The Best Nintendo Switch Games

The 20 best Nintendo Switch games

34 votes

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Action-AdventureOpen World

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.7

Gameplay4.9

Graphics4.9

Music4.6

Character4.7

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild innovated how open-world games worked. It was one of the first games that trusted its players to explore and enjoy the world as they liked. The game emphasized non-linear exploration and creative puzzle solving, where the world interacts with itself, like starting a fire in the grass to create a draft to glide on. Wrapped in a timeless tale of a Hero defeating evil and rescuing the princess.

Survey voice

Kei / 30s / Female
I think I have 100% this game 5 times now. I don't mind if my previous saves get deleted cause I'd be more than happy to play it all over again. The characters are great but I especially love Zelda the most because of her determination and strength. Also props to the guy I always buy ancient cores from in Hateno village whenever it's raining. The music is also great! Nothing beats hearing the piano music when a guardian sets its eye on you or when you find refuge at a stable after a whole day of fighting monsters and then you hear music from a flute that signals you're finally safe from monsters. My favorite aspect of the game though would have to be the exploration. I love just walking around the world and taking in the sights, nature, and infrastructure BOTW Hyrule has to offer. I love Hateno and Lurelin village the most! My only issue with this game is the final boss which was a bit too easy.

Jori / 40s / Male
I like how it drops me into the world and immediately trusts me to figure things out. There is no strict path forcing me forward. Instead, I just look at the horizon and decide for myself what mountain to climb, what ruin to explore, or what direction feels interesting in the moment. What really stands out to me is how the world rewards curiosity. Even a small detour can turn into a full adventure. I might just be gathering materials, then suddenly I am fighting a Guardian, solving a shrine puzzle, or discovering something I did not expect at all. I also love how survival mechanics are simple but meaningful. Cooking, weather, stamina, and weapons all matter in a way that makes every journey feel a bit unpredictable. Nothing feels like it is just there for decoration. Everything has a purpose in how I move through the world.

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Jet / 30s / Male
I think the world already knows why this is up here, and the magic of exploring this Hyrule for the first time is a high I'll often try to find again. And even with the technical marvel that is TOTK out, offering a mind-blowing expansion to this world, BOTW is arguably better themed. This game changed open-world games forever and pioneered Open-Air worlds. I'd argue games like Genshin or even Elden Ring would not have existed, or not in the way they do, without the inspiration and bar set by BOTW.

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29 votes

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

SimulationSocial SimulationCozy

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story3.2

Gameplay4.6

Graphics4.3

Music4.5

Character4.5

Animal Crossing: New Horizons takes you to a deserted island to begin a new life. Go fishing, catch bugs, and forage for valuable materials to earn money at your own pace. You can even use the materials you've gathered to craft other items and furniture. Slowly but surely, you'll be able to transform the weed-filled island into your own unique paradise! The game offers many customization options compared to its predecessors, allowing you to change your island's landscape and even place furniture outdoors. Enjoy island life together with your quirky neighbors and build a home for yourself without any pressure.

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Lucas / 20s / Male
This came in at a time where the world was in panic and in need of an escape, and this was it. It was my first (and so far only) Animal Crossing game and it took care of me as much as I wanted to take care of the critters in my game. It's relaxing, charming, and very fun with friends.

Dee / 30s / Male
An amazing game that was (unintentionally) released during the pandemic. I do dislike the maturity of most villagers, and I miss the humor and silliness of earlier entries, but it was still a very cozy game to play on the Switch.

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Diana / 20s / Female
Same as my entry for the Nintendo Switch 2. My sister and I shared an island during the pandemic, and it was a good bonding experience for us overall. Realizing that I've had my island for 6 years now feels wild, but I love it.

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26 votes

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

RPGTactical RPG

Survey scores · avg 4.6/5

Story4.9

Gameplay4.6

Graphics4.2

Music4.8

Character4.8

Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a tactical story-rich RPG that tells the tale of students from varying backgrounds finding themselves in a full-scale war later on. Three Houses adds in a mechanic where you can explore around the monastery and interact with other characters and NPCs, while nurturing skills through numerous activities such as cooking, singing, and fishing. This is the best game for players who would love to be immersed in political storytelling, as well those who often invest themselves emotionally in the characters of a game.

Survey voice

Jonat / 20s / Male
This is everything I wanted Fire Emblem Fates to be: branching storylines that aren't trying to sell you a third "true" path, characters who are actually committed to their ideals, and consequences. Three Houses' narrative spun an entire discourse that, unfortunately, I don't think the community will ever recover from. It's a bittersweet game and the only thing I never liked about it is how we have to restart the campus section of the game for all 3 "main" routes.

