Nintendo Switch: The best games and my favorite moments from 2021

2021 had a lot of really interesting moments on the Nintendo Switch. Game launches, giant updates for some of the games, the OLED version, and an impressive amount of system shortage. It’s been a wild time for Nintendo’s little giant.

For this list though, I’m going to drop the top 5 gaming experiences I had on the Nintendo Switch. Keep in mind that this might be for updates as well as games. Also, keep in mind that this is MY list. Other people at App Trigger might think differently and, as always, you, as a reader, are more than welcome to disagree but here were my big moments on the Switch.

5. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

I loved the original Monster Hunter Stories on the 3DS so much. A game that took place in the Monster Hunter universe with more of a story and a chill “rock, paper, scissors” turn-based mechanic that was built off reading the body language of monsters? Sign me up. I loved it but I knew it was also very niche and niche games rarely get sequels. So when July of 2021 brought us a new Monster Hunter Stories game, I lost my mind.

This game is absolutely giant and I loved it. It features a rare story in which you actually get to catch up on how characters from a previous game lived their lives since you left off.

The graphics, character design, and animations are gorgeous. And you have so many secrets to discover. Everything from unlocking various hairstyles and cosmetics to finding rare variations of “monsties”. This game has so much to do and every time you think you tapped out everything you can do, the game will suddenly throw in something like flight opening up an entirely new world to the game.

Not only did I love Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, but because the game used turn-based mechanics instead of the series’ normal method of inventory management and complex fighting, it meant my younger kids could get in on it as well. The story was light-hearted and had a big “How to Train Your Dragon” feel and it was a big hit as something we could all do together.