So, you’ve got a Nintendo Switch and you’re wondering what games are actually worth your time? It can be a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. I’ve been playing on this thing since it came out, and let me tell you, some games just stand out. Whether you’re looking for a huge adventure to get lost in, or just something fun to play with friends, the Switch has got you covered. This list is all about the top games on the Nintendo Switch that really shine.
Key Takeaways
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild set a new standard for open-world games and is a must-have for any Switch owner.
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a fantastic party game that’s easy for anyone to pick up and play, making it a consistent bestseller.
- Super Mario Odyssey offers a creative and joyful platforming experience with tons of collectibles to find.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom builds upon its predecessor with new mechanics and an even larger world to explore.
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the ultimate fighting game collection, packed with characters and modes for endless fun.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Okay, let’s talk about The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This game dropped back in March 2017, right alongside the Nintendo Switch itself, and honestly, it changed things. It wasn’t just another Zelda game; it felt like a whole new adventure. You wake up after a long sleep and Hyrule is… well, it’s a mess. But that’s kind of the point. The world is huge, and you’re pretty much free to go wherever you want, whenever you want. No strict path, just a big, open map with secrets everywhere.
What really makes it special is how you interact with everything. You can climb pretty much any surface, glide from high places, and use a bunch of different tools and weapons. The physics in this game are wild – you can set grass on fire to create updrafts, chop down trees to make bridges, or even use metal objects with your Magnesis ability to solve puzzles or fight enemies. It’s this freedom that makes it feel so personal.
Here are a few things that stand out:
- A World That Feels Alive: Hyrule is massive, with different climates, enemy camps, hidden shrines, and villages. You can spend hours just exploring without even touching the main story.
- Emergent Gameplay: The game doesn’t hold your hand. You figure things out by experimenting. Need to cross a gap? Maybe you’ll find a bridge, or maybe you’ll build one, or maybe you’ll just glide over.
- Shrines Galore: Scattered across the land are over 100 Shrines, each with its own puzzle or combat challenge. Completing them gives you Spirit Orbs, which you can trade for more health or stamina – super important for surviving.
It’s the kind of game that sticks with you long after you put the controller down. It really redefined what an open-world adventure could be.
2. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
If you’re looking for a game that’s pretty much a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is it. Seriously, this game has such broad appeal; it’s the kind of racer that everyone, from seasoned gamers to folks who just picked up a console, can jump into and have a blast. It’s the most complete version of Mario Kart 8, packing in all the tracks from the Wii U version plus a ton of new ones through the Booster Course Pass. That means you get a whopping 96 courses to race on, which is a crazy amount of variety.
What makes it so good? Well, it’s got all the classic Mario Kart fun, but with some smart additions. You can hold two items at once, which really changes up the strategy, and the Battle Mode is back and better than ever. Plus, playing with friends is super easy. You can do split-screen for up to four players at home, or even link up multiple Switches for a bigger party. It’s just a solid, fun package that keeps on giving, and it’s a great way to experience the joy of Mario Kart on the Switch. It’s one of those games that just works, no matter who you’re playing with.
3. Super Mario Odyssey
Alright, let’s talk about Super Mario Odyssey. This game is something else. It takes the classic 3D Mario formula and just runs with it, adding a whole new layer of fun with Cappy, Mario’s sentient hat. Seriously, throwing Cappy to capture enemies and use their abilities is a game-changer. You can become a Chain Chomp, a frog, even a T-Rex! It opens up so many possibilities for how you approach each level.
The worlds in Odyssey are just bursting with things to do. They’re not just big; they’re packed with secrets, challenges, and those little Power Moons that you’re always hunting for. It feels like Nintendo really went all out celebrating Mario’s history here, too. You’ll find nods to older games everywhere, and some of the musical numbers are just fantastic. The New Donk City sequence, for example, is a real standout moment.