Ronald / 20s / Male
I was really addicted to this game. I enjoyed the combat and the BGM that comes with it. It really hypes me up whenever a mission starts. Experimenting with the different classes after a study session really makes it fun to try in a mission. The story of each route was really good, and you can see the goals that the captains want to achieve.

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Yuri / 20s / Male
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is my COVID-era game, and it's the title that truly introduced me to and made me fall in love with the Fire Emblem series. The game features an incredibly compelling cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities, motivations, and stories that made me genuinely invested in their journeys.

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26 votes

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

ActionPlatform FighterMultiplayer

Survey scores · avg 3.9/5

Story2.2

Gameplay4.8

Graphics4.2

Music4.5

Character4.6

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate features one of the most ambitious crossovers, with playable characters spanning across multiple in-game universes. The core gameplay loop is simple, revolving around a platform-based fighting game mechanic, but the intricacies of all the characters make for an amazing experience, regardless of skill level.

Survey voice

あるえ / 30代 / 男性
With 87 playable characters, it's overwhelming as a fighting game. Every character has a clear strength, and there are moments where each is fun to use. Non-Nintendo characters join the roster too, and they're all highly faithful to their originals. The BGM also uses the original games' tracks and arranged versions, making it a lineup that fans of each series will be happy with.
Show original (日本語)
使用可能キャラ数が87体と対戦ゲームとして圧倒的どのキャラにも明確な強みが存在しており、使っていて楽しい瞬間がある任天堂以外のキャラも参戦しており、どれも再現度が高い BGMもオリジナル版の音源やアレンジBGMが採用されており、そのシリーズのファンにも嬉しいラインナップになっている

かわしぃ / 20代 / 男性
As the latest entry in the Smash Bros. series currently out, its appeal is above all the sheer number of characters. If you go all-in on serious competition, it's tough because you need counters for every single character, but since it's marketed as a fun party game, I think that's part of what makes it the best game.
Show original (日本語)
現在出ているスマブラシリーズの最新作となっている今作は、とにかくキャラクター数が魅力です。ガチガチに対戦するとなると、キャラクターの分だけ対策が必要になるため大変ですが、一応愉快なパーティーゲームとして売り出しているため、そこも含めて最高のゲームだと思います。

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Jowi / 20s / Prefer not to say
When Sora was announced as the last DLC character, that single-handedly convinced me to at least try to give the game a chance. Again, not very great at fighting games, but SSBU manages to be a fun time anyway.

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22 votes

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

RPGMonster TamingTurn-BasedMultiplayer

Survey scores · avg 3.9/5

Story4.2

Gameplay4.0

Graphics3.3

Music4.1

Character4.0

Pokemon SV features an open world where players can tackle gyms in any order, explore every area as they please, and catch any accessible Pokemon regardless of restrictions. It also features the flashy Terastalization mechanic; a generational gimmick that appeals greatly to competitive players due to its flexibility in manipulating their Pokemon's typing.

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Lucas / 20s / Male
There were a lot of things riding on this game following Legends Arceus, and in a way it didn't really match that game but Scarlet and Violet did deliver in introducing some really cool concepts and lots of fun new Pokemon additions. In an unexpected twist, it handled its story and characters better than most of the games that came out after Black and White, and I will always commend it for daring to tell a story I don't think was ever done to this level in the series.

ひも
Because it's open world, at first I explored without advancing the story at all, and before I knew it I was on a snowy mountain. When I figured it was about time to beat a Gym Leader and went to a nearby Gym, I got wrecked, and my whole party ended up strung out on healing items.
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オープンワールドのため、最初は一切ストーリーを進めず探索していたら、気付いたら雪山にいました。そろそろジムリーダーを倒そうと近くのジムに行ったらボコボコにされ、手持ちのポケモンが全員薬漬けになりました。

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P-san
Pokémon's character designs keep getting better. Popular characters like the battle junkie Nemona and the streamer Iono were born here. Skeledirge, an incredibly cute Pokémon, also came from this game.
Show original (日本語)
ポケモンはキャラクターデザインがどんどんよくなっていく。バトルジャンキーのネモ、配信者のナンジャモなど人気のキャラクターが生まれた。ラウドボーンという最高に可愛いポケモンもここから生まれた。

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21 votes

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Action-AdventureOpen World

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.8

Gameplay4.9

Graphics4.7

Music4.9

Character4.9

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is one of the best open-world games of this era. From exploring the vast open world with your own creative machineries to solving unique shrines and engaging in satisfying combat, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom won't let you down. Both newcomers and long time fans of the series will find this game extremely enjoyable.

