The best Nintendo Switch games to play right now

As a seasoned gamer with a heart full of nostalgia and a wallet that’s seen better days, I can confidently say that the Nintendo Switch has been a lifesaver during these trying times. With its portable yet powerful capabilities, it’s become my go-to gaming device when I need a break from the world (or my kids).

2024 could see you enjoying an abundance of fantastic games on your Nintendo Switch, even though the announcement of Switch 2 might not happen quite so soon.

On its console, Nintendo offers an array of options – from refreshed versions of cherished classics to brand new Pokémon journeys. This versatility makes it a suitable choice for gamers, regardless if they’re playing at home or out and about.

Regardless of whether you own a regular Nintendo Switch, the OLED model, or the portable Nintendo Switch Lite, you’ll find that all the games we list here deliver an exceptional gaming experience whether you’re playing on-the-go or relaxing at home.

When you’re not connected to a power outlet, it’s essential to have a reliable Nintendo Switch power bank on hand to ensure your device stays charged, and also acquire a spacious SD memory card that can accommodate all the latest games you plan to add to your collection.

Among these games, there’s an enjoyable assortment including timeless Mario installments, swift action-packed games like Bayonetta, expansive role-playing games hailing from the Zelda franchise, and many others. Keep reading!

Best Nintendo Switch games

Absolutely, keep in mind that the contents here might evolve as new games are released, so remember to visit us frequently for updates!

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Approximately six years after Breath of the Wild, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom took all the fantastic aspects of its predecessor and further developed them to create an even more extraordinary game. The passion and dedication that Nintendo put into this sequel make it a strong suggestion for anyone to play, earning it a top rating in our review.

For the first time in Hyrule, innovative physical interactions have been introduced, enabling players to construct vehicles and levitating platforms. These additions significantly alter the landscape’s dynamics by introducing a captivating vertical dimension.

Super Mario Bros Wonder

How about improving Mario? A magical makeover, that’s the ticket! The newest 2D platformer featuring our friendly plumber, Super Mario Bros Wonder, offers the enchanting Wonder Flower. This flower can trigger a variety of events such as rhinos stampeding, Warp Pipes becoming active, or even merging a castle with Bowser. It’s delightful, musically appealing, and simply brimming with creativity.

Portal: Companion Collection

Regardless of their age surpassing a decade, Portal 1 and 2 remain as vibrant and engaging as they were initially, making it an intuitive choice to carry these timeless games along wherever you go, thanks to their availability on the Nintendo Switch.

In the Aperture Science laboratories, where groundbreaking Portal technology was being developed prior to Half-Life’s occurrences, newcomers find themselves. As Chell, you awaken from a prolonged Stasis, compelled to participate in tests orchestrated by the malignant yet amusing AI named GLaDOS, years later.

Bayonetta 3

Eight years later, Bayonetta 2 made its way to the Nintendo Switch, appeared on Super Smash Bros roster, and finally, in 2022, fans were treated to a third installment featuring their beloved Umbra Witch. The anticipation was rewarded as Bayonetta 3 delivered, with its action-packed combat sequences receiving high acclaim – especially when you consider her weapons are high-heel guns and hair that magically transforms!

In keeping with the multiverse craze of 2022, Bayonetta 3 brings back its protagonist, who fights angelic enemies but now also encounters man-made bioweapons. Lending a hand are alternate versions of her from different dimensions. Excitingly, the chaotic and quick-tempo series isn’t going anywhere soon – a prequel titled Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon is set for release in 2023!

Metroid Dread

In a span of twenty years, the 2D Metroid game titled Metroid Dread was under immense pressure to deliver, and it certainly did not disappoint as evidenced in our Metroid Dread review. This much-anticipated title surpassed expectations with its seamless gameplay, innovative new skills, and genuinely taxing boss encounters. Metroid Dread is an ideal choice for both novice players and diehard Samus fans.

Splatoon 3

Splatoon 2 continues to be an excellent choice for gamers, and there’s even more excitement with the release of Splatoon 3! This new version brings an array of fresh weapons, maps, a single-player story mode, and a three-team splatfest, ensuring a continuous flow of new experiences. While it may seem unusual for Nintendo to create a shooter game, Splatoon 3 offers a fun, family-friendly experience with unexpectedly complex gameplay mechanics.

