Top Nintendo First-Party Games Of 2023: A Must-Play List
Hey guys! Ready to dive into the amazing world of Nintendo's first-party games from 2023? Nintendo absolutely killed it with a lineup that kept us glued to our Switches. We're talking about the games that scream Nintendo's unique charm and innovation. So, let's jump right in and explore the must-play titles that made 2023 a banner year for Nintendo fans!
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Okay, let's be real – no discussion about Nintendo in 2023 is complete without bowing down to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. This game isn't just a sequel; it's a complete evolution of the Breath of the Wild formula. Nintendo took what made the original so magical and cranked it up to eleven. The sheer scale of Hyrule, now expanded with floating islands and mysterious depths, is mind-blowing. You could spend hundreds of hours exploring every nook and cranny, and still find something new and surprising.
But it's not just the world that's impressive; it's what you can do in it. The new abilities, like Ultrahand, Fuse, and Ascend, completely redefine how you interact with the environment. Ultrahand lets you build vehicles, contraptions, and solutions to puzzles that are only limited by your imagination. Want to create a flying machine? Go for it! Need to construct a bridge across a chasm? Ultrahand has you covered. Fuse allows you to combine weapons and items to create powerful new tools and attacks. Imagine fusing a rock to a stick to make a hammer, or combining a shield with a fire emitter to set enemies ablaze. The possibilities are endless!
Ascend, on the other hand, lets you travel vertically through solid objects, opening up new pathways and secrets in the environment. This ability completely changes how you approach exploration and puzzle-solving. It's like having a built-in teleportation device that lets you bypass obstacles and discover hidden areas. The game's story is also a major highlight, delving deeper into the lore of Hyrule and the ancient conflicts that shaped its destiny. Link's journey is filled with emotional moments, epic battles, and memorable characters that will stay with you long after you finish the game. From soaring through the skies to delving into the depths of Hyrule, Tears of the Kingdom is an unforgettable adventure that sets a new standard for open-world games. It's a masterpiece that every Nintendo fan should experience. Seriously, if you haven't played it yet, what are you waiting for?
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Next up, we have Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which is like a shot of pure, unadulterated joy straight to the heart. Nintendo has a knack for reinventing the Mario series, and Wonder is no exception. It takes the classic 2D platforming formula and injects it with a healthy dose of the unexpected. The result? A game that's constantly surprising and delighting you with its creativity.
The big new addition in Wonder is, well, the Wonder Flowers. These magical items transform the levels in crazy and unpredictable ways. Suddenly, pipes might start moving, the ground could tilt, or you might even turn into a Goomba! These Wonder Effects are not just visual gimmicks; they fundamentally change how you play the game. You have to adapt to the ever-shifting environments and use your platforming skills in new and inventive ways. But it's not just the Wonder Flowers that make this game special. The level design is brilliant, with each stage packed full of secrets, challenges, and hidden areas to discover. The new power-ups, like the Elephant Fruit, add even more variety to the gameplay. Who wouldn't want to play as an elephant Mario?
Super Mario Bros. Wonder also shines in its multiplayer mode. You can team up with up to three friends and tackle the levels together. The chaotic fun of coordinating jumps, reviving fallen teammates, and discovering secrets as a group is an absolute blast. It's the perfect game to play with family and friends, and it's guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Whether you're a longtime Mario fan or new to the series, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a must-play title that showcases Nintendo's creativity and commitment to fun. It's a whimsical, inventive, and utterly charming game that will leave you feeling like a kid again. It's also great for introducing new players to the Mario universe. The gameplay is accessible, the controls are intuitive, and the difficulty is just right. So, gather your friends and family, grab a controller, and get ready for a Wonder-ful adventure!
Pikmin 4
Don't even get me started about Pikmin 4! For those of you who are not familiar, the Pikmin series is a unique blend of strategy, puzzle-solving, and exploration. You control Captain Olimar, who crash-lands on an alien planet and must enlist the help of the native Pikmin to repair his ship and escape. Pikmin 4 takes this core concept and expands upon it in meaningful ways.