Survey voice

あるえ / 30代 / 男性
The sequel to Breath of the Wild. The stage of adventure is the same, but sky and underground maps were added, powering up exploration even further. It keeps all of Breath of the Wild's appeal, and now you can build vehicles like cars and airships by combining materials yourself, powering up the freedom of puzzle-solving even more.
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ブレスオブザワイルドの続編冒険の舞台は同じだが、空と地下マップが追加されて探索もさらにパワーアップしたブレスオブザワイルドの魅力はそのままに、車や飛行船などの乗り物を自分で素材を組み合わせて作れるようになり、謎解きの自由度もさらにパワーアップ

Sean / 20s / Male
Same with BotW, but I like how they introduced the construction mechanic. It gives a lot of freedom to players in how to tackle specific puzzles or exploration difficulties. I also like the idea of having an explorable underground with the same size as the surface.

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Dee / 30s / Male
My first new release in the company! I was ready to dislike it since I had no prior knowledge of it, but it turned out to be a great introduction to the franchise for me. I loved the freedom and creativity in building Zonai devices, and of course, the fashion.

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15 votes

Pokémon Sword and Shield

RPGMonster TamingTurn-Based

Survey scores · avg 4.1/5

Story3.2

Gameplay4.7

Graphics4.1

Music4.3

Character4.7

Pokemon Sword and Shield takes the beloved monster collecting and battling format and takes them to the biggest stages in the Galar Region. Featuring massive stadiums that house thousands of viewers, as well as the generational gimmick in Dynamax that turns your Pokemon into multi-storey behemoths, it is perhaps the franchise's most overwhelming entry in terms of pure audiovisual spectacle. Gameplay-wise, Pokemon Sword and Shield also features a semi-open world that players can freely explore as they unlock them, as well as a more guided take on the narrative so that their next steps are never in question.

Survey voice

ちゃんしぃ
The Pokémon series is consistently fun overall, but Sword and Shield made a good impression because its open-world-like experience and ease of training made it easy even for casual players to try their hand at battling and multiplayer. For the hardcore crowd I think it was a system where it was hard to create a skill gap, but taken broadly, it struck a good balance for enjoying Pokémon.
Show original (日本語)
ポケモンシリーズ全般的に安定して面白いが、剣盾はオープンワールドのような体験と育成のしやすさからカジュアル層でも対戦やマルチに手を出しやすかったのが好印象。ガチ勢的には差ができにくいシステムだったと思うが、広めに見るとポケモンを楽しむのにバランスよかったなと。

Ronald / 20s / Male
I enjoyed the gym battles in this game since it really felt like a real match, with a lot of people watching your fight and either cheering or booing you. Hearing the BGM before the fight starts always hypes me up.

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Justin / 20s / Male
Breeding Pokemon for shinies was the most memorable part of playing this game. I also really enjoyed participating in Max Raid Battles.

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14 votes

Splatoon 3

ShooterArena ShooterMultiplayer

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story3.3

Gameplay4.8

Graphics4.4

Music4.4

Character4.4

Splatoon 3 is a third-person shooter where players play as Inklings or Octolings and use a variety of ink-based weapons to battle opponents while covering stages in their team’s ink. The game features the series’ signature Turf War mode alongside other competitive multiplayer modes, as well as a story campaign that follows Agent 3’s search for Captain Cuttlefish. Players can also customize their character, choose from a wide variety of weapons, and take part in seasonal Splatfest events.

Survey voice

ばたし / 30代 / 男性
It's no exaggeration to say this is the only thing I play on the Switch. It solidly incorporates the point that recent games are missing: getting a big thrill in a short amount of time. This also ties into the trendy "dopamine"-related buzzwords, but as expected, rather than a game you can't play without buckling down for long stretches, it's structured to be easy for people of all types to enjoy.
Show original (日本語)
switchではこれしかプレイしていないと言っても過言ではない最近のゲームにかけている「短時間で大きな刺激を味わえる」というポイントがしっかり組み込まれている流行している「ドーパミン」関連のワードにもつながるが、やはり長時間気合を入れないとプレイできないゲームよりも、老若男女すべての世代が楽しみやすい構造になっている

しろあん / 20代 / 男性
Splatoon 3's solo portion was the most fun of any game in the series so far (including the added DLC). I wasn't that interested in competitive play, so 1 and 2 didn't hook me, but 3 had really substantial solo content and I was able to enjoy it for a long time.
Show original (日本語)
スプラトゥーン3はソロ部分が今までの作品で一番面白かったです。（追加DLCも含めて）あまり対戦に興味がなかったため１、２はハマらなかったのですが3は非常にソロコンテンツが厚く長い間楽しむことができました

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Both the game design and the graphic design are extremely refined, packed full of all sorts of new ideas, making it a very fresh and happy game.
Show original (日本語)
ゲームデザインもグラフィックデザインも非常に洗練されており、様々な新しいアイデアがふんだんに詰め込まれ非常に新鮮でハッピーなゲームです。

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13 votes

Pokémon Legends: Arceus

RPGMonster TamingExploration

Survey scores · avg 4.4/5

Story4.2

Gameplay4.8

Graphics4.1

Music4.4

Character4.5

Pokemon Legends: Arceus takes you back in time to the land of Hisui where you must learn to survive in the wilds with only your wits and the items nature provides. Gone are the electronic Poke Balls and Pokedexes and replaced with Apricorns and paper. Insteasd of the usual 8 badges, the goal is to catch many Pokemon and fill out your Pokedex all while you uncover the secrets if the myths of Sinnoh.

