So, the Nintendo Switch is still a pretty big deal, even with newer consoles out. It’s got this huge library of games, and honestly, picking favorites is tough. Whether you’re into big Nintendo franchises or cool indie stuff, there’s something for everyone. We looked at a bunch of games to figure out what are some of the top games for Nintendo Switch that you should really check out.
Key Takeaways
- Super Mario Bros. Wonder offers a fresh take on 2D Mario with new abilities and wild level designs.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom builds on Breath of the Wild with new mechanics and a vast world.
- Super Mario Odyssey is a joyful 3D platformer with open levels and plenty of secrets to uncover.
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons provides a relaxing island life simulation with extensive customization.
- Sea of Stars is a turn-based RPG that brings back classic JRPG vibes with modern touches.
1. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
It’s been a long time since we got a brand new 2D Mario game that wasn’t part of the ‘New Super Mario Bros.’ series. Super Mario Bros. Wonder really shakes things up, feeling like a true evolution for the classic side-scrolling format. Instead of just rehashing old ideas, this game is packed with creativity and pure joy. The main draw here are the ‘Wonder Effects’ that completely change up each level in surprising ways. One minute you’re running through a standard Mario world, and the next, it’s turned into something totally wild and unexpected, like a psychedelic dreamscape or a bizarre musical number. It’s genuinely fun to see what happens next.
Beyond the Wonder Effects, the new Badge system lets you customize Mario’s abilities, adding another layer of experimentation. You can swap out power-ups and skills to tackle challenges in different ways. Plus, there are new stage types and power-ups to discover, keeping the gameplay fresh. This game really brings back that sense of whimsical discovery that made the early Mario games so special. It’s a fantastic addition to the Switch library, and it’s even getting a Nintendo Switch 2 version down the line.
Here’s a quick look at some of the cool stuff you can do:
- Transform into an Elephant Mario.
- Use the new Bubble Flower to create floating bubbles.
- Play online with friends and see their reactions.
- Experiment with different Badges to change your playstyle.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
It’s hard to believe it’s been six years since Breath of the Wild changed everything. And then, Nintendo went and did it again with Tears of the Kingdom. Honestly, following up a game that was already considered a masterpiece felt like a huge task, but they really pulled it off. This sequel takes everything that made Breath of the Wild so special and just builds on it, adding so much more without losing that original magic.
What really sets Tears of the Kingdom apart are the new abilities Link gets. Things like "Ultrahand" let you stick objects together to build whatever you can imagine – vehicles, bridges, crazy contraptions. It’s wild how much freedom this gives you. Then there’s "Fuse," which lets you attach almost anything to your weapons or shields. Found a rock? Stick it on a sword for extra damage. Found a fan? Fuse it to your shield for a quick boost. These new mechanics completely change how you interact with the world and solve problems.
The map itself is also way bigger this time around. You’ve got the familiar Hyrule, but now there are also these massive sky islands floating way up high, and a whole dark underworld called the Depths to explore. Each area feels distinct and full of secrets.
- Sky Islands: Offer unique puzzles and breathtaking views.
- Hyrule Surface: Familiar, but with new caves and secrets to uncover.
- The Depths: A dark, dangerous area with its own challenges and rewards.
Even the dungeons feel more like the classic Zelda dungeons of old, but with a fresh twist. It’s a game that really respects your intelligence and lets you figure things out your own way. If you loved Breath of the Wild, this is an absolute must-play. It’s easily one of the best games on the Switch, period.
3. Super Mario Odyssey
Man, Super Mario Odyssey is just a blast from start to finish. It’s been a while since Mario went back to those big, open 3D worlds like in Super Mario 64, and this game really nails it. You’re not just running from point A to point B; you’re exploring these really cool, distinct kingdoms, and there are just tons of little secrets and Power Moons hidden everywhere. It feels like Nintendo really let the designers have fun with this one.
The big new thing here is Cappy, Mario’s sentient hat. It’s not just for throwing; you can actually take control of enemies and objects by tossing Cappy onto them. This opens up some really neat puzzle-solving and platforming opportunities. Imagine becoming a Chain Chomp to smash through walls or a frog to reach high ledges – it’s pretty wild and keeps things fresh.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:
- Freedom to Explore: Each kingdom is a sandbox with multiple objectives, encouraging you to poke around.
- Cappy Mechanics: The ability to capture enemies and objects adds a whole new layer to gameplay.
- Joyful Atmosphere: The game is just bursting with color and cheerful music, making it a really pleasant experience.
Honestly, even years after its release, Super Mario Odyssey still feels incredibly special. It’s got that classic Mario charm, but with enough new ideas to feel completely original. If you’ve got a Switch, this is one you absolutely have to play.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
It’s hard to overstate just how much of a game-changer Breath of the Wild was when it first came out. Released as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch, it immediately set a new standard for open-world adventures. Instead of following a strict path, you’re dropped into a massive Hyrule and basically told, “Go explore.” The sheer freedom it offers is pretty wild; you can climb almost anything, glide from great heights, and tackle objectives in pretty much any order you want. This approach really makes you feel like you’re discovering things on your own.