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

In The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, gamers experience a blend of concepts from Link’s past journeys, coupled with an exclusive, vintage artistic aesthetic.

In Echoes of Wisdom, you can immerse yourself in a wide-open environment for exploration and enjoy a captivating narrative. What sets this game apart is that it lets you assume the role of Princess Zelda, offering a fresh perspective on the well-known series.

Our assessment indicates that “Echoes of Wisdom” represents an innovative attempt to merge two distinct epochs of Zelda, thereby offering a long-awaited opportunity for the main character to truly shine.

Mario & Luigi: Brothership

2024 marked a revitalizing influence on the Mario RPG series as new games brought a fresh breeze. Equipped with robust battle mechanics, “Brothership” is an exceptional choice for gamers seeking a delightful RPG experience, boasting stunning graphics and a wealth of engaging side quests to explore.

Apart from the customary doses of humor from this energetic pair, this game’s primary adventure spans around 40 hours, making it an excellent investment for any Nintendo Switch user.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Among the initial groundbreaking games released on the Nintendo Switch, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild remains one of the standout titles. By expanding the beloved Zelda series into an unprecedented scale, this game captured fans’ imaginations in a way never seen before. At its launch, it left gamers spellbound for valid reasons.

An expansive open-world title, “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” has garnered numerous accolades following its debut and boasts a remarkable sales figure of more than 18 million copies. The game’s scope is simply immense, offering a wealth of activities to engage in and locations to discover.

This game, though its primary plot may seem extensive, is richly supplemented with side missions and challenges. Immersing yourself in it can feel like getting lost in another world. Its depth is such that it would take a seasoned gamer quite a while to complete. If you’re a fan of the Zelda series, particularly Breath of the Wild, it’s virtually a must-play and arguably one of Nintendo’s most outstanding creations yet.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Currently, one of the most well-liked games on the Nintendo Switch is Animal Crossing New Horizons, which enjoys immense popularity. Debuting in March 2020 (a coincidental release for keeping people entertained during lockdown), this life simulation video game offers players an opportunity to wander a charming island, collect and manufacture various items, catch bugs and fish, and create a society of anthropomorphic animal characters.

In a delightful twist, this playful, joyful game is often hailed as an exceptional form of escape, and it’s difficult not to concur. It offers significant social opportunities as well, with users incorporating it into various life events such as weddings and funerals. Intriguingly, a talk show was even hosted within the game by Gary Whitta, the writer of Rogue One. What an extraordinary world we live in!

Alba: A Wildlife Adventure

Regarding charming games, it’s not just Animal Crossing that stands out on Nintendo Switch; we strongly suggest giving Alba: A Wildlife Adventure a try! In this game, you take on the role of a girl named Alba, spending her school holidays on a beautiful island with her grandparents. As you traverse the captivating landscapes, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation efforts, making it an experience that’s certain to bring joy!

This game transports you back to the excitement and curiosity of childhood as you capture images of local wildlife or tidy up the surroundings, enhancing its beauty. Over the span of a few hours, you’ll work on solving a small mystery while preventing a large-scale hotel construction from harming the delicate local environment. It would make an excellent educational tool for teaching children about the importance of preserving our planet!

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Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

What could be more enjoyable than a taste of Mario Kart? This beloved series continues to thrive, with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe being one of its top-notch installments so far. Frequently acclaimed as one of the finest multiplayer games, there’s a vast amount of excitement in choosing your preferred character and racing along.

An improved version of the Mario Kart 8 game originally designed for Wii U, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers the ultimate gaming experience, especially when it comes to Battle Mode. Be prepared to lose track of time as you dive into this exciting game. And yes, just like before, you can toss banana peels at your competitors to knock them off course! Gaming nirvana awaits!

