When I first got my hands on the Nintendo Switch, I was blown away by its versatility. Whether docked to my TV or played on the go, it quickly became my favorite way to dive into incredible gaming adventures. But what truly sets the Switch apart is its library of unforgettable titles that cater to every kind of gamer.
From epic open-world quests to fast-paced multiplayer battles, the Switch offers something special for everyone. Some games have redefined entire genres, while others are perfect for quick, casual fun. If you’re wondering which titles are absolute must-plays, I’ve got you covered. These games aren’t just entertaining—they’re experiences you won’t want to miss.
Top Nintendo Switch Must-Play Titles
The Nintendo Switch boasts an impressive catalog of games across various genres. Here’s my curated list of must-plays to suit every type of gamer.
Games for Action and Adventure Fans
Action and adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to love on the Switch. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild sets the standard with its open-world exploration, innovative mechanics, and stunning visuals. Metroid Dread offers a fast-paced yet atmospheric experience, blending exploration with intense combat.
For players seeking co-op action, Monster Hunter Rise delivers engaging multiplayer hunts, diverse weapon mechanics, and expansive maps. Bayonetta 2 combines high-octane combat, intricate combos, and a captivating storyline for fans of hack-and-slash gameplay.
Best Puzzle and Strategy Titles
Check out Tetris 99 for a competitive take on the classic puzzle format, where 99 players compete in real-time. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker focuses on charming, isometric puzzles designed to challenge spatial problem-solving skills.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses blends tactical turn-based strategy with character-driven narratives, appealing to both strategy veterans and newcomers. If you’re into cooperative puzzle-solving, Snipperclips lets you team up with others to complete creative challenges.
Role-Playing Games You Shouldn’t Miss
Role-playing experiences on the Switch offer deep narratives and immersive worlds. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 showcases a sprawling story, strategic combat systems, and breathtaking visuals. Octopath Traveler stands out with its unique HD-2D art style and distinct character stories.
Pokemon Legends: Arceus reinvents the franchise with open-area exploration and real-time elements. For a retro-styled RPG, Undertale provides a subversive experience filled with emotional storytelling and unconventional gameplay elements.
Family-Friendly and Party Favorites
For group fun, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an essential pick with its accessible controls, varied tracks, and multiplayer modes. Animal Crossing: New Horizons invites creativity and relaxation with its customizable island life.
Super Mario Party brings joy with mini-games perfect for gatherings. Fans of platforming should try Super Mario Odyssey for its inventive level design, smooth controls, and universal appeal suitable for all ages.
Exclusive Nintendo Classics
Nintendo Switch offers a wealth of exclusive games that define its appeal. These titles showcase beloved franchises and reimagined classics available only on this platform.
Iconic Series You Can Only Play on Switch
Several legendary Nintendo franchises shine brightest on the Switch. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild redefines open-world adventure with unparalleled exploration and immersive gameplay. Super Mario Odyssey brings creative level design and innovative mechanics to platforming, offering hours of joyful discovery. Splatoon 3 combines dynamic multiplayer battles with a unique ink-based combat style. Fans of strategy can dive into Fire Emblem: Three Houses, blending tactical missions with rich storytelling. Each of these games exemplifies Nintendo’s signature creativity and quality.
Revived Nintendo Hits for Modern Gamers
The Switch breathes new life into classic Nintendo games. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remasters a fan-favorite with upgraded visuals, expanded features, and accessible online play. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze enhances its original release with added content and improved controls. Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! reimagine Pokémon Yellow with updated graphics and simplified mechanics. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe revitalizes 2D platforming with refined gameplay and added modes. These titles provide modern gamers a chance to experience Nintendo’s timeless legacy.
Indie Gems on Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch has become a haven for indie developers, offering a platform for creative and innovative games. These titles bring fresh experiences to players with unique storytelling and gameplay.
Underrated Masterpieces
Several indie games on the Switch deserve more attention for their exceptional quality. Hollow Knight combines atmospheric exploration with challenging combat in a beautifully crafted world. Celeste delivers a heartfelt story of perseverance paired with tight platforming mechanics, winning multiple awards. Spiritfarer provides a meditative management experience where players guide spirits to the afterlife, balancing stunning visuals with emotional depth. Each of these games offers distinct journeys that often overshadow expectations.
