Alright, so you’ve got a Nintendo Switch, and maybe you’re wondering what games are actually worth your time in 2025. It can be tough to sort through everything. I’ve been playing a bunch, and honestly, some games just stick with you. This list is all about those top Nintendo Switch games that you really shouldn’t miss out on. Whether you’re new to the Switch or just looking for your next big adventure, these are the ones that have made a real impression.
Key Takeaways
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild remains a must-play for its open-world design.
- Super Mario Odyssey offers a fantastic 3D platforming experience.
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons provides a relaxing escape with endless customization.
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the go-to for multiplayer fun.
- Hollow Knight: Silksong is a highly anticipated title for fans of challenging exploration.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Man, where do you even start with Breath of the Wild? It came out with the Switch, and honestly, it felt like a whole new way to play games. Instead of just following a path, you’re just dropped into this massive world, Hyrule, and told to go figure things out. It’s pretty wild. You can climb almost anything, glide from high places, and just explore wherever you want.
It really changed how a lot of open-world games are made. Before this, a lot of them felt like they had too much stuff going on, like endless icons on a map. Breath of the Wild felt different. It had these smaller challenges, like the Shrines, and you could tackle them in any order.
Here’s a quick look at some of its key features:
- Vast Open World: Hyrule is huge and you can go pretty much anywhere.
- Freedom of Exploration: Climb, glide, and discover secrets at your own pace.
- Physics-Based Puzzles: Many puzzles can be solved in multiple creative ways.
- Weapon Durability: Weapons break, which makes you think about what you use.
It’s one of those games that just sticks with you. Even years later, people are still finding new things or talking about their favorite moments. It really set a new standard for adventure games.
2. Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey is a game that really brought back that classic 3D Mario feel, kind of like what we loved about Super Mario 64. After games that felt a bit more focused and linear, Odyssey went back to those big, open worlds packed with things to find. It’s a platformer that gives you a ton of freedom to just explore and play around.
What makes it stand out is Cappy, Mario’s sentient hat. You can throw Cappy to attack enemies, and even better, you can take control of different characters and objects by tossing Cappy onto them. This opens up so many possibilities for how you solve puzzles and get around. Imagine possessing a frog to leap across huge gaps or a tank to smash through obstacles! It keeps the gameplay feeling fresh and surprising throughout your adventure.
The sheer variety of kingdoms you visit is astounding, each with its own unique theme and challenges. From the bustling streets of New Donk City, where Mario interacts with humans, to the vibrant, food-themed Luncheon Kingdom, there’s always something new to see and do. Finding all the Power Moons can take ages, and the game is just a joy to play from start to finish. It’s a game that really shows off what the Switch can do and is a must-have for any fan of platforming or just great games in general. You can find out more about this amazing 3D Mario adventure on the Nintendo website.
3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
It’s hard to overstate just how big Animal Crossing: New Horizons became, especially when it first came out in March 2020. For many, this game was more than just a pastime; it was a lifeline. Stuck inside during lockdowns, players found solace and a sense of normalcy by building their own little island paradises. You could customize everything, from the layout of your island to the furniture in your house, and interact with a charming cast of animal villagers.
The sheer freedom to shape your world, pay off your loans to Tom Nook, and collect bugs and fish for the museum made it an incredibly absorbing experience. It really felt like a place you could escape to when the real world felt overwhelming.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it so special:
- Island Customization: Use the Island Designer app to terraform, add rivers, and place paths to make your island truly unique.
- Villager Interaction: Befriend or even encourage villagers to move out; each has their own personality and quirks.
- Collecting: Spend hours fishing, catching bugs, digging for fossils, and donating them to the museum to complete your collection.
- Social Play: Visit friends’ islands or have them visit yours to trade items, show off your creations, or just hang out.
Even now, years later, people are still finding joy in tweaking their islands and discovering new things. It’s a game that offers a gentle, rewarding loop that’s hard to put down.
4. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Okay, let’s talk about Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. If you own a Switch, chances are you own this game, and for good reason. It’s basically the definitive Mario Kart experience, taking the already great Wii U version and just making it even better. They added back the much-missed Battle Mode, which is a huge deal for anyone who loves a good kart-based brawl. Plus, the anti-gravity sections on the tracks? They really shake things up, letting you race on walls and ceilings, which is just wild and adds a fun new layer to the racing. It’s the kind of game that brings people together, whether it’s a casual family get-together or a more serious group of friends looking for some competitive fun.