What I really appreciate is how accessible it is. You can pick it up and just have a blast exploring, or if you’re a seasoned player, there are plenty of tough challenges that will really test your platforming skills. It’s one of those games that feels good no matter how you play it.
Here are a few things that make Odyssey shine:
- Cappy’s Capture Mechanic: This is the star of the show, letting you take control of almost anything you can throw Cappy at.
- Diverse Kingdoms: From bustling cities to lush forests and even a food-themed world, each kingdom feels unique and full of surprises.
- Collect-a-thon Fun: The sheer number of Power Moons to find means you can easily sink dozens of hours into the game, and it rarely feels like a chore.
- Nostalgic Touches: For long-time fans, the references to past Mario games are a real treat.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Okay, so if you thought Breath of the Wild was big, just wait until you get a load of Tears of the Kingdom. This game takes the Hyrule we thought we knew and just completely flips it upside down, adding sky islands and a whole underground world to explore. It really feels like they took all the cool ideas from the first game and just ran with them, adding even more ways to mess around with the environment.
One of the biggest things that sets this game apart are the new abilities Link gets. You’ve got Ultrahand, which lets you stick pretty much anything together to build contraptions – think bridges, rafts, or even flying machines. Then there’s Fuse, where you can combine weapons and shields with all sorts of items to make them stronger or give them special effects. It’s wild how much this changes how you approach combat and puzzles.
Here are some of the standout new mechanics:
- Ultrahand: Build vehicles, bridges, and more by attaching objects together.
- Fuse: Combine weapons, shields, and arrows with materials for unique effects.
- Ascend: Travel upwards through solid ceilings, making traversal much faster.
- Recall: Rewind the movement of objects, useful for puzzles and combat.
Seriously, the amount of freedom you have to solve problems is pretty mind-blowing. You can spend hours just experimenting with different combinations and seeing what happens. It’s a game that really rewards creativity and just messing around. If you loved Breath of the Wild, this is a must-play, building on that foundation in amazing ways. It’s a massive adventure that keeps surprising you, even after dozens of hours.
5. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Alright, let’s talk about Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. If you’ve got a Nintendo Switch, chances are you’ve either played this or at least heard about it. It’s basically a massive crossover fighting game where characters from all sorts of video game universes duke it out. It truly feels like a celebration of gaming history, bringing together an insane roster of fighters.
What makes it so special? Well, for starters, the sheer number of characters is mind-boggling. We’re talking Nintendo icons like Mario and Link, but also characters from third-party franchises like Final Fantasy, Persona, and even Minecraft. Each fighter has their own unique moveset, making the gameplay surprisingly deep once you get past the initial button-mashing fun. It’s accessible enough for a casual get-together, but there’s a lot of strategy involved if you want to get serious.
Here’s a quick look at some of the key features:
- Vast Roster: Over 80 playable characters, each with distinct abilities.
- Numerous Stages: Battle it out on iconic locations from various game series.
- Extensive Modes: From classic arcade-style play to a sprawling single-player adventure called World of Light.
- Music Library: Thousands of music tracks from across gaming history to enjoy.
Seriously, the amount of content packed into this game is huge. You can spend hours just unlocking characters and stages, or diving into the single-player modes. And if you’re into competitive play, the online community is still pretty active. It’s one of those games that just keeps on giving, and it’s a must-have for any Switch owner looking for some multiplayer mayhem or a deep fighting game experience. You can find out more about this crossover fighter on its official page.
6. Hades
Okay, so Hades. This game is something else. Even if you’re not usually into rogue-likes, which I wasn’t, you might find yourself hooked. It’s got this amazing personality and charm that just pulls you in. Every time you play, it feels like you’re actually getting somewhere in the story, which is pretty cool for a game where you die a lot.
The gameplay itself is really satisfying. You get better the more you play, and that gradual improvement feels really good. Sure, there are tough moments, but you always get another shot. It’s a game that keeps you coming back.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it tick:
- Engaging Story: You play as Zagreus, prince of the Underworld, trying to escape your father’s domain. The narrative unfolds with each run, revealing more about the characters and the world.
