The Nintendo Switch changed gaming by combining portable and home console experiences into one device. Released in 2017, this hybrid system allows players to enjoy their favorite games on a TV or take them on the go. This versatility makes it great for solo play, family game nights, and multiplayer matches with friends. Nintendo offers many quality first-party titles, creating an impressive game library. The Switch features action-adventure games, racing games, and more, catering to every kind of player. Its popularity has attracted many third-party developers, bringing well-known franchises and indie games to the platform.
When choosing Switch games, consider replay value, multiplayer options, and storage needs. Digital downloads require enough space on your system or memory card, while physical cartridges use very little storage. Look for game length and difficulty level that match your preferences. We tested many Nintendo Switch games across different genres to find the most entertaining and well-made titles available.
Best Switch Games: Ranked (2025)
Here is a table with the best Nintendo Switch games of the year ranked in order:
| Ranking | Game Title | Check Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Super Smash Bros Ultimate | Check Price |
| 2 | Super Mario Bros. Wonder | Check Price |
| 3 | Sonic X Shadow Generations | Check Price |
| 4 | Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom | Check Price |
| 5 | Minecraft Switch Edition | Check Price |
| 6 | Super Mario Odyssey | Check Price |
| 7 | Sonic Superstars | Check Price |
| 8 | Just Dance 2025 Limited Edition | Check Price |
| 9 | Bluey: The Videogame | Check Price |
| 10 | Luigi’s Mansion 3 | Check Price |
| 11 | Sonic Frontiers | Check Price |
| 12 | NBA 2K25 | Check Price |
| 13 | Batman: Arkham Trilogy | Check Price |
| 14 | Animal Crossing: New Horizons | Check Price |
| 15 | TMNT Mutants Unleashed | Check Price |
| 16 | DK Country Returns HD | Check Price |
Disclosure: Our editors independently select and evaluate products. If you purchase through our links we may earn a small commission that helps support our research.
Breakdown Of The Best Nintendo Switch Games
We have gathered the top Nintendo Switch games available today. Our picks combine beloved Nintendo franchises like Mario and Zelda with groundbreaking indie titles and third-party hits, giving players a mix of must-play experiences that showcase the console’s versatility and innovation.
Super Smash Bros Ultimate
We recommend Super Smash Bros Ultimate as the essential fighting game for Switch owners, combining every character from the series’ history with refined combat mechanics and unprecedented multiplayer flexibility.
Pros
- Massive roster of 74+ beloved gaming characters
- Smooth, responsive fighting mechanics
- Flexible multiplayer options for 1-8 players
Cons
- Complex mechanics take time to master
- Online play can lag occasionally
- Single-player content feels limited
The fighting feels more responsive and precise than previous entries. Quick movements, new defensive options, and refined attack mechanics create intense matches. The perfect shield system adds strategic depth without overwhelming new players.
Stage selection impressed us with beautiful recreations from gaming history. The new stage morph feature keeps matches fresh by transforming arenas mid-battle. Fighting across iconic locations from Castlevania to Super Mario Odyssey brings extra excitement to each match.
Local multiplayer shines with support for up to 8 players. We spent hours in chaotic free-for-alls and intense 1v1 battles. The GameCube controller support perfectly recreates the classic Smash experience. Online play expands the competition globally, though connection quality varies.
The massive 900+ music track collection spans gaming history. These remixed classics enhance the nostalgia while battling. The soundtrack alone provides hours of entertainment between matches.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
We recommend Super Mario Bros. Wonder as the most creative and enjoyable 2D Mario game in years, packed with surprising new features and multiplayer fun.
Pros
- Innovative Wonder effects transform classic gameplay
- Large cast of playable characters for all skill levels
- Smooth local and online multiplayer options
Cons
- Some Wonder effects can feel chaotic
- Badge system takes time to master
- Online features require paid subscription
The Wonder effects breathe fresh life into Mario’s side-scrolling formula. We spent hours discovering new surprises as pipes came alive and levels transformed in unexpected ways. The elephant power-up adds a fun twist to platforming, letting us spray water and swing our trunk to solve puzzles.
