As February fades into the past and we welcome March, there’s a palpable excitement among Nintendo Switch fans. This month signifies not only the transition into spring but also a growing anticipation for what’s next in the gaming pipeline, particularly with the rumors surrounding the Switch 2. For now, however, we still have a plethora of digital gems to uncover from the eShop, and the spotlight this March falls on the latest releases that have captured the attention of fans and critics alike.
February tends to be a quieter month in terms of major game releases, allowing players the chance to catch up on previous titles or dive deep into the eShop. Our team at Nintendo Life took this opportunity to sift through the latest offerings and discover hidden treasures. This time, we’ve taken a slightly different approach to our eShop Selects, emphasizing games that scored a minimum of 6/10—an unconventional rule, yes, but one crafted with the intention of highlighting games that possess a certain charm and merit, regardless of their overall ratings.
With five contenders in the mix this February, we found ourselves revisiting games that, despite not making the primary cut, deserve recognition for their unique contributions to the gaming scene.
The “Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered” stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Lara Croft saga. While not every title in this collection has aged like fine wine, its historical significance and nostalgic value make it a worthwhile addition to any fan’s library. Specifically, “The Last Revelation” shines within this set; it showcases a period in gaming where exploration and puzzle-solving reigned supreme, making it a needed homage to the series’ roots. Despite our lukewarm score of 6/10, we view this remaster as much more than just a numbers game; it’s an essential piece of gaming history that fans will appreciate for its context and preservation of beloved characters and stories.
In a contrasting direction, we find ourselves emotionally tethered to “Afterlove EP,” a poignant visual novel that resonates deeply with themes of love and loss. Developed by the creator of Coffee Talk, this title captures the raw essence of navigating through grief after losing a partner. With stunning hand-drawn visuals that vividly reflect Jakarta’s charm and an emotionally engaging narrative, it’s easy to see why this game garnered our praise with a score of 7/10.
What sets “Afterlove EP” apart from traditional rhythm games is its ability to intersect storytelling with gameplay seamlessly. While it encounters moments where the narrative might falter or feel incomplete, its strengths overshadow these missteps, imbuing it with a heartfelt sincerity that is likely to resonate with anyone who has faced similar experiences. It’s a must-play for individuals seeking an experience that merges gameplay with genuine emotional moments.
Undoubtedly, the crown jewel of February’s eShop releases is “Momodora: Moonlit Farewell,” which has been hailed as a triumph in the Metroidvania genre. With its polished mechanics, breathtaking pixel art, and innovative gameplay elements, this fifth installment of the Momodora series not only builds on its predecessors but also elevates what fans can expect from sequels. Scoring the highest of the month, it stands as a clear representation of how to evolve within a franchise effectively.
This title excels in offering an extensive world filled with mysteries to unravel, all while providing players with the opportunity to customize their playstyle. It’s an exhilarating experience that promises to engage both veteran players and newcomers alike, making it a game we strongly recommend adding to your wishlist. Its success reflects the vitality of indie game development and the varied experiences that can be found outside the triple-A mainstream.
As we round up our picks for the month, we invite you to engage in the discussion. Do you agree with our selections for February? What titles captured your interest more than others? We encourage everyone to vote for their favorite games via our poll and share any thoughts in the comments.
With the impending release of “Xenoblade Chronicles X” looming large at the end of March, it’s crucial to find time to cherish these unique experiences while they last. Each game holds a part of the collective gaming narrative, and it’s up to us to explore what they have to offer. Happy gaming!