The gaming landscape has changed dramatically with cross-generation releases and remasters blurring the lines between console generations. However, a console’s launch lineup remains a crucial showcase of its capabilities, offering early adopters a glimpse into its power and potential. Nintendo, in particular, has a history of delivering exceptional launch games, with many of the best NES, N64, and Switch titles debuting alongside the consoles themselves. While launch games are often overshadowed by later releases, some have truly stood the test of time. Here are the best launch games across all Nintendo platforms, ranked.
9. Nintendogs + Cats (3DS)
The Nintendo 3DS launched with a vast library, but it was arguably the weakest of all Nintendo console launches. Lacking major franchise releases to propel the new 3D technology, Nintendo relied on titles like Pilotwings Resort, Steel Diver, and Nintendogs + Cats. Among these, Nintendogs + Cats found a niche audience, capitalizing on the pet simulator craze that took off on the DS. While the 3D and AR features were novel, the core gameplay offered little innovation. Though not a bad game, it was a weak showcase for the 3DS and provided little incentive to upgrade from the DS.
8. Luigi’s Mansion (GameCube)
The GameCube was the first Nintendo home console to launch without a new Mario game. This departure, coupled with the announcement of a Luigi-centric launch title, caused an uproar. However, Luigi’s Mansion proved to be a delightful surprise. While it wasn’t a platformer, and many likely waited for Super Mario Sunshine, it was a worthy experiment for Nintendo. This marked the beginning of Luigi’s ascent as a standalone character, spawning two sequels that refined the ghost-hunting gameplay. Luigi’s Mansion remains a unique and enjoyable, albeit brief, experience.
7. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed (Wii U)
The Wii U launch was dominated by ports often inferior to their Xbox 360 and PS3 counterparts. While Nintendo Land attempted to recapture the Wii Sports magic, it felt more like a collection of demos. Surprisingly, it was a Sonic game that provided a compelling reason to own the console. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed offered a serious challenge to the Mario Kart series, delivering tight controls, balanced power-ups, and dynamic courses featuring transforming karts. Despite the hurdle of featuring Sonic characters over Mario, it proved a rewarding experience for those who gave it a chance.
6. Super Mario Bros. (NES)
While Mario had appeared in arcades, Super Mario Bros. on the NES solidified his status as Nintendo’s mascot. This game has been extensively analyzed for setting the standard for 2D platformers. Its innovative world design, precise controls, hidden secrets, power-ups, and level design remain remarkably modern. Super Mario Bros. played a crucial role in revitalizing the video game industry after the 1980s crash, and its legacy remains undeniable.
5. Super Mario World (SNES)
The SNES launched in America with two key titles: Super Mario World and F-Zero. While F-Zero is a fantastic racing game, Super Mario World remains a landmark 16-bit platformer. Its beautiful visuals, innovative power-ups, secret worlds, iconic soundtrack, and the introduction of Yoshi cemented its place as one of the best platformers ever made. Every 2D Mario game since has been measured against Super Mario World, and this is unlikely to change.
4. Wii Sports (Wii)
The Wii represented a significant gamble for Nintendo, shifting focus to motion-controlled gaming. Wii Sports, bundled with every console, was instrumental in demonstrating the potential of this new technology. It became a cultural phenomenon, engaging players of all ages and making the Wii a must-have system. Its widespread appeal solidified its place as a powerful launch title.
3. Tetris (Game Boy)
Tetris proved the perfect game for the Game Boy. Its simple yet addictive gameplay transcended traditional gaming demographics, captivating both gamers and non-gamers alike. As one of the most influential games ever created, Tetris was an ideal launch title for Nintendo’s handheld console.
2. Super Mario 64 (Nintendo 64)
The transition to 3D gaming proved challenging for many developers. However, Nintendo once again raised the bar with Super Mario 64, setting a new standard for 3D platformers. While the camera controls have shown their age, the game remains a remarkably polished and complete experience. Mario’s responsive movements and the vibrant level design are still impressive today, solidifying its legacy as a groundbreaking title.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Switch)
Breath of the Wild generated immense excitement as a launch title for the Switch. The promise of an open-world Zelda experience was so enticing that many purchased the game before even owning the console. Upon release, it exceeded expectations, redefining open-world game design with its emphasis on natural exploration and player-driven discovery. Despite minor drawbacks like weapon durability, Breath of the Wild remains a landmark achievement and the pinnacle of Nintendo launch titles.
