Nintendo Switch: A Look Back At 2021's Best Moments
Hey everyone! Let's dive into a year-in-review of the Nintendo Switch for 2021. What a year it was for Nintendo's hybrid console! From blockbuster game releases to hardware updates, there was never a dull moment. So grab your Joy-Cons, and let's reminisce about the highs and lows, the unexpected surprises, and everything that made 2021 a memorable year for the Nintendo Switch.
Top Game Releases of 2021
When we talk about the Nintendo Switch in 2021, we absolutely have to start with the games. After all, what's a console without its stellar lineup, right? 2021 was packed with incredible titles that kept us glued to our screens, whether we were playing at home or on the go. Monster Hunter Rise was undoubtedly one of the heavy hitters, launching early in the year and quickly becoming a must-have for fans of the series and newcomers alike. The thrill of the hunt, the stunning Japanese-inspired environments, and the innovative Wirebug mechanic made it an unforgettable experience. The game’s seamless blend of action and strategy kept players hooked for hours, and its robust multiplayer mode allowed for epic hunts with friends. Plus, the constant updates and new monsters kept the game fresh throughout the year.
Then there was New Pokémon Snap, a game that brought a fresh perspective to the Pokémon universe. Instead of battling, we were tasked with photographing Pokémon in their natural habitats. It was a relaxing, charming, and visually stunning experience that appealed to both longtime Pokémon fans and those new to the franchise. The attention to detail in the Pokémon's behaviors and the environments was remarkable, making each photo expedition feel like a genuine discovery. The game's simple yet engaging gameplay loop of exploring, photographing, and improving your shots was incredibly addictive, and the sense of satisfaction from capturing the perfect photo was immense. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury was another standout title. It brought the beloved Wii U game to a new audience with enhanced visuals and the exciting Bowser's Fury expansion. The original Super Mario 3D World was already a fantastic multiplayer experience, but the addition of Bowser's Fury took things to a whole new level. The open-world environment, the dynamic weather, and the ever-present threat of Fury Bowser created a sense of tension and excitement that was unlike anything else in the Mario universe. The game's vibrant graphics and smooth performance made it a joy to play, and the cooperative multiplayer mode allowed for even more chaotic fun.
Looking back, these games not only defined the Nintendo Switch's 2021 but also showcased the console's versatility and appeal. Whether you were into action-packed adventures, relaxing photography expeditions, or classic platforming fun, the Switch had something for everyone. It's no wonder these titles continue to be fan favorites and a testament to the quality of games released that year.
Hardware Updates: The OLED Model
One of the most significant moments for the Nintendo Switch in 2021 was undoubtedly the release of the OLED Model. This wasn't just a minor refresh; it brought some serious upgrades that enhanced the overall gaming experience. The most obvious change was, of course, the vibrant 7-inch OLED screen. The improved contrast and color accuracy made games look absolutely stunning, whether you were playing in handheld mode or docked. Colors popped, blacks were deeper, and everything just felt more immersive. For those who primarily played in handheld mode, this upgrade alone was worth the price of admission. But the OLED Model wasn't just about the screen. Nintendo also made some other notable improvements. The enhanced audio provided richer and more immersive sound, making everything from subtle background music to explosive sound effects come to life. The wider adjustable stand was a welcome addition, allowing for more flexible tabletop play. No more awkwardly propping up your Switch with whatever you could find! The increased internal storage, now at 64GB, was also a practical upgrade, giving you more space for downloaded games and save data.
Perhaps one of the most underrated upgrades was the new dock with a built-in LAN port. This was a game-changer for those who primarily played online, providing a more stable and reliable internet connection. No more relying on Wi-Fi and dealing with lag spikes during crucial moments in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate or Splatoon 2. The OLED Model addressed many of the minor complaints that players had about the original Switch, making it a more polished and refined piece of hardware. It wasn't a complete overhaul, but the improvements were significant enough to make it a worthwhile upgrade for many. And let's be honest, that OLED screen was just gorgeous.
The release of the OLED Model sparked a lot of debate among Switch owners. Was it worth upgrading if you already had the original? For some, the answer was a resounding yes. The improved screen, enhanced audio, and other quality-of-life improvements made it a must-have. For others, the original Switch was still perfectly adequate, and the OLED Model didn't offer enough new features to justify the cost. Ultimately, it came down to personal preference and how much you valued those upgrades. But regardless of whether you upgraded or not, the OLED Model was a clear sign that Nintendo was committed to supporting and improving the Switch ecosystem. It set the stage for the future of the console and showed that Nintendo was willing to listen to its fans and address their concerns.
Other Notable Moments
Beyond the big game releases and hardware updates, 2021 was filled with other noteworthy moments for the Nintendo Switch. Indie World showcases continued to highlight the creativity and innovation of independent developers, bringing a diverse range of unique and exciting games to the platform. Games like Axiom Verge 2, Eastward, and Loop Hero captured our attention with their compelling gameplay, stunning visuals, and heartfelt stories. These indie gems added a layer of depth and variety to the Switch's library, proving that you don't need a massive budget to create a memorable gaming experience. Nintendo's commitment to supporting indie developers has been a huge win for both the platform and the players.
Another highlight of 2021 was the steady stream of updates and DLC for existing games. Animal Crossing: New Horizons continued to receive new content, keeping players engaged and invested in their island communities. The addition of new villagers, events, and customization options breathed new life into the game and gave players even more reasons to keep coming back. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also received new courses, adding even more replayability to the already packed game. These updates and DLC packs showed that Nintendo was dedicated to supporting its existing games and providing ongoing value to its customers. It's always great to see a company that continues to invest in its products long after they've been released.
Of course, no year is without its challenges. The ongoing chip shortage continued to impact the availability of the Nintendo Switch, making it difficult for some people to get their hands on the console. Scalpers also took advantage of the situation, driving up prices and making it even harder for genuine fans to purchase a Switch at a reasonable price. Despite these challenges, Nintendo managed to navigate the situation relatively well, ensuring that there was still a steady supply of consoles available. They also took steps to combat scalpers, implementing measures to limit the number of consoles that could be purchased at once. While the chip shortage and scalping issues were certainly frustrating, they didn't overshadow the overall success of the Nintendo Switch in 2021.
Final Thoughts
All in all, 2021 was a fantastic year for the Nintendo Switch. The console continued to thrive, thanks to a combination of blockbuster game releases, innovative hardware updates, and a steady stream of indie gems. The OLED Model brought a new level of visual fidelity to the handheld experience, while games like Monster Hunter Rise and New Pokémon Snap kept us entertained for hours on end. Despite facing challenges like the chip shortage, Nintendo managed to deliver a consistently high-quality gaming experience throughout the year. As we look ahead to the future, it's clear that the Nintendo Switch has a bright future ahead of it. With a strong lineup of upcoming games and continued support from Nintendo, the Switch is sure to remain a dominant force in the gaming industry for years to come. Thanks for taking this trip down memory lane with me! Here's to many more years of gaming goodness on the Nintendo Switch!