The first big change is the introduction of Oatchi, a space dog who accompanies you on your adventures. Oatchi can help you carry heavy objects, attack enemies, and even learn new abilities throughout the game. He's not just a cute sidekick; he's an integral part of the gameplay. The level design in Pikmin 4 is also top-notch. Each area is filled with secrets, challenges, and environmental puzzles that require careful planning and execution. You'll need to use the different types of Pikmin strategically to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. Red Pikmin are resistant to fire, Blue Pikmin can swim, and Yellow Pikmin can conduct electricity. Learning how to utilize each type of Pikmin effectively is key to success.
Pikmin 4 also introduces new Pikmin types, adding even more depth to the gameplay. Ice Pikmin can freeze enemies and water surfaces, while Glow Pikmin are essential for exploring dark caves and nighttime areas. The game's Dandori Challenges are a highlight, testing your ability to efficiently collect resources and complete objectives within a time limit. These challenges require quick thinking, precise movements, and a thorough understanding of the Pikmin's abilities. Whether you're a long-time Pikmin fan or new to the series, Pikmin 4 is a must-play title that offers a unique and rewarding gaming experience. It's a game that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. And it's also just plain fun. So, gather your Pikmin, hop aboard your ship, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Metroid Prime Remastered
Alright, Metroid Prime Remastered deserves a special mention. While it's a remaster of a GameCube classic, it felt like a brand-new experience in 2023. The updated graphics, improved controls, and enhanced audio breathed new life into this beloved first-person adventure. Playing as Samus Aran, you explore the desolate planet Tallon IV, uncovering the mysteries of the Chozo civilization and battling the parasitic Metroids. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and the sense of isolation is palpable. Metroid Prime is a masterclass in environmental storytelling. The game's world is richly detailed, and every room tells a story. As you explore, you'll scan objects to learn more about the planet's history, its inhabitants, and the events that led to its current state. The scanning mechanic is not just a way to gather information; it's an integral part of the gameplay experience.
The combat in Metroid Prime Remastered is also excellent. Samus is equipped with a variety of weapons and abilities, including her iconic Power Beam, Missiles, and Morph Ball. You'll need to use these tools strategically to defeat the various enemies you encounter, from the humble Space Pirates to the towering Metroids. The boss battles are particularly memorable, requiring you to exploit the enemies' weaknesses and use your abilities to their fullest potential. Metroid Prime Remastered is more than just a visual upgrade; it's a complete reimagining of a classic game. The improved controls make the game more accessible to modern players, while the enhanced graphics and audio immerse you in the world of Tallon IV like never before. Whether you're a long-time Metroid fan or new to the series, Metroid Prime Remastered is a must-play title that showcases Nintendo's commitment to preserving its legacy. It's a game that will stay with you long after you finish it.
Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe
Let's finish off with a dose of pure, unadulterated Kirby fun. Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe is a delightful remake of the Wii classic, bringing the cooperative platforming action to a new generation of players. You and up to three friends can team up as Kirby and his pals – King Dedede, Meta Knight, and Bandana Waddle Dee – to save the alien Magolor from a dimensional rift.
The gameplay in Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe is classic Kirby fare. You'll run, jump, float, and inhale enemies to copy their abilities. The game features a wide variety of copy abilities, from the classic Sword and Fire to the new Mecha and Sand. Each ability offers unique ways to traverse the levels and defeat enemies. The level design is colorful, creative, and packed with secrets. You'll explore lush forests, underwater caverns, and even outer space. The game's puzzles are clever but not overly difficult, making it accessible to players of all skill levels.
Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe also features a variety of mini-games that can be played solo or with friends. These mini-games offer a fun and lighthearted distraction from the main adventure. The game's visuals have been updated with a charming, colorful art style that perfectly captures the spirit of the Kirby series. The music is catchy and upbeat, adding to the game's overall sense of fun and whimsy. Whether you're a long-time Kirby fan or new to the series, Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe is a must-play title that offers a delightful and accessible gaming experience. It's a game that's perfect for playing with friends and family, and it's guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. So, grab a controller, gather your friends, and get ready for a Kirby-filled adventure!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, guys! These first-party Nintendo games of 2023 were an absolute blast, proving once again why Nintendo is a legend in the gaming world. Each game offered something unique and special, whether it was the epic scale of Tears of the Kingdom, the inventive gameplay of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, the strategic depth of Pikmin 4, the atmospheric exploration of Metroid Prime Remastered, or the co-op fun of Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe. If you own a Switch, make sure you don't miss out on these titles. Happy gaming!