Playing as different characters changes the experience significantly. We found Yoshi and Nabbit perfect for newer players since they don’t take damage, while Mario and Luigi offer the classic challenge veterans expect. The badge system lets us customize abilities and tackle levels with different strategies.
Local multiplayer shines with up to four players working together. We enjoyed helping friends reach tricky platforms and sharing the excitement of Wonder effects. The online features work smoothly too – seeing other players’ silhouettes adds a nice community feel, and their standees helped save us from tough spots.
Sonic X Shadow Generations
We recommend this exciting blend of classic and modern Sonic gameplay that combines the best of Sonic Generations with a fresh Shadow campaign.
Pros
- Dual campaigns offer distinct experiences with both Sonic and Shadow
- Stunning visual upgrades and reworked cinematics
- Shadow’s new Doom Powers add exciting gameplay mechanics
Cons
- Some frame rate drops in busy sections
- Shadow’s campaign is shorter than Sonic’s
- Camera angles can be awkward during high-speed segments
The revamped Sonic Generations portion shines on Switch with enhanced visuals and smoother performance. We found the classic 2D stages particularly enjoyable, bringing back nostalgic Green Hill Zone memories while adding modern polish.
Shadow’s new campaign introduces creative Doom Powers that transformed our approach to platforming. Surfing on water and freezing time with Chaos Control added fresh strategic elements to the traditional Sonic formula.
The bonus content impressed us, with hidden Chao scattered throughout levels and an extensive museum section packed with artwork and music tracks. We spent hours in the Casino Nights pinball zone trying to top our high scores.
The level design strikes a perfect balance between speed and precision platforming. Racing through chemical plants and city skylines felt fluid and responsive, though occasional camera issues disrupted our momentum in tighter corridors.
Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
We found this fantastic sequel to Breath of the Wild delivers groundbreaking gameplay mechanics and unparalleled freedom to explore a vast, reimagined Hyrule.
Pros
- Revolutionary building mechanics transform gameplay
- Massive sky islands add vertical exploration
- Creative problem-solving with new abilities
Cons
- Can feel overwhelming at first
- Occasional frame rate drops in complex builds
- Higher price point than most Switch games
The new Ultrahand ability changed how we approached every challenge. We spent hours experimenting with building contraptions, from simple bridges to complex flying machines. The satisfaction of creating our own solutions made each puzzle feel personal and rewarding.
Exploring the sky islands brought fresh excitement to familiar territories. We discovered hidden shrines and treasures floating among the clouds, while the ground below held its own secrets. The vertical expansion adds meaningful depth to the already massive world.
Link’s new powers transform combat and exploration. Fusing weapons creates unique combinations, and the Recall ability turns falling rocks into creative platforms. Ascending through ceilings opened up innovative paths we never thought possible. The freedom to experiment with these abilities keeps the gameplay fresh even after dozens of hours.
Minecraft Switch Edition
Minecraft on Nintendo Switch offers endless creativity and adventure with excellent portability, making it a must-have for both new players and veterans of the franchise.
Pros
- Smooth performance in both handheld and docked modes
- Cross-platform multiplayer support
- Includes exclusive Nintendo-themed content
Cons
- Minor graphical compromises compared to other versions
- Occasional frame drops in complex builds
- Touch controls feel less precise than other platforms
We tested Minecraft on the Switch extensively in both portable and TV modes. The game runs smoothly at a consistent frame rate, with only occasional stutters when exploring massive structures or heavily modded worlds.
The Switch version’s portability adds a new dimension to the Minecraft experience. Taking our builds on the go feels natural, and the ability to switch between handheld and docked modes seamlessly keeps the game fresh. Split-screen multiplayer works great for local co-op sessions.
The included Super Mario Mash-up pack brings Nintendo’s charm to the blocky world. Building with Mario-themed blocks and exploring mushroom kingdoms adds unique value to this version. The cross-platform play feature lets us join friends on other devices, though setting up multiplayer sessions requires some initial setup.
