After buying a Switch, the most headache-inducing part is not the console itself, but facing the huge pile of covers on eShop and physical game carts, not knowing which one to play first. "I bought a popular big title, but after two hours it was gathering dust" — I've seen this too many times.

So this Switch game recommendation doesn't do the vague "must-buy list" thing, but directly talks about a few games that in different scenarios truly made me feel "this money wasn't wasted," and also mentions their flaws.

When I just want to lounge and play alone

Many friends buy a Switch for portability, to play during commutes or in bed before sleep. In this scenario, the most flawless choices are actually the first-party exclusives in Nintendo game recommendations. For example, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, with its freedom to "do something wherever you go," is especially suitable for fragmented time. You don't need to play for two consecutive hours; 5 minutes to build a vehicle, 10 minutes to climb a tower — every time you open it, there's something to do.

But there's a practical issue: these games have high prices, and second-hand ones rarely drop. If you have a limited budget, you can rent a cartridge to try it out first, or wait for a Nintendo voucher promotion. Don't buy just because "everyone says it's good." If it's not fun, it's not fun — no shame.

When friends come over on weekends, what to play for two?

This is one of the most unique scenarios for the Switch. Speaking of two-player Switch games, many people's first thought is Overcooked. It's indeed fun, but its difficulty curve is not friendly to non-gamer friends, easily turning into "I'm frantically operating while my friend sits there watching."

I more recommend Mario Party Superstars. It's very easy to pick up, mini-games are short, winning and losing are both fun, and it supports up to four players. If you two are playing together, try the co-op mode of Kirby and the Forgotten Land — it doesn't require strong cooperation, everyone can play at their own pace, and Kirby helps each other, so basically no arguments.

Those easily overlooked goodies: indie games

Tired of big productions, or temporarily on a tight budget — at such times, indie game recommendations can open a new world for you. The indie game lineup on Switch is very strong, and many even offer a better experience than on PC because it wakes quickly and is portable.

For example, Hollow Knight has excellent controls and clever map design. The only "turn-off" is that difficulty is really high — players with unsteady hands should prepare to die dozens of times. Another one, Stardew Valley, is a total time sink — you think you'll just farm for one day, and then you look up and it's dawn. Its pace is slow, suitable for moments when you want to "empty your mind and just tap around."

Indie games often go on sale, and you can get dozens of hours of fun for a few to tens of dollars — great value. But note: some indie games have poor text display on the handheld screen (like tiny fonts). Check reviews before buying.

Before choosing a game, first check these two tools

Facing a sea of games, I don't recommend blindly buying based on cover art or ratings. Spend a few minutes looking at game rankings and game databases to avoid many detours. Rankings let you quickly know what everyone is playing recently and which games have the best reputation. Databases are more detailed, categorized by "local multiplayer," "RPG," "roguelike," etc. You filter by your own preferences, which is more reliable than listening to others' recommendations.

I myself, every time I want to buy a new game, first open the database to set a budget range, then compare player reviews in the rankings, and finally decide. This method has never led to major mistakes.

Let's be real: don't blindly believe in "masterpieces"

No matter how many Switch game recommendations you read, ultimately it's your own taste that accompanies you through real time. Some people love the relaxing feel of grinding, others are obsessed with hardcore combat, and some just want to collect and decorate. No game can satisfy everyone.

If you bought a cartridge and don't like it, sell it in time or exchange with a friend. Don't force yourself to play it to dust just because "you already bought it." Games are for relaxation, not for completing tasks.