022 unforgettable on the Switch!

Why 2022 Was a Stellar Year for Switch Gaming

Guys, let's be real: 2022 was a monumental year for the Nintendo Switch, solidifying its reputation as a powerhouse for diverse gaming experiences. The console, already a beloved staple in many households, saw an incredible surge of high-quality releases that truly showcased its versatility and appeal. We're talking about a year where both first-party Nintendo titles and amazing third-party offerings converged to create an unprecedented library of must-play games. One of the key reasons 2022 stood out for Switch gaming was the sheer variety on offer. It wasn't just about one genre dominating; instead, players were treated to a rich tapestry of adventures, puzzles, action, and stories. We saw a bold new direction for one of Nintendo's most iconic franchises with Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which completely reimagined the creature-catching formula, pushing boundaries and delighting fans with its innovative open-zone exploration and real-time battle mechanics. This title alone signaled Nintendo's willingness to experiment and evolve, much to the excitement of players seeking fresh experiences. Beyond that, the year also gave us a masterclass in narrative and world-building with Xenoblade Chronicles 3, an expansive JRPG that captivated audiences with its deep story, complex characters, and breathtaking landscapes, proving that the Switch could handle truly ambitious, console-quality epics. It’s not often you get such a perfect blend of established series taking bold new steps and new entries in beloved sagas delivering on all fronts in a single year. The consistent flow of high-quality games, from triple-A blockbusters to delightful indie gems, ensured that there was always something new and exciting to play, keeping the console relevant and vibrant even as it matured in its lifecycle. This robust release schedule, coupled with Nintendo's commitment to continuous innovation, really made 2022 a landmark year for the Nintendo Switch gaming community, setting a high bar for future years and reminding us all why we love gaming on this amazing console.

Our Top Picks: Diving Deep into the Best Switch Games of 2022

Alright, folks, this is where the rubber meets the road! We're talking about the creme de la creme, the absolute standouts, the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022 that truly captivated us. These are the titles that garnered significant praise, delivered unforgettable experiences, and arguably defined what a great Switch game could be in that fantastic year. Get ready, because these are the games you absolutely needed to play (and still need to play if you haven't already!).

Pokémon Legends: Arceus: A Game Changer for the Franchise

Let's kick things off with a true groundbreaking experience: Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This game wasn't just another Pokémon title; it was a reimagining of the entire franchise, and arguably one of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022. Developed by Game Freak, it took the beloved monster-catching formula and injected it with a thrilling sense of exploration, survival, and real-time action that fans had been dreaming of for years. Set in the ancient Hisui region, a precursor to Sinnoh, the game tasked players with completing the region's first-ever Pokédex by observing, catching, and battling Pokémon in a much more dynamic and immersive way. Gone were the strictly turn-based encounters of the past; instead, you could stealthily approach Pokémon, throw Poké Balls with precision, or even engage in direct, seamless battles without loading screens. This fluidity made the world feel incredibly alive and responsive. The core loop of exploring vast, semi-open zones, researching Pokémon behaviors, and facing off against powerful 'Alpha' and 'Noble' Pokémon was addictive and incredibly rewarding. IGN praised its bold new direction, highlighting how it successfully blended traditional Pokémon elements with modern action-RPG mechanics. The narrative, centered around the mysterious Arceus and the origins of the Pokémon world, was engaging, pulling you deeper into its lore. It wasn't just about catching 'em all; it was about understanding them, about being a pioneer in a wild, untamed land. The art style, though sometimes criticized for technical limitations, perfectly captured the rugged beauty of Hisui, from snowy peaks to lush forests. Furthermore, the introduction of unique crafting mechanics and the ability to ride various Pokémon for faster traversal added layers of depth that kept the gameplay fresh and exciting throughout. Pokémon Legends: Arceus truly proved that even the most established franchises can evolve dramatically, offering a fresh perspective that resonated deeply with both long-time fans and newcomers, solidifying its place as a quintessential experience from 2022 on the Switch.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3: An Epic JRPG Masterpiece