What really makes this game special is how it trusts you, the player, to figure things out. There aren’t a ton of intrusive markers or constant hand-holding. You see a mountain in the distance? You can probably go there. You spot something interesting on a cliff? You can climb up and see what it is. This sense of genuine discovery is something many games struggle to achieve, but Breath of the Wild nails it. It’s a world that feels alive and full of secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Key features that make it stand out:
- Unprecedented Open World: Hyrule is vast and filled with diverse environments, from snowy peaks to arid deserts.
- Physics-Based Puzzles: Many challenges can be solved in multiple ways using the game’s robust physics engine.
- Shrine System: Over 100 mini-dungeons offer bite-sized challenges and rewards, breaking up the exploration nicely.
- Weapon Durability: While sometimes debated, the constant need to find new weapons encourages experimentation and resourcefulness.
Even years later, the impact of Breath of the Wild is still felt across the gaming industry, influencing countless other titles. If you haven’t experienced this adventure yet, it’s an absolute must-play on the Switch. You can find out more about its legacy and impact on gaming history.
5. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Seven years after its initial release, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate still feels incredibly fresh. This game is the ultimate celebration of gaming history, bringing together an enormous roster of characters from across decades and genres. Seriously, you’ve got everyone from Mario and Link to Solid Snake and Cloud Strife, plus many more. It’s not just about the sheer number of fighters, though; the gameplay itself is incredibly refined, making it a blast whether you’re playing casually with friends or getting serious about competitive play.
What really keeps people coming back, though, is the sheer amount of stuff to do. Beyond the standard fighting, there’s a massive single-player adventure mode, tons of unlockables, and a soundtrack that’s practically a greatest hits album of video game music. Plus, Nintendo kept adding new fighters and stages for a long time after launch, making the game’s content even more impressive.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:
- Unmatched Roster: Over 80 playable characters, including every fighter from previous Smash Bros. games.
- Diverse Stages: More than 100 unique battle arenas, each with its own quirks.
- Extensive Modes: From the Spirits single-player campaign to online multiplayer and local battles, there’s always something to play.
- DLC Support: Fighter Passes added even more iconic characters and music, keeping the meta evolving.
6. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
It’s hard to talk about the Nintendo Switch in 2025 without mentioning Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This game really hit at the perfect time, didn’t it? Dropping right when the world went into lockdown, it gave so many of us a much-needed escape. Building up your own island, fishing, catching bugs for the museum, and just generally chilling with your animal neighbors felt like a lifeline when everything else was uncertain. I remember spending hours just terraforming my island, trying to get everything just right, and paying off my loans to Tom Nook felt like a real accomplishment.
What made it so special was the sheer freedom. You could really make the island your own. Want a bustling town square? Go for it. Prefer a quiet, natural look? That worked too. Plus, visiting friends’ islands was a big part of the fun, seeing what everyone else had created.
Here’s a quick look at some of the activities you could get up to:
- Island Customization: Design your island from the ground up, placing buildings, paths, and decorations.
- Collecting: Fill your museum by catching fish, bugs, and fossils.
- Socializing: Interact with a cast of quirky animal villagers and visit friends’ islands.
- DIY and Crafting: Create furniture and tools to personalize your home and island.
Even now, it’s a game that offers a peaceful retreat. If you’re looking for a relaxing experience, it’s definitely worth checking out Animal Crossing: New Horizons if you haven’t already. It’s a game that really lets you set your own pace and enjoy the simple things.
7. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Okay, so if you’re looking for a game that really sucks you in and makes you think, you’ve gotta check out Fire Emblem: Three Houses. It’s this strategy game where you play as a professor at a fancy military academy. You get to pick one of three houses to lead, and honestly, that choice really changes how the whole story plays out. You spend your time teaching your students, building relationships with them, and getting them ready for some pretty intense battles.
What’s cool is how it mixes the whole school life sim stuff with the tactical combat the series is known for. It feels like you’re actually managing things, not just fighting. The characters are really well-written, and the story has a lot of twists and turns. Seriously, you’ll probably want to play through it multiple times just to see all the different paths and endings.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:
- Strategic Turn-Based Combat: Every move matters. You’ll be positioning your units carefully to win.
- Deep Character Development: Get to know your students, help them grow, and see how your choices affect them.
- Multiple Story Paths: Your initial house choice leads to vastly different experiences, encouraging replayability.
It’s a big game, easily taking 50 hours for one playthrough, but to see everything? You’re looking at over 200 hours. It’s a commitment, but one that’s totally worth it if you enjoy a good story and challenging strategy.
