Nintendo Switch continues to stand tall as a premier platform for gamers, offering a unique combination of portable convenience and console power. Its versatile nature means you can enjoy immersive, expansive experiences from anywhere, whether in handheld mode or on the big screen. With years of support behind it and a broad range of games, the Switch still provides some of the most memorable adventures available in gaming today.
The platform is home to countless classics—both first-party juggernauts and standout indie titles—that make it a perfect fit for longtime fans and those new to gaming. And while whispers of the Nintendo Switch 2 are growing louder, the original console still has a lot to offer. In fact, many upcoming titles in 2025 will work across both systems. However, a few, such as Mario Kart World, will be exclusive to the next generation.
Regardless of your preferred genre—whether you’re craving an epic fantasy journey, a multiplayer mayhem night with friends, or a thoughtful narrative-driven game—the Switch has you covered. This curated list represents not just the most popular titles, but the ones that deliver something truly special, based on deep playtesting and years of reviewing experience.
Here are the top 22 Nintendo Switch games you should play in 2025:
22. Monster Hunter Rise
Following in the footsteps of Monster Hunter: World, Rise brings a new direction to the franchise. Emphasizing a more arcadey, action-oriented approach, it makes smart adjustments for the Switch’s hardware. Wirebugs introduce dynamic mobility, allowing for vertical movement and flashy combat sequences, while Palamutes offer rapid traversal. With a deep skill system and the excellent Sunbreak expansion, Rise is one of the most content-rich and engaging titles in the series.
21. It Takes Two
This co-op-focused experience puts players in the shoes of Cody and May, a couple undergoing a surreal journey through a toy-filled version of their home after being transformed into dolls. What follows is a heartfelt exploration of their relationship, expressed through inventive level design and tight, collaborative platforming mechanics. The Switch version holds up well, making it a great choice for couch co-op or online play.
20. Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector
Building on the emotional and narrative depth of its predecessor, this sci-fi RPG blends resource management, decision-making, and philosophical reflection. You play as a Sleeper—an artificial lifeform hunted for ownership—struggling to survive in a complex, often unforgiving galaxy. It’s thoughtful, immersive, and beautifully designed, with mechanics that echo tabletop RPGs and storytelling as rich as the best visual novels.
19. Luigi’s Mansion 3
Luigi steps out of Mario’s shadow in this charming, spooky adventure. Set in a haunted hotel, the game features creative puzzles, wonderfully spooky settings, and expressive animations. The gameplay offers a balance of exploration, light combat, and puzzle-solving, all anchored by Luigi’s endearingly reluctant heroism. It’s arguably the strongest entry in the series, with some of the most polished visuals on the platform.
18. Super Mario Party Jamboree
Bringing the classic Mario Party formula back with flair, Jamboree offers fun for all ages. Whether playing with friends or family, the variety of creative mini-games and the competitive race for stars ensure endless replay value. The Switch’s versatility makes local multiplayer a breeze, and the charming, unpredictable gameplay makes for countless memorable moments.
17. Mario & Luigi: Brothership
Revitalizing the beloved Mario RPG lineage, Brothership combines traditional turn-based combat with engaging new mechanics like Bros Attacks and Plugs. Visually stunning and filled with witty dialogue and colorful characters, this title offers over 40 hours of content and is a standout example of how much life the Switch still has to give late in its cycle.
16. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
This entry finally puts Princess Zelda in the spotlight, armed with magical abilities rather than traditional weapons. Instead of swinging swords, players solve puzzles by creating and manipulating items. The result is a unique blend of old-school Zelda design and modern sensibilities, catering especially to those who enjoy the puzzle-solving and exploration aspects of the series.
15. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
This remake brings a GameCube classic to a new generation, preserving its clever humor and unique battle system while updating the visuals and soundtrack. It’s one of the most beloved entries in the Paper Mario series, with charming storytelling and visually distinctive paper-craft aesthetics. Whether you’re revisiting it or playing for the first time, it’s a must-have.
