Top Nintendo First-Party Games Of 2023: A Definitive Guide
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the amazing world of Nintendo's first-party titles from 2023? This year has been an absolute blast for Nintendo fans, with a mix of new IPs, long-awaited sequels, and innovative takes on classic franchises. So, buckle up as we explore the best Nintendo first-party games that made 2023 unforgettable.
What are First-Party Nintendo Games?
Before we jump in, let's clarify what we mean by "first-party Nintendo games." These are games developed, published, and owned by Nintendo. This means you're getting the authentic Nintendo experience, crafted by the very people who brought us iconic characters like Mario, Zelda, and Pikachu. These games often showcase the unique capabilities of Nintendo's hardware, offering experiences you simply can't find anywhere else.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Let's kick things off with the big one: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Seriously, this game was on everyone's radar, and it more than delivered on the hype. As a direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom expands upon its predecessor's open-world formula in truly breathtaking ways.
Gameplay and Mechanics
In Tears of the Kingdom, you once again step into the shoes of Link, who embarks on an epic quest to save Hyrule from a new, mysterious threat. The gameplay is familiar yet fresh, with a massive emphasis on exploration, creativity, and emergent storytelling. What sets this game apart are the new abilities Link gains, particularly the power to fuse objects together to create vehicles, weapons, and all sorts of crazy contraptions. This mechanic opens up unprecedented possibilities for solving puzzles and traversing the environment.
The sheer scale of Hyrule is mind-boggling. The game introduces floating islands in the sky, offering a vast vertical dimension to explore. Diving from these islands, gliding through the air, and seamlessly transitioning to the ground below creates a sense of freedom that few games can match. Exploration is key, and every corner of the map is packed with secrets, challenges, and rewarding discoveries.
Story and World-Building
The story of Tears of the Kingdom is rich and compelling, delving deeper into Hyrule's lore and history. The narrative is intricately woven into the gameplay, with environmental storytelling playing a significant role. As you explore ruins, interact with characters, and uncover ancient mysteries, you'll piece together a grand narrative that is both epic and deeply personal.
Why It's a Must-Play
Tears of the Kingdom isn't just a game; it's an experience. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, vast open world, and compelling story make it a standout title in the Zelda series and a highlight of 2023. Whether you're a long-time Zelda fan or new to the franchise, this game is an absolute must-play. The sense of adventure and discovery is unparalleled, and you'll find yourself losing hours exploring every nook and cranny of Hyrule. It's a true masterpiece that showcases Nintendo's commitment to innovation and quality. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a triumph, solidifying its place as one of the best first-party Nintendo games of all time.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Next up, we have Super Mario Bros. Wonder, a vibrant and imaginative addition to the iconic Mario franchise. This game takes the classic side-scrolling formula and injects it with a healthy dose of creativity and surprise. If you thought you knew everything about Mario games, think again – Wonder is here to shake things up.
Gameplay Innovations
Super Mario Bros. Wonder introduces "Wonder Flowers," which trigger unexpected and transformative effects on the game world. These effects can range from turning the levels upside down to transforming characters into different forms. The Wonder Flowers add a layer of unpredictability and excitement to every level, ensuring that players are constantly on their toes. The creativity in level design is off the charts, with each stage offering a unique and memorable experience.
The game also features new power-ups, such as the Elephant Mario, which allows players to smash through obstacles and spray water. These power-ups add new dimensions to the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment and find creative solutions to challenges. The multiplayer mode is another highlight, allowing up to four players to team up and tackle levels together. The cooperative gameplay is chaotic and fun, making it a perfect game for parties and family gatherings.
Visuals and Art Style
Visually, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a treat. The game features a vibrant and colorful art style that is both charming and visually stunning. The character animations are expressive and full of personality, bringing the Mushroom Kingdom to life in a way that feels fresh and modern. The backgrounds are richly detailed and full of surprises, making exploration a joy.
