5 Nintendo Games to Dive Into This Weekend (July 18)

Alright, here we go. Let’s talk, just like you and me, about this whole new thing with the Switch 2. Honestly, it’s been out for like six weeks or so? Already a bunch of noise about it, and in a seriously good way. It doesn’t have a mega-list of games right off the bat — but oh man, hang tight for next year. Kirby Air Riders? Metroid Prime 4: Beyond? I can’t even.

And hey, here’s the cool part — it’s back-compatible with the OG Switch. So, you know, you’re not left twiddlin’ your thumbs waiting for the big drops. Your old games still got you covered.

Now, speaking of heat, it’s climbing up to those sweat-inducing heights outside — yeah, not thrilled about that at all. So why not cocoon yourself in with some Nintendo fun? I’ve got this weird knack for cherry-picking games from the eShop — something like a guide through gaming chaos. There’s one standout that’s already bagged top scores for 2025. Intriguing, right?

The weekend’s breathing down our neck, and I’ve lined up a little mix of five delightful Nintendo titles to lose yourself in before Monday beast mode activates. Got Switch 2 exclusives? Yep! But some of them are cross-compatible, so don’t sweat it if you haven’t snatched up a new console yet.

### Donkey Kong Bananza

Alright, picture this: an ape, jungles, and destructible stuff. Intrigued? I mean, who wouldn’t love a romp through a dense forest with DK, right? It’s one of those games that’s been dangled like a carrot since someone whispered about it in April. Now it’s finally here, and let me tell you — folks are digging it. Reviews are up and are basically starry-eyed. But, woops! Original Switch folks, you’ll have to sit this dance out.

### Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time

This one’s for all the RPG fans craving some life-sim action. Both Switch versions can handle this, so you’re safe to dive in. It’s set in Revaria, and you get to time travel? Yes, time travel. What a mind-bender. You pick up a ton of skills, jobs, whatever, and just lose yourself on this island. It’s wholesome, yet a total time-thief in the best way.

### Survival Kids

Now, this is a bit of a hit or miss. I’ll be honest, the single-player gig is more “meh” than amazing. But toss in some friends for co-op mode, and you’ve got a pretty fun escape. Co-op survival on a deserted island with Switch 2’s fancy GameChat? Such a good time-killer if you ask me.

### Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster

Let’s say you wanna bask in some nostalgia waves. This remaster is your go-to. Old-school JRPG goodness upgraded for your modern-day gaming pleasure. You’ll get to fast-forward battles now; it’s like they’ve heard my lazy gamer prayers. Dive into these classics on both Switch versions, by the way.

### Tamagotchi Plaza

Fun little throwback to when life was all about feeding digital pets. Manage shops, earn in-game currency, and go pastel-crazy with mini-games. You even get to collaborate in co-op. Yeah, it’s kind of cutesy—but sometimes that’s the perfect distraction, don’t you think?

So, that’s it. A slice of Nintendo joy to get you through another sunny, sweat-soaked weekend. Enjoy the ride!