Hello Malstrom,
Since you asked, here are some games to look into
Has Been Heroes – I got this one the Switch when it first came out, physical. I didn’t think much of it at the time but I love it. Its a Rougelike where you using thse heroes to manage lanes. When you fight, the enemies come at you across three lanes and you have to attack and move your guys so the enemies don’t get close to you. It’s hard to explain, so here is a video that shows how the game works. It’s easy to grasp.
Its really challenging (which is nice to see as there aren’t a lot of hard games anymore) but the game is also rewarding as you feel like you get a little better each time. I’ve played it a lot, so I can usually beat it without too much trouble. Tons of magic and weapons and multiple characters to chose. You can get it on the eShop for $20 or you can get it physical for $30. It’s one of those games where I start it up and can’t put it down. Great to play while listening to a Podcast
Xenoblade Chronicles 2 – So this is a game that you’ll either love it or hate it. The game starts slow and has a very anime aesthetic and story. It also has a ton of “fanservice” (but you probably figured that from the statues). See, rather than equipping weapons, you equip characters who give you the weapon. As you can probably guess, most of them are female, but since they have their own stats and abilities so each one offers a great deal of variety. The battles are fun once you learn how everything works and you get your team settled. You also have a lot of variety on how you can build your characters. As a result, the fighting never felt dull since I can just change up who I’m bringing with me. You have a ton to do with exploring, completing quests, leveling up your characters and getting items ect. The main game will take about 60-70 hours if you are just playing it straight, but you can easily play it for 100-200 hours. After you beat it, there are still tougher enemies to fight and a New Game Plus mode that adds a ton of great features. I will admit, it’s probably a prime example of a game you play in a dark room by yourself. You also need a lot of time. I played the heck out of it during a winter holiday. This game isn’t for everyone. It’s an acquired taste. For me, it’s kind of like an IPA. You hate the bitter and hoppy taste at first, but eventually, you grow to love it and it’s your drink of choice. If you can look past some of its issues, it’s a solid game. Worth a look for sure.
Sonic Mania – Not much to say since everyone is going to recommend this one. Its a solid Genesis Sonic game. I think the stages are a bit odd compared to the earlier games, but it plays and feels like it should. Music is great. Lots of zones. Great to pick up and play. And it will get a physical release too.
Also, I know you will probably avoid digital games, but if they ever come out on a cart, check out Death Road to Canada and Golf Story. Both are also fun games and fairly cheap. Hope this helps your selection. Also, nice to read comments from people who actually buy their games. Refreshing.
I have both Has Been Heroes and Xenoblade Chronicles 2. I haven’t tried the latter, barely spent two minutes on the former. I will try to get into them more soon.
I already have Sonic Mania pre-ordered. Cartridge or bust (unless you are a Neo Geo game or Ikaruga!!!)