The year 2024 proved to be a successful period for Nintendo and its flagship console, the Nintendo Switch. However, the excitement around the impending announcement of a new console somewhat eclipsed the remarkable releases that fans enjoyed throughout the year.
Despite this anticipation, the Nintendo Switch had its share of exciting exclusives. In this recap, we will explore the top seven Nintendo exclusives that stood out in 2024.
8. Mario vs. Donkey Kong
An Enjoyable Remake
As Nintendo gears up for the future, it has still managed to release a variety of games this year, prominently featuring remakes. One highlight is Mario vs. Donkey Kong, a reimagining of the beloved 2004 Game Boy Advance title that delivers a delightful platforming experience.
This game successfully balances accessible difficulty for newcomers while offering challenges for seasoned players in specific modes. Its compelling pick-up-and-play nature, enhanced visuals, and refined controls showcase why it deserved to be remade sooner.
While it may not secure accolades, Mario vs. Donkey Kong embodies the stellar platforming that Nintendo fans cherish, making it an excellent choice for quick entertainment.
7. Princess Peach: Showtime!
Lights, Camera, Action
If you’re in search of an original game instead of a remake, Princess Peach: Showtime! is a fantastic option. It’s high time that Nintendo featured Peach in a role that truly highlights her character. With its theatrical theme, adorable costumes, and catchy music, this title hits all the right notes.
Although some gameplay elements may feel repetitive, the standout boss battles provide ample motivation to keep players engaged. While it may not be award-winning, this title delivers an enjoyable experience well worth your time.
6. Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition
Party Like It’s 1985
Nintendo has enjoyed a resurgence with its digital reinterpretations of classic favorites, including hits like Tetris 99 and F-Zero 99. The Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition continues this trend, focusing on speedrunning iconic NES moments.
This game invites players to race through over 150 challenges drawn from classics like Super Mario Bros. and Metroid. It serves as a brilliant showcase of nostalgia while offering bite-sized gameplay, making it a valuable addition to Nintendo’s digital library.
5. Mario & Luigi: Brothership
A Much-Anticipated Return
After a six-year hiatus since Bowser’s Inside Story + Bowser Jr.’s Journey, gamers are finally treated to Mario & Luigi: Brothership. This title retains the series’ vibrant visuals, humor, and engaging combat system, all the while proving that the franchise can thrive without AlphaDream.
Brothership preserves the essence of RPG gameplay, allowing players to revisit beloved characters alongside fresh new faces. It’s a robust adventure packed with content beyond the primary narrative, ensuring it’s a satisfying experience for fans of the genre.
4. Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD
Dark Moon
The 2013 release of Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon transformed a mediocre launch title into a fan favorite on the Nintendo 3DS. The 2024 remake, Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD, revitalizes the classic with stunning visuals and significant enhancements.
Removing the limitations of 3DS hardware, this HD version boasts quality-of-life improvements and gameplay upgrades that ensure an engaging experience for both newcomers and returning players alike. The revitalization brings forth enough freshness that even loyal fans will appreciate the new polish.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Super Zelda Maker
The latest entries in the Legend of Zelda franchise have showcased two beautiful art styles on the Nintendo Switch, and Echoes of Wisdom harmoniously blends these aesthetics. It borrows elements from the charming Link’s Awakening remake, creating a vibrant playground for exploration.
This title effectively marries traditional 2D gameplay mechanics with the innovative concepts introduced in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. With puzzle-solving and combat challenges, it allows players to express creativity, drawing parallels to the Super Mario Maker franchise.
Echoes of Wisdom is more than just a spin-off; it establishes its relevance among other mainline titles within the Zelda universe.
2. Super Mario Party Jamboree
It’s Party Time
Rejoice, as Super Mario Party makes a triumphant return! Super Mario Party Jamboree addresses the shortcomings of its predecessor while drawing inspiration from the success of Mario Party Superstars.
This new installment merges classic mini-games and boards with exciting new challenges, and the ability to customize game rules allows for a personalized experience. Players can now vote on mini-games, eliminating the randomness that previously plagued the franchise.
If this new direction for the franchise continues, Super Mario Party Jamboree may very well become my top Nintendo title of the year, but first, we must acknowledge one more remastered favorite.
1. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Finally!
After two decades, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has made its way back to modern consoles, and it is nothing short of a masterpiece. While it may not offer as much new content as titles like Luigi’s Mansion 2 or Metroid Prime: Remastered, it holds its own as an exceptional game.
Quality-of-life improvements significantly enhance the overall experience, addressing prior critiques while preserving the charm and gameplay that captivated fans in the first place. The combat system still feels fresh, making it a must-have addition for any Nintendo Switch collection.
Whether you are revisiting this classic after years or experiencing it for the first time, make it a priority to play Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door.
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