Survey voice

Jet / 30s / Male
Sword and Shield was Game Freak's commitment to make the transition from handheld into console games, but it still followed the same formula of the gym journey that was arguably getting stale at that point. The release of the Legends games represented Game Freak trying something truly new and it reassured long-time fans like myself that this franchise is just starting to explore what it can do with the newfound power of home consoles. The satisfaction of surveying Pokemon and completing research tasks was unexpectedly fun and refreshing. While there has been a second Legends game since with Z-A, Arceus still wins for me as someone who was never really big into the battles of Pokemon and much prefers catching them all.

Lucas / 20s / Male
I could remember when this game was announced and thinking it was nothing like any previous Pokemon game. It was mysterious and full of wonder, and that made it my most enjoyable Pokemon experience since maybe Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire. It took bold new moves with its storytelling and world, and even altering the core Pokemon gameplay to keep it fresh. It encouraged exploration, I'll never forget taking turns with my brother to play it then comparing notes about which Pokemon we found in what area over pizza dinner. This game was about its finer details and became a foundation for what Pokemon could be moving forward, despite being set in its past.

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Kevin
Pokémon games often focus on battling, but this game put the focus on catching, and I felt things like throwing bait and choosing the right Poké Ball moved into a new era. It has rough, prototype-ish parts, but the fact that each Pokémon's gestures, way of life, and how you catch it differ one by one is plenty interesting. The graphics are honestly at a GameCube level, but I'd like people to play it treating that as part of its charm.
Show original (日本語)
ポケモンゲームは「バトル」に集中するパターンが多いけど、このゲームは「捕まえる」ところに焦点を当てて、「餌を投げる」「適切なボールを選ぶ」などが次の時代に進んだと感じたこのゲーム。ラフで試作品っぽいところがあるけど、ポケモンの仕草、暮らし、捕まえ方が1匹ずつ違うのが十分面白い。グラフィックは確かにGCレベルだが、チャームポイントと思ってプレイして欲しい。

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11 votes

Monster Hunter Rise

RPGAction RPG

Survey scores · avg 3.9/5

Story2.8

Gameplay4.7

Graphics4.0

Music4.1

Character4.1

Monster Hunter Rise is the 6th mainline game of the Monster Hunter series, released on the Nintendo Switch. In previous Monster Hunter games, battles are slower and the only weapon that you can jump in is the Insect Blade. In Rise, the introduction of the Wirebug mechanic turned it into fast-paced combat with verticality, aerial attacks, and quick dodge for any weapon you choose. General movement around the map is now quicker with the addition of Palamutes, your trusty canine companion. Monster Hunter Rise strikes the perfect balance between old-school and modern, even with how the new armor sets look and the new monster designs. It's a good entry point for newcomers into the world of Monster Hunter.

Survey voice

Kevin
I'm not a hardcore Monster Hunter player, and I couldn't really get into World at the time, but when I played this next it just clicked. After leaping off the back of the Palamute, controlling the Wirebug and smashing a monster's head with the hammer feels absolutely amazing. For a Switch 1 game the graphics were quite an effort too, so it manages stages on par with World.
Show original (日本語)
モンハンのガチ勢じゃないが、当時ワールドはあまりハマれなくて、次これやったら普通にハマりました。ガルクの背中から飛んだ後、「翔蟲」を操って「ハマー」でモンスターの頭を殴るのが最高に気持ち良い。Switch 1にしてはグラフィックもかなり頑張ったので、ワールド並みのステージは担保できてる。

Warren / 30s / Male
One of the better handheld MH games, I've played this game for countless hours and would still come back for more.

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Walter / 20s / Male
Liked the silkbind mechanic. It took me a while to actually like it though. I'm too biased on the old games.

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10 votes

Xenoblade Chronicles 2

RPGAction RPGOpen World

Survey scores · avg 4.2/5

Story4.3

Gameplay4.1

Graphics4.0

Music4.2

Character4.2

The second part of the long and beloved Xenoblade saga, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 switches things up with a new protagonist, Rex, and a new take on its famously deep combat system, one that prioritizes the partnership between characters and their living Blade weapons, like Pyra and Mithra. With a deep and moving story, a massive sense of scale, and a substantial addition in the form of the Torna: The Golden Country DLC, Xenoblade 2 forms a critical part of the trilogy that helped establish the series' footing on the original Nintendo Switch.

