Best tips for discovering new indie games on Switch?

The Nintendo Switch has become a haven for independent game developers, offering a diverse and ever-growing library of unique experiences. However, with thousands of titles available, finding your next favorite indie gem can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Fear not, aspiring Nindie explorers! With the right strategies, you can uncover countless captivating games that might otherwise fly under your radar.

Navigating the Nintendo eShop Like a Pro

Your first port of call should always be the Switch’s built-in digital storefront. While it can feel overwhelming, knowing how to leverage its features is crucial.

• Utilize Filters and Search: Don’t just browse the ‘New Releases’ or ‘Great Deals’ sections. Dive into the ‘Discover’ tab and experiment with filters like genre, price range, and even publisher. Searching for specific tags or keywords (e.g., ‘Metroidvania,’ ‘Roguelike,’ ‘Pixel Art’) can narrow down your options significantly.
• Check the ‘Coming Soon’ Section: Often overlooked, this area gives you a sneak peek at upcoming titles. You can wishlist games here, ensuring you’re notified upon release or if a demo becomes available.
• Browse Sales Regularly: Indie games frequently go on sale, sometimes at steep discounts. Checking the ‘Great Deals’ or ‘Current Offers’ section can lead to incredible finds at bargain prices.

Harnessing Online Gaming Communities and Media

Beyond the eShop, the internet is teeming with resources dedicated to indie games. Tapping into these can provide curated recommendations and in-depth insights.

• Dedicated Gaming Websites: Sites like Nintendo Life, SwitchUp, and Pure Nintendo frequently publish articles, reviews, and ‘best of’ lists specifically for Switch indie games. Look for their ‘Nindie Spotlight’ features or weekly roundups.
• YouTube Channels and Streamers: Many content creators specialize in indie games. Channels like SwitchForce, Limbo of the Lost, or smaller, dedicated indie reviewers often showcase hidden gems, providing gameplay footage and honest opinions that can help you decide if a game is for you.
• Reddit and Forums: Subreddits like r/NintendoSwitch and r/Nindies are vibrant communities where players discuss games, share recommendations, and highlight new releases. Engaging with these communities can lead to personalized suggestions.

Engaging Directly with Developers and Social Media

Many indie developers are incredibly accessible and passionate about their creations. Connecting with them can offer a unique perspective and early access to information.

• Follow Developers and Publishers: On Twitter, Mastodon, or other social media platforms, follow indie studios (e.g., Devolver Digital, Annapurna Interactive, Team Cherry) and individual developers. They often post updates, sneak peeks, and even give away game codes.
• Join Discord Servers: Many indie games and developers have official Discord servers. These communities are great places to chat with the creators, ask questions, and get real-time updates.

Discovering Through Demos, Sales, and Showcases

Sometimes, the best way to discover a game is to try it yourself or be introduced to it directly by Nintendo.

• Download Demos: The eShop often hosts free demos for upcoming or recently released indie games. This is a risk-free way to experience a game’s mechanics and decide if it’s worth a full purchase.
• Watch Nintendo Indie World Showcases: Nintendo regularly hosts ‘Indie World’ presentations that highlight exciting new independent titles coming to the Switch. These showcases are a fantastic source for discovering highly anticipated games and often feature world premieres.
• Participate in Gaming Events: If possible, attend major gaming conventions or local indie game showcases. Many developers offer playable demos of their games, allowing you to get hands-on experience and talk directly with the creators.

Local Play and Word-of-Mouth Recommendations

Don’t underestimate the power of personal connections when it comes to finding new games.

• Ask Friends and Family: If you have friends who also play on Switch, ask them what indie games they’ve enjoyed. Personal recommendations can be incredibly valuable, especially from people whose tastes you trust.
• Observe Local Co-op Sessions: Sometimes, simply seeing someone else play an interesting indie game during a local multiplayer session can spark your interest and lead to a new discovery.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch’s indie library is a vibrant landscape waiting to be explored. By combining smart eShop navigation with engagement in online communities, following developers, and taking advantage of demos and official showcases, you’ll significantly increase your chances of finding those unforgettable independent titles that define the Switch experience. Happy hunting!