Do you hear that on top of the house? Is it Santa Claus coming early? Nope, it’s Satoru Iwata, CEO of Nintendo providing everyone with the joy and wonders of Nintendo games. But what’s this, too many options? Don’t worry, here at TechGeek we will help by selecting a few of the best games of the year for your gift giving pleasure.
Over the course of the year, Nintendo has challenged the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 with a lot of first-party and initiative games. Ranging from the family friendly franchise Pokémon to the action-packed competitive Super Smash Bros., Nintendo has once again catered from all types of gamers. So whatever type of game you’re interested in, Nintendo would probably have a game for your liking. Please note the order of the games does not indicate any personal preference or bias.
WII U
Super Smash Bros for the Wii U
At last the latest iteration of the popular Super Smash Bros. has arrived for the Wii U, adding new and exciting features to the franchise. These additions includes eight-player matches so more of your friends don’t get left out, new characters from well-known Nintendo series, and new gamemodes to keep gamers busy during the holiday season.
Hyrule Warriors
Who would think that a cross between the Legend of Zelda and Dynasty Warriors franchise would actually work to deliver a fun casual mindless game? Set in an alternative universe, separate from the already confusing parallel canon timelines, Hyrule Warriors brings together the main protagonists and antagonists from major games, such as Minda from Twilight Princess and Ghirahim from Skyward Sword. For anyone itching for a decent beat-them-up game or a Legend of Zelda diehard fan, this is the game for you.
Bayonetta 2
Remember the craziness and overtop boss battles and fighting mechanics in the original 2009 game Bayonetta? Well the sequel somehow managed to step it up, featuring even more ridiculous gameplay and boss battle. Although there was some backlash when the game was first announced as a Wii U exclusive, the game is still remarkable despite running on the Wii U hardware. Fans of the original game will surely enjoy this game as Bayonetta once again fights her way through hordes of angels and demons, this time with less crazy hair.
Mario Kart 8
For anyone looking for a decent family racing game, then Mario Kart 8 is the perfect game for you. Featuring over 30 characters from the Super Mario franchise and over 20 rack tracks, this game will provide hours of mindless fun. With the recent release of the first DLC pack, players now can play as Link for Legend of Zelda while racing along Mute City from the F-Zero franchise. Moreover, with the second DLC pack slated for next year, featuring Animal Crossing-themed racetracks and characters.
3DS
The ‘new’ Nintendo 3DS
First of all, Nintendo has released their latest edition of the Nintendo 3DS and 3DS XLL. These consoles now feature a C-Stick (replacing the Circle Pro), additional buttons, Amiibo and improved hardware. Exclusive to the ‘new’ Nintendo 3DS are the exchangeable face plates which gamers can modify the exterior of the 3DS, suiting any mood they’re in. However most older games do not have any functionality with these new controls so you might need to consider before purchase.
Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire
Following the tradition Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire, originally released back in 2004 finally gets the remake it deserves. Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire are not just typical HD remakes that many game companies do these days, they are completely re-made from scratch using the game mechanics from Pokémon X and Y; bringing a new twist to the classic games by incorporating a compelling story. For anyone who wants a hit of nostalgia or anyone new to the franchise, these games are a great holiday gift.
Super Smash Bros for the 3DS
For years fans have been yearning for a portable version of Super Smash Bros. due to the series’ addictive gameplay. Featuring the same ragtag fighters from the Wii U edition, the 3DS edition features many exclusive gamemodes, such as Smash Run to distinguish the two. As an added bonus, gamers who own the two editions will be able to get samples of the soundtrack and access to an exclusive fighter free in 2015.
Tomodachi Life
Ever wondered how life with your friends be on a remote island? Well Tomodachi Life allows players to simulate this fantasy through Miis. Players can fully customise the voice and personalities of each Mii, allowing their creativity to run wild.
OTHER
Amiibo
These adorable figures from Nintendo features many of the fighters featured in the latest Super Smash Bros. game, such as Mario, Kirby and Samus Aran. Moreover, these figurines can be used to unlocked many hidden features in many Nintendo games, such as exclusive items in Hyrule Warriors and Mii skins for Mario Kart 8.