This upcoming August, the Nintendo Switch may not have any first-party launches, but it is jampacked with indie releases. From turn-based RPGs to kart-racers, there is something every gamer can enjoy.
Iconoclasts
Developer Joakim “Konjak” Sandberg is bringing his action-platformer, Iconoclasts, to the hybrid system early this month. This 2D platformer places emphasis on environmental puzzles, exploration, in addition to combat. A Boss Rush mode is set to be included in this latest port of the game as well. Development began back in 2010 for this Metroidvania title, with its release on the PlayStation 4 earlier this January. Iconoclasts finds its way to the Switch on August 2.
Check out our review of Iconoclasts here.
Salt and Sanctuary
With 2D hand-drawn visuals, this action role-playing title takes heavy inspiration from Dark Souls and Castlevania. There are over 600 items that players can use to their advantage, in addition to magic and ranged attacks. Classes, stats, and a skill tree help to make this a deeper RPG experience than other indie titles. Ska Studios’ Salt and Sanctuary launches on the Nintendo Switch August 2.
Dead Cells
Motion Twin has created a highly anticipated indie title with Dead Cells. A Metroidvania mixed with rogue-like elements make for an ambitious title on the Switch. There are no checkpoints or saves in the game, yet some progress carries over from each death. Ultimately though, gamers must beat the final boss in one go to complete the title. Dead Cells releases on August 7.
Check out our review of Dead Cells here.
Overcooked! 2
The competitive co-op cooking game has earned a sequel with Overcooked! 2. Four players can team up to take on various challenges in different kitchens. Gamers must work together to complete each stage, encouraging heavy teamwork. Moving walkways, portals, and fires add obstacles to player’s paths, which makes levels even more hectic than they already are. Ghost Town Games’ multiplayer title releases on August 7.
Cosmic Star Heroine
Zeboyd Games has partnered with Limited Run Games to bring their hit science fiction turn-based RPG, Cosmic Star Heroine, to the Nintendo Switch. Previously, the title was released only on PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, and PC. This retro-inspired title takes heavy influences from classic RPGs, such as Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VII. Cosmic Star Heroine is headed onto the eShop on August 14.
Check out our review of Cosmic Star Heroine here.
All-Star Fruit Racing
This kart racer, developed by 3DClouds.it, is filled with vibrant worlds and fruit. With over 32,000 possible kart customizations and 21 courses, there is a lot to offer. This title will also feature four-player split-screen and online multiplayer to help make this ideal for parties. All-Star Fruit Racing launches on August 21.
Check out our review of All-Star Fruit Racing here.
Blade Strangers
Blade Strangers is an upcoming crossover fighting game filled with indie characters. Fans of Binding of Isaac, Cave Story, Code of Princess, and even Shovel Knight can take control of their favorite characters to battle it out. Studio Saizensen is developing the title with Nicalis as its publisher, making most of the roster from each company’s top franchises. A variety of modes will also be present, including arcade, survival, training, challenge, and a single-player campaign in addition to local and online multiplayer. Players can look forward to Blade Strangers on August 28.
With so many indie titles releasing throughout the month, Nintendo Switch owners will have a variety of options to sift through. It’s a great month to try out new games and experience different genres!