Survey voice

ヒナタロー / 20代 / 男性
A wonderful masterpiece. Of all the games I've played, its story hit me the hardest, and it's a shame I can only give it a perfect 5. The gameplay was consistently enjoyable overall, but I'd dock points because trying to 100% it takes an absurd amount of time. The graphics were beautiful, at least by the standards of the time. The battle themes are of course always cool, and the insert song "Counter Attack" that plays at various points in the story comes at the perfect moment, playing right when you want it and sticking in your ears. Beyond the main pair Pyra and Mythra, even the enemy character designs are top-notch. There are tons of appealing characters that make it easy to empathize with the enemy side too.
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素晴らしい名作ゲーム、プレイしたゲーム史上ストーリーが最も刺さり、5点満点しかつけれないのが惜しい。ゲームプレイも全体的に常に楽しめたものの、コンプリートしようとすると途方もない時間がかかる点で減点。グラフィックは当時基準だと十分綺麗の範疇でした。戦闘曲が常にカッコイイのはもちろん、ストーリーの随所に入る挿入歌の「Counter Attack」が最高のタイミング、欲しい時に流れて非常に耳に残る。メインのホムラ・ヒカリもさることながら敵のキャラデザも最高。思わず敵方にも感情移入しやすくなる魅力的なキャラがたくさん。

Ervin / 30s / Male
Great JRPG, vast explorables areas and an emotional story despite the fanservice and anime tropes.

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Stu / 30s / Male
Great RPG overall, this took a while to finish since it's fairly long and had a lot to explore.

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8 votes

Splatoon 2

ShooterArena ShooterMultiplayer

Survey scores · avg 3.8/5

Story2.5

Gameplay4.2

Graphics3.9

Music4.5

Character4.0

Splatoon 2 is a third-person multiplayer shooter that retains its core gameplay of painting the map with colorful ink. Returning modes include the PVP Turf War, the PVE Salmon Run, and a singleplayer mode that introduces a new story with new characters. With the move from Wii U to the Switch, even more players can enjoy the less conventional gameplay and the freshest fits.

Survey voice

あすりすた / 20代 / 男性
The gameplay is so fun I could play it forever. Each match is a snappy 3-5 minutes, and it's fun to play together with friends. Among gun-based combat games, I think it's pretty easy for beginners to get into.
Show original (日本語)
ゲーム性が面白すぎて一生やってられる。1試合の時間も3〜5分とテンポが良く、友達と一緒にやるのも楽しい。銃を扱う戦闘ゲームの中でもかなり初心者でも始めやすいと思う。

いべっち / 20代 / 男性
It's a game you can only play on Nintendo hardware, so if you've never played it, I'd really love for you to give it a try.
Show original (日本語)
任天堂ハードでしかできないゲームなので遊んだことがない方は是非遊んでみて欲しい

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なぎさ / 20代 / 男性
A shooting game that uses gyro controls in a way you can't experience in other FPS or TPS games.
Show original (日本語)
他のFPSやTPSでは味わえないジャイロ機能を使ったシューティングゲーム

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7 votes

Hades

Action RPGRoguelike

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.7

Gameplay5.0

Graphics4.9

Music4.6

Character5.0

Hades makes dying look good as Supergiant wows us with this masterpiece of a roguelike clothed in Greek mythological goodness. We follow Zagreus, son of Hades, in his front of defiance as he attempts to escape the underworld and see the surface. Fight through hordes of underworld beings with an array of divine weaponry. Along the way, Zagreus encounters and interacts with known gods, monsters, and other interesting individuals who may aid or hinder them in their efforts. Play this game for the masterful union of story and gameplay, comprehensive buildcrafting, infinite replayability, and beautiful presentation.

Survey voice

かど
The exhilarating combat, the art style themed on Greek mythology, and the varied, interesting build-building. Those alone are plenty appealing, but I think what makes "Hades" truly excellent is its roguelike narrative structure. Every time you fail to escape, you get to encounter new story bits, conversations between characters, and lore about the world. This design breaks the conventional structure where you can't see the rest of the story unless you clear it, making failure itself the driving force that advances the story. So no matter how many times you lose, it naturally makes you think "I want to try one more time."
Show original (日本語)
爽快感のある戦闘、ギリシャ神話をモチーフにした美術スタイル、そして多彩で面白いビルド構築。それだけでも十分に魅力的ですが、『Hades』が本当に優れているのは、周回型の物語構造にあると思います。プレイヤーは脱出に失敗するたびに、新たなストーリーやキャラクター同士の会話、世界観に関する情報に触れることができます。この設計によって、「クリアしなければ物語の続きが見られない」という従来の構造が崩され、失敗そのものが物語を進める原動力になっています。そのため、何度負けても「もう一度挑戦したい」と自然に思わせてくれる作品です

Iommi / 20s / Female
I knew I would love this because I love Greek mythology, but I was unprepared for how much fun I would have playing a roguelike. Truly revolutionary for the genre and such beautiful art and music.

