With the launch of the Switch 2,Nintendogamers are currently split between two platforms. The original Switch has a gigantic install base that absolutely dwarfs the Switch 2, but millions of diehardNintendofans have already upgraded to the new console. The Switch 2 doesn’t have many games to call its own yet, but it is backward-compatible with the original Switch and has access to that console’s vast library of games.
Since theNintendo Switch 2 is still brand-newand has yet to establish itself, it’s no surprise that there are many cross-gen games and titles that are still primarily targeting the original Switch console. Whether one owns a Switch 2 or an original Switch, there are a dizzying number of games to play, and it can be difficult to decide what to pop in on any given weekend.
When it comes to this weekend, these are the five Nintendo games that I recommend marathoning. Keep in mind that by “Nintendo games,” I mean games that are available on the Switch and/or Switch 2, not necessarily gamespublished by Nintendo.
Patapon 1 + 2 Replay
The originalPataponand its sequel were well-reviewed PSP games, often appearing on lists of the platform’s best games. Mixing side-scrolling adventure elements with rhythm game mechanics, thePatapongames are getting a new lease on life.Patapon 1 + 2 Replayremasters the original PSP gamesfor modern platforms. Since the games were originally handheld titles, it just feels right playing them on the Nintendo Switch family of consoles. In fact,Patapon 1 + 2 Replayeven have a multiplayer mode exclusive to the Nintendo Switch version of the game. A native Nintendo Switch 2 release forPatapon 1 + 2 Replayhasn’t been announced, but the game is still playable on Nintendo’s latest console through backward compatibility.
System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster
System Shock 2is often hailed as one of the greatestsci-fi horror games of all time. Nightdive Studios has now revived it for modern gamers with a remaster that includes multiplayer alongside the critically-acclaimed single-player experience. Being able to take a classic game like this on the go is a definite treat, with the25th Anniversary Remastermarking the first time that the classic game has been playable on a Nintendo system. While some aspects of the game haven’t exactly aged well,System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster’s high review scores indicate that much of the game still holds up to this day.
Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odysseyis one of the best games ever released for the original Nintendo Switch, launching alongside the console in the very year of its release, but now is the perfect time to play it. While there had always been suspicions, Nintendo just recently confirmed that theDonkey Kong Bananzateam was the same onethat madeSuper Mario Odyssey. WithDonkey Kong Bananza’s release date right around the corner, Nintendo fans can tide themselves over by revisitingSuper Mario Odyssey. A spectacular 3D platforming adventure,Super Mario Odysseyis stuffed-full of worthwhile content and challenges. It has some of the most inventive levels in any 3DSuper Mariogame and is one of the highest-rated games of all time for a reason. Time will tell ifDonkey Kong Bananzaenjoys similar success, but we won’t have to wait much longer to find out.
Super Mario Strikers
This one is just for Nintendo Switch 2 gamers, so those that have yet to upgrade will be missing out. ButSuper Mario Strikers, the classic GameCube soccer game, is now available toplay through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tieron Nintendo Switch 2.Super Mario Strikerstakes the core concept of soccer and combines it with the zaniness of theSuper Mariouniverse, giving players the chance to take fan-favorite characters like Mario, Luigi, and Peach to the pitch all the while utilizing power-ups to give the proceedings some extra excitement.Super Mario Strikersis considered by many to be one of the best GameCube games, especially when it comes to multiplayer, and luckily, the game can be played online with friends. Local multiplayer is still an option as well, makingSuper Mario Strikersan easy recommendation for Nintendo fans looking for something to play this weekend.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4
Available for both the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch 2,Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4is a brand-new release that gives Nintendo fans plenty of bang for their buck. Following in the footsteps of the previousPro Skatercollection,Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4updates the contentfrom the third and fourthPro Skatergames for modern audiences. This means new graphics and controls, as well as online multiplayer support and other bells and whistles. Nintendo fans that have yet to upgrade to the Switch 2 can rest easy picking upPro Skater 3 + 4as the game has a free upgrade path to the Switch 2 version. Obviously, the Switch 2 version will run and look better, but otherwise there is content parity between all versions of the collection.
