As the gaming world continues to evolve, the Nintendo Switch eShop remains a vibrant hub for indie developers and gamers alike. Each month, a plethora of new titles grace the digital storefront, and amidst these, some stand out due to their unique gameplay mechanics, engaging narratives, or simply the joy they bring to players. In May 2025, several games competed for attention, leading to an exciting selection of eShop favorites. Let’s explore the top picks from last month’s Nintendo Life eShop Selects.
Honorable Mentions
Before diving into the winners, it’s worth noting some notable releases that unfortunately missed our cut this month. First up, Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is a title worth mentioning, although it is pending review. This upcoming title, also set for launch on the anticipated Switch 2, is generating buzz, and we’ll see it featured in our June selections. Similarly, Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo, which released in late May and has been receiving rave reviews, couldn’t be included either as we are currently reviewing it. However, now let’s take a closer look at the games that earned votes from our writers and made the podium this month.
May 2025 eShop Selects Winners
- 3rd Place – Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny
In third place, Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny made a grand return to the gaming spotlight. Originally released nearly 23 years ago, this Capcom remaster brings the beloved action-adventure title to a new generation with updated features. While some aspect ratio issues remain, the game’s revival is marked by improved weapon switching, autosave functionality, and the option to select between traditional tank controls and a more modern approach, earning it a solid score of 8/10 from reviewers. This nostalgic journey has been well-received, continuing to appeal to both old fans and new players alike.
- 2nd Place – Please, Touch The Artwork 2
Our second-place title, Please, Touch The Artwork 2, is another gem from James Ensor, the Belgian artist whose works inspire the game’s aesthetic. This quirky title tasks players with exploring artistic landscapes while engaging in a delightful narrative centered on a skeleton, who is, humorously, the artist himself. With its whimsical style and light-hearted gameplay, this title has earned its 9/10 rating. The game stands out for its surreal approach and affordability, costing less than $5, providing a bite-sized experience perfect for casual play.
- 1st Place – Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping
Topping our list this month is the whimsical mystery adventure game, Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping. This engaging sequel, featuring a recovering bread addict duck, offers hilarious and lighthearted gameplay that serves as a much-needed breath of fresh air in the current gaming landscape. Although not overly challenging, the narrative charm and comedic elements earned it a score of 8/10. It combines humor and creativity, drawing players into its quirky world for a delightful three-hour experience.
Community Engagement
The May selections have sparked engagement within the Nintendo community, with fans eager to express their opinions on the rankings and share their favorite titles from the eShop. Our poll reveals that popular choices included Duck Detective, which garnered the highest percentage of votes, followed by Onimusha 2 and Please, Touch The Artwork 2. With 52 participants, community votes showcased a diverse range of preferences, reaffirming the engaging nature of the Nintendo Switch eShop.
As players continue to explore these titles, further discussions on social media platforms such as Twitter and Reddit augment the experience by allowing fans to connect and share insights. This engagement reflects the ongoing importance of community feedback in shaping the future of indie titles on the eShop.
In Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch eShop continues to thrive as a platform for indie and remastered titles, offering gamers an ever-growing library of unique experiences. With each monthly selection, players have the opportunity to discover hidden gems and share their thoughts on what makes them special. As we look ahead to June, the anticipation for upcoming titles remains high, promising more exciting adventures and engaging narratives to explore. From whimsical mysteries to nostalgic remasters, May’s eShop Selects have set the stage for a vibrant gaming landscape filled with creativity and fun.
Quick Reference Table
| Game | Publisher | Rating | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping | Happy Broccoli | 8/10 | 22nd May 2025 |
| Please, Touch The Artwork 2 | Studio Waterzooi | 9/10 | 23rd May 2025 |
| Onimusha 2: Samurai’s Destiny | Capcom | 8/10 | 23rd May 2025 |
As the future unfolds, the pressure is on for the eShop to keep delivering exciting and innovative titles, making it an essential part of the Nintendo Switch experience.