The controls adapt well to the Joy-Cons, though building precise structures takes more practice than with a mouse and keyboard. Creative mode gives us unlimited resources to build anything imaginable, while Survival mode maintains its addictive exploration and crafting loop.
Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey stands as a masterpiece of 3D platforming that every Switch owner needs in their collection.
Pros
- Amazing level design with countless secrets to discover
- Innovative capture mechanics add fresh gameplay twists
- Gorgeous visuals and memorable musical score
Cons
- Some moons feel too easy to collect
- Two-player mode is limited
- Post-game content may be overwhelming
We spent countless hours exploring the varied kingdoms of Super Mario Odyssey, and each one surprised us with creative challenges and hidden collectibles. The new capture ability lets Mario possess enemies and objects, opening up exciting gameplay possibilities we’ve never seen in a Mario game before.
The attention to detail throughout each world amazed us. New Donk City bustles with life and jazz music, while the Sand Kingdom’s ruins hold countless secrets beneath the dunes. We found ourselves constantly saying “just one more moon” as midnight approached.
Local co-op play allows a second player to control Cappy, Mario’s sentient hat companion. While not as engaging as single-player, it’s perfect for introducing younger gamers to the fun. The postgame challenges ramped up the difficulty considerably, testing all the skills we learned throughout our adventure.
Tight controls make platforming feel precise and responsive. Mario’s expanded move set, including Cappy throws and wall jumps, gave us satisfying options for reaching seemingly impossible places. The game rewards exploration generously – we kept finding new surprises even after collecting hundreds of moons.
Sonic Superstars
We recommend Sonic Superstars for its perfect blend of classic 2D platforming and modern features that create an exciting Nintendo Switch experience.
Pros
- Smooth, responsive controls that capture classic Sonic physics
- Creative multiplayer options for up to 4 players
- Unique character abilities add gameplay variety
Cons
- Multiplayer can feel chaotic at higher speeds
- Some stability issues in multiplayer mode
- Music tracks aren’t as memorable as classic Sonic games
The single-player campaign shines with polished platforming mechanics. Each level in the Northstar Islands brings fresh challenges and creative uses of the Chaos Emerald powers. The ability to swim up waterfalls and multiply into multiple Sonics adds exciting twists to the familiar formula.
Playing as different characters creates distinct experiences. Tails can fly to reach new areas, Knuckles climbs walls to find secrets, and Amy’s hammer brings a new combat dimension. We found ourselves replaying levels with different characters to discover hidden paths.
Local co-op makes this game special for family game nights. The four-player option works well in most situations, though some fast-paced sequences can get messy with multiple players on screen. The visual style pops on the Switch screen, mixing modern graphics with classic Sonic charm.
Just Dance 2025 Limited Edition
This party game brings fresh dance moves and chart-topping hits to the Nintendo Switch, making it an essential purchase for family gatherings and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- 40 new songs spanning multiple genres
- Cross-platform compatibility with older versions
- Effective workout mode with calorie tracking
Cons
- Requires internet connection
- Digital download only, no physical cartridge
- Additional subscription needed for extra content
We spent several hours testing Just Dance 2025 at our latest game night. The motion controls worked smoothly, and the song selection impressed us with its variety. Popular tracks from Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish, and Lady Gaga kept our group engaged.
The new Unicorn Pack adds a playful touch to the experience. We customized our dancer cards with rainbow backgrounds and sent fun stickers during multiplayer sessions. These small additions create a more social atmosphere compared to previous versions.
The workout mode turned our dancing sessions into effective exercise routines. We tracked calories burned while following along with the choreography. The fitness features blend seamlessly into the gameplay without feeling forced or gimmicky.
The game connects players across different Just Dance editions, which means friends can join regardless of which version they own. This unified platform approach makes organizing multiplayer sessions much easier than before.
Bluey: The Videogame
We recommend this family-friendly Switch game for young kids and Bluey fans who want simple, accessible gameplay in the show’s authentic style.
