It's that time again: eShop sale time! Nintendo's calling this one the Blockbuster Sale, and while it might not involve VHS tapes and stale candy, it certainly features a lineup of big games with hefty discounts. With so many games on sale, it can be overwhelming to sift through them all. That's where TouchArcade comes in, providing a curated list of fifteen hot deals worth considering. No first-party games this time, but don't worry, there's still a plethora of great titles to choose from. As always, these are in no particular order, so let's dive into the deals!
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim ($14.99 from $59.99)
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim offers a unique blend of side-scrolling adventure and top-down real-time strategy gameplay. Set in an alternate 1985, it follows the story of thirteen individuals from different timelines who must fend off invading kaiju using their Sentinels—large mechs designed for battling these giant monsters. The game boasts a compelling narrative and stunning visuals, hallmarks of Vanillaware's work. While the RTS elements might not be as polished, the overall experience is a sleeper hit, especially at this significantly reduced price.
Persona Collection ($44.99 from $89.99 until 9/10)
Looking to fill your free time? The Persona Collection is an unbeatable deal at just $44.99. This package includes Persona 3 Portable, Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal, all of which are exceptional RPGs with excellent Switch ports. At roughly $15 per game, you're getting hours of entertainment and lessons on the power of friendship—a valuable tool against any evil, both in-game and in real life!
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All-Star Battle R ($12.49 from $49.99)
A word of advice for JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: All-Star Battle R: if you're serious about diving into this game, consider playing it on a platform where it runs at 60 fps. The Switch version is solid, and JoJo fans will still find plenty to enjoy. It's a quirky fighter that fits the license well, offering a fresh alternative to the usual Capcom and Mortal Kombat titles.
Metal Gear Solid Master Collection Vol. 1 ($41.99 from $59.99)
Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 might not be perfect, especially in terms of performance and options. However, it has been improved through updates and remains a fantastic value. You get access to top-tier games and a wealth of extra materials. While it may not offer much new for seasoned players, it's an excellent deal for newcomers or those wanting to enjoy Metal Gear on the go.
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown Deluxe Edition ($41.99 from $59.99)
Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is a stellar port of a high-quality action game, perfectly filling a gap in the Switch's library. It's more approachable than you might think and easy to get lost in its engaging story and gameplay. While the multiplayer could use some fine-tuning, the campaign alone offers plenty of value for your money, especially at this discounted price.
Etrian Odyssey Origins Collection ($39.99 from $79.99)
The Etrian Odyssey series arrives on Switch with these HD remakes of the first three games. These challenging titles are a joy to play, and buying the original Nintendo DS cartridges can be costly now. The signature mapping feature might not be as smooth as on the DS, but it's well-implemented here, and you can use auto-mapping if needed. At half price, this collection is a steal.
Darkest Dungeon II ($31.99 from $39.99 until 9/10)
Darkest Dungeon II takes a different approach from its predecessor, focusing on its own unique structure. Embrace this shift, and you'll appreciate its moody atmosphere and roguelite elements. Its distinctive style and blend of traditional and emergent storytelling make it a must-try for roguelite enthusiasts, even if it might not fully satisfy fans of the original.
Braid: Anniversary Edition ($9.99 from $19.99)
Braid was a trailblazer in the indie scene, and its Anniversary Edition brings a remastered version with outstanding developer commentary. Though its impact may have lessened due to subsequent games inspired by it, this discounted price makes it an enticing option for both new players and those looking to revisit a classic.
Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes – Definitive Edition ($11.69 from $17.99)
Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes – Definitive Edition might not add much to the original, but it's still a robust game that holds up well today. Dotemu's Switch port is solid, fitting the platform nearly as well as the Nintendo DS did. If you're after a compelling puzzle game with strong single-player and multiplayer modes, this is a great pick.
Life is Strange: Arcadia Bay Collection ($15.99 from $39.99)
The Switch versions of the games in Life is Strange: Arcadia Bay Collection may have visual and technical shortcomings, but the stories themselves remain powerful. If you're new to the series and want an affordable way to explore its beginnings, this sale price is an excellent opportunity.
Loop Hero ($4.94 from $14.99)
Loop Hero is as addictive as the best idle games, yet it offers enough depth to make your input feel significant. It's perfect for both short sessions and longer playtimes, keeping you engaged with its surprises and replayability. Though not the most challenging game, it's certainly engaging and worth the discounted price.
Death’s Door ($4.99 from $19.99)
Death’s Door combines stunning visuals with solid gameplay, making it a standout title. While the mechanics aren't groundbreaking, the game excels in both presentation and engaging boss battles that test your pattern recognition and reflexes. The atmospheric world and compelling narrative make it a must-play for action-RPG fans.
The Messenger ($3.99 from $19.99)
At its lowest price yet, The Messenger is a must-try for indie action game fans. What starts as a straightforward ninja game evolves into something more ambitious and engaging. While not perfect, it's a classic that resonates with fans of 8-bit and 16-bit games.
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 Turbocharged ($14.99 from $49.99)
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged refines the fun arcade racing of the original with smoother gameplay. While the post-game content can be challenging, it's well-suited for those who've mastered the main game. Whether you're a fan of the first game or new to the series, this sequel is a fantastic value at $14.99.
Pepper Grinder ($9.74 from $14.99)
Pepper Grinder is a unique and enjoyable platformer with fast-paced action and inventive mechanics. While the boss battles can feel a bit clunky, the game's overall experience is tight and engaging. Keep in mind its shorter runtime, but at this price, it's a worthwhile addition to your library.
And those are our picks from the Blockbuster Sale on the Nintendo Switch eShop. There are plenty more great games on sale right now, so be sure to check your wishlists and explore your favorite publishers' pages to ensure you don't miss out. If you have any sales you'd like to share, please leave a comment below. Thanks for reading!
