First on our list is Fire Emblem: Three Houses, a flagship strategy RPG that combines turn-based combat with a rich narrative. Set in the fantasy world of Fódlan, the game immerses players in a realm filled with lore and intricate politics. The setting is divided into three powerful nations, each with its own leaders and conflicts. This backdrop provides a complex and engaging environment for players to explore, influencing the storyline as they make crucial decisions.
Gameplay Mechanics
Players take on the role of a professor guiding students through tactical battles, blending academic life with strategic warfare. The game introduces a unique calendar system, where players must manage their time effectively between battles, teaching, and character interactions. Each choice impacts the development of the students, affecting their abilities in combat. The turn-based combat system is both deep and accessible, offering a variety of strategies to employ in every encounter.
Character Development and Storylines
The game’s deep character development and branching storylines make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Each student has their own backstory, motivations, and growth potential, allowing for personalized team-building. As relationships between characters evolve, new storylines and dialogue options become available, adding depth to the narrative. With its engaging gameplay and immersive world, Fire Emblem: Three Houses showcases why it’s one of the best strategy games on the Switch.
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle
Concept and Collaboration
Who would have thought that combining Mario with Ubisoft’s Rabbids would result in a fantastic strategy game? This collaboration between Nintendo and Ubisoft brings together two iconic franchises in an unexpected yet delightful crossover. The game draws players into a whimsical journey through the Mushroom Kingdom, where familiar characters meet the chaotic antics of the Rabbids.
Gameplay and Strategy
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle offers turn-based strategy battles that are both accessible and challenging. Players must navigate a series of puzzle-like battlefields, using each character’s unique abilities to outmaneuver opponents. The game emphasizes tactical positioning and teamwork, rewarding players who can effectively plan their moves and anticipate enemy actions.
Visuals and Humor
The game features a quirky sense of humor, with Rabbids mimicking the antics of Mario and his friends in absurd ways. Its colorful, vibrant visuals make it appealing to players of all ages, combining cartoonish charm with strategic depth. If you’re looking for a lighthearted strategy game with a unique twist, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is the perfect choice for both casual and dedicated strategists.
Into the Breach
Indie Innovation
Into the Breach is a tactical gem from the creators of FTL: Faster Than Light, showcasing the creativity and innovation of indie game developers. This game presents a minimalist yet deeply engaging experience, challenging players to think several steps ahead. The design philosophy focuses on quality over quantity, with each battle offering a fresh and intense challenge.
Tactical Mechanics and Time Travel
This indie game offers players a series of grid-based battles where they command powerful mechs to fend off alien threats. What sets it apart is its clever use of time travel mechanics, allowing players to anticipate enemy moves and strategically plan their actions. The ability to see future enemy attacks adds a layer of foresight, encouraging players to carefully consider their moves.
Design and Replayability
With its minimalist design and challenging gameplay, Into the Breach is a prime example of how less can be more in the world of strategy games. The game’s simple visuals belie a deep strategic complexity, where every decision carries weight. Each playthrough is different, thanks to procedural generation, ensuring high replayability and enduring appeal for strategy enthusiasts.
Civilization VI
Empire Building
For those who enjoy building empires, Civilization VI on the Switch offers the chance to guide a civilization from the Stone Age to the Information Age. This game encapsulates the grandeur and depth of world-building, challenging players to grow their nation from humble beginnings to a global powerhouse. The long-term strategic planning required makes it a standout title for strategy enthusiasts.
Gameplay Depth and Complexity
The game’s depth and complexity make it a standout title for strategy enthusiasts. Players must manage resources, engage in diplomacy, and wage war as they strive for global dominance. Each decision can have far-reaching consequences, impacting the development of cities, technology, and international relations. This intricate system of interdependent mechanics ensures a rich and rewarding experience.
Portability and Accessibility
Its portable nature on the Switch makes Civilization VI a fantastic way to enjoy one of the best-known strategy franchises anytime, anywhere. The Switch version retains the full depth of the original game while optimizing controls for handheld play. This accessibility allows players to dive into complex strategies on the go, making empire-building more convenient and enjoyable.
Wargroove
Homage to Classic Tactics
If you long for the days of Advance Wars, Wargroove will scratch that itch. Developed by Chucklefish, this game is a love letter to classic tactical games, featuring charming pixel art and engaging turn-based combat. The nostalgic design appeals to fans of retro strategy games, while offering fresh challenges and innovations.
Commanders and Abilities
Players can choose from different commanders, each with unique abilities that influence the battlefield. These commanders add a layer of strategy, as their powers can turn the tide of battle when used effectively. Understanding each commander’s strengths and weaknesses is crucial for devising successful tactics in various scenarios.
