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5 Best Nintendo Switch Exclusives

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best switch exclusives

Every year, the Nintendo Switch releases a number of exclusives, and 2023 has already seen the release of several excellent titles – with many more to come. Aside from that, fans can always look forward to new installments of familiar franchises like Mario and Pokemon. Overall, there's always a new Switch exclusive to look forward to. But still, despite the fact that new exclusives are released each year, the titles that have been around for a while remain the best on the console. So, let's look at which exclusives are holding their place as the best on Switch as of March 2023.

5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Overview Trailer - Nintendo Switch

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of the best installments in the franchise, and clearly, it's Mario Kart at its best. One major reason for this is the 48-track roster, which includes some fan-favorite courses returning with a facelift. On top of that, there are endless possibilities for customization and finding the ideal character and kart build to help you clinch first place. As a result, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains one of the best exclusives on Switch if you're looking for the ideal party game.

However, don't dismiss Mario Kart 8 Deluxe as merely a party game, even if that is where the fun is. Though the story mode does not feel particularly different from the other game modes, it does present a significant challenge in that you must be the champion in eight different worlds. Furthermore, you can compete in a variety of tournaments against worthy AI or online against other players, and the feeling is consistent; each race will have you on the edge of your seat or yelling at your screen.

4. Metroid Prime Remastered

Metroid Prime Remastered - Launch Trailer - Nintendo Switch

Metroid Prime Remastered is one Switch exclusive that had us all buzzing when we first heard about its development. Most remasters simply remove or slightly alter the gameplay and mechanics that contributed to the success of the original. Metroid Prime Remastered, on the other hand, revitalizes the original experience with modernized controls and improved graphics while retaining the style that we know and love the franchise for. Setting the gold standard for what a remaster should look like. As a result, Metroid Prime Remastered has risen to become one of the year's most recent and best Switch exclusives.

Of course, you play as intergalactic bounty hunter Samus Aran, who is exploring the desolate hostile planet Tallon IV in response to a distress call from a wrecked frigate. The distress call, however, turns out to be a ruse that pits Samus against her arch-enemy. That's as far as we'll go on the plot, the rest you'll have to find out for yourself. But we will say because there is no radio dialogue or conversation aside from cutscenes, the playthrough is meant to be as fluid and immersive as possible. Letting you re-live the Metroid glory just as you first experienced it.

3. Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 - Announcement Trailer - Nintendo Switch

JRPGs are typically known for dramatic stories and over-the-top action, but Xenoblade Chronicles 3 goes above and beyond. This Monolith Soft masterpiece outperforms other games in the genre with its impressive open-world gameplay that allows you to explore vast lands and unknown worlds. Furthermore, the reworked quest and combat systems have proven critical for this series. Now quests don't drag on for what feels like an eternity with confusing instructions.

Despite the fact that this is the third game in the series, there is no need to play catch-up because each game has a new story. Certain elements from previous games appear, but they are explained thoroughly. Making it easy to understand even if Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is your introduction to the series. As a result, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is the best of all the Switch exclusives on this list for delivering a truly unique experience.

2. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - World of Light - Nintendo Switch

One of the reasons the Nintendo Switch is so popular is that almost everyone owns or has played Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. And, despite the fact that not everyone enjoys fighting games, Smash tends to win over haters because of its tirelessly fun arcade style and 82-character roster of classic Nintendo personalities, like Mario and Zelda. Of course, each character plays with a unique style of abilities and combos that complement the game's interactive maps.

Smash is hailed as one of the best party games of all time. As you'll find playing on the couch with friends can quickly turn into an hours-long bracket-style tournament. Furthermore, it's ideal for solo gaming while you hone your skills in the training arena or compete against other players online. However, if you compete online, be prepared to be humbled. All the merrier, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. has held the claim that it's one of the best Switch exclusives, for a long time.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Official Game Trailer - Nintendo E3 2016

Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is by far the best switch exclusive of all time. Playing as Zelda in the world of Hyrule's towering mountains and grass fields has never felt more immersive. This is Zelda at its best, complete with a fantastic story, memorable characters, and quests. Raid camps, slay enemies for loot and stumble upon ancient structures with brilliant puzzles to discover their secrets.

The best part is that the sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, will be released on May 12th, 2023. This is without a doubt the most anticipated Switch exclusive to arrive this year. As a result, there's never been a better time to get into Breath of the Wild. We can't wait to see what new features are added, hopefully only to improve on an already flawless game, and after playing, surely you will too.

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our top five? Are there other Switch exclusives you think are best? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!

Riley Fonger is a freelance writer, music lover, and gamer since adolescence. He loves anything video game-related and grew up with a passion for story games such as Bioshock and The Last of Us.