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Sean / 20s / Male
Hades has a good story, smooth combat mechanics, and doesn't really punish you that much when you fail a run. You can progress the story this way (including the stories for side characters).

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6 votes

Pokémon Legends: Z-A

RPGMonster Taming

Survey scores · avg 4.1/5

Story3.7

Gameplay4.5

Graphics3.8

Music4.5

Character4.2

Pokemon Legends: Z-A breaks the conventional mold of exploring and turn-based battling of the other mainline Pokemon games and switches it up with real-time battles in the confines of the beautiful Lumiose City! Join Team M-Z and uncover the secrets of Mega Evolution while climbing the Ranks of the Z-A Royale. With its colorful cast of characters and entertaining missions, Legends Z-A is an easy game to pick upp for newcomers and hardcore fans alike.

Survey voice

Lucas / 20s / Male
Much like Legends Arceus, Legends Z-A tried a new approach to Pokemon and it was a fun time learning how to get around the battle system and exploring Pokemon's first attempt at a massive city map. This was also the first Pokemon game I got to play early at a demo in PAX Australia last year.

Warren / 30s / Male
Pokemon really hit gold when they conceptualized the Legends games and this follow-up is not only charming, it is also addictive.

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Vann / 30s / Male
Not the best story, and a bit of a downgrade compared to Arceus, but the new combat features are great.

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6 votes

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

RacingMultiplayer

Survey scores · avg 4.1/5

Story2.3

Gameplay5.0

Graphics4.5

Music4.5

Character4.5

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive Mario Kart experience that combines a polished look with beautiful biomes, crossover characters, and more exciting modes to try out with family and friends. With more racers and vehicles, come up with the best combination to secure every win past the finish line. Race around iconic tracks, defy gravity, and drift underwater to win the cup!

Survey voice

Aiko / 20s / Female
Mario Kart 8 is pretty much the only game I always play on the Switch, only because it's fun to play with my siblings. I love the various options to customize your vehicle, and it's kinda funny to me how there's a meta to this.

ゆーせー / 30代 / 男性
Among the Mario Kart games, I got hooked enough to keep grinding online rank on 7 and 8DX for ages. 8DX was the most fun...
Show original (日本語)
マリオカートの中では7と8DXでずっとレートに潜り続けるくらいハマりました。8DXが一番おもしろかった…

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JB / 20s / Male
My go-to casual game with friends/family for the Switch.

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6 votes

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak

RPGAction RPG

Survey scores · avg 3.9/5

Story3.0

Gameplay4.8

Graphics3.5

Music4.2

Character3.5

Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is the DLC Expansion that brings even more content to the already jam-packed base game. Players can expect monsters new and unfamiliar, alongside some returning faces whom they know and love. In addition, there are even more new game mechanics and playstyles to experiment with, including lots of new weapons and armor. Gear up, head for the Elgado Outpost, and get ready to take on challenges unlike any you’ve faced before.

Survey voice

ばたし / 30代 / 男性
A Monster Hunter with a very wide range of armor upgrades. At first it was boring, but I personally think it awakened through repeated updates and DLC. As I mentioned, its selling point is the freedom in gear, and it's a series where you want to show off once you build good equipment.
Show original (日本語)
防具の強化幅が非常に多彩なモンハン始めはつまらなかったが、度重なるアプデとDLCで覚醒したと個人的には思っている前述もしたが装備の自由度が売り、いい装備が出来たら自慢したくなるシリーズ

かなた
A Monster Hunter that's just plain fun for its action. A story-focused, hardcore Monster Hunter like Monster Hunter World is fun too, but Rise, which went all-in on action, is just so fun to fight in. It's also packed with things to grind, and it's a game I can still enjoy endlessly.
Show original (日本語)
とにかくアクションが面白いモンハン。モンハンワールドのようなストーリー重視な硬派なモンハンも面白いが、アクションに全振りしたライズは戦闘がとにかく楽しい。やりこみ要素も満載で、今でも無限に楽しめるゲーム

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たかぎ
I bought this as a new Monster Hunter after getting hooked on World. It's a work with a different direction from World, and above all its exhilarating action was fun.
Show original (日本語)
ワールドでハマったモンハンの新作ということで買った1作。ワールドとは方向性の違う作品でとにかく爽快なアクションが面白かった。

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5 votes

Stardew Valley

SimulationFarming SimCozy

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.8

Gameplay5.0

Graphics4.8

Music4.8

Character4.8

Stardew Valley is one of the coziest games you can play. With a developer that keeps updating years after its release, it's a timeless take on a farming simulator game that never gets old. After completing the first few tutorial quests, the world is your oyster; there is no right or wrong way to play the game. This game lets you play how you want to play: be a farmer and focus on your land, or be a miner exploiting the mines; you can do whatever you like. Rebuild your farm, befriend the villagers, and find love in Stardew Valley.