Level Editor and Replayability
Wargroove also includes a robust level editor, allowing players to create and share their own maps and campaigns, adding endless replayability to this strategy gem. The community-driven content ensures that there are always new challenges and adventures to explore. This feature fosters creativity and engagement, making Wargroove a dynamic and enduring addition to any strategy game collection.
XCOM 2 Collection
Alien Resistance
The XCOM 2 Collection brings the critically acclaimed tactical series to the Switch, complete with all its expansions. This game puts players in command of a squad of soldiers fighting against an alien occupation on Earth. The overarching narrative of resistance and survival adds urgency and stakes to each mission.
Gameplay Challenges
Known for its challenging gameplay and high-stakes decisions, XCOM 2 tests players’ strategic thinking and adaptability. The game emphasizes risk management, as players must weigh the potential benefits and costs of each action. The unpredictability of enemy encounters keeps players on their toes, demanding quick thinking and precise execution.
Immersive Story and Expansions
With its immersive story and intense missions, this collection is a must-have for any strategy game enthusiast. The expansions add new layers to the gameplay, introducing additional units, missions, and storylines. This comprehensive package offers a deep and varied experience, ensuring that players remain engaged and challenged throughout their campaign against alien forces.
Banner Saga Trilogy
Narrative and Aesthetics
For a strategy game that combines tactical combat with a compelling narrative, the Banner Saga Trilogy is an excellent choice. This series of games takes players through a beautifully hand-drawn world inspired by Norse mythology. The art style and music create an atmospheric experience, drawing players into a world of epic sagas and mythical adventures.
Strategic Combat and Decision Making
Players must make difficult choices that affect the story and the survival of their caravan. The tactical combat system is intertwined with the narrative, as decisions made off the battlefield influence the challenges faced in combat. This blend of story and strategy requires players to consider both immediate and long-term consequences.
Emotional Impact and Replayability
The blend of strategic battles and rich storytelling creates an unforgettable gaming experience that strategy fans will love. Each playthrough can lead to different outcomes, depending on the choices made and alliances formed. The emotional weight of these decisions adds depth to the gameplay, ensuring that each journey through the Banner Saga Trilogy is unique and impactful.
Valkyria Chronicles 4
Setting and Story
Valkyria Chronicles 4 is a tactical RPG that blends turn-based strategy with real-time action. Set in a fictional universe reminiscent of World War II, the game combines historical inspiration with a unique narrative. Players command a squad of soldiers through a story of camaraderie, sacrifice, and heroism.
Gameplay Mechanics
The game’s unique “BLiTZ” system allows players to actively control units during their turn, adding a layer of immersion to the strategic gameplay. This hybrid system combines elements of strategy and action, requiring players to think on their feet while planning their moves. The diverse unit types and tactical options provide a rich and varied combat experience.
Visuals and Art Direction
With its engaging story and stunning visuals, Valkyria Chronicles 4 is a standout title for the Switch. The watercolor-inspired art style and detailed character designs enhance the narrative, creating a visually captivating experience. The game’s artistic direction complements the strategic depth, making it a must-play for fans of tactical RPGs.
Pikmin 3 Deluxe
Unique Strategy Elements
For a different kind of strategy experience, Pikmin 3 Deluxe offers a charming and unique adventure. Players command tiny plant-like creatures called Pikmin to solve puzzles, collect resources, and battle enemies. The game’s strategic elements come from managing different types of Pikmin, each with their own abilities, to accomplish tasks efficiently.
Puzzle Solving and Exploration
The game encourages exploration and problem-solving, as players must navigate diverse environments to uncover secrets and gather resources. The interplay between different Pikmin types adds complexity, requiring players to adapt their strategies to the challenges presented. This blend of exploration and strategy creates a satisfying and engaging experience.
Art Style and Atmosphere
With its delightful art style and engaging gameplay, Pikmin 3 Deluxe is perfect for players looking for a more relaxed yet challenging strategy game. The vibrant environments and whimsical creatures create an inviting world that draws players in. This combination of charm and challenge makes Pikmin 3 Deluxe a standout title for strategy enthusiasts seeking something different.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch offers a diverse array of strategy games that cater to various tastes and preferences. From epic battles and empire-building to quirky adventures and deep narratives, these top strategy games for Nintendo Switch provide endless hours of engaging gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or a newcomer to the genre, these titles are sure to captivate and challenge you in the best possible way. Dive into these immersive worlds, hone your tactical skills, and enjoy the strategic depth that these games offer. Happy strategizing!
