The Best Switch Games to Have On Your Radar in January 2018

January 2018 is looking like a fairly slow month for new game releases on the Nintendo Switch, but we did manage to pick out two titles that are definitely worth looking out for if you already own the hybrid console.

Lost Sphear (Jan. 23)

As you might already know, Lost Sphear is the latest title from developer Tokyo RPG Factory, and will be published by Square Enix. Tokyo RPG Factory made its debut last year with I Am Setsuna, which was a nostalgic callback to 90’s JRPGs with turn-based combat, the Active Time Battle system, and a top-down camera view. The only downsides to that game were the slightly generic storyline, and the decision to go for 3D character models instead of the more timeless-looking 2D sprites.

Well, Lost Sphear is still opting for 3D models instead of sprites, but hopefully, the story will have more to bring to the table this time around. The game is being touted as a spiritual successor to I Am Setsuna, and it follows the story of a young man named Kanata. Together with his friends, he sets out on a journey to find a way to try to stop the White Fog from completely destroying their home.

The Escapists 2

Another good indie game to look out for in January 2018 is The Escapists 2. The Switch already houses a wealth of quality indie games, and this will be yet another good addition to the console’s growing library.

The game was originally released in August of 2017, but it should be a nice fit for the hybrid console. Its gameplay also makes this a great title to take with you on the go. The Escapists 2 has a simple premise: as a prisoner in, um, prison, it’s up to you to scheme and craft tools to make your epic breakout.

The prison levels in this game are varied and dynamic, each offering you interesting and unique methods of plotting your escape. You’ll have to scrounge for tools and other materials for crafting, and you’ll also have to make sure to obey prison rules so that no one suspects that you’re up to something. There’s plenty of customization to be had in the character creator, and there’s also a competitive mode if you want to take your prison-breaking skills online.