Common questions from new players

Almost everyone who just got a Switch faces the same dilemma: there are too many games, and you don't know where to start. After browsing forums, the recommendation lists look like shopping lists, making you even more confused. This article uses a direct Q&A format to address the most common questions all at once.

Q: I've never played a Switch before. What's the first game I should buy?

A: Don't rush to follow the crowd and buy those big-budget open-world games. The most common pitfall for beginners is buying games that "everyone says are great" but that you personally can't get into. It's better to start with simple controls and immediate feedback. You can refer to the Switch game recommendations that are frequently mentioned, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which is indeed a benchmark. But if you want something more relaxing and stress-free, Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Kirby and the Forgotten Land have a lower barrier to entry.

Q: A friend comes over. What games are good for two people?

A: Many people think two-player games on Switch just mean one Joy-Con each for fighting games, but the options are more diverse than you think. For party games, the first choice is Super Mario Party. But if you want a more competitive experience, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has almost zero learning curve. If you prefer cooperative gameplay, It Takes Two and Unravel Two are both great. These are always hot topics in two-player Switch game discussions. Friendly tip: if you have old Joy-Cons, the analog sticks might drift after extended use. Having a stick cap or a controller will save you a lot of trouble.

Q: Are indie games worth it? Are they much worse than big-name titles?

A: On the contrary, many Switch players end up obsessed with indie games. Big-name titles often cost three to four hundred dollars, and it hurts if you buy the wrong one. Indie games are much cheaper—you can get incredibly creative works for just a few dozen dollars. For example, Hollow Knight, Stardew Valley, and Hades are masterpieces on any platform. In the indie game recommendations lists, these almost always top the charts. The only thing to note is that some indie games aren't optimized well on Switch, like having less stable frame rates than on PC. It's safer to check a review before buying.

Q: I want to find good games but avoid spoilers. Is there a reliable way?

A: The most practical approach now is to combine two tools: one is the eShop demos—most games have a demo, and downloading one to play for half an hour is more effective than reading ten reviews. The other is the real-time popularity data from game rankings, which reflects what real players are playing and how they rate it. Don't blindly trust media scores; many high-scoring games may not match the taste and pace of Asian players.

Q: Is there a place where I can see all the classic Switch games at once?

A: Of course. Many communities now have very comprehensive game catalogs categorized by genre, language, Chinese support, single-player or multiplayer. For veteran players, it's a tool to fill in gaps; for new players, it's a manual to avoid pitfalls. Sometimes you want to play a certain type of game but can't remember its name—browsing through the catalog might help you discover unexpected gems.

Q: How do I choose between Nintendo's own games and third-party games?

A: This is the most practical question. Nintendo game recommendations are frequently mentioned because they truly leverage the Switch's hardware and gameplay. The Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon series offer unique experiences on the Switch that you can't get on other platforms. However, third-party games depend more on personal taste. For example, if you like RPGs, consider the Xenoblade Chronicles series; if you like action games, try Bayonetta. If your budget is limited, prioritize Nintendo's first-party exclusives because they rarely go on sale—buy early and enjoy early. For third-party blockbusters, it's better to wait for discounts.

Finally, a practical note: Buying the right game brings enjoyment; buying the wrong one turns it into idle digital assets. Make good use of demos, check real player feedback, and choose based on your actual needs—much more reliable than blindly following the crowd.