IGN's Top Nintendo Switch Games Of 2022
Alright gamers, gather 'round! If you've been looking to inject some serious fun into your Nintendo Switch library, you've come to the right place. We're diving deep into the IGN Best Switch Games of 2022, a curated list that highlights the absolute cream of the crop. We're talking about titles that not only defined the year for the little hybrid console but also offered experiences so compelling, they'll stick with you long after the credits roll. Forget the fluff; this is about the games that truly made a mark, pushing boundaries, delivering unforgettable stories, and providing hours upon hours of pure, unadulterated joy. Whether you're a seasoned Switch veteran or just dipping your toes into the Nintendo ecosystem, this guide is your ticket to discovering (or rediscovering) some of the most impactful gaming experiences of the year. So grab your Joy-Cons, get comfy, and let's explore the digital realms that IGN's experts deemed worthy of the ultimate praise. We'll be breaking down why each game earned its spot, what makes it special, and why you absolutely need to play it. Get ready to update those wishlists, folks!
Xenoblade Chronicles 3: A Sprawling Epic
Let's kick things off with a game that, for many, was the Nintendo Switch in 2022: Xenoblade Chronicles 3. Seriously, guys, if you're a fan of JRPGs, you owe it to yourself to experience this masterpiece. IGN certainly thought so, placing it high on their list of best Switch games for 2022, and for good reason. This isn't just another entry in the series; it's a colossal, ambitious undertaking that expands on everything that made its predecessors great. The story here is deep, exploring themes of life, death, and the futility of endless war through the eyes of a group of soldiers from opposing nations. It’s a narrative that’s both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating, keeping you hooked from start to finish. And the sheer scale of the world? Absolutely breathtaking. From lush, rolling fields to desolate, war-torn landscapes, Aionios is a character in itself, begging to be explored. Exploration isn't just rewarded with stunning vistas; it's packed with secrets, side quests, and challenging monsters that will test your mettle. The combat system, a hallmark of the Xenoblade series, returns with even more depth. It’s a real-time system that requires strategic thinking, careful positioning, and smart use of character abilities. Mastering the arts, switching between characters, and coordinating devastating chain attacks is incredibly satisfying. Plus, the addition of Ouroboros forms, allowing two characters to fuse into a powerful new entity, adds a fresh layer of tactical complexity. The presentation is also top-notch, with a beautiful art style, a phenomenal orchestral soundtrack that swells and immerses you in the world, and character designs that are both memorable and expressive. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 isn't just a game; it's an event. It’s the kind of JRPG that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place, offering a journey that is as emotionally impactful as it is mechanically satisfying. IGN recognized this colossal achievement, and it stands as a testament to what the Nintendo Switch is capable of when developers pour their hearts and souls into a project. If you have the time and the inclination for a truly epic adventure, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is an absolute must-play and a shining example of the best Switch games 2022 had to offer.
Splatoon 3: Ink Your Way to Victory
Next up, we've got a title that brings vibrant color and chaotic fun to the Switch: Splatoon 3. This game absolutely splashed onto the scene in 2022 and quickly became a fan favorite, earning its rightful place among IGN's best Switch games. If you're looking for a shooter that's fresh, stylish, and utterly unique, look no further. Splatoon 3 takes the core formula that made the series so beloved – turf wars where players ink the ground instead of just splatting opponents – and injects it with a massive dose of new content and refinements. The core gameplay loop is addictive. You play as an Inkling or Octoling, customizing your character and diving into fast-paced matches. The objective in the main mode, Turf War, is simple: cover more of the arena with your team's ink than the opposing team. It sounds straightforward, but the strategic depth is surprisingly high. Do you focus on covering territory, or do you go for splatting the enemy team? Knowing when to push, when to defend, and how to use your ink for movement and traversal is key. Splatoon 3 ramps up the action with an expanded arsenal of weapons, including new ones like the Stringer (a bow-like weapon) and the Splatana (a sword), each offering distinct playstyles. The introduction of special weapons, like the Trizooka and Crab Tank, adds even more explosive potential to matches. Beyond the core multiplayer, Splatoon 3 also boasts a robust single-player campaign,