Best tips to discover hidden gem indie games on Switch eShop?

Navigating the Indie Game Ocean on Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch eShop is a treasure trove of incredible indie games, but its sheer volume can make finding those hidden gems feel like searching for a needle in a digital haystack. With thousands of titles vying for attention, it’s easy to stick to the well-known blockbusters or simply get lost in the shuffle. However, with the right approach and a bit of persistence, you can unearth some truly unique and unforgettable experiences that might just become your next favorite game.

This guide will equip you with the best tips and tricks to dive deep into the eShop and beyond, helping you discover the indie marvels that deserve your attention.

Mastering the eShop’s Built-in Tools

The eShop itself offers several features that, when used effectively, can significantly narrow down your search and highlight titles you might otherwise miss.

Leverage Filters and Sort Options

• Genre Filters: Don’t just browse everything. If you love Metroidvanias or puzzle games, filter by those genres. This immediately cuts down the noise.
• Price Filters: Looking for a bargain? Filter by price, especially the ‘under $10’ or ‘under $5’ categories. Many indie gems start at lower price points.
• Sort by ‘Great Deals’: This section is constantly updated and often features significant discounts on excellent indie titles. Check it regularly!
• Sort by ‘Recently Released’: While popular new titles will dominate, sometimes a fantastic indie quietly launches here without much fanfare.

Explore the ‘Discover’ and ‘Coming Soon’ Sections

The ‘Discover’ section uses an algorithm to suggest games based on your play history and wishlisted titles. While not perfect, it can sometimes surface unexpected recommendations. The ‘Coming Soon’ section is excellent for spotting upcoming indies before they get lost in the launch day rush. Keep an eye on titles that catch your eye and add them to your wishlist.

Utilize the Wishlist Feature

Think of your wishlist as a personal curated list of games you’re interested in. Add any game that piques your interest, even if it’s just for a moment. The eShop will notify you if a wishlisted game goes on sale, making it easier to snag those hidden gems at a discount.

Beyond the eShop: External Discovery Methods

While the eShop is your primary gateway, a world of external resources can help you find what you’re looking for.

Follow Indie Game News & Review Sites

Many websites and YouTube channels specialize in indie game coverage. Websites like Indie Games Plus, Nintendo Life, IGN, and Push Square often highlight smaller titles that might not get mainstream attention. YouTube channels dedicated to indie game reviews or ‘hidden gem’ compilations are also invaluable.

Engage with Online Communities

Reddit communities like r/NintendoSwitch, r/IndieGaming, r/ShouldIbuythisgame, and r/patientgamers are fantastic places to ask for recommendations, see what others are playing, and discover games through discussions. Discord servers dedicated to indie games or specific genres can also be goldmines of information.

Watch Gameplay Videos & Streamers

Before committing to a purchase, especially for a lesser-known title, search for gameplay videos on YouTube or check if streamers are playing it on Twitch. Seeing a game in action can give you a much better sense of its mechanics, art style, and overall feel than screenshots or descriptions alone.

Identifying Promising Titles

Once you’ve found a potential hidden gem, a few quick checks can help confirm its quality.

Look for Demos and Free-to-Start Games

Many indie developers offer free demos or ‘free-to-start’ versions of their games. This is the absolute best way to try before you buy and ensure the game’s mechanics and style resonate with you. Always check the eShop page for a ‘Download Demo’ option.

Research Publishers and Developers

If you’ve played an indie game you loved, check who developed or published it. Many indie publishers (like Devolver Digital, Annapurna Interactive, Thunderful Games, etc.) have a knack for curating high-quality titles. Exploring their back catalog or upcoming releases can lead you to similar experiences.

Pay Attention to Awards & Nominations

Even if a game isn’t a household name, seeing if it has received nominations or awards from independent gaming festivals (e.g., Independent Games Festival, BAFTA Games Awards) can be a strong indicator of quality and innovation.

Patience and Persistence Pay Off

Discovering hidden indie gems is an ongoing process. The eShop’s library is always growing, and new titles are added weekly. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find something instantly.

• Revisit the eShop Regularly: Sales change, new games launch, and the ‘Discover’ section updates.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Take a Chance: Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences come from games you knew nothing about before playing.

By employing these strategies, you’ll transform your Switch eShop browsing from a daunting task into an exciting treasure hunt, consistently unearthing the unique and imaginative indie experiences that make the Nintendo Switch such a special console for gamers.