Smoots answers the question, what would it be like to combine the look of Wii Sports with the action of Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games – in a budget format? It's fun and easy to play, though it won't have much staying power. Give it a go if you're looking for a party game alternative while you're waiting for the next Mario and Sonic title.
Invasion of Alien X – Earth in Crisis is just OK. It's very simple and plays fine, but without any kind of incentives, there's no real reason to play this for more than an hour or two.
Super Kirby Clash is a fun game that makes fighting somewhat adorable. The battles with AI and local friends and fast and fun, although a little on the repetitive side. Online battles are too slow to be truly enjoyable but overall this is a free game that provides entertainment in short bursts as you level up your Kirby.
It’s easy enough to play although the concept starts to wear a little thin over time. There’s also a bit of a learning curve at first – and indeed throughout – as a lot of elements aren’t well explained. Still, this is a fun ride while it lasts and should be one to consider if you like something a little different – and you’re spatially aware.
Epic Clicker Journey is a game that tries to mesh RPG elements with the clicker genre. While it's fun in short bursts, there's not enough to hold your attention for long. Its repetitiveness coupled with design issues make this one a game to avoid unless you're a huge clicker fan.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses was a long time in the making and, thankfully, was well worth the wait. It's impossible to put down, bringing a deep story that involves true character development across a diverse cast, all voiced to perfection. It looks glorious and has epic turn-based battles to boot. This is a must-own game for every Switch owner.
VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action is a unique experience that's literally a book in game form. Mixing drinks and changing lives proves to be a blast as you interact with many interesting characters. There's loads of reading to do here but as long as you're ready to read a novel while you play, this is one book, er, game that you won't want to put down.
Iron Snout is a simple, fun game that probably makes more sense on a smartphone. At $4.99 it's not going to break your piggy bank, but keep in mind that it probably won't keep your interest for more than an hour or two.
Skyhill is a challenging and fun point-and-click adventure game with the seemingly simple premise of escaping a skyscraper during an apocalypse. A hunger meter adds an extra level of strategy as you rummage hotel rooms and sleigh grotesque mutants. It's an atmospheric and addictive experience that's worth checking out.
Peasant Knight is a fun platformer runner with a tough edge. The simple design compliments its shorter levels, but don't be fooled – this challenging title requires quick reflexes. If running, jumping, and dying repeatedly is your thing, definitely give this one a go.
SpellKeeper is an addictive puzzle game that finds the right balance between teasing the brain and comforting it. It presents a unique premise and enough content to keep puzzle fans busy for quite a few hours.
Metagal is a fun platformer. It could do with more content, but what's there is an enjoyable ride with incentive to replay. At $4.99, it's a bargain that's worth checking out if you're a platforming enthusiast or Mega Man fan looking for a little action on the side.
12 is Better Than 6 provides quick, intense battles coupled with a great soundtrack and visuals. I had an enjoyable time in the Wild West – much more than expected. A few tweaks could go a long way, but as it is, I highly recommend this game to anyone looking for something unique in the twin-stick genre.
I had more fun with Warplanes: WW2 Dogfight than I expected. It isn't a game I'd normally consider if I wasn't reviewing it. I feel that like-minded players will miss out because of this, while genuinely hard-core pilots will be disappointed by the simplicity of the dogfights. I was genuinely surprised by the game's level of depth outside the cockpit and how much I enjoyed it. If you like simple shooters and sims that extend beyond the tarmac, I'd consider checking this one out.
This fun game is a great addition to the LEGO collection of games. It's not my favorite game (will anything ever beat LEGO Star Wars?) but it's well made and entertaining. The mix of exploration, sandpit and story elements makes it feel fresher than recent LEGO games. Plus it's just plain cool to walk around as Emmet or Wildstyle while talking to the likes of Batman and Unikitty. It's worth checking out, especially if you're a fan of the movie.
Downwell is fun, addictive and visually distinct vertically scrolling shooter/platformer. It's tough enough to challenge you without being too frustrating, and will scratch that retro platforming itch in a whole new way. Check it out.
Guess the Word is a one-trick pony, with no bells or whistles nor any reason to keep playing after the first round. It's squarely targeted at younger kids, but the difficulty levels aren't right either. Steer clear unless you insist on using your Switch to spell random words.
Apocalipsis is an interesting adventure that sports a uniquely melancholic aesthetic. The setting and mood won't be to everyone's tastes, but if you're looking for something different and have the patience for the point-and-click style, this one is worth checking out.
JackQuest: The Tale of the Sword is an addictive combination of Mario's platforming design with the exploration and sword-slashing of a metroidvania. It's a ton of fun that's quick and easy to pick up and play in shorts bursts – which have a habit of becoming longer play sessions. Where does the time go? Platformer fans should consider picking this one up.
Octahedron: Transfixed Edition is a fun and challenging platformer with a strong reliance on psychedelic visual and musical elements to get you through – think Mario crossed with Tron. It's challenging, with loads to do, and could be the game to scratch that completionist itch.