As the gaming world eagerly awaits the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 4th in the UK, it's a poignant moment for many, myself included, to reflect on the profound impact the original Switch has had on our lives. For nearly eight years, this console has defied expectations, achieving unparalleled success and cementing its place in gaming history, second only to the PlayStation 2 in sales. This triumph was by no means a given, especially considering it emerged from the shadow of the disappointing Wii U.
My own experience with the Wii U began a few months after its release. Even then, I sensed its struggles. While it offered a handful of decent first-party Nintendo titles, third-party support was notably scarce. This was a critical time when indie games and digital storefronts were on the rise, leading many to wonder if Nintendo, the Kyoto-based gaming giant, was facing its twilight. It lagged behind Sony's more powerful PlayStation 4, which boasted a greater frequency of, and arguably, better, exclusive titles. The Western video game industry was thriving, and Phil Fish's arrogant declaration that "Japanese games just suck" seemed to echo a growing sentiment as Nintendo grappled with the technological leap to high-definition.
Despite these shifts, my passion for gaming remained strong. However, my life took a significant turn in March 2015 with the birth of my first daughter. Priorities shifted, and the financial realities of living in London on a teacher's salary led my wife and me to seek the tranquility of village life in Kent. As my daughter grew, she'd occasionally see me gaming, but mostly, I played solo, wanting her to explore other interests before diving into video games at such a young age.
I cherish many memories of solo gaming on the Switch:
Mario Odyssey — a true masterpiece with stunning graphics.
Zelda: Breath of the Wild — which quickly became one of my favorite games of all time. The breathtaking vistas after leaving the Temple of Resurrection were truly mind-blowing.
A Short Hike — a beautiful, concise tale brimming with heart.
However, as my daughter grew and her sister joined us two years later, gaming evolved into a shared family experience. These moments of collective adventure are the ones that will forge core memories that will last a lifetime. They weren't just about winning or losing; they were about the laughter, the collaborative problem-solving, the inside jokes, and the unique bond that formed as we embarked on virtual escapades together.
Here are some highlights of our family gaming sessions:
Alba: A Wildlife Adventure — my eldest, being part of her school's Green Team, deeply resonated with this environmental-themed game about a young girl striving to protect a nature reserve.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land — its undeniable cuteness and emphasis on teamwork drew them in, though the eldritch, Cronenbergian monstrosity of the final boss did lead to a few nightmares!
Mario 3D World — this game became their benchmark for platforming, and they absolutely adored the various costume changes.
Disney Illusion Island — this served as a wonderful introduction to the Metroidvania genre for my eldest.
In terms of competitive play, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Nintendo Switch Sports dominate our household. My girls have definitely upped their PG-rated trash-talking game — imagine Trolls-level insults, and you'll get the idea.
A few years ago, my eldest daughter began having trouble sleeping. She'd often find me playing Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Watching me, asking questions, she'd gradually be lulled to sleep by the gentle music and my serene wandering across the plateau.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Switch was instrumental in keeping us sane and occupied. Post-pandemic, when their friends visit, they've created their own Miis, transforming our console into a vibrant communal gaming hub.
Video gaming, in its purest form, can transcend its digital nature to become a powerful tool for connection, creating enduringly joyful moments. The Switch has been precisely that for me and my family, and I will genuinely miss it. As its journey comes to a close, I bid it a heartfelt farewell. Go forth into the night, sweet system; your legacy of joy will surely endure.
LINK- The Rise of Retro Gaming During Covid
LINK: Japan: My Journey to the East
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LINK- Utopia for Realists- Book Review
LINK- ‘Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire’ LINK: Elden Ring- Videogames As Art