14. Super Mario Odyssey
A love letter to the Mario franchise, Odyssey blends classic platforming with new mechanics, like using Cappy to take control of enemies. Each world is filled with secrets, challenges, and whimsical design. Whether docked or handheld, it’s visually impressive and endlessly joyful—a modern platforming masterpiece.
13. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Combining deep strategy gameplay with social sim elements, Three Houses offers a sprawling narrative with multiple paths. Your choices influence everything from classroom management to the outcome of wars. The blend of character development and tactical depth makes this a standout tactical RPG that’s both accessible and endlessly replayable.
12. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Returning to 2D platforming roots, Wonder injects fresh creativity into the genre with imaginative level design and vibrant visuals. The addition of co-op features and playful new mechanics makes it a standout among Mario’s many outings. It’s both a nostalgia trip and a compelling new experience.
11. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
An island life simulator that’s as relaxing as it is addictive, New Horizons invites players to shape their world. Build, decorate, and cultivate friendships in a soothing environment. With improved customization tools and robust online features, it’s a comforting escape and a charmingly addictive experience.
10. Bayonetta 3
High-octane combat and over-the-top action define this latest installment in the Bayonetta series. It pushes the Switch’s capabilities with fast-paced battles, giant enemies, and dramatic spectacle. New summons add depth and variety to fights, making it a thrilling action experience from start to finish.
9. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby ventures into a mysterious, post-apocalyptic world in his first full 3D adventure. With new abilities and a heartwarming tone, the game strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and challenge. Its bright, imaginative levels and family-friendly design make it an easy recommendation.
8. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Still the definitive kart racer on any platform, Deluxe includes every piece of DLC, new features, and robust multiplayer options. Whether playing locally, online, or wirelessly with friends, it’s endlessly fun. With continued updates and fresh tracks, it remains one of the console’s most replayable titles.
7. Metroid Dread
A suspenseful, atmospheric journey, Metroid Dread brings classic exploration and tension to the modern era. Samus must navigate a hostile world while evading unkillable foes, using stealth, power-ups, and precision platforming. It’s a return to form for the series and a compelling evolution of the Metroidvania genre.
6. Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Breaking away from traditional series structure, Arceus emphasizes exploration and Pokémon collection in a historical setting. Its open-ended gameplay and immersive world design breathe new life into the franchise. It’s a fresh take that appeals to newcomers and veterans alike.
5. Splatoon 3
A vibrant, unconventional shooter where the goal is to paint the arena with your team’s color. Splatoon 3 enhances the formula with improved connectivity, new content, and a stronger narrative. It’s one of the most fun and stylish multiplayer experiences on the Switch.
4. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
This turn-based strategy game blends humor, charm, and clever design. With more flexible movement systems and deeper team customization, it builds on its predecessor while remaining welcoming to newcomers. It’s perfect for those who enjoy tactics but want something a bit more light-hearted.
3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
A celebration of gaming history, Ultimate packs in dozens of fighters and stages. Its tight mechanics, variety of modes, and passionate fanbase make it the premier fighting game on Switch. Whether you’re battling competitively or just having fun, it’s an essential multiplayer title.
2. Tetris 99
Combining classic puzzle gameplay with battle royale dynamics, Tetris 99 delivers a fast-paced, competitive experience that’s hard to put down. It’s simple to understand, tough to master, and endlessly addictive—especially if you love a challenge.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
As the sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom delivers an even larger, more intricate world filled with mystery and wonder. It enhances everything that made its predecessor iconic while introducing new mechanics and a deeper story. It stands not only as the best game on the Switch—but one of the finest titles in modern gaming.
These games represent the best of what the Nintendo Switch has to offer in 2025, each bringing something unique to the table. Whether you’re picking up the console for the first time or are a seasoned player revisiting favorites, this lineup guarantees unforgettable gaming moments.