What really makes Deluxe stand out is the sheer amount of content. You get all the original tracks, plus the DLC from the Wii U version, and then they went and added even more with the Booster Course Pass. We’re talking 48 extra tracks here, which is just insane. You’ve got everything from classic circuits to brand new creations, ensuring there’s always a new track to master or a familiar favorite to revisit. It’s a game that keeps on giving, and honestly, it’s hard to imagine a Switch collection without it. It’s just pure, unadulterated fun that’s easy to pick up but still offers plenty of depth for those who want to get really good. If you’re looking for a racing game that’s accessible, packed with content, and endlessly replayable, this is it. You can even find some tips on managing your game data if you’re worried about space, though with this much fun, you’ll want to keep it installed. Back up your PS4 if you need to, but definitely keep Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on your Switch.
5. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
It’s hard to talk about the Switch without mentioning Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This game is just massive, packing in every single fighter who has ever been in a Smash game, plus a whole bunch of new ones. Seriously, the roster is huge, with over 80 characters from all sorts of gaming universes, including big third-party names like Banjo-Kazooie and Solid Snake. It feels like a celebration of gaming history.
Beyond just the sheer number of characters, the gameplay itself is really solid. It’s faster than some previous entries, which fans of competitive play appreciate. There are also tons of stages, music tracks, and other collectibles to unlock, making it a game you can sink hundreds of hours into. The single-player modes are pretty good too, offering a lot of fan service for long-time players. If you’re looking for a fighting game that has endless replayability and a bit of everything, this is it. It’s been around for a while, but it still gets updates, like the recent Version 13.0.4 patch that fixed some minor issues, showing Nintendo’s continued support for this massive brawler.
6. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Okay, so if you thought Breath of the Wild was big, then Tears of the Kingdom takes that idea and just blows it up even further. It’s like Nintendo looked at the first game and said, “Yeah, that’s good, but what if we added more?” And they really did. Hyrule is still here, but now there are islands floating way up in the sky and a whole creepy underworld to explore too. It’s a lot to take in, honestly.
Link gets some new tricks up his sleeve with his arm abilities. You can fuse things together, like a rock to a stick to make a hammer, or even a rocket to your shield. It sounds wild, and it is. This fusion mechanic really changes how you approach puzzles and combat. You can get pretty creative with it, which is pretty cool.
Here are a few things that stand out:
- Sky Islands: Exploring these floating landmasses adds a whole new vertical layer to the game. Getting up there is half the fun.
- The Depths: This underground area is massive and pretty unsettling. It’s dark, dangerous, and full of secrets.
- Ultrahand and Fuse: These abilities let you build and combine almost anything. Want to make a flying machine out of logs and fans? Go for it.
It builds on everything that made Breath of the Wild so special, but adds so many new ideas. It’s definitely a game that keeps you thinking and experimenting. If you enjoyed the first one, this is a must-play. You can find some great tips for getting started on your adventure over at Nintendo’s official site.
7. Hollow Knight: Silksong
Okay, so we’ve all been waiting for Hollow Knight: Silksong, and honestly, the anticipation has been pretty wild. It’s the follow-up to the original Hollow Knight, which was this amazing Metroidvania game that really took off on the Switch, even though it started on PC. People loved its dark, atmospheric world and challenging gameplay. The Switch version even came with all the extra content, which was a huge bonus.
Silksong promises to take us to a whole new kingdom, Pharloom, and we’ll be playing as Hornet, the agile protector from the first game. We’re expecting more of that tight combat and intricate exploration that made the original so good. Plus, the art style is just gorgeous, and the music is always top-notch in these games. It’s the kind of game that really pulls you in and makes you forget about the outside world for hours on end. Seriously, if the original Hollow Knight is anything to go by, Silksong is going to be an absolute must-play.
Here’s what we’re hoping for:
- A vast and mysterious new world to explore.
- More challenging boss fights that test your skills.
- A compelling story that expands on the lore we already know.
- New abilities and tools for Hornet to use.
It’s been a long wait, but the buzz around Silksong suggests it’s going to be worth every second. Get ready to jump back into that beautifully bleak world.
8. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Okay, so if you’ve been feeling like 2D Mario games got a little too predictable, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is here to shake things up. This isn’t just another ‘New Super Mario Bros.’ game; it’s a complete refresh. The biggest change? Those wild ‘Wonder Effects’ that completely transform levels in unexpected ways. One minute you’re running through a standard platforming stage, the next it’s like the game threw a psychedelic party and everything’s gone bonkers.