Pros
- Perfect for kids ages 3-7 with intuitive controls
- Faithful recreation of the show’s art style and humor
- Fun 4-player local co-op for family gaming
Cons
- Limited content with short 3-hour story mode
- Basic gameplay might bore older players
- Some minor technical glitches need patching
The game lets us step into the world of Bluey with spot-on visuals that match the TV show. We found the controls simple enough for preschoolers to manage without constant help from parents.
Playing through iconic locations like the Heeler house and creek brings the show to life. Mini-games like Keepy Uppy and Chattermax Chase capture the playful spirit of Bluey’s imaginative games.
Four-player local co-op makes this perfect for family game nights. We enjoyed collecting stickers and unlocking outfits, though experienced gamers will find the challenges too basic. The game excels at its target audience of young children.
Luigi’s Mansion 3
We recommend Luigi’s Mansion 3 for its engaging co-op gameplay, clever puzzle design, and stunning visual polish that makes ghost-hunting a joy.
Pros
- Outstanding visual details and animations
- Creative puzzle-solving mechanics
- Fun co-op play with Gooigi
Cons
- Some boss fights feel repetitive
- Single-player can get lonely
- Occasional camera angle issues
The Poltergust G-00 vacuum pack feels satisfying to use as we suck up ghosts and solve environmental puzzles. Each floor of the hotel brings unique themes and challenges, from a medieval castle to a movie studio. The attention to detail in the environments creates a playful spooky atmosphere that never gets too scary.
Gooigi, Luigi’s goo clone companion, adds a clever twist to both single-player and co-op modes. We found his ability to slip through grates and walk on spikes essential for solving many of the game’s creative puzzles. The tag-team ghost hunting with a friend makes the experience even more entertaining.
The ScareScraper multiplayer mode provides extra value with up to 8-player ghost hunting challenges. Our matches were hectic fun as we raced against the clock to clear floors of ghosts. The competitive mini-games in ScreamPark offer quick bursts of entertainment perfect for party play.
Sonic Frontiers
We recommend Sonic Frontiers for its innovative open-world design and engaging combat system that refreshes the classic Sonic formula.
Pros
- Expansive open zones with fluid movement
- Deep combat mechanics with skill upgrades
- Mix of classic speed and modern exploration
Cons
- Graphics show Switch hardware limitations
- Frame rate drops in busy areas
- Some repetitive side activities
The new open-zone format gives Sonic room to stretch his legs. We spent hours zipping across the sprawling Starfall Islands, discovering hidden challenges and collectibles around every corner. The freedom to explore at our own pace adds a fresh dimension to the traditional Sonic gameplay.
Combat feels more substantial than previous Sonic games. We learned new moves and unlocked abilities through the skill tree, which made battles against massive titans and robot hordes exciting. The dodge and parry mechanics required practice but proved rewarding once mastered.
Traditional Sonic fans will appreciate the Cyber Space levels. These linear stages capture the classic high-speed platforming feel while adding modern touches. The Switch version runs at a stable 30 frames per second in these sections, though the open areas can get choppy during intense moments.
Racing through loops and grinding rails feels smooth on the Switch’s controls. We found the portable mode perfect for quick gaming sessions, though some visual compromises are noticeable compared to other platforms. The mix of exploration, combat, and speed makes this a solid addition to any Switch library.
NBA 2K25
We recommend NBA 2K25 for Switch players who want authentic basketball action with deep gameplay modes and stunning visuals.
Pros
- Impressive player animations and signature moves
- Extensive customization options
- Rich offline and online game modes
Cons
- Requires additional storage space
- Graphics slightly lower quality than other platforms
- Online features need internet connection
The Nintendo Switch version of NBA 2K25 delivers smooth basketball action right in your hands. We found the controls responsive and intuitive, making it easy to execute crossovers, drives, and shots. The player animations look fluid, with each NBA star moving and playing like their real-life counterpart.
