Nintendo Switch Launch Games: A 2017 Throwback

Hey guys! Remember the Nintendo Switch launch back in 2017? It feels like ages ago, but the excitement was real! Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the games that were available right from day one. Whether you were a launch day buyer or joined the party later, these titles helped define the early days of the Switch and set the stage for its massive success. Get ready for a nostalgic dive into the launch titles that kicked off the Nintendo Switch era!

A Look Back at the Nintendo Switch Launch

The Nintendo Switch, launched in March 2017, was a game-changer—literally. The concept of a hybrid console that could seamlessly transition between a home console and a portable gaming device was revolutionary. Nintendo had a lot riding on the Switch after the somewhat lukewarm reception of the Wii U. The marketing was brilliant, showcasing the console's versatility and social gaming aspects. Remember those ads showing friends playing Mario Kart on the go or 1-2-Switch at a party? They were iconic! The launch was a global event, with eager gamers lining up to get their hands on the new console. The initial demand far exceeded supply, making it a hot commodity for months. But a console is only as good as its games, right? Let’s dive into the launch lineup that accompanied the Switch.

The Flagship Title: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Okay, let's be real – The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was THE reason many people bought a Switch at launch. This game was not just a launch title; it was a system seller. Breath of the Wild redefined the Zelda franchise with its vast open world, incredible physics engine, and non-linear gameplay. You could literally go anywhere and do almost anything from the moment you stepped out of the Shrine of Resurrection. The sense of freedom and exploration was unparalleled. The game’s art style was also a departure from previous Zelda titles, embracing a more vibrant and painterly aesthetic. The story, while familiar in its overarching themes of good versus evil, was presented in a fresh and engaging way. Link’s journey to defeat Calamity Ganon and save Hyrule was filled with memorable characters, challenging dungeons, and breathtaking vistas. Breath of the Wild received universal acclaim, earning perfect scores from numerous publications and winning countless Game of the Year awards. Its impact on the gaming industry is undeniable, influencing open-world game design for years to come. Even now, years after its release, players are still discovering new secrets and hidden details within Hyrule. If you own a Switch and haven’t played Breath of the Wild, do yourself a favor and pick it up. You won’t regret it!

1-2-Switch: The Party Starter

1-2-Switch was a different kind of launch title. Instead of focusing on traditional gameplay, it was designed to showcase the unique capabilities of the Joy-Con controllers. The game featured a collection of minigames that emphasized motion controls and tactile feedback. The idea was to get players to look at each other rather than the screen, creating a social and interactive experience. Remember the Milk minigame? It was hilariously awkward! 1-2-Switch was a divisive title. Some praised it for its innovative use of the Joy-Cons and its potential as a party game. Others criticized it for its lack of depth and replayability. However, it served its purpose as a tech demo, highlighting the precision and versatility of the Switch’s controllers. It showed off the HD Rumble feature, which allowed for incredibly realistic sensations, like feeling ice cubes in a glass. While it may not be a game you’d play for hours on end, 1-2-Switch was a memorable part of the Switch’s launch and a fun way to introduce friends and family to the console. It’s the kind of game that’s best enjoyed in short bursts with a group of people who are willing to embrace the silliness.

Other Notable Launch Titles

While Breath of the Wild and 1-2-Switch were the headliners, several other games were available at or near the Switch’s launch. These titles helped to flesh out the launch lineup and cater to different tastes.

• Super Bomberman R: A revival of the classic Bomberman series, Super Bomberman R offered a mix of single-player and multiplayer modes. It featured a colorful art style and the addictive gameplay that Bomberman is known for. While it received mixed reviews, it provided a fun and accessible multiplayer experience for early Switch owners.
• Just Dance 2017: The latest installment in the Just Dance series brought its signature brand of energetic dancing and catchy tunes to the Switch. It was a great way to get some exercise and have fun with friends and family. The motion controls worked well, and the game’s extensive song list ensured there was something for everyone.
• Skylanders: Imaginators: Skylanders: Imaginators allowed players to create their own Skylanders characters and bring them to life in the game. It was a family-friendly action-adventure game with plenty of collectibles and customization options. The Switch version included all the content from the other versions, making it a solid choice for fans of the series.
• Fast RMX: A futuristic racing game developed by Shin’en Multimedia, Fast RMX was a visually stunning and incredibly fast-paced experience. It drew comparisons to F-Zero and Wipeout with its antigravity vehicles and challenging tracks. It was a great showcase for the Switch’s graphical capabilities and provided a thrilling racing experience.

The Impact of the Launch Games

The launch games played a crucial role in the Nintendo Switch's success. Breath of the Wild set a high bar for open-world games and demonstrated the potential of the Switch's hardware. 1-2-Switch showcased the innovative features of the Joy-Cons. Other titles provided a diverse range of experiences, catering to different audiences. The combination of a strong launch lineup and the Switch's unique hybrid design helped to propel the console to become one of Nintendo's most successful platforms. The launch established a foundation of quality and innovation that Nintendo has continued to build upon with subsequent releases. These games not only entertained players but also demonstrated the Switch's versatility and appeal.

Why These Games Still Matter

Even years after their release, the Nintendo Switch launch games continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many gamers. They represent a pivotal moment in Nintendo's history and a turning point for the gaming industry. Breath of the Wild is still widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time, and its influence can be seen in countless other titles. 1-2-Switch, while not a critical darling, remains a fun and memorable party game. The other launch titles, while perhaps not as groundbreaking, contributed to the overall success of the Switch and provided a diverse range of experiences for early adopters. These games are a reminder of the excitement and anticipation that surrounded the Switch's launch and the promise of a new era of gaming. They are a testament to Nintendo's ability to innovate and create unique and memorable experiences.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – a look back at the Nintendo Switch launch games of 2017. It was an exciting time, and these games helped to define the early days of the Switch. Whether you were there from the beginning or joined the party later, these titles are worth revisiting and appreciating for their contributions to the Switch's success. What are your favorite launch games? Let us know in the comments below! And here's to many more years of awesome gaming on the Nintendo Switch!