Nintendo Switch Gameplay In 2022: A Year In Review

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 51 views

Hey there, fellow gamers! Let's dive into the amazing world of Nintendo Switch gameplay in 2022. It was a year packed with incredible titles, surprising hits, and unforgettable gaming moments. Whether you're a seasoned Switch veteran or a newbie just joining the fun, there's so much to explore and appreciate about the gaming experiences this console delivered during the year. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's jump right in!

The Biggest Nintendo Switch Games of 2022

When we talk about Nintendo Switch gameplay 2022, we absolutely have to start with the heavy hitters. These are the games that dominated the charts, captured our imaginations, and had everyone glued to their screens. These titles weren't just games; they were cultural moments, creating discussions, speedruns, and countless hours of entertainment.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus: Kicking things off with a bang, Pokémon Legends: Arceus redefined the Pokémon experience. Shifting from the traditional turn-based battles to a more open-world, action-oriented approach, this game was a breath of fresh air for the franchise. Exploring the vast Hisui region, catching Pokémon in real-time, and uncovering the mysteries of Arceus made for compelling gameplay. The changes to the established formula were welcomed by many and it revitalized the franchise, proving that even beloved series can evolve and surprise us. The sense of adventure was palpable, and the thrill of encountering rare Pokémon in the wild was genuinely exciting. It wasn't just about catching 'em all; it was about understanding them and living alongside them in a vibrant ecosystem. This game set a new standard for Pokémon games and showed a promising future for the series.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land: Who knew Kirby in 3D could be so much fun? Kirby and the Forgotten Land took the pink puffball into a post-apocalyptic world, and it was a match made in heaven. The gameplay was classic Kirby platforming with a twist – the new Mouthful Mode. This allowed Kirby to inhale objects like cars and vending machines, adding a hilarious and strategic layer to the gameplay. Exploring the vibrant, ruined landscapes and battling quirky enemies was an absolute joy. The game was accessible for newcomers but still offered a challenge for veteran players. The sheer creativity of the level design and the charm of the characters made it a standout title. It was a delightful adventure that reminded us why we love Kirby and showcased the character's versatility in a new dimension.
Splatoon 3: Inklings and Octolings, assemble! Splatoon 3 continued the series' legacy of colorful, chaotic, and competitive fun. With new weapons, maps, and a fresh storyline, this game offered endless hours of entertainment. The core gameplay of turf wars remained addictive, and the new Salmon Run mode provided a thrilling cooperative experience. Splatoon 3 wasn't just an iteration; it was an evolution. The improvements to the online infrastructure made matches smoother, and the expanded customization options allowed players to express themselves even further. Whether you were a seasoned Splatoon veteran or a fresh recruit, there was something to love in this vibrant and energetic shooter. The community rallied around this game, creating a thriving online ecosystem filled with tournaments, fan art, and shared experiences.
Nintendo Switch Sports: Bringing back the magic of Wii Sports, Nintendo Switch Sports offered a collection of family-friendly games that got everyone moving. From tennis to bowling to chambara, the game provided simple yet engaging gameplay that was perfect for parties and gatherings. The use of the Joy-Cons for motion control was intuitive and immersive, making it easy for players of all ages to pick up and play. While it may not have been the most complex game, it captured the essence of fun and brought people together in a way that few games can. It was a reminder that gaming can be a social activity and that sometimes the simplest games are the most enjoyable. The regular updates and new sports added throughout the year kept the experience fresh and exciting.

Underrated Gems and Hidden Treasures

Beyond the blockbuster titles, Nintendo Switch gameplay 2022 also shined with some lesser-known gems. These are the games that might have flown under the radar but offered unique and memorable experiences for those who discovered them.