8. Celeste
Okay, so Celeste. If you’re looking for a platformer that’s both incredibly challenging and surprisingly heartfelt, this is it. You play as Madeline, who’s trying to climb the titular Mount Celeste, and let me tell you, it’s not an easy journey. The game throws all sorts of tricky obstacles at you, from crumbling platforms to wind gusts that can send you flying off course. But here’s the thing: it never feels unfair. You learn from every mistake, and when you finally nail a tough sequence, the satisfaction is immense.
What really sets Celeste apart, though, is its story. It tackles themes of anxiety and self-doubt in a really genuine way. Madeline’s internal struggles are just as much a part of the game as the platforming itself. It’s a game that respects your time, too. Each screen is a bite-sized challenge, perfect for playing on the go, and the game is packed with secrets and optional harder paths if you’re feeling masochistic. The pixel art is gorgeous, and the soundtrack is absolutely killer, perfectly matching the mood of every moment. It’s one of those games that sticks with you long after you’ve put the controller down. If you haven’t played it yet, you really should check out this fantastic indie platformer.
9. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Okay, so Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This one really shook things up for the Pokémon series, and honestly, it was about time. Instead of the usual gym battles and Elite Four grind, you’re sent way back in time to the Sinnoh region, which they call Hisui here. Your main job? To help create the very first Pokédex. It feels different, more like an adventure where you’re actually exploring and observing these creatures in their natural habitats.
The gameplay loop is super addictive: find Pokémon, sneak up on them, and then throw a Poké Ball. It’s not always a straight shot, though. Sometimes you need to battle, and the combat system is still turn-based, which is familiar, but it feels a bit more active. You can dodge attacks and choose your moves carefully. Plus, the areas you explore are pretty big, almost like an open world, and there are tons of side quests and things to discover. You’ll spend a lot of time just wandering around, gathering items, and trying to catch every Pokémon you see. It’s a refreshing take that even people who haven’t played Pokémon in years might get into.
10. Sea of Stars
Okay, so Sea of Stars. This game is a real throwback, like, if you loved those old-school RPGs from the 90s, you’re probably going to dig this. It’s got that pixel art style that’s super detailed and really pretty to look at. The story follows two kids of the Solstice, who are basically destined to combine their powers to fight off some big bad evil. It’s a pretty classic fantasy setup, but the way they tell it feels fresh.
What really stands out is the combat. It’s turn-based, but with this timing-based mechanic where you have to hit a button at the right moment to do extra damage or block attacks. It makes even simple fights feel more engaging. Plus, there are no random encounters, which is a huge plus for me. You can see all the enemies on the map, so you can choose when and if you want to fight them. It’s a nice change of pace from games where you’re constantly getting ambushed.
- Engaging turn-based combat with a timing twist.
- Beautiful pixel art graphics that harken back to classic RPGs.
- A compelling story about destiny and fighting evil.
- No random encounters, allowing for more control over gameplay.
Honestly, it feels like a passion project, and you can tell the developers put a lot of heart into it. If you’re looking for a solid RPG experience that respects your time and offers a good challenge, Sea of Stars is definitely worth checking out. It’s a game that reminds you why you fell in love with RPGs in the first place. You can even check out the new iPager while you’re taking a break from saving the world.
Wrapping Up Our 2025 Switch Picks
So, that’s a look at some of the top games you should check out on your Nintendo Switch in 2025. It’s pretty amazing how many great games this console has, whether you’re into big adventures or just want something chill to play. Even with new consoles out, the Switch still holds up with its huge library. We’ve covered a bunch of different types of games, from action-packed titles to more relaxed experiences. Hopefully, this list gives you some good ideas for your next gaming session. Happy gaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Nintendo Switch a great gaming console?
The Nintendo Switch is a super cool console because you can play it on your TV at home or take it with you anywhere, like on a bus or to a friend’s house. It has a huge collection of games, from Nintendo’s own famous characters like Mario and Zelda to lots of awesome games made by other companies.
Are these games still good even though the Switch 2 is out?
Yes, absolutely! Many of these games are classics that still hold up really well. Plus, a lot of them can be played on the new Switch 2, and some even get special upgrades to look and play even better on the newer system.
Is there a good mix of game types on this list?
We tried to include a variety of games to suit different tastes. You’ll find action-packed adventures, fun platformers, relaxing life simulators, and even some challenging indie titles. There’s something for everyone!
What if I’m looking for a more relaxed game experience?
If you prefer chill games, titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons offer a peaceful island life where you can fish, decorate, and just relax. Many other games on the list also have calmer moments or can be played at your own pace.
Are there any games that are really challenging?
For those who enjoy a good challenge, games like Celeste offer tough but rewarding platforming. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate also provides endless fun with its competitive fighting action, and the Zelda games often have tricky puzzles and tough enemies to overcome.
Can I play these games with friends?
Many of these games are fantastic for playing with others! Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a classic party game, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons lets you visit friends’ islands. Cooperative modes in games like Super Mario Odyssey also make for great shared experiences.
