Switch games for every mood

With lockdown after lockdown, many people have turned to the comfort of video games to bring a sense of calm and control back to their lives. In fact, recent studies have shown the positive impact gaming can have on our mental well-being, easing stress and improving mood.

Are you one of the many people who managed to secure a switch during lockdown? Or perhaps you already had a switch before all the hype? Perhaps you’re bored of the few games you have and are looking to buy something new? If you said yes, you’re in the right place!

When you’re looking to relax - Animal Crossing

One of the biggest successes at the start of lockdown was, of course, the release of Animal Crossing. With a launch date in March 2020, this game came at the perfect time and played a huge role in the sell-out of the switch consoles last year. Animal Crossing, produced by Hisashi Nogami, puts you in the center of the story. You’ve moved to an island on which you become the mayor of sorts. Invite villagers of all personalities to live their lives on your island, enjoying the sun and sipping on some fresh juice. Paying back loans, watering plants, and selling turnips are just some of the comforts you’ll rejoice in if you pick up your copy!

When you're feeling nostalgic - Pokemon Let's Go: Eevee (Or Pikachu!)

The Pokemon Let's Go series is a remastered version of Pokemon Yellow. Level up your Pokemon to defeat the iconic trainers, including Brock and Erika. Walk around Kanto region and enjoy the expansive soundtrack as you help Professor Oak with his research and fill your Pokedeck. Fight to become the best trainer in Kanto alongside your rival, Gary!

If that's not enough, you can try Pokemon Sword and Shield. Capture new Generation 8 Pokemon and train to be the very best. When you've trained hard, try your hand at the championship in Wyndon and become champion of Galar! With two expansion packs, you'll enjoy hours of gameplay.

When you’re looking for Action - Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

Released at the start of this year, Super Mario 3D World is a remake of the WiiU game of the same name. Bringing a fun new addition in the form of Bowser's Fury, this is a feel-good game packed full of fun levels. Have fun as you go from Cat Mario to Fire Mario, and even Tanuki Mario! Play with the whole family, and watch chaos unfold as up to 4 players work together to defeat Bowser!

If you love this new Mario story, consider trying Super Mario Odyssey! Released on the switch in 2017, you board the odyssey and travel across the world to engage in hundreds of different levels!

When you’re looking to pass time (Like, a lot of time) - Littlewood

After defeating a hero and saving Solemn, you lose your memory and find yourself in a wrecked town. Set after the battle, Littlewood is a feel-good game in which your task is to rebuild your town and make it the best it can be. Watch as the seasons change and participate in exciting events as you try to remember the truth of your past! It has quickly made it's way to the charts and is becoming increasingly popular for its originality and cute pixel graphics. Explore the world of Solemn, and find new friends along the way!

When you're bored of the same old scenery - The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

With a sequel in the works, Breath of the Wild is the latest installment of the Zelda franchise. Adventure in the first open-world Zelda game and defeat Calamity Ganon to save the Kingdom of Hyrule! This game has something for everyone. Walk around and explore the stunning scenery, try your hand at cooking with the ingredients on hand, and defeat enemies. After 100 years in slumber, you'll return to iconic locations of Link's past and capture lost memories.

When you need to let off some steam - Splatoon 2

Splatoon 2 is an original take on third-person shooter games. With an expansive Hero mode and an action-packed expansion pack, you'll have plenty to do. Multiplayer battles* are a great way to level up your shooting skills and unlock an array of new weapons. And, with Splatoon 3 announced for release next year, there's never been a better time to pick up a copy and become a champion Inkling. When you're short for money, try a shift at Salmon Run, but beware! Then, you can spend your hard-earned cash on new outfits. Keep up with the trends, look your best, and battle!

When you want to go on holiday - New Pokemon Snap

Releasing later this month, New Pokemon Snap is based on the original Nintendo 64 game released in 1999. The game, set in the new Lental region, will send you through unique locations aboard the Neo-1. You'll see different Pokemon in their own habitats. Your job is to snap photos of these creatures and capture rare moments. You'll be equipped with fruit and other things to get the best photos you can. It's set to be a fun and heartwarming game that you won't want to put down!

All in all, there are plenty of switch games to choose from. Here are just a few of my personal suggestions. I hope you'll find something to suit you!