Mario Party Superstars

In our review of Mario Party Superstars, we described it as an exciting journey through the annals of Mario Party, and that’s a sentiment we continue to endorse. The game lived up to our expectations and wishes, offering plenty of enjoyable gameplay. However, it’s important to remember not to let your competitive spirit overshadow the fun, because we all sometimes fall into that trap.

Pokemon Sword & Shield

The Pokemon brand continues to thrive, expanding into multiple sectors of entertainment, including trading cards and the highly popular game, Pokemon Go. Most recently, it made a big splash on the Nintendo Switch with two games, Pokemon Sword and Shield. The objective in these games is to defeat the current Pokemon League Champion, Leon, in a tournament that other Gym Leaders and rivals are also participating in. Alongside this challenge, players must contend with Team Yell and an underhanded plot unfolding within the League.

Although Pokemon Sword & Shield has had several significant updates since its release, it’s not yet possible to collect all the Pokemon in these games because some legendary creatures are absent. However, despite this limitation, the game has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback and offers a multitude of new Pokemon to discover and train for battle. If you’re a fan of Pokemon, purchasing Pokemon Sword & Shield is definitely worth considering.

New Pokemon Snap

Talking about the Pokemon series from Nintendo, there’s an exciting game that could offer a fresh perspective on it – New Pokemon Snap. Unlike traditional games where you capture and pit creatures against each other, this game focuses on capturing images of Pokemon as they live freely in their natural habitats.

Following the original Pokémon Snap game (released for N64 in 1999), New Pokémon Snap offers a new adventure featuring beloved Pokémon from multiple generations, set within stunning natural habitats. As you travel through each area on a guided tour, you’ll have the chance to capture unique moments of these creatures using various camera tools. This refreshing spin on the franchise provides a relaxing and endearing experience.

Super Mario Odyssey

As someone who cherishes the Mario series, I wholeheartedly agree with those who acclaim Super Mario Odyssey as the finest Mario game to date. From the timeless classics like the original Nintendo games and Mario 64, there’s no shortage of Mario adventures featuring our beloved plumber. However, Super Mario Odyssey truly stands out among them all – it’s simply extraordinary!

For fans who’ve admired the cap-wearing Italian character, Mario Odyssey is undeniably worth acquiring. This game builds upon the idea of Mario 64 while integrating contemporary gameplay and visuals, making it a visually captivating experience from beginning to end, almost impossible to tear yourself away from. Never before has Mario looked or felt so great as he does here, making it a must-have for Nintendo Switch owners. It’s an investment that should be on every enthusiast’s list.

Luigi’s Mansion 3

Though Mario often represents Nintendo well, there’s no denying that many fans hold a special place for the beloved Luigi. This character truly shines when he confronts spectral foes in Luigi’s Mansion 3. This game, which won Best Family Game at The Game Awards 2019, offers an exciting and captivating third-person experience. In this action-adventure title, players accompany Luigi as he navigates through seventeen floors filled with mystery within a haunted hotel.

When all his buddies vanish, it falls on Luigi and his remarkable pet, Polterpup, to unravel the mystery of their disappearance and rescue the day. The primary appeal lies in its captivating, solo narrative adventure. However, numerous multiplayer modes provide an opportunity for you and as many as eight other players to engage in a variety of activities together. This game offers fun for people of all ages. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better choice than purchasing this game for yourself.

Super Smash Bros Ultimate

If you’re fond of intense fighting games, you might enjoy Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This game boasts an array of popular characters from various Nintendo hits such as Mario, Zelda, and Pokemon, plus Sonic the Hedgehog from Sega. The diverse character roster should appeal to many gaming enthusiasts.

Launched towards the end of 2018, this game has garnered numerous accolades and boasts the highly respected ‘universal acclaim’ status on Metacritic, which is well-deserved. By introducing innovative game modes and skillfully blending elements that made its predecessors so popular with a touch of novelty, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers an enjoyable gaming experience. It’s also an excellent choice for casual gamers who might not have the time to fully immerse themselves in something akin to Breath of the Wild.

Doom Eternal

Although Doom Eternal might not perform as optimally on the Nintendo Switch compared to PlayStation and Xbox versions, the portable nature of the Switch makes it an essential purchase for fans who want to enjoy their game on-the-go.

