As we bid farewell to February and usher in March, the gaming community is buzzing with excitement for what lies ahead, including the anticipated arrival of the Switch 2. However, for now, our focus remains on the current offerings available on the Nintendo eShop, a treasure trove of games that provides hours of entertainment.
February traditionally serves as a quieter month for game releases on the Nintendo Switch. This lull has resulted in a more manageable review schedule for our team, allowing us to sift through the various games that have hit the eShop. While not every game makes an impact, a selection managed to shine even in this slower period. Our monthly eShop Selects is based on measurable criteria; our team, comprising both staff and community contributors, votes for their top three eShop games each month, using a system that weighs votes based on a game’s review score.
This month, we deviated slightly from our norm by covering only those titles that received a score of at least 6/10. Although this approach is not characteristic of our typical selection, it signifies our recognition that even less acclaimed games can have merit and foster dedicated fan communities.
Two games that, while failing to secure a top position, nevertheless boast commendable qualities and have garnered enough interest to merit discussion include the “Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered” collection and “Afterlove EP.”
“Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered” encapsulates a pivotal part of gaming history for fans of the series. Though it is widely acknowledged that not all entries in the collection have aged well—particularly “Angel of Darkness” with its infamous technical failings—the historical significance of these titles cannot be understated. The remaster offers modern gameplay improvements while preserving the essence of the original releases, making it intriguing for both nostalgic players and newcomers interested in the evolution of game design.
Conversely, “Afterlove EP” takes an entirely different approach, presenting itself as a rhythm-driven visual novel. Crafted by Mohammad Fahmi, known for the acclaimed “Coffee Talk,” the game marries striking hand-drawn aesthetics with poignant storytelling. It explores themes of love and loss, allowing players to grapple with emotional moments that resonate deeply. Though the game doesn’t achieve perfection, its highs are memorable enough to warrant a 7/10 score, illustrating the emotional weight it carries and the innovative blend of genres.
Undoubtedly, the standout title of the month is “Momodora: Moonlit Farewell,” which emerged as the highest-rated game in February. As the fifth installment in the beloved Momodora series, this title illustrates an exemplary evolution of gameplay mechanics and visuals, building substantially on its predecessors. Developers Bombservice have refined the Metroidvania formula, balancing nostalgia with fresh mechanics that empower players’ creativity and engagement.
The attention to detail in “Moonlit Farewell” is evident through its lush pixel art and immersive environments that instill a sense of exploration in every encounter. Having arrived nearly eight years after “Reverie Under the Moonlight,” it exemplifies how sequels can successfully innovate while still paying homage to beloved foundational elements. For gamers enchanted by exploration and storytelling, this title is a must-have on their wishlist.
As we reflect on February’s offerings, we invite our readers to engage in the conversation about their favorite titles released this past month. While our team’s top picks are informed by comprehensive reviews and careful deliberation, gaming is inherently a personal experience. Everyone’s preferences vary, and we encourage votes and discussions that can cast a spotlight on hidden gems otherwise overlooked by mainstream circles.
With avid anticipation buzzing for the high-profile releases that March promises, including “Xenoblade Chronicles X,” this window of reflection allows us to sift through what resonate with players. Each title released in February—even those that fell short of high scores—has its own story to tell and its own unique charm to offer.
In the ever-evolving landscape of gaming, it’s essential to embrace all experiences—both the highs and the lows. So, which titles from February resonated the most with you? Engage with the poll we’ve set up below and share your thoughts, as we gear up for another month of exploration and excitement in the vibrant world of Nintendo gaming.