Survey voice

Kei / 30s / Female
Technically, Stardew Valley is on many platforms but I mainly play it on the Switch. It's the perfect game for when you just want to relax after a tiring day. I've always wanted to live in a rural area surrounded by animals and nature. I think this is why this game has such a hold on me. Apart from that though, the game's story and characters are all so adorable. In the game, I get to live my dream of becoming an entrepreneur who lives in a cabin surrounded by nature. I get to use the plants I grew for my dishes, and I can visit my friends whenever and walk alone at night because it's safe.

Jin / 20s / Female
Probably my all-time favorite game and I've played it across all of its platforms, but I love playing it on Switch the most. The pace and the completion goals make the loop rewarding.

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Misa / 30s / Female
Another cozy game for me. I like the story and how easy the game is. There is also a level of complexity, but not hard that I can't play the game.

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5 votes

Super Mario Odyssey

ActionPlatformer

Survey scores · avg 4.6/5

Story3.8

Gameplay5.0

Graphics5.0

Music4.8

Character4.8

It's not easy to make an interactive sandbox that can be so satisfying to explore and test the limits of. Super Mario Odyssey provides a wonderful environment to do it in. In this game, Mario meets Cappy and gains the ability to possess frogs, statues, lamp posts, and well, anything that can wear a hat. Each capture unlocks new abilities and lets you see the world in a new lens. Let your curiosity guide you and you'll hop, skip, and jump yourself into places you didn't even know you could reach to be rewarded with Moons and Coins, that will, in turn, be used to unlock more kingdoms to explore. The gameplay loop rewards you with adventure after adventure truly deserving of being called an Odyssey.

Survey voice

Jet / 30s / Male
I am a Nintendo Glazer through and through but Odyssey is a masterpiece among 3d platformers. Cappy's capture mechanic is delightfully enjoyable and Mario's fluidity is among the best of Mario Games, with only Mario Wonder coming close in recent years. Always solid work from this team.

Stu / 30s / Male
Another classic 3D Mario platformer. Overall, a fun time going through the game and getting collectibles.

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4 votes

Octopath Traveler

RPGJRPGOpen World

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.8

Gameplay5.0

Graphics4.5

Music4.8

Character4.5

Octopath Traveler is a role-playing game that features an HD-2D aesthetic where you can play as any or all of the eight protagonists without a specific order. The game utilizes Break-and-Boost battle system in a turn-based format, creating a great opportunity for players to outsmart their opponents. Strategy is the game's core; perfect for anyone who loves calculated combat, retro art in a modern perspective, and a wide range of personal stories.

Survey voice

しげぽよ
- A masterpiece that reminds you all over again of the appeal of SNES-era pixel-art RPGs - It accurately recreates the style of good old SNES-era RPGs like FF4-6 - The system is a turn-based command RPG, but it's fun with its own unique Break and Boost mechanics - Several protagonists' individual stories unfold - There are elements that link behind the protagonists' stories, and that connects to hidden content - The secret boss is extremely difficult and rewarding - There are customization elements like jobs and subjobs, so you can enjoy building - You can perform special actions like stealing from or fighting townspeople, which is fun; some ordinary NPCs are absurdly strong, which is amusing - A masterpiece that people who love SNES-era Square Enix RPGs are sure to love
Show original (日本語)
・SFC時代のドット絵RPGの良さを再度確認させてくれる名作・FF4〜6といったSFC時代の古き良きRPGの作風を的確に再現してくれている・システムもターン制コマンドRPGだがブレイクやブーストで独自のシステムがあり面白い・主人公数名で個々のストーリーが展開していく・主人公達のストーリーの裏でリンクする要素があり、それが隠し要素に繋がる・裏ボスの難易度が非常に高く、やりがいがある・ジョブ、サブジョブなどのカスタマイズ要素ありでビルドを楽しめる・街の人に盗むや戦うなどの特殊アクションを行えて楽しい、中にはめちゃくちゃ強い一般人がいて面白い・SFC時代のスクエニRPGが大好きな人はきっと好きになる名作

Diana / 20s / Female
Personally, this is what I believe is the successor to my Mana Khemia game experience. Pixel-art turn-based JRPG with such a deep lore with 8 options for characters. Beautiful visuals and depth of the environment as well. This is what kept me inspired to keep pursuing game development for my college degree.

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Jowi / 20s / Prefer not to say
This game was phenomenal from start to finish, even though it did feel a bit dragging to play at times. While it's not perfect, I truly believe this game is proof that a 'dying genre' like RPGs still have a lot to offer in the modern gaming scene.

