5 Must-Play Nintendo Games for This Weekend (July 18)

Sure thing, here’s a rewritten version of the article with that purely human touch you asked for.

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Man, where do I even begin? The Switch 2—I can’t believe it’s actually been six weeks since it hit the shelves. Time flies when you’re… stuck in front of a TV screen? Anyway, everyone’s talking about it. People are saying the game selection isn’t huge yet, but there’s something about waiting for new releases like Kirby Air Riders and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond that keeps the excitement alive. Plus, the backward compatibility with the OG Switch means you’re not completely stuck in limbo. Thank goodness because who has patience these days?

So, summer’s here, right? And the outside world seems dreadful when you’re blissfully cool inside. What’s the cure, you ask? New Nintendo games, of course. I know the eShop can be a maze, but I’ve got your back with some gems to tide you over. One biggie from the Switch 2 lineup’s already topping the charts for the year. Didn’t see that coming—well, maybe I did.

Anyway, weekends should be for gaming marathons. I picked out five Switch titles to dive into before Monday rears its ugly head again. Two require the new hotshot Switch 2, but don’t worry if you’re still clinging to the original. Most of these will work there too.

### Donkey Kong Bananza

You know, I couldn’t resist putting Donkey Kong Bananza at the forefront. It’s like everyone on the Switch 2 is losing their minds over it—who doesn’t love a gorilla who collects bananas? Early reviews? Out of this world. The game lets you smash stuff, explore jungles, and find hidden treasures. Sounds exhausting? Let DK swing through the trees while you sip on something tropical. But here’s the kicker: it’s a Switch 2 exclusive. Sorry, OG Switch folks.

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

There’s something about cozy RPGs on Nintendo that just hits differently. Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time has been out since May and it’s like catnip, I swear. You get to be a Paladin, Hunter, Cook, whatever floats your boat while wandering around an island. Time travel’s a thing here too—fix up an island by jumping to the future. It’s got this “live another life” vibe, and honestly, who wouldn’t want that this summer?

### Survival Kids

Survival Kids is… interesting. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea. The solo play can be boring, and you find yourself wishing for a bit more variety. But with friends? Totally different story. You get to try co-op mode and use GameChat. Yeah, it’s all about escaping an island, but in the most chill way possible. And in this heat, every hour spent not sweating counts, right?

### Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster

Feeling nostalgic? Suikoden 1 & 2 HD Remaster takes you down memory lane while sprinkling in some shiny new features. Talk about upgrading an old gem. It’s available on both old and new Switch, so you have no excuse. Missed it back in the day? Now’s your chance—Konami’s not playing around. They might bring back more titles, so better brush up on your RPG skills.

### Tamagotchi Plaza

Last, we’ve got Tamagotchi Plaza. It’s as pastel as it sounds, and if you’re into cuteness overload, look no further. It’s the first Tamagotchi game outside Japan in years, where you run a bunch of shops. Sure, some might say it’s too cute, but there’s a charm in managing virtual shops and winning mini-games. Plus, with local co-op, it’s a great way to drag a friend into your pastel world.

There you go. Games to keep you entertained and sane through the weekend. Maybe it’s chaotic, maybe it’s perfect. Honestly, who cares? As long as it’s fun.