Fan-Favorites from Independent Developers
Indie fan-favorites have flourished on the Switch thanks to its handheld flexibility. Stardew Valley shines as a farming simulation with life-sim elements, offering endless charm and replayability. Hades, praised for its fast-paced combat and gripping narrative, became a breakout success among roguelikes. Undertale captivates players with its unconventional RPG approach, memorable characters, and unforgettable soundtrack. These titles, created by passionate developers, demonstrate the breadth of quality within indie gaming.
Multiplayer Experiences Worth Trying
The Nintendo Switch shines in multiplayer settings, offering a variety of cooperative and competitive titles. Whether sharing a screen locally or connecting online, these games deliver hours of engaging fun.
Local Co-op Adventures
Local co-op games on the Nintendo Switch make it easy to play with friends and family. Overcooked 2 stands out as a chaotic cooking simulator requiring teamwork and coordination, perfect for group parties. Luigi’s Mansion 3 offers a fun mix of strategy and humor, allowing two players to solve puzzles together in its story mode or compete in mini-games within the ScareScraper mode. For platformer fans, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury enables up to four players to explore vibrant levels while competing for the highest score.
Minecraft on the Switch also supports split-screen co-op, providing endless opportunities for collaborative building and exploration. Games like Snipperclips turn problem-solving into a social experience, where teamwork is essential to succeed. These titles make sitting around the same screen entertaining and memorable.
Online Multiplayer Must-Plays
Online multiplayer games extend the fun to a wider audience on the Switch. Splatoon 3 takes competitive shooting in a fresh direction, with its ink-splatting Turf Wars and cooperative Salmon Run mode. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe continues to lead the pack with its high-speed fun and massively popular online races against players worldwide.
For sports enthusiasts, Nintendo Switch Sports introduces motion-controlled activities, allowing players to challenge friends remotely in games like bowling and tennis. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate delivers high-energy brawls, featuring a diverse roster of characters, and includes robust online matchmaking. Fans of battle royales can try Tetris 99, a competitive spin on classic block stacking that pits players against 98 opponents.
From quirky co-op experiences to global showdowns, the Switch’s multiplayer offerings cater to a variety of play styles.
Upcoming Nintendo Switch Releases to Watch
I’m always excited to see what’s next for the Nintendo Switch, with its lineup of upcoming titles and content updates enriching an already phenomenal library. Several highly-anticipated releases and expansions are set to captivate players in the coming months.
Anticipated Titles on the Horizon
Several major upcoming Switch titles stand out for their innovative gameplay and iconic franchises. Super Mario Bros. Wonder redefines the classic 2D Mario platforming experience with new power-ups and mechanics. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom expands on its predecessor’s open-world brilliance, introducing new tools and lore-based gameplay. For RPG lovers, Persona 5 Tactica offers a fresh turn-based strategy spin on the beloved series.
Indie surprises also promise to shine. Titles like Silksong, the highly anticipated sequel to Hollow Knight, and Oxenfree II: Lost Signals bring compelling narratives and distinct art styles. Players craving multiplayer fun can watch for WarioWare: Move It!, packed with chaotic mini-games perfect for parties.
Exciting Expansions and Updates for Classics
The Switch isn’t just about new titles; expansions breathe new life into classic games. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe continues to grow with its ongoing Booster Course Pass, adding iconic tracks from across the series. Splatoon 3 receives regular updates, with new maps, weapons, and themed Splatfest events, keeping the action fresh for fans.
Titles like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet expand with their Hidden Treasure of Area Zero DLC, unlocking new regions, Pokémon, and lore-rich adventures. Additionally, Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ updates, including seasonal events and additional content, offer players new reasons to revisit their virtual islands. For those invested in Xenoblade Chronicles 3, the Future Redeemed story DLC provides deeper insights into its rich narrative universe.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch continues to be a powerhouse of gaming innovation, offering something for everyone. Its ever-expanding library, from iconic franchises to indie gems, ensures endless hours of entertainment. Whether you’re diving into grand adventures, enjoying lighthearted party games, or exploring creative indie masterpieces, the Switch delivers unforgettable experiences.
With its unique blend of portability and versatility, combined with a lineup of exciting future releases, the Nintendo Switch remains a must-have for gamers. There’s no better time to explore the magic it has to offer.