The Nintendo Switch has firmly established itself as one of the most beloved consoles in gaming history. With a diverse library of iconic exclusives, boundary-pushing indie titles, and third-party heavy-hitters, it continues to appeal to every type of player. Whether you’re a lifelong Nintendo fan or just picking up the console for the first time, this roundup explores the top Switch titles available right now.
Let’s dive into the games that define the console—and why they’re still making waves in 2025.
First-Party Blockbusters: Nintendo’s Crown Jewels
Nintendo’s internal studios are among the most revered in the industry, and their recent output continues to elevate the platform.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
A direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, this game takes Hyrule to new heights—literally. With sky islands, intricate crafting mechanics, and deeper lore, Tears of the Kingdom expands the open-world formula in innovative ways. It’s not just an adventure—it’s a masterclass in game design.
Super Mario Odyssey
Even years after its release, Super Mario Odyssey remains a joyous celebration of platforming. Its globe-trotting structure lets players explore a wide variety of imaginative kingdoms, while Mario’s new “capture” mechanic (via Cappy) opens up endless gameplay twists. This is the 3D Mario formula at its creative peak.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New HorizonsNo discussion of recent Nintendo hits would be complete without this cultural juggernaut. New Horizons became the virtual escape for millions during the pandemic. With its soothing pace, endless customization, and community-driven gameplay, it continues to attract both veteran players and newcomers.
Metroid Dread
A surprise hit, Metroid Dread revitalized the 2D Metroid series with fast-paced combat and cinematic storytelling. It’s sleek, stylish, and challenging—exactly what fans had hoped for after a long wait. A must-play for sci-fi and exploration lovers.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Described by fans as “gaming’s greatest crossover,” this title lives up to its name. With a roster of over 80 characters from across the gaming universe, Smash Ultimate remains a staple for both casual parties and competitive showdowns.
Top-Rated Third-Party and Indie Games
While Nintendo shines on its own, the Switch has also become a haven for brilliant third-party and indie titles that thrive on its hybrid design.
Hades
Supergiant Games delivered one of the best rogue-lites ever made with Hades. Its tight combat, reactive storytelling, and replayability make it ideal for both short handheld sessions and extended docked runs. Few games feel this addictive or rewarding.
Hollow Knight
A hauntingly beautiful Metroidvania, Hollow Knight blends challenging combat with a vast, interconnected world. It’s an indie darling that competes with—and arguably surpasses—many AAA efforts in its genre. A sequel (Silksong) is still highly anticipated.
Octopath Traveler II
With Square Enix’s signature storytelling and a unique “HD-2D” visual style, this turn-based RPG offers depth for strategy fans and narrative lovers alike. Each character’s story is told independently before weaving into a larger arc—a welcome twist on traditional RPG storytelling.
Monster Hunter Rise
Capcom made Monster Hunter more accessible with Rise, without compromising the core loop of gear hunting and massive battles. Its vertical movement and wirebug mechanics keep things fresh, especially in handheld mode.
Cuphead
Retro animation meets ruthless difficulty in this standout platformer. Cuphead blends 1930s cartoon aesthetics with bullet-hell gameplay. It’s punishing but fair, and the Switch version runs flawlessly—a perfect fit for on-the-go frustration and triumph.
Whether you’re into high-octane action, thoughtful exploration, or narrative-driven adventures, the titles above represent the Ideal games for Nintendo Switch players who want both quality and variety in their library.
Recent Standouts in 2024–2025
Nintendo shows no signs of slowing down. Even in the twilight years of the Switch, fresh releases continue to impress.
Princess Peach: Showtime!
For the first time in years, Princess Peach takes center stage. This whimsical game combines light puzzle-solving with theatrical flair, offering a kid-friendly yet creatively rich experience that fills a long-neglected gap in Nintendo’s catalog.
Pikmin 4
Blending strategy, exploration, and adorable aesthetics, Pikmin 4 builds on its predecessors with refined mechanics and improved pacing. It’s approachable for newcomers but still layered enough for longtime fans.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
This isn’t just another 2D Mario. Wonder reinvents the genre with unexpected level twists, new power-ups, and co-op chaos. It’s the freshest 2D entry since Super Mario World—and one of the year’s best surprises.
Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon
A storybook prequel to the action-heavy Bayonetta series, this game trades frantic combat for puzzle-solving and exploration. The dual-character gameplay adds depth, while the art direction is a visual treat.
Multiplayer and Party Game Essentials
Whether you’re playing solo or passing Joy-Cons around, the Switch delivers on social gaming.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
It’s not just the best Mario Kart—it’s arguably the best kart racer ever. With updated tracks, new characters, and buttery-smooth online play, Deluxe still dominates family game nights.
Splatoon 3
Nintendo’s answer to the online shooter genre, Splatoon 3 is vibrant, fast, and endlessly fun. The Splatfests and ranked modes keep the community engaged, while new gear and maps keep things fresh.
Nintendo Switch Sports
Bringing back Wii Sports nostalgia with upgraded visuals and online play, Switch Sports is a casual gaming dream. Bowling, tennis, and swordplay (chambara) are instant crowd-pleasers, especially with motion controls in full swing.
Must-Have Games for Specific Play Styles
The Switch’s versatility is reflected in its genre diversity. Here are the top picks based on your play style:
- For Adventure Seekers: Xenoblade Chronicles 3 offers deep world-building, emotional storytelling, and massive RPG combat.
- For Puzzle Fans: Tetris Effect: Connected combines classic gameplay with a sensory experience. Best enjoyed with headphones.
- For Story-Driven Players: Fire Emblem: Engage blends tactical strategy with anime-style drama. Choices matter.
- For Retro Fans: The Nintendo Switch Online service adds NES, SNES, N64, and GBA classics—many enhanced with modern features like save states and rewind.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering where to start with the Switch, this curated list of current greats represents the pinnacle of what the console offers. From sprawling RPGs to tight platformers, from party favorites to intimate indie gems, these are the titles that showcase why the Nintendo Switch remains such a powerhouse in the gaming world.
No matter your play style, the Switch invites you to explore, compete, relax, or create—anytime, anywhere.
