August 7's Indie World Showcase announced the immediate release of three new games for the Nintendo Switch, including a cozy logic puzzle title, a bookstore management sim, and a well-regarded collection of 50 retro-style games. The 15-minute showcase featured several new game announcements, such as Herdling and Well Dweller. However, fans might be more intrigued to know which of the newly announced Nintendo Switch titles are available to play right now.
Fans were recently treated to more information about Storm Lancers, a brand-new local co-op game coming exclusively to the Nintendo Switch this fall. They also have games like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown to look forward to, arriving on August 14. Now, Switch owners have even more exciting games to enjoy, thanks to some recently shadow-dropped indie titles.
All Games Featured in the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase
The July Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase event made it clear that Switch and Switch 2 players have a lot to look forward to in the next few months.
Nintendo Switch Games Shadow-Dropped During the Indie World Showcase
- Is This Seat Taken?
- Tiny Bookshop
- UFO 50
The first surprise drop of the Indie World Showcase was Is This Seat Taken?, a cozy puzzle game in which players step into the role of an event or party coordinator. Next was Tiny Bookshop, a relaxing management and life sim. Finally, the event revealed the release of UFO 50, a collection of 50 retro games from the creators of Spelunky, Downwell, and Catacomb Kids. All three titles are now available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop as of August 7.
Is This Seat Taken? Is described by the developer as a no-pressure puzzle game. The gameplay revolves around identifying each character's personality type and helping them find their perfect seat in different locations and unique scenarios. While also cozy in tone, Tiny Bookshop is a different experience altogether. The title is a relaxing life simulation game with a surprisingly in-depth exploration mechanic. Tiny Bookshop asks players to run a small portable bookstore while connecting with customers and uncovering the secrets of nearby neighborhoods.
UFO 50 was initially released in 2024 on PC and currently holds an "Overwhelmingly Positive" average review score on Steam. All 50 titles in the collection feature retro-style pixel art with a 90s vibe, but many also include co-op and multiplayer modes. This makes them ideal for modern players seeking nostalgia on the Nintendo Switch.
Along with the shadow-dropped games, the Indie World Showcase also announced two upcoming titles available for pre-order. As of August 7, Nintendo Switch owners can pre-order Herdling and Strange Antiquities. Herdling is an atmospheric adventure game from the creator of the acclaimed FAR series, releasing on August 21. Strange Antiquities, on the other hand, is a 2D puzzle game set to launch on September 17.