MyCAREER mode grabbed our attention with its engaging story and progression system. We spent hours building our player’s skills, completing challenges, and climbing the ranks from rookie to superstar. The new Neighborhood area adds fresh social features and activities between games.
MyTEAM brings the thrill of collecting cards and building dream teams. We enjoyed competing in the weekly King of the Court events, where strategic lineup choices made the difference between victory and defeat. The offline Play Now and MyLEAGUE modes work perfectly for gaming on the go, letting us enjoy quick matches or manage a franchise without needing internet access.
Batman: Arkham Trilogy
We recommend the Batman: Arkham Trilogy for Switch players seeking three acclaimed Batman adventures with excellent combat and stealth gameplay in one complete package.
Pros
- Complete collection with all DLC included
- Smooth performance on Switch hardware
- Engaging combat and detective mechanics
Cons
- Large storage space required
- Minor visual compromises
- Frame rate capped at 30fps
The trilogy runs surprisingly well on Switch. We played through extensive sections of all three games and found the combat remains fluid and responsive. The signature free-flow fighting system translates nicely to the portable format.
Graphics take a slight hit compared to other platforms, yet still look impressive on the Switch’s screen. Textures and lighting maintain good detail, especially in handheld mode. The atmospheric gothic environments of Arkham Asylum and sprawling streets of Arkham City retain their dark beauty.
Each game offers 15-20 hours of main story content. The inclusion of all DLC adds substantial extra gameplay through challenge maps and additional story missions. Performance stays stable in both docked and portable modes across the three titles.
The detective vision and gadget systems work great with the Switch controls. We found investigating crime scenes and using Batman’s arsenal of tools feels natural whether playing on TV or in handheld mode. The stealth sections provide tense moments as we stalked enemies from the shadows.
Load times prove reasonable given the games’ scope. Storage space demands attention though – you’ll need significant free space to install all three titles. The 30fps cap feels noticeable but doesn’t diminish the smooth gameplay.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a perfect escape into a charming island paradise where players can build, craft, and socialize at their own pace.
Pros
- Incredible customization options for your island and character
- Real-time gameplay matches your local seasons and time
- Endless creative possibilities with crafting and designing
Cons
- Daily tasks can become repetitive
- Progress feels slow in the beginning
- Online play requires paid Nintendo subscription
We loved starting with a blank canvas and transforming our deserted island into a thriving community. The freedom to place buildings, sculpt cliffs, and create waterways gives unprecedented control over the island’s layout. The attention to detail in seasonal changes and weather patterns makes the world feel alive and dynamic.
Crafting tools and furniture from gathered materials adds a satisfying progression system. The simple joy of catching bugs, fishing, and fossil hunting creates a relaxing gameplay loop. Each villager brings unique personality and charm to the island community.
The real-time clock system encourages daily check-ins to discover new items in shops and interact with villagers. We found decorating both indoor and outdoor spaces rewarding, with thousands of items to collect and arrange. Local and online multiplayer options let us visit friends’ islands for inspiration and trading, though the online features would benefit from streamlined connectivity.
TMNT Mutants Unleashed
We recommend this action-packed brawler for families and TMNT fans who want an accessible co-op experience with solid combat mechanics and charming visuals.
Pros
- Smooth two-player local co-op gameplay
- Easy to learn combat system
- Fun character progression and unlockable moves
Cons
- Limited to only two players
- Long loading times between levels
- Combat can feel repetitive
The four turtle brothers pack plenty of personality in this beat-em-up adventure. Each character has unique combat abilities that unlock as you progress through the story. We especially enjoyed trying different move combinations while taking down waves of enemies.
Local co-op shines as the game’s standout feature. Playing with a friend makes combat more dynamic and strategic. The difficulty balances well for both experienced gamers and newcomers, making it perfect for parents gaming with kids.
New York City serves as an engaging backdrop with five distinct boroughs to explore. Familiar faces like April and Splinter join the action, though we wished the game supported four-player co-op to match the turtle team. Load times between areas drag on longer than expected, briefly interrupting the otherwise fluid pacing.
