Joshua Broadwell
Rune Factory 4 is an abundant RPG, full of fun characters, things to do, and a compelling network of interlocking systems.
The combat is the best Fire Emblem combat in years, and you get some very good carryovers into the main game that make it worth going back yet again to re-shape the world.
Atelier Escha & Logy DX refines the formula Ayesha laid out and other new features that make it not just the best in the Dusk trilogy, but one of the best Atelier games in general.
Pokemon Sword and Shield breathe a joyous breath of life back into the series, with great improvements and a stellar batch of new 'mon.
Luigi's Mansion 3 is almost non-stop fun and is another must-have for the Switch's library.
Atelier Ryza is the best Atelier game to date, with some much-needed improvements that make for a more compelling package on the whole.
Doraemon: Story of Seasons borrows from both franchises while managing to be a stand-out farm-sim game in its own right.
With a host of enhancements that more than make it worth playing for newcomers and old fans alike, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening remains a brilliant example of impeccable design.
Children of Morta is a standout roguelike RPG with a solid central hook, satisfying gameplay, and gorgeous art style all piled on top of huge replay value.
New Cinema Labyrinth is a brilliant combination of game mechanics with a heap of Persona charm and style that's sure to keep you busy for a long time to come.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the definitive Fire Emblem experience, with a compelling story, streamlined gameplay, and a staggering amount of content.
Though threadbare with new content, Kirby's Extra Epic Yarn remains as charmingly adorable and cleverly designed as ever.
Etrian Odyssey Nexus is an excellent way to end the franchise's time on the 3DS, beckoning old and new fans alike back into the labyrinth.
Pokemon Let's GO, Pikachu and Eevee might not be what fans were waiting for, but it's an excellent, well-balanced Pokemon adventure nontheless.
Figment turns a touchy topic into an engaging puzzle adventure that's filled with heart and some excellent setting and soundtrack designs.
Super Mario 3D World might be almost eight years old, but time hasn't dulled this cat's claws. It's still an absolute blast to play, with a delectable range of designs that never fails to impress. That's made more evident with the Switch's slightly faster speed. And while Bowser's Fury is short, it's full of so much potential for Mario's future, making this the most easily recommended port-and-repackage of the Switch's lifecycle so far.
Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin is a bold genre fusion that pays off with superb farming and combat systems plus a cast of characters you'll remember for a long time to come.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim mixes smart design with superb storytelling, then slathers the whole package in gorgeous style.
Spiritfarer is a finely crafted piece of artistic commentary on what it means to let go, and it's far and away one of the best games to come out of 2020.
The latest Animal Crossing is also the best, full of life, charm, and near-endless ways to make your very own island paradise.