Discovering indie gems: Best Switch eShop filter settings & search tips?

Unearthing Hidden Treasures on the Switch eShop

The Nintendo Switch eShop is a sprawling digital marketplace, home to thousands of games—many of which are brilliant independent titles. However, with so much content, simply browsing can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Many fantastic indie games often get lost amidst the noise of larger releases or less polished offerings. But don’t despair! With a few clever tricks, you can drastically improve your chances of discovering your next favorite indie adventure.

This guide will walk you through the most effective ways to utilize the eShop’s built-in tools, combined with some smart search strategies, to pinpoint those must-play indie gems that might otherwise fly under your radar.

Mastering the Filter Settings

The eShop’s filter system, while not as robust as some PC storefronts, can be incredibly powerful when used correctly. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Accessing Filters: The ‘Discover’ Tab

First, navigate to the ‘Discover’ tab on the eShop. This is where most of your filtering power lies. Look for options like ‘Search’ or ‘Advanced Search’ to bring up the full range of filters.

Key Filters to Utilize:

• Genre: This is your primary weapon. While there isn’t an explicit ‘Indie’ genre, you can filter by genres commonly associated with indie games like ‘Platformer’, ‘Adventure’, ‘Puzzle’, ‘RPG’, ‘Action’, ‘Strategy’, or even ‘Simulation’. Many indie developers excel in these categories. Experiment with combinations.
• Price Range: Indie games often come at more accessible price points. Setting a price cap (e.g., under $20 or $10) can significantly narrow down your search to games that fit the indie budget profile.
• Sales & Deals: Always check this section! Indie games frequently go on deep discounts, making it a prime spot to find fantastic titles at bargain prices. The ‘Great Deals’ and ‘Current Offers’ sections are goldmines.
• Release Date: If you’re looking for fresh content, filter by ‘New Releases’. For critically acclaimed older titles, you might broaden your date range.
• Players: If you prefer single-player experiences, filter for ‘1 Player’. For couch co-op gems, look for ‘2 or More Players’.
• Demo Available: This is a highly underrated filter! Many indie developers offer demos, allowing you to try before you buy. Filtering for demos is a risk-free way to discover if a game resonates with you.

Effective Search Strategies Beyond Filters

Filters are great, but sometimes you need to be more proactive with your search terms.

Targeted Keyword Searches

Think about specific sub-genres or mechanics you enjoy. Instead of just ‘RPG’, try searching for ‘roguelike’, ‘metroidvania’, ‘visual novel’, ‘deckbuilder’, ‘farming sim’, or ‘pixel art’. Many indie games proudly feature these descriptive tags in their titles or descriptions, making them easier to find with precise keywords.

Follow Developers & Publishers

Once you find an indie game you love, take note of its developer and publisher. Often, these studios or indie-focused publishers (like Devolver Digital, Annapurna Interactive, Thunderful Games, Raw Fury, etc.) have a consistent quality or style. Search directly for their names on the eShop to see their full catalog of games.

Utilize ‘Games You Might Like’

When you view a game’s eShop page, scroll down to the ‘Games You Might Like’ section. This algorithm-driven recommendation system can sometimes surprise you with relevant titles based on your viewing history and the current game’s metadata. While not perfect, it can spark new discoveries.

Wishlist Power

Make liberal use of the ‘Wishlist’ feature. As you browse, add any interesting indie titles you come across, even if you’re not ready to buy them immediately. The eShop will notify you if a game on your wishlist goes on sale, ensuring you don’t miss out on a discounted gem.

Beyond the eShop: External Resources

While this article focuses on eShop tools, don’t forget that many websites and communities specialize in highlighting indie games. Sites like Nintendo Life, Pure Xbox (for multi-platform indies), Metacritic, and various indie game blogs often feature ‘best of’ lists, reviews, and news about upcoming indie releases. Use these external resources to build a list of games, then search for them directly on the eShop.

Embark on Your Indie Discovery Journey

Discovering indie gems on the Nintendo Switch eShop requires a bit of patience and strategic filtering, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By intelligently using genre, price, and demo filters, combining them with targeted keyword searches, and leveraging external resources, you’ll transform your eShop browsing from a chore into an exciting treasure hunt. Happy gaming!