- Fluid Combat: The action is fast-paced and responsive. You’ll learn to dodge, dash, and string together attacks with various weapons and boons from the gods.
- Persistent Progression: Even when you fail, you bring back resources that let you permanently upgrade Zagreus, unlock new abilities, or improve the House of Hades.
It’s a game that really rewards your time and effort. If you’re looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience on the Switch, Hades is definitely worth checking out. It’s a standout title that keeps players coming back for more, even after hundreds of hours, thanks to its clever design and constant stream of new things to discover after investing over 300 hours.
7. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Alright, let’s talk about Animal Crossing: New Horizons. This game dropped right when a lot of us needed a bit of an escape, and boy, did it deliver. You land on a deserted island, and it’s pretty much all yours to shape. Think of it as your own little digital getaway. You can chop down trees, catch bugs, dig up fossils, and basically build your dream island life from the ground up. It’s super chill, and you can play it however you want, whenever you want.
One of the coolest parts is the crafting system. You gather resources all over your island and then use them to make furniture, tools, and other useful stuff. It really makes you feel like you’re contributing to your island’s growth. Plus, the game looks and sounds great. The little details, like the sound of the waves or the chirping of birds, really add to the whole relaxing vibe. It’s a game that lets you set your own goals and work towards them at your own pace.
Here’s a quick look at some of the things you’ll be doing:
- Collecting resources: Wood, iron, stone, fruit – you name it.
- Crafting items: From a simple fishing rod to elaborate decorations.
- Customizing your island: Terraforming land, placing buildings, and decorating.
- Interacting with villagers: Making friends with the animal residents who move in.
- Visiting other players’ islands: See what your friends have created and trade items.
It’s a game that really encourages creativity and offers a peaceful way to spend your time. If you’re looking for a low-stress experience where you can just unwind and build something unique, this is definitely one to check out. You can find some beginner tips for Animal Crossing to get you started if you’re new to the whole island life thing.
8. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Alright, let’s talk about Pokémon Legends: Arceus. This game really shook things up for the Pokémon series, and honestly, it was a good shake-up. Instead of the usual gym battles and Elite Four grind, this one puts you in the ancient Hisui region, which is basically an older version of Sinnoh. Your main job? To help build the very first Pokédex.
It feels more like an adventure and a research mission than just a series of fights. You’re out in the wild, observing Pokémon in their natural habitats, trying to catch them using new mechanics. You can sneak around, throw items to distract them, or even engage in battles, but the focus is definitely on discovery and cataloging. It’s a different pace, and for a lot of fans, it was exactly what the series needed.
Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:
- Exploration is Key: The Hisui region is broken into different areas, and you’ll spend a lot of time just exploring, finding new Pokémon, and gathering materials. It’s pretty open, and you can ride on the backs of certain Pokémon to get around faster.
- Catching Mechanics: Gone are the days of just walking into tall grass. You can now throw Poké Balls directly at Pokémon, or even engage them in real-time battles. Success often depends on how you approach the situation – are they aggressive, skittish, or just chilling?
- Story Focus: The narrative centers around your role in the Galaxy Team, helping them understand Pokémon better. It’s a bit more involved than just being a kid with a dream, and it gives the whole experience a bit more weight.
It’s a game that really rewards patience and observation. If you’ve ever found yourself more interested in the Pokédex entries than the actual battles, this one is probably going to be right up your alley. It’s a solid entry that shows the Pokémon formula can still evolve.
9. Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread is a return to form for the 2D Metroid games, and honestly, it feels like a dream come true for fans who have waited ages for this. Samus Aran is back, and her movement feels incredibly smooth and responsive, which is a big deal when you’re dodging attacks or trying to find hidden paths. The game really ramps up the tension with the introduction of the E.M.M.I. robots; these things are basically indestructible and force you into stealth sequences that are genuinely nerve-wracking. It’s a good challenge, and finding all the secrets scattered around the planet ZDR is pretty satisfying.
