Best 22 Nintendo Switch Games
Hey gamers! So with the Nintendo Switch 2 dropping right around the corner, we’re taking a look back at the all the games we’ve played on the Nintendo Switch. But with an absolutely massive library of titles, how do you choose which is best? Don’t you worry, the PlayingAround4Now crew has got your back! We’ve dived deep, played hard, and argued (just a little) to bring you our definitive list of the Top 22 Nintendo Switch games that absolutely deserve a spot in your collection.
Whether you’re into epic adventures, creative sandboxes, intense multiplayer action, or charming indie gems, there’s something on this list for every type of Nintendo Switch player. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let’s get to it!
The Unmissable Big Hitters (Nintendo Switch Exclusives & Staples):
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023)
The sequel to an already legendary game, Tears of the Kingdom expands on Hyrule in ways we couldn’t have imagined. With new sky islands to explore, incredible building mechanics (Ultrahand is a game-changer!), and a captivating story, it’s an absolute masterpiece of open-world design and creativity.- Genre: Action-Adventure, Open-World
- Why it’s a must-play: Unparalleled freedom, innovative gameplay, and a breathtaking world.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
The game that redefined open-world adventures. Even years later, its sense of discovery, emergent gameplay, and beautiful art style make it an essential experience. If you haven’t played it, what are you waiting for?- Genre: Action-Adventure, Open-World
- Why it’s a must-play: Revolutionized open-world games, stunning art, and endless exploration.
Super Mario Odyssey (2017)
Mario’s globe-trotting 3D adventure is pure joy from start to finish. With Cappy, his sentient hat, Mario can possess an incredible variety of objects and enemies, leading to some of the most inventive and delightful platforming in years.- Genre: 3D Platformer
- Why it’s a must-play: Incredible creativity, polished gameplay, and that signature Mario charm.
- PlayingAround4Now Super Mario Odyssey Review: https://playingaround4now.com/super-mario-odyssey-review-a-whimsical-world-tour-that-still-holds-up-in-2025/
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (2017)
The ultimate kart racer, packed with tracks, characters, and endless multiplayer fun. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual racer, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is guaranteed to bring smiles and a bit of friendly competition.- Genre: Kart Racer
- Why it’s a must-play: The definitive Mario Kart experience, perfect for parties and solo play.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (2018)
The biggest crossover in gaming history! With every fighter ever (and then some), a colossal amount of stages, and music to match, this is the ultimate fighting game celebration. Easy to pick up, but with incredible depth.- Genre: Fighting
- Why it’s a must-play: Unmatched roster, chaotic fun, and a tribute to gaming history.
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Review: https://playingaround4now.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-the-ultimate-crossover-fighter/
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (2020)
Escape to your own deserted island paradise and create the community of your dreams. This charming life simulator became a global phenomenon for a reason – it’s relaxing, endlessly customizable, and incredibly wholesome.- Genre: Life Simulation
- Why it’s a must-play: Unwinds you like nothing else, fosters creativity, and offers a comforting escape.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder (2023)
A breathtaking return to 2D Mario, brimming with inventive ideas and the surprising “Wonder Effects” that transform levels in delightful and unpredictable ways. It’s classic Mario platforming evolved.- Genre: 2D Platformer
- Why it’s a must-play: Pure platforming perfection, constant surprises, and fantastic co-op.
Splatoon 3 (2022)
Nintendo’s unique take on the team-based shooter is more polished and content-rich than ever. Ink your turf, splat your opponents, and customize your Inkling or Octoling in this vibrant and stylish online battler.- Genre: Third-Person Shooter
- Why it’s a must-play: Unique gameplay, vibrant style, and engaging multiplayer modes.
- PlayingAround4Now Splatoon 3 Review: https://playingaround4now.com/inky-chaos-style-battles-turf-taking-fun-splatoon-3/
Kirby and the Forgotten Land (2022)
Kirby’s first full 3D adventure is an absolute delight. Explore a mysterious new world, suck up enemies to gain new abilities (including the hilarious Mouthful Mode), and rescue the Waddle Dees.- Genre: 3D Platformer
- Why it’s a must-play: Adorable, inventive, and a joyfully accessible adventure.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land Review by PlayingAround4Now: https://playingaround4now.com/kirby-and-the-forgotten-land-a-wholesome-leap-into-3d-adventure/
Fire Emblem: Three Houses (2019)
A deep and engaging tactical RPG with compelling characters and a branching storyline that will have you invested for hundreds of hours. Lead your chosen house to victory on and off the battlefield.- Genre: Tactical RPG
- Why it’s a must-play: Rich story, strategic depth, and high replayability.