It’s not just visual flair, either. The game introduces a new Badge system that lets you customize Mario’s abilities. Want to float more? Need a faster run? There are badges for that. This adds a nice layer of strategy and replayability, letting you tackle stages in different ways. Plus, you can play with up to four players, and it feels way more fluid than previous multiplayer Mario titles. It’s just pure, unadulterated fun that reminds you why 2D Mario was so great in the first place, but with a fresh coat of paint and some seriously creative ideas.
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, you’re sent way back in time to the Sinnoh region, which they call Hisui back then. Your main job is to help build 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 throw a Poké Ball. It’s not just about battling anymore; you can actually catch Pokémon by carefully aiming and throwing your Poké Balls. Sometimes you’ll need to battle, sure, but the focus is on research and discovery. You’ll be crafting items, gathering resources, and just generally exploring these big, open areas. It really gives you a sense of scale that previous games just didn’t have. It’s a refreshing take that makes you feel like a real Pokémon researcher. If you’re looking for a new way to experience the Pokémon world, this is definitely it. It’s a must-play for fans who want something new, and it might even pull back some folks who haven’t played in a while. You can find out more about its outstanding plot and depth here.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it stand out:
- Exploration Focus: The game encourages you to explore every nook and cranny of the Hisui region. You’re not just running from point A to point B; you’re actively looking for Pokémon, items, and hidden paths.
- Action-Oriented Catching: Gone are the days of just weakening every Pokémon before catching it. Now, you can sneak, aim, and throw Poké Balls directly, adding a whole new layer of skill.
- Crafting and Resource Gathering: You’ll need to gather materials to craft your own Poké Balls, potions, and other useful items, which really adds to the survival and exploration feel.
- New Battle Mechanics: While turn-based battles are still present, there are new styles like the Agile and Strong styles that add a strategic twist to combat.
10. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Okay, so we all know Link usually gets the spotlight, right? Well, get ready for a shake-up because in The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, Princess Zelda is the main hero. This game takes the familiar top-down Zelda style, kind of like Link’s Awakening, but gives it a fresh coat of paint and a whole new way to play. Instead of just swinging a sword, Zelda uses a special wand to create "Echoes." These are basically copies of things she finds, including enemies, which she can then use to solve puzzles or even help her in fights. It’s a really neat idea that lets you approach challenges in different ways. It’s a fantastic twist on the classic Zelda formula, putting a beloved character in the lead role with unique mechanics.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:
- Play as Zelda: For the first time, you’re controlling the princess herself.
- Echo Mechanic: Summon copies of enemies and objects to help you out.
- Creative Problem Solving: Use Echoes to overcome obstacles and combat.
- Charming Visuals: The game sports a really cute, animated art style.
It feels like a really smart evolution for the series, letting players experiment and find their own solutions. Plus, it’s just plain fun to see Zelda take charge like this.
Wrapping Up Your Switch Adventure
So, there you have it. We’ve looked at a bunch of fantastic games you can play on your Nintendo Switch in 2025. It’s pretty wild how many great options there are, right? Whether you’re into epic adventures, puzzling challenges, or just chilling out, the Switch really has something for everyone. It’s been a great console, and it’s clear there are still plenty of reasons to keep playing. Hopefully, this list helps you find your next favorite game, or maybe even rediscover an old gem you forgot about. Happy gaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Nintendo Switch first come out?
The Nintendo Switch had a worldwide launch on March 3rd, 2017. It was released on the same day in all regions, which was a bit different from how Nintendo usually released their consoles.
What’s the most popular game on the Switch?
As of mid-2025, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the best-selling game on the Nintendo Switch. It’s followed closely by Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which are also incredibly popular choices.
Is The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild still a must-play?
Absolutely! Breath of the Wild was a game-changer for open-world adventures and the Zelda series itself. Even though its sequel is out, exploring Hyrule for the first time in Breath of the Wild is an experience you won’t want to miss. Plus, newer versions offer smoother gameplay.
Can I play my old Switch games on the new Switch 2?
Yes, most games made for the original Switch will work on the Switch 2. Some games even get special updates or add-ons that make them work even better on the new console, improving things like how fast they load or how smoothly they run.
What’s the best Pokémon game on the Switch?
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a standout choice if you’re looking for a fresh take on the Pokémon series on the Switch. It offers an open-world adventure with a focus on research, which many players really enjoyed.
Are there any games that are really unique to the Switch?
The Switch has tons of unique games! Titles like Super Mario Odyssey offer fresh takes on classic characters, while games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons provide a relaxing escape. Even indie titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong have gained a massive following for their distinct styles and challenging gameplay.