What makes Dread stand out is how it blends classic Metroidvania exploration with these new, intense chase sequences. You’re constantly upgrading Samus’s abilities, which opens up new areas, but you’re also being hunted. It’s a neat mix that keeps you on your toes. The boss fights are also a highlight, often requiring you to learn patterns and react quickly. It’s a masterclass in atmosphere and gameplay that feels both familiar and fresh.
Here are a few things that make Metroid Dread a must-play:
- Intense E.M.M.I. encounters: These stealth sections add a whole new layer of fear.
- Fluid controls and animation: Samus feels great to control, making combat and exploration a joy.
- Challenging boss battles: Each boss is a unique puzzle that tests your skills.
- Secrets galore: The planet ZDR is packed with hidden upgrades and collectibles for those who love to explore every nook and cranny.
10. Tetris 99
Okay, so Tetris. We all know Tetris, right? It’s been around forever. But Tetris 99? That’s a whole different ballgame. Imagine the classic Tetris you know and love, but then throw 98 other players into the mix, all trying to clear lines and send garbage blocks to each other. It’s a battle royale, but with falling blocks. The last player standing wins, and it’s surprisingly intense.
It’s a free download if you’ve got a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, which honestly, makes it one of the best reasons to even have that service. You can get sucked in for hours, trying to snag that elusive first-place win. It’s pretty wild how a simple puzzle game can become so competitive.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes it tick:
- Battle Royale Format: Compete against 98 other players in real-time.
- Targeting System: Decide whether to attack random players, those targeting you, or the players who are close to KOing you.
- Modes: Beyond the main event, there are usually other modes available, like Marathon or Maximus Cup, which offer different challenges and rewards.
When things get hectic, and believe me, they will get hectic, focus on clearing lines quickly. Sometimes a simple Tetris (clearing four lines at once) is your best bet to dig yourself out of a hole or to send a big wave of blocks to your opponents. It’s a game that’s easy to pick up but takes real skill to master, especially when you’re trying to achieve that coveted Tetris 99 win Tetris 99.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
Alright, we’ve gone through a bunch of amazing games for the Nintendo Switch. It’s pretty clear this little console has a ton of great stuff to play, whether you’re at home or on the go. From huge adventures that pull you in for hours to quick party games you can play with friends, there’s really something for everyone. We’ve played a lot of these ourselves, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of the ones we’ve talked about. So grab your Switch, pick a game that sounds fun, and get ready to have a good time. Happy gaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Nintendo Switch games so special?
The Nintendo Switch is awesome because you can play it anywhere! You can play it on your TV like a regular console, or you can take it with you and play it like a handheld device. This means you get to enjoy amazing games whether you’re at home or on the go.
Are there still new games coming out for the Switch?
Yes, absolutely! Even though there are newer consoles out, people still love the Switch. Developers are still making lots of new games for it, so you’ll always find something fresh to play.
Is ‘The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’ a good starting game?
Many people think ‘Breath of the Wild’ is a perfect game to start with on the Switch. It was a huge hit when the console first came out and showed everyone how amazing the Switch could be. It lets you explore a huge world and solve problems in creative ways.
Why is ‘Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’ so popular?
‘Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’ is super popular because it’s just a really fun racing game that’s easy for anyone to pick up and play. It’s great for playing with friends and family, and the Deluxe version fixed some issues from the older game, making it even better.
What kind of games can I expect on the Switch?
The Switch has a huge variety of games! You can find everything from big adventure games like Zelda and Mario, to fun racing games like Mario Kart, to exciting fighting games like Smash Bros. There are also tons of awesome games made by smaller, independent developers.
How do I know which games are the best?
We’ve played and reviewed tons of games to help you out! This list is made by people who know Nintendo games really well. We picked games that are super fun, look great, and offer something special on the Switch. You can trust that the games on this list are top-notch.