Initially, there were doubts if Doom would ever grace consoles, but despite any technical shortcomings, it doesn’t falter in delivering an exhilarating and entertaining gaming experience.

If you own the game on another platform, it may not be worth double-dipping (unless making it portable appeals), but if Doom Eternal is a game that you have been debating buying and you own the Switch, we highly recommend giving it a go. Kill them all!

Bioshock: The Collection

In Bioshock: The Collection, you can own all three installments of the series, with the first two having slightly rougher ports to the Nintendo Switch compared to the third game. However, they are timeless classics, cherished for valid reasons. These initial titles unfold in Rapture, a submerged city where chaos reigns and most entities seek your demise. Despite the second game not quite matching up to the brilliance of the first, both remain engaging and replayable.

As a movie buff who’s no stranger to immersive gaming experiences, let me tell you about my encounter with Bioshock Infinite. Unlike the submerged metropolis of Rapture in the earlier games, this one is set in the floating city of Columbia. The creators took everything that made the first two games so endearing and spun it into a captivating, albeit slightly intricate, narrative. The graphics are nothing short of stunning, and the score is simply enchanting, leaving me in awe every time I listen to it.

If you’ve yet to experience the thrill of the Bioshock series, then it’s highly recommended that you consider buying Bioshock: The Collection.

Dark Souls Remastered

The difficulty level of the Dark Souls series may determine your interest in playing it. Known for being challenging, merciless, and unforgiving, this franchise has earned a reputation for causing quite a few expletives due to frustration. And if you thought the original release was tough, the remastered version doesn’t soften the blow.

This updated version boasts graphics on par with modern standards, incorporating the DLC “Artorias of the Abyss”. It contains all the content from the 2011 release, hard to believe it’s almost a decade old now. The third-person action RPG is notoriously challenging, but conquering it brings an elusive feeling of accomplishment and gratification that few other games can rival.

Arms

If you’re drawn to a combat-style game featuring arms that can stretch for long-range attacks, we recommend checking out Arms. This wacky fighting game debuted on the Nintendo Switch back in 2017 and remains a favorite due to its user-friendly gameplay and the convenience of playing it in quick sessions.

The animated 3D style infuses the game with a lively vibe, keeping you engaged with intriguing visuals as you compete against others. It’s been likened to “Mario Kart” in the fighting genre, a praiseworthy comparison indeed. In fact, the game has gained such popularity that a comic series is being developed and a sequel is on the horizon, though you may need to wait until 2023 for its release.

Tetris 99

Originally launched in 1984, the classic game of Tetris remains as popular as ever, receiving a fresh new lease on life through the fun-filled Tetris 99.

In this game, known as “Tetris 99”, 99 players battle it out simultaneously. The objective is to be the sole survivor as bricks fall in a fast-paced, intense competition. This modern take on an old favorite has garnered numerous accolades, including the 2019 Multiplayer Game of the Year at the Golden Joystick Awards. If you enjoy the straightforward fun of Tetris, Tetris 99 is a must-have and offers a terrific way to pass the time with short, engaging rounds.

Rocket League

Remarkably, among the best ‘easy-to-get-into’ games, Rocket League fuses two beloved pastimes – football and automobiles – into an exhilarating gaming experience. Notably, this thrilling game is now available for free on all platforms, including Nintendo Switch!

The concept is simple – drive cars around while trying to get the ball in the opposition’s goal but it’s how fast and frantic the game can be that is really its selling point. There are several different game modes, including a basketball and ice hockey version of the game and its cross-platform multiplayer experience (unless you are a PlayStation player) allows for some incredibly exciting rivalries to take place. Whether taking to your vehicle alone or with friends, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a game that is quite as much fun to play, even in short bursts, as Rocket League is.

Download for free from the Nintendo eShop

Sonic Mania

Although it might seem a bit unusual to find SEGA’s interpretation of Mario on a Nintendo system, it’s definitely beneficial because Sonic Mania stands out as the top game for our speedy blue mascot since his prime in the ’90s.