Tunic: This charming action-adventure game drew inspiration from classic Zelda titles but with its own unique twist. Playing as a small fox in a vast world, players explored dungeons, solved puzzles, and battled enemies. The game's most intriguing aspect was its in-game instruction manual, written in a mysterious language that players had to decipher to understand the game's mechanics and lore. Tunic was a masterclass in game design, blending nostalgia with innovation. The sense of discovery was constant, and the satisfaction of unraveling the game's secrets was incredibly rewarding. It was a game that respected the player's intelligence and encouraged exploration and experimentation.
Cult of the Lamb: This quirky mix of roguelike action and cult simulation was as addictive as it was bizarre. Players controlled a possessed lamb who had to build a cult in the name of a mysterious deity. Gathering resources, constructing buildings, and indoctrinating followers were all part of the daily grind. The combat was fast-paced and challenging, and the art style was both cute and unsettling. Cult of the Lamb was a unique and memorable experience that stood out from the crowd. It was a game that wasn't afraid to be different and that offered a darkly humorous take on the cult phenomenon. The combination of gameplay styles kept things fresh, and the constant progression kept players engaged.
Live A Live: A revival of a classic SNES game, Live A Live brought a unique anthology of stories to the Switch. With different protagonists and time periods, each chapter offered its own gameplay mechanics and narrative themes. From a martial arts master in ancient China to a robot in the distant future, Live A Live was a celebration of diversity and storytelling. The game's pixel art was beautifully rendered, and the soundtrack was both nostalgic and modern. It was a game that honored its roots while also offering a fresh experience for new players. The interconnectedness of the stories and the overarching themes made for a thought-provoking and memorable journey.

The Rise of Indie Games

The Nintendo Switch gameplay 2022 scene wouldn't be complete without mentioning the incredible indie games that graced the platform. The Switch has become a haven for independent developers, and 2022 was no exception. These games often brought fresh ideas, unique art styles, and innovative gameplay mechanics to the table.

Neon White: This fast-paced, stylish action game combined first-person shooting with card-based abilities. Playing as an assassin from Hell, players had to eliminate demons using a variety of weapons and special moves. The game's speedrunning focus and its unique art style made it a standout title. Neon White was a adrenaline-fueled experience that rewarded skill and precision. The combination of shooting and card mechanics created a satisfying gameplay loop, and the leaderboard system encouraged players to constantly improve their times. It was a game that was easy to pick up but difficult to master, and it offered a unique take on the first-person shooter genre.
Stray: Although technically released on other platforms as well, Stray found a huge audience on the Switch. Playing as a stray cat in a cyberpunk city, players had to solve puzzles, navigate environments, and interact with robots to uncover the mysteries of the world. The game's unique perspective and its heartwarming story made it a memorable experience. Stray was a game that captured the essence of being a cat, from exploring tight spaces to knocking things off shelves. The atmosphere of the cyberpunk city was immersive, and the interactions with the robots were both charming and thought-provoking. It was a game that resonated with players of all ages and that offered a unique and memorable perspective.

What Made Nintendo Switch Gameplay 2022 Special?

So, what exactly made Nintendo Switch gameplay 2022 so special? It wasn't just about the individual games; it was about the overall experience and the impact these games had on the gaming community. The Nintendo Switch continued to prove its versatility as a console, offering a mix of AAA titles, indie gems, and family-friendly experiences. The console's portability allowed players to take their games on the go, and its unique features, like the Joy-Cons, opened up new possibilities for gameplay.

Variety of Games: The Switch offered a diverse library of games that catered to a wide range of tastes. From action-packed adventures to relaxing simulations, there was something for everyone on the Switch. This variety was a key factor in the console's success and its ability to attract a broad audience.
Innovation: Many of the games released in 2022 pushed the boundaries of what's possible on the Switch. Whether it was through innovative gameplay mechanics or unique art styles, these games showed that the Switch was capable of delivering experiences that couldn't be found anywhere else.
Community: The Nintendo Switch has a strong and passionate community of players who love to share their experiences, create content, and support each other. This community played a vital role in the success of many of the games released in 2022.

In conclusion, Nintendo Switch gameplay 2022 was a year to remember. From the blockbuster titles to the hidden gems, the Switch delivered a wealth of incredible gaming experiences that will be cherished for years to come. So, here's to more exciting adventures and unforgettable moments on the Nintendo Switch! What were your favorite games of the year? Let us know in the comments below!