DK Country Returns HD
This HD remaster brings the beloved Wii classic to Switch with enhanced visuals and improved controls that make it a must-play platformer.
Pros
- Stunning HD graphics upgrade
- Smoother controls without motion gimmicks
- Extra bonus levels from 3DS version included
Cons
- High difficulty spikes
- Some repeating level themes
- Co-op can be chaotic in tight spaces
We spent countless hours swinging through this beautifully remastered version of Donkey Kong Country Returns. The HD upgrade gives the vibrant jungle environments and detailed character models new life on the Switch’s screen.
The removal of motion controls transforms the gameplay experience. Rolling, pounding, and barrel-blasting feel more precise using standard buttons. The original Wii version’s forced waggle mechanics often led to frustrating deaths, but that’s no longer an issue.
The game maintains its challenging nature across its 80+ levels. Mine cart stages and rocket barrel sequences demand perfect timing. For less experienced players, the new Super Guide option provides extra hearts and checkpoints without compromising the core experience. Playing cooperatively with a friend adds an entertaining chaos factor as Donkey and Diddy Kong bounce off each other while collecting bananas and stomping enemies.
Buying Guide
Selecting a Nintendo Switch game requires careful consideration of several key factors. We recommend starting with your preferred genres and playstyles to narrow down the choices.
Age ratings matter significantly when choosing games. The ESRB ratings provide clear guidance for appropriate content across different age groups.
Physical games offer resale value and don’t require storage space. Digital games provide instant access and eliminate the need to swap cartridges.
Storage space needs vary by game type. Most games range from 1GB to 32GB, so consider your available system storage before purchasing.
Key Features to Consider:
- Single-player vs multiplayer options
- Game length and replay value
- DLC availability
- Regular price updates and sales
- Download size
- Online requirements
Some games include optional in-game purchases. Check the eShop listing for details about additional content costs.
Many titles offer free demos through the Nintendo eShop. Testing games before buying helps ensure they match your expectations.
Watch gameplay videos and read recent user reviews. These resources provide real-world insights into game mechanics and performance.
The Switch’s portable nature means considering whether games work well in handheld mode. Screen size and control schemes can affect playability.
Game Modes to Check:
- Handheld performance
- TV mode features
- Local multiplayer support
- Online functionality
- Touch screen compatibility
Frequently Asked Questions
The Nintendo Switch offers hundreds of games across multiple genres, from family-friendly adventures to mature-themed titles, with options for both single and multiplayer experiences.
What are the top rated Nintendo Switch games currently available?
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom leads the top-rated list with a 96 Metacritic score.
Super Mario Wonder and Baldur’s Gate 3 follow closely behind, both receiving universal acclaim in 2023-2024.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains one of the highest-rated games, maintaining its position since launch.
Which Nintendo Switch games are recommended for multiplayer experiences?
Mario Party Superstars offers 100 classic minigames perfect for group gatherings.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate supports up to 8 players locally and features over 80 characters.
Overcooked! All You Can Eat brings chaotic cooking fun for 1-4 players.
What are the best Nintendo Switch titles suitable for adults?
Bayonetta 3 delivers intense action combat with mature themes and complex storytelling.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt offers a deep RPG experience with adult storylines.
Dark Souls Remastered brings its challenging combat and dark atmosphere to portable form.
Can you suggest some suitable Nintendo Switch games for young children?
Yoshi’s Crafted World provides gentle platforming perfect for ages 4 and up.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet offer kid-friendly adventures with reading assistance options.
Nintendo Switch Sports includes simple motion controls ideal for young players.
How do I find a comprehensive list of available Nintendo Switch games?
The Nintendo eShop provides a searchable database with filters for genre, price, and release date.
Dekudeals.com tracks prices and sales while offering detailed sorting options.
Which Nintendo Switch games have the most replay value?
Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers daily activities and seasonal events year-round.
Monster Hunter Rise includes hundreds of quests and regular content updates.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses features multiple story paths requiring separate playthroughs.