This game, Sonic Mania, captures the essence of playing those classic game styles. Unlike Sonic 4, it’s more like the return to form fans anticipated. It’s a game reminiscent of the golden era, yet modernized for today’s gamers. However, some of the original games’ frustrations persist in this one as well. But the similarity in feel and gameplay style to our beloved old titles, coupled with a strong dose of nostalgia, makes Sonic Mania a resounding success.

Thumper

The objective of Thumper is to direct a bug-like character on either a single or double track through a sequence of suspenseful realms, similar to how one might play Guitar Hero. This is a rhythm-based game where players must press a key in sync with the music that accompanies the game’s advancement.

Known as one of the top rhythm games available, its striking visuals set it apart from others, making it an enjoyable and engaging game to play whenever you want, without requiring extensive time investment like some other games on this list. Initially launched for Nintendo Switch, Thumper is now accessible on additional platforms such as Xbox One.

Bayonetta 2

Initially, Bayonetta was launched across various systems, but Nintendo chose to keep Bayonetta 2 exclusive. Despite not performing exceptionally well on the underperforming Wii U, Bayonetta 2 has experienced a resurgence following its availability on the Nintendo Switch.

The chaotic, rapid-fire, and occasionally madcap shooter game continues to captivate players during its intervals, with the second installment being even more unhinged than the first. We wouldn’t want it any other way, and this description as “an extraordinary example of camp at its finest” perfectly encapsulates Bayonetta 2. And the exciting update? Since its release on the Switch, it has been successful enough to warrant a sequel, with Bayonetta 3 now available!

A Short Hike

Always remember the significance of independent games in our industry, and if you’re seeking an indie game to experience, we strongly advise checking out A Short Hike. This game offers one of the most tranquil gaming experiences, and the narrative is straightforward yet touching. The game’s description encapsulates its laid-back style perfectly.

Claire, a youthful bird with human characteristics, journeys to Hawk Peak Provincial Park, where her aunt May serves as a ranger. During her days off, she likes to visit this park. However, Claire struggles to get cellphone reception unless she climbs to the summit of the peak, as she’s expecting an important call. Consequently, she resolves to ascend to the park’s highest point.

Although it might not offer the most thrilling experience compared to other games out there, this one has an endearing quality that makes it stand out. If you’re new to the indie gaming scene, it serves as a captivating introduction and a wonderful way to explore this unique world.

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Similar to my experience with Bayonetta 2, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze was a game that debuted on the Wii U, often overshadowed because the console didn’t quite catch on like Nintendo had hoped.

It’s truly unfortunate not to enjoy the amusement packed in this Donkey Kong release, as it maintains the charm that has long been associated with the series while offering a modern twist. Following the old saying, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” the game retains its side-scrolling format, a staple of Donkey Kong, and updates it to provide a refreshing spin. If you’re a fan of Donkey Kong games, this is definitely worth considering for your collection.

Diablo 3: Eternal Collection

First introduced in 2012 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, Diablo 3 has remained popular enough to continue releasing new versions, like the Switch’s Diablo 3: Eternal Collection, which has rekindled fans’ passion for the game.

Regardless of its age, Diablo 3: Eternal Collection still offers great value whether you’re new to the series or returning to it. Its captivating dark fantasy storyline hasn’t lost any charm over time and serves as a satisfying gameplay experience. With the announcement of Diablo 4 last year, fans are eagerly awaiting its release.

Hades

Lastly, let me add that the game which swept the BAFTA Games Awards in 2021 is Hades, a production of Supergiant Games. Since its debut on Switch and PC in September 2020, this game has garnered an incredible amount of praise, so if you haven’t had a chance to play it yet, I highly recommend giving it a try!

This game belongs to the roguelike category, which implies that when you perish in the game, you’ll restart from the beginning. It draws inspiration from Greek mythology. In this game, you will assume the role of Zagreus, the son of Hades, who embarks on a journey to battle through a haphazard sequence of rooms and adversaries on a mission to reach Mount Olympus. The gameplay, audio, and graphics are all top-notch, making it an exceptional triple threat and one of the finest games currently available on Switch.

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2024-12-12 15:48