Next up, prepare yourselves for an epic journey that redefined what a JRPG could be on the Switch: Xenoblade Chronicles 3. Monolith Soft absolutely outdid themselves with this title, delivering an incredibly vast, emotionally resonant, and mechanically deep experience that easily ranks among the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022. This game dives into a poignant world where two warring nations, Keves and Agnus, are locked in an endless conflict, with soldiers living only for ten years before fading away. The narrative, following a party composed of members from both sides, is a masterclass in storytelling, exploring profound themes of life, death, war, and unity with a maturity rarely seen in video games. The characters are exceptionally well-developed, each carrying their own burdens, motivations, and hopes, making their journey together feel incredibly personal and impactful. The voice acting, particularly for the English dub, is phenomenal, bringing these characters to life with remarkable depth. But it's not just the story that shines; the gameplay is equally impressive. The combat system, a refined version of its predecessors, is deep, strategic, and exhilarating. Players control a party of six active members, with additional 'Hero' characters joining the fray, allowing for intricate combos, class changes, and the powerful Ouroboros forms where two characters fuse into giant mechs. Exploring the massive, breathtaking world of Aionios is an adventure in itself, filled with hidden secrets, challenging monsters, and beautiful vistas. The sheer scale and detail of the environments are a technical marvel for the Switch, showcasing Monolith Soft's incredible talent for world design. From shimmering lakes to towering mountains, every area feels unique and alive. The side quests are also far from generic fetch quests; many offer compelling mini-narratives that further flesh out the world and its inhabitants, adding significant value and playtime. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 isn't just a game; it's an experience, a sprawling saga that demands your attention and rewards it tenfold with its rich lore, unforgettable characters, and endlessly engaging gameplay. It’s an absolute must-play for JRPG fans and stands as a towering achievement for the console in 2022.

Splatoon 3: Inking Up Fun and Fierce Competition

When it comes to unique and vibrant online multiplayer experiences, very few franchises can hold a candle to Splatoon, and Splatoon 3, released in 2022, proved once again why it's a Nintendo powerhouse. This title brought its signature chaotic, colorful, and utterly addictive ink-slinging action to the Switch, quickly cementing its place as one of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022. At its core, Splatoon 3 retains the beloved 4v4 Turf War mode, where teams compete to cover the most ground in their team's colored ink. This simple yet brilliant premise is still as fresh and engaging as ever, encouraging both strategic thinking and quick reflexes. However, the game significantly expanded upon its predecessors, introducing a brand-new single-player campaign known as 'Return of the Mammalians.' This campaign was not just a tutorial; it was a robust, creative, and challenging adventure that delved deeper into the lore of the Splatoon universe, offering inventive level design and boss battles that truly tested your ink-wielding skills. It was a fantastic way for players to hone their abilities before diving into the online fray. Beyond Turf War, the game also brought back and refined the popular cooperative Salmon Run mode, now available 24/7. This wave-based horde mode, where you collect Golden Eggs from aggressive Salmonids, is incredibly fun and chaotic, providing a perfect alternative for those looking for a different kind of multiplayer challenge with friends. Splatoon 3 also introduced a host of new weapons, stages, and customization options, allowing players to personalize their Inkling or Octoling with a plethora of gear and emotes. The 'Tableturf Battle,' a collectible card game, was a delightful addition, offering a more relaxed, strategic activity. The game's unmistakable art style, catchy soundtrack, and consistently strong online performance make every match feel exhilarating. IGN praised its evolutionary refinements, calling it the ultimate Splatoon experience that builds upon its strong foundations while adding enough new content to keep things exciting. It’s a game that thrives on its community, with regular Splatfests and seasonal updates ensuring a constant flow of new content and reasons to keep coming back. For anyone seeking a high-energy, visually distinct, and incredibly fun multiplayer shooter, Splatoon 3 was undeniably a highlight of 2022 on the Nintendo Switch.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land: A Delightful 3D Platforming Adventure

If you're looking for pure, unadulterated joy in a video game, then look no further than Kirby and the Forgotten Land. This charming 3D platformer, released in 2022, was an absolute breath of fresh air and easily stands tall as one of the best Nintendo Switch games of 2022. It marked Kirby's glorious leap into a full 3D environment, and boy, did HAL Laboratory deliver! The game transports our pink puffball hero to a post-apocalyptic, yet strangely vibrant, world filled with abandoned cities, overgrown malls, and forgotten theme parks. The premise is simple: rescue the Waddle Dees and restore hope to this new land. What makes this game so special is its creativity and relentless charm. Kirby retains his iconic copy abilities, allowing him to swallow enemies and gain their powers, but the real innovation comes with the 'Mouthful Mode.' This hilarious and ingenious mechanic allows Kirby to inhale large objects like cars, vending machines, and even traffic cones, transforming into unique forms that unlock new ways to traverse levels, solve puzzles, and defeat enemies. Imagine driving a car-Kirby through a dilapidated highway or using vending-machine-Kirby to shoot soda cans at foes! This mode is not just a gimmick; it's seamlessly integrated into the level design, offering constant surprises and adding a layer of strategic thinking to the platforming. The levels themselves are masterfully designed, offering a perfect balance of challenge and accessibility, ensuring that both casual players and completionists will find something to love. Each stage is packed with hidden secrets, Waddle Dees to rescue through various objectives, and collectible figures that reward exploration. The boss battles are creative and visually impressive, often utilizing Kirby's Mouthful Mode in clever ways. IGN lauded its delightful gameplay and innovative mechanics, calling it a