Why It Stands Out
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a testament to Nintendo's ability to reinvent its classic franchises. The game's innovative gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and imaginative level design make it a standout title in the Mario series. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the franchise, Wonder offers a delightful and surprising experience that will keep you coming back for more. It's a perfect example of why Mario games continue to be beloved by gamers of all ages. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner, showcasing the best of what the platform has to offer.
Pikmin 4
Don't overlook Pikmin 4! This charming strategy game brings players back to the whimsical world of Pikmin, where you lead tiny, plant-like creatures on a quest to explore and survive. Pikmin 4 builds upon the series' core mechanics with new features and improvements, making it both accessible to newcomers and engaging for long-time fans.
Gameplay and Strategy
In Pikmin 4, you play as a customizable character who crash-lands on an alien planet. Your mission is to rescue other stranded explorers with the help of the Pikmin. These adorable creatures come in various types, each with unique abilities. Red Pikmin are resistant to fire, Blue Pikmin can swim, and Yellow Pikmin can conduct electricity. Strategic use of these Pikmin is crucial for overcoming obstacles and defeating enemies.
The game introduces new Pikmin types, such as the Ice Pikmin, which can freeze enemies and create icy surfaces. These new additions add depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment with different strategies. The introduction of Oatchi, a space dog companion, is another welcome addition. Oatchi can help carry heavy objects, attack enemies, and even learn new skills, making him an invaluable asset in your adventure.
Exploration and Discovery
Pikmin 4's environments are richly detailed and full of secrets to uncover. The game encourages exploration, rewarding players who take the time to explore every nook and cranny. From lush forests to treacherous caves, each area presents unique challenges and opportunities. The day-night cycle adds another layer of strategy, as Pikmin become more vulnerable at night, requiring players to find safe havens before darkness falls.
Why It's Worth Playing
Pikmin 4 is a delightful blend of strategy, exploration, and charm. Its accessible gameplay, engaging mechanics, and adorable characters make it a standout title in the series. Whether you're a seasoned Pikmin veteran or new to the franchise, Pikmin 4 offers a captivating and rewarding experience. The game's strategic depth will keep you engaged, while its charming world and characters will warm your heart. Pikmin 4 is a testament to Nintendo's ability to create unique and memorable gaming experiences, making it a must-play for any strategy game fan.
Other Notable First-Party Titles
While The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and Pikmin 4 stole the spotlight, Nintendo released a treasure trove of other first-party games. These titles, while perhaps not as widely discussed, still offer unique and enjoyable experiences for Nintendo Switch owners. Let's take a quick look at some of these gems:
- Metroid Prime Remastered: A beautifully updated version of the GameCube classic, Metroid Prime Remastered brings Samus Aran's first-person adventure to a new generation. With improved graphics, controls, and audio, this remaster is a must-play for Metroid fans. The immersive atmosphere and engaging exploration make it a standout title in the series.
- Fire Emblem Engage: This strategy RPG brings together heroes from across the Fire Emblem series in an epic battle against darkness. With its engaging story, deep tactical gameplay, and stunning visuals, Fire Emblem Engage is a must-play for fans of the genre. The intricate character relationships and strategic battles will keep you hooked for hours.
- Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe: A delightful remake of the Wii classic, Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe offers charming co-op gameplay and a host of new features. With its colorful visuals, accessible gameplay, and fun multiplayer mode, this game is perfect for families and friends. The variety of abilities and levels ensures that there's always something new to discover.
Final Thoughts
2023 was a fantastic year for Nintendo first-party games. From the epic adventures of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom to the imaginative wonders of Super Mario Bros. Wonder and the strategic charm of Pikmin 4, Nintendo delivered a diverse and high-quality lineup of titles. These games showcase Nintendo's commitment to innovation, creativity, and fun, making them must-plays for any Nintendo Switch owner. So, whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or new to the platform, there's something for everyone in this year's lineup. Here's to more amazing games in the years to come!