Pikmin 4 (2023)
Lead adorable plant-like creatures on a charming and strategic adventure. With new Pikmin types, the helpful space dog Oatchi, and Dandori battles, this is the most accessible and delightful Pikmin yet.- Genre: Real-Time Strategy, Puzzle
- Why it’s a must-play: Unique and charming gameplay, satisfying strategy, and adorable characters.
Incredible Indie Darlings & Third-Party Gems:
Hades (2020)
An exceptional roguelike dungeon crawler where you fight your way out of the Greek underworld. With a gripping story, fantastic characters, incredibly tight gameplay, and a killer soundtrack, Hades is a masterpiece.- Genre: Roguelike, Action RPG
- Why it’s a must-play: Addictive gameplay loop, compelling narrative, and stylish presentation.
Stardew Valley (2017)
Escape the city life and restore your grandfather’s old farm in this beloved farming simulation RPG. Plant crops, raise animals, mine for ore, befriend villagers, and maybe even find love. Endlessly charming and relaxing.- Genre: Farming Simulation, RPG
- Why it’s a must-play: Deeply rewarding, incredibly relaxing, and packed with content.
Hollow Knight (2018)
Explore a vast and beautifully melancholic insect kingdom in this challenging and atmospheric Metroidvania. With tight combat, incredible art, and a haunting world, it’s an unforgettable journey.- Genre: Metroidvania, Action-Adventure
- Why it’s a must-play: Masterful world design, challenging gameplay, and stunning art style.
Celeste (2018)
A challenging yet incredibly rewarding 2D platformer with a surprisingly heartfelt story about mental health. The controls are precise, the level design is ingenious, and the music is phenomenal.- Genre: 2D Platformer
- Why it’s a must-play: Tight controls, brilliant level design, and an impactful narrative.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps (2020)
A breathtakingly beautiful and emotionally resonant Metroidvania. The platforming is fluid, the combat is engaging, and the art and music are simply stunning. (The original, Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition, is also fantastic!)- Genre: Metroidvania, Platform-Adventure
- Why it’s a must-play: Gorgeous visuals, tight gameplay, and a moving story.
Metroid Dread (2021)
Samus Aran’s return to 2D is a masterclass in suspense and action. Hunted by the relentless E.M.M.I. robots, you’ll need all your skills to survive and uncover the secrets of planet ZDR.- Genre: Metroidvania, Action-Adventure
- Why it’s a must-play: Tense atmosphere, classic Metroid gameplay refined, and a satisfying challenge.
Luigi’s Mansion 3 (2019)
Everyone’s favorite green-clad scaredy-cat is back to bust ghosts in a haunted hotel. With inventive puzzles, charming animations, and fun co-op, it’s a ghostly good time.- Genre: Action-Adventure
- Why it’s a must-play: Fun and creative gameplay, delightful animations, and great for co-op.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 (2022)
A massive JRPG with a deep story, complex characters, and a vast, beautiful world to explore. If you’re looking for an epic adventure to sink hundreds of hours into, this is it.- Genre: JRPG
- Why it’s a must-play: Epic scale, compelling narrative, and a rich combat system.
- Check out the full Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Review Here: https://playingaround4now.com/xenoblade-chronicles-3-an-epic-rpg-journey/
Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (2024 Remake)
The beloved GameCube RPG classic returns with a gorgeous visual overhaul and the same witty writing, charming characters, and unique turn-based combat that made it a fan favorite.- Genre: RPG
- Why it’s a must-play: A faithful and beautiful remake of an all-time classic RPG.
Cuphead (2019)
This run-and-gun action game is famous for its stunning hand-drawn 1930s cartoon art style and its challenging but fair boss battles. Best enjoyed with a friend in co-op!- Genre: Run-and-Gun, Action
- Why it’s a must-play: Unique art style, challenging gameplay, and fantastic soundtrack.
It Takes Two (2022): An exclusively co-op adventure that’s bursting with creativity. Play as a clashing couple turned into dolls, who must work together through a fantastical world to get back to normal. Constantly introduces new mechanics and ideas.
- Genre: Co-op Action-Adventure, Platformer
- Why it’s a must-play: Incredibly inventive co-op gameplay, charming story, and constant variety.
What Are Your Nintendo Switch Go-Tos?
Phew! That’s our list of the top 22 Nintendo Switch games we think you absolutely need to check out. Of course, with so many amazing games on the platform, this is just the tip of the iceberg.
What are your favorite Nintendo Switch games? Did we miss any of your must-plays? Let us know in the comments below or join the conversation on
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Happy gaming, everyone!
