Top Nintendo First-Party Games Of 2023: A Must-Play List
Hey guys! 2023 was an absolutely fantastic year for Nintendo fans, and if you're anything like me, you were glued to your Switch for a good chunk of it. So, let's dive into the best first-party Nintendo games that made 2023 such a memorable year. From sprawling open-world adventures to delightful remakes, there was something for everyone. Get ready to relive some of the magic and maybe discover a gem you might have missed!
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Okay, where do I even begin? The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was the game of 2023 for so many of us. Stepping back into Hyrule, but with a whole new verticality thanks to the floating islands and the depths below, was mind-blowing. The sheer freedom Nintendo gave us with the new building mechanics was incredible; seeing what crazy contraptions players came up with was half the fun! Whether you were crafting a makeshift plane, a powerful tank, or just a really elaborate bridge, the possibilities felt endless. Beyond the building, the story was captivating, expanding on the lore established in Breath of the Wild while introducing new mysteries and challenges. The dungeons were epic, the combat was refined, and the world was just begging to be explored. Seriously, I spent hours just wandering around, discovering new secrets and taking in the breathtaking scenery. If you haven't already, you absolutely need to experience Tears of the Kingdom. It's not just a game; it's a masterpiece. The way Nintendo managed to evolve the open-world formula while still retaining the core Zelda charm is nothing short of amazing. From the intricate puzzles to the memorable characters, every aspect of the game felt carefully crafted and polished to perfection. And let's not forget the music – the soundtrack was simply stunning, perfectly complementing the game's atmosphere and enhancing every moment. It's a game that will stay with you long after you've finished the main story, and one that you'll likely find yourself revisiting time and time again. Tears of the Kingdom sets a new standard for open-world games and is a testament to Nintendo's dedication to innovation and quality. So grab your Switch, prepare for an unforgettable adventure, and get ready to lose yourself in the wonders of Hyrule once again!
Metroid Prime Remastered
Speaking of masterpieces, Metroid Prime Remastered was a fantastic surprise. Seeing this GameCube classic get a modern makeover was a dream come true for long-time Metroid fans. The updated visuals were stunning, bringing the eerie atmosphere of Tallon IV to life like never before. But it wasn't just a pretty face; the controls were tightened up, making the exploration and combat feel incredibly smooth and responsive. Diving back into Samus Aran's adventure, uncovering the secrets of the Chozo and battling menacing space pirates was an absolute blast. The isolation and sense of dread that permeated the original game were perfectly preserved, making for a truly immersive experience. Whether you were a veteran Metroid player or a newcomer to the series, Metroid Prime Remastered was a must-play. The way Retro Studios managed to modernize the game while staying true to its roots was truly remarkable. From the meticulously recreated environments to the enhanced sound design, every aspect of the remaster was handled with care and attention to detail. It's a testament to the enduring quality of the original game and a reminder of why Metroid Prime is considered one of the greatest games of all time. The improved controls made navigating Tallon IV a breeze, and the updated visuals made every encounter with the planet's hostile inhabitants feel even more intense. If you missed out on Metroid Prime the first time around, now is the perfect opportunity to experience this classic adventure in its best form. So suit up, grab your beam cannon, and get ready to explore the mysteries of Tallon IV in Metroid Prime Remastered!
Pikmin 4
For something a bit different, Pikmin 4 offered a charming and strategic adventure. Guiding your little Pikmin buddies to overcome obstacles and battle creatures was as addictive as ever. The introduction of Oatchi, your canine companion, added a fun new layer to the gameplay, allowing you to explore areas and take on challenges in new ways. The game's colorful world was a joy to explore, and the Pikmin themselves were just so darn cute! Whether you were a seasoned Pikmin commander or a newcomer to the series, Pikmin 4 was a delightful experience. The puzzles were clever, the combat was engaging, and the sense of accomplishment you felt after successfully completing a challenging task was incredibly satisfying. The addition of night expeditions added a new level of tension to the gameplay, as you had to protect your Pikmin from hordes of enemies in the dark. And let's not forget the Dandori challenges, which tested your strategic thinking and time management skills. Pikmin 4 is a perfect example of Nintendo's ability to create unique and engaging gameplay experiences that appeal to players of all ages. So gather your Pikmin, embark on a new adventure, and get ready to explore the wonders of Pikmin 4!
Fire Emblem Engage
Fire Emblem Engage brought us more of that classic tactical RPG gameplay we all know and love, with a few cool twists. The Emblem Rings, which allowed you to summon legendary Fire Emblem characters like Marth and Celica, added a new strategic layer to battles. Figuring out the best way to utilize these powerful heroes was key to victory. The story was engaging, the characters were memorable, and the tactical combat was as challenging as ever. If you're a fan of the Fire Emblem series, Fire Emblem Engage was a must-play. The addition of the Emblem Rings added a new level of depth to the gameplay, allowing you to customize your units and create unique strategies. The story was captivating, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you engaged. And let's not forget the stunning visuals and the epic soundtrack, which perfectly complemented the game's atmosphere. Fire Emblem Engage is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Fire Emblem series and a must-have for any fan of tactical RPGs. So gather your troops, prepare for battle, and get ready to Engage in an epic adventure!
Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe
For some classic side-scrolling fun, Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe was a delightful remake. Playing through this Wii classic with updated visuals and new abilities was a blast. The multiplayer mode was perfect for some chaotic fun with friends, and the new Magolor Epilogue added a fun post-game challenge. Whether you were a long-time Kirby fan or a newcomer to the series, Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe was a charming and enjoyable experience. The updated visuals made the game look better than ever, and the new abilities added a fresh twist to the classic gameplay. The multiplayer mode was perfect for some cooperative fun, and the new Magolor Epilogue provided a satisfying conclusion to the story. Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe is a perfect example of Nintendo's ability to revitalize classic games for a new audience. So grab your friends, get ready to inhale some enemies, and embark on a deluxe adventure with Kirby!
In Conclusion
So there you have it, guys! My top picks for the best first-party Nintendo games of 2023. It was an amazing year for Nintendo fans, and I can't wait to see what they have in store for us in the future. Did your favorite game make the list? Let me know in the comments below!