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4 votes

Metroid Dread

ActionMetroidvania

Survey scores · avg 4.8/5

Story4.3

Gameplay5.0

Graphics5.0

Music4.8

Character4.8

After almost 20 years without a new entry in the series, Metroid Dread reminds everyone why an entire subgenre of platformers is named after this franchise. Play as Samus, the legendary bounty hunter, on yet another planetary expedition with unmatched mechanical polish and a gratifyingly fluid combat system that really makes it feel like nothing can stand in your way. There's nothing quite like starting from outrunning the tense pursuit of an E.M.M.I., only to master the movement well-enough to run circles it instead. An innovation and a classic at the same time, this 2021 Game Awards nominee reminds us that a game doesn't need 60+ hours long to deliver an outstanding experience.

Survey voice

Jet / 30s / Male
This is the game that changed my stance on longer-games being better. Up to this point I had always believed that a game should last as many hours as its dollar price. But despite being a game you can speedrun in 4 hours, it is well-worth the 60 USD and the replayability for skill expression is also really high. Highly polished game with satisfying platforming and combat.

Kei / 30s / Female
Metroid Dread is a challenging but very fun game to play on the Switch. I love how smooth Samus' moves are and the fun ways players can defeat the bosses in the game. Out of all the EMMI's though, the yellow EMMI is the one that creeps me out the most because of its speed.

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かど
I don't think I need to say much.
Show original (日本語)
あまり多く言わなくてもいいと思います

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Hidden gems on Nintendo Switch

Lesser-known Nintendo Switch games our players loved.

SpiritfarerHidden Gem

Spiritfarer

4.8/5

Spiritfarer is a 2D Platformer Cozy Management Game where you play as Stella, a soul who's taking over the duties of Charon, the one who ferries the souls of the dead, after they "move on". Your task is to find these souls within the vast map of the afterlife and care for them. Upgrade and manage the ship, cook meals, establish a mini-garden, fish, and more to fulfill all the spirits' requests until it is time to ferry them one last time. The game is a lesson on grief wrapped in warmth and comfort.

DQXI SHidden Gem

DQXI S

5.0/5

Dragon Quest XI S is a classic turn-based JRPG where you play as the Luminary, a prophesied hero hunted as a threat instead of celebrated. Gather a memorable party, explore the vibrant world of Erdrea, and uncover an epic story filled with heartfelt moments, charming characters, and satisfying progression. It's one of the best entry points into the JRPG genre, offering a polished adventure with dozens of hours of content for both newcomers and longtime fans.

Katana ZeroHidden Gem

Katana Zero

5.0/5

Katana Zero is an action side-scrolling indie game featuring time manipulation, swift one-shot combat, snappy controls, and moody 16-bit visuals. You play as Zero, a katana-weilding amnesiac on a mission to hunt down people listed in the contracts handed to him by his psychiatrist. This game has a bit of stealth in its gameplay, but if you react quickly enough and make use of your time powers, no one would be left to catch you.

Great Ace Attorney ChroniclesHidden Gem

Great Ace Attorney Chronicles

5.0/5

Similar to its main series, Ace Attorney, The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles is a courtroom drama visual novel duology with puzzle-solving elements. Set in the late 19th-century Meiji period, an era where international relations between England and Japan are still fragile and developing, budding defense attorney Ryunosuke Naruhodo and his judicial assistant Susato Mikotoba arrive in London to tackle cases at the great courtrooms of Britain, not knowing that what they're walking into is the trail of a great conspiracy that has haunted the country's judicial system for ages. The Great Ace Attorney duology features an all-new cast of characters, cases, and mechanics—including a series-first Jury trial system, where you will need to sway the opinions of the general public away from a Guilty verdict through a Summation Examination. This series is a must-play for both long-time Ace Attorney fans and avid lovers of the mystery and puzzle genre.

Good Job!Hidden Gem

Good Job!

5.0/5

Good Job! is a Switch-exclusive single player puzzle game that takes place in a multi-storey office building. Help with tasks on every floor and prioritize results over the process as destruction of company property is very much on the table. It's a chaotic but relaxing game for all ages to enjoy.

FAQ

How were these best Nintendo Switch games chosen?

From a survey of 241 players who recommended Nintendo Switch games. Available five-axis ratings and curated comments are shown. Titles are ranked by mention count, then average score.

What is the top Nintendo Switch game?

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild ranks #1 with 34 votes.

How to find the best Nintendo Switch games

The best Nintendo Switch games according to 241 surveyed players — ranked by votes with average score as the tie-breaker, with the survey scores and curated player comments available in the source data.

Already cleared the Top 20? Check the hidden gems above — lesser-known Nintendo Switch titles our players rated highly.

More best-games rankings

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