5 Must-Play Nintendo Games for Your Weekend Marathon

Sure thing, let’s dive into the wonderful, chaotic world of Nintendo gaming, shall we? So, here’s the scoop: Nintendo dropped the Switch 2 and now everyone’s in this weird limbo between the original Switch and its shiny new sibling. I mean, I guess the old-school Switch fans are hanging on like it’s a treasure chest of nostalgic dreams, while others are already in love with the future (or at least the future of gaming, if that even makes sense).

Now, the Switch 2? It’s new, fresh out of the box, barely starting its journey, and let’s be honest, it doesn’t have a ton of its own games yet. But hey, thanks to backward compatibility, you’ve got access to a slew of titles from the old days—meaning last year, probably.

Speaking of the future and nostalgia, the game world is just swirling with cross-gen titles because of course, everyone’s trying to cater to both consoles. Think of it as a smorgasbord of pixelated delights or maybe an existential crisis for your average weekend gamer. Seriously though, you sit there, controller in hand, thinking, “What do I play next?” It’s a real thing.

Anyway, here’s my list of escapades—I mean, games—that you should totally marathon like it’s a Netflix series. Side note: When I say “Nintendo games,” I don’t mean just Nintendo-published stuff, okay? We’re not that fussy.

### Patapon 1 + 2 Replay

Remember Patapon? Those rhythm-based, side-scrolling drum games from the PSP days. Yep, they’re back and somehow even more mesmerizing on the Switch. Something about the portable screen just feels… fitting? Yeah, let’s go with that. And don’t get me started on the multiplayer mode—it’s Switch-exclusive, can you believe it? Sadly, no Switch 2 exclusives on this one, but you can still enjoy it through backward compatibility. If anything screams “weekend vibes,” it’s this.

### System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster

Okay, okay—System Shock 2 is legendary, right? Nightdive Studios decided to bring this sci-fi horror classic to the Nintendo world. How are we feeling about taking horror on the go? Creepy but exciting, if you ask me. Some parts might creak like an old attic (you know, those things always do), but the high review scores don’t lie. People love it. So, worth a spin in your Switch-Switch 2 gaming roulette.

### Super Mario Odyssey

Ah, Mario. Super Mario Odyssey isn’t just a game; it’s like visiting an old friend. Now, Nintendo confirmed that the team behind Donkey Kong Bananza was also behind Odyssey. Mind-blown, or just me? Anyway, perfect chance to relive Mario’s wild journey while awaiting the Bananza. Those creative levels? They’re the gold standard of Mario adventures, no question. You just can’t go wrong here.

### Super Mario Strikers

Soccer but make it Mario. Doesn’t that just sound like a recipe for total mayhem? If you’ve upgraded to the Switch 2, you’re in for a treat because it’s now available there. Perfect mix of Mario craziness and classic soccer—play it online, or with friends locally; it’s madness on a (tiny) pitch.

### Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4

Last but definitely not least, we have Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 hitting both the original Switch and the Switch 2. All you skateboarding dreamers out there will appreciate this upgrade, complete with polished graphics and controls. Want to impress your mates online? Go ahead and show them your moves! The perks of owning a Switch 2? Better graphics, sure, but honestly, the fun’s universal.

And there you have it. A weekend lineup packed more densely than a Tetris game on level 99. Go forth and game!