Nintendo of Canada sent out the following
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What do you do when you’re looking for a slice of adventure, but it’s too cold to go outside? Enter: Nintendo Switch. The system – and its expansive library of games – offer a great way to do a different kind of exploring… all from the cozy comfort of the great indoors.
Whether you’re looking to unravel mysteries, embark on a classic adventure with Mario, or check out a Canadian Indie title that’s been on your list of games to play, here’s a few titles from 2023 that are sure to heat up your winter gameplay.
Jump into Action with Mario
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope Season Pass
This Rabbid-themed adventure is a must-play for Mario fans and strategy game enthusiasts. Filled with entertaining puzzles, delightful quests, and memorable characters, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is a blast from start to finish. Last year the Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope Season Pass DLC* launched for Nintendo Switch, bundling up all three DLC for maximum adventure, adding exciting storylines, characters, quests, and battles for Rabbids fans and new players alike.
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope ($79.99 CAD) and the Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope Season Pass ($39.99 CAD) are available now for Nintendo Switch.
ESRB Rating: EVERYONE 10+ with Cartoon Violence
Mario vs. Donkey Kong (launching February 16, 2024)
Reigniting the iconic rivalry, the Mario vs. Donkey Kong game sees Mario run, jump, and backflip across more than 130 levels in a quest to retrieve the Mini-Mario toys stolen by Donkey Kong. This puzzle-laden platformer, which originally launched for the Game Boy™ Advance system, has been updated for Nintendo Switch with newly added co-op play, brand-new worlds, updated music and visuals, and other new ways to play.
Mario fans and puzzlers won’t want to miss out when this classic returns on February 16 ($64.99 CAD).
ESRB Rating: EVERYONE with Mild Fantasy Violence
Solve a Mystery
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective
BANG! A single bullet rings out in the dark city. But as one life ends, the story is just getting started…
In this quirky, puzzle-packed mystery, you’ll work to solve your own murder after being brought back to life as a spirit. Having lost all memories, you must track down witnesses, uncover clues, and reveal the answer behind your untimely demise… all before sunrise.
Originally released for the Nintendo DS™ system, fans can now return to this cult-favourite murder mystery, fully remastered for Nintendo Switch ($39.99 CAD).
ESRB Rating: TEEN with Violence
COCOON takes winter escape to a truly otherworldly level as you leap across worlds (and worlds within worlds) as you solve intricate puzzles to unravel a cosmic mystery. As you explore this sci-fi adventure, you’ll find yourself traversing diverse alien biomes, uncovering hidden pathways and objects and testing your abilities in battle against the mighty guardians that protect each world.
The adventure awaits, COCOON is available now on Nintendo Switch ($32.99 CAD).
ESRB Rating: EVERYONE with Mild Fantasy Violence
If you’re looking for something a little spookier, OXENFREE II: Lost Signals is a supernatural mystery game with a touch of horror – and dozens of secrets to unravel. You’ll embark to the small coastal town of Camena to investigate electromagnetic waves which are suddenly causing interference with electrical and radio equipment. Every step of this mind-bending story will be determined through each of your decisions – if you’re brave enough to explore.
Dive into this sequel of the critically acclaimed OXENFREE now on Nintendo Switch ($24.99 CAD).
ESRB Rating: TEEN with Fantasy Violence, Language
Celebrate Canadian Indies
Venba is a perfect pick-me-up for chilly winter evenings. In this narrative cooking game, you play as an Indian mom – Venba – who immigrated to Canada with her family in the 1980s. In this heartwarming title, players are invited to cook authentic, South-Indian dishes, restoring lost recipes while building a connection to the home left behind.
Developed by Toronto-based Visai Studios, Venba was nominated for Best Debut Indie Game of 2023, and is available now for Nintendo Switch ($16.99 CAD).
ESRB Rating: TEEN with Blood, Violence, Use of Tobacco
This gorgeous, critically acclaimed title leaves little to be desired, inviting you to explore a deep and intriguing story filled with diverse characters, all made in a stunning, retro art style. If you’re new to RPGs, this is the perfect title to jump in, as it offers both engaging turn-based combat and the opportunity to explore and kick back – with sailing, cooking, and fishing – for those with a more relaxed playstyle.
Created by Quebec City-based Sabotage Studio, Sea of Stars was named Best Independent Game in 2023. It is available now for Nintendo Switch ($44.99 CAD).
ESRB Rating: EVERYONE 10+ with Mild Blood, Mild Language, Fantasy Violence
This enchanting farm-sim is sure to brighten up your day. In Fae Farm, you’re invited to craft, cultivate, and spruce up your own homestead on the magical island of Azoria. If you’re more the exploring type, you can step off the farm and into a world of fae magic, work to befriend the island’s magical residents and venture into its mysterious realms.
Can’t wait to explore? This spellbinding farming sim from Vancouver-based Phoenix Labs is available now for Nintendo Switch ($79.99 CAD).
ESRB Rating: EVERYONE 10+ with Fantasy Violence
Revisit Your Favourite Classics
For those looking for a dose of nostalgia, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership** gives you access to a robust library of classic SEGA Genesis, Game Boy Advance, and Nintendo 64™ games. Whether you’re cozying up to play Harvest Moon 64, joining a battle in Pokémon Stadium™ or enjoying a classic puzzle game with Tetris – there’s always something to revisit.
ESRB Rating: EVERYONE – TEEN
*Full version of game required to use DLC. Sold separately.
**Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership (sold separately) and Nintendo Account required. Membership auto-renews after initial term at the then-current price unless canceled. Persistent Internet, compatible smartphone and Nintendo Account age 13+ required to access some online features on the app, including voice chat. Data charges may apply. Online features, Save Data Cloud and Nintendo Switch Online smartphone app features available in compatible games. Not available in all countries. The Nintendo Account User Agreement, including the Purchase and Subscription terms, apply. nintendo.com/switch-online
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A good list of recommendations in our opinion
