The 26 best Nintendo Switch games in 2025

The Nintendo Switch has solidified itself as one of the most versatile and beloved gaming consoles of all time. With a library that spans every genre imaginable, from fast-paced action to relaxing puzzle games, there’s no shortage of fantastic titles to keep players engaged. As we step into 2025, the Switch continues to deliver exciting new releases, as well as timeless classics that remain must-plays for every owner.

Whether you’re a seasoned Nintendo fan or a newcomer to the platform, here’s a comprehensive list of the 26 best Nintendo Switch games in 2025, featuring the top picks across a variety of genres to keep your gaming experience fresh, exciting, and endlessly enjoyable.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

The long-awaited sequel to Breath of the Wild took the gaming world by storm when it arrived. With its expansive open world, new mechanics, and captivating story, Tears of the Kingdom is a must-have for any Switch owner. Fans of exploration, puzzles, and epic battles will find hours of adventure waiting here.

2. Super Mario Odyssey 2

Super Mario Odyssey remains one of the most iconic platformers, and its follow-up delivers everything fans loved about the first game while adding fresh new mechanics and worlds. Featuring Mario’s new abilities and fun power-ups, this sequel promises to be even more ambitious than the original.

3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

While not as new as other entries on this list, Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains an essential title for the Switch. Its relaxing gameplay, seasonal events, and charming world-building make it a game you can return to again and again. With ongoing updates, it still feels fresh and relevant in 2025.

4. Splatoon 3

Splatoon 3 builds upon the successful formula of its predecessors, offering fast-paced, team-based multiplayer action that is both unique and highly addictive. The colorful ink battles, customizable characters, and constant new content make it a standout in the competitive gaming scene.

5. Mario Kart 9

After years of success with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Nintendo has finally released Mario Kart 9 in 2025. Offering new tracks, characters, and a more dynamic racing experience, this game raises the bar for kart racing games. Its local and online multiplayer modes continue to make it a go-to title for social gaming.

6. Metroid Prime 4

Metroid Prime 4 was highly anticipated, and its release has lived up to the hype. As Samus Aran, you’ll explore alien worlds, uncover mysteries, and take on terrifying enemies. The game offers breathtaking visuals, thrilling combat, and deep lore, making it a top-tier action-adventure title.

7. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

No Nintendo Switch collection is complete without Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This crossover fighting game features an enormous roster of beloved characters and a variety of stages and modes to enjoy. It’s perfect for both competitive and casual play, whether you’re taking on friends or facing off against AI.

8. Fire Emblem: Engage

A stunning addition to the Fire Emblem series, Fire Emblem: Engage combines tactical gameplay with deep character development and an epic story. The game features vibrant visuals, intricate combat mechanics, and a new cast of heroes, making it a must-have for fans of strategy RPGs.

9. Xenoblade Chronicles 3

With its expansive world, deep storytelling, and complex combat systems, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a standout in the RPG genre. The game’s emphasis on exploration and character development makes it a rewarding experience for those who enjoy vast, immersive worlds.

10. Hollow Knight: Silksong

The highly anticipated sequel to Hollow Knight, Silksong expands on the original’s Metroidvania formula with new characters, abilities, and a larger world to explore. This action-packed title is perfect for fans of platformers and those who enjoy challenging gameplay.

11. The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie

The Trails series has earned a dedicated following, and Trails into Reverie is no exception. This RPG delivers an intricate plot, deep character interactions, and turn-based combat that will keep players hooked for hours. The game’s rich lore and branching storylines offer a truly immersive experience.

12. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

The latest entry in the Pokémon franchise, Scarlet & Violet, offers an open-world adventure unlike any other in the series. Explore the region, capture new Pokémon, and battle in the quest to become the ultimate champion. Its exciting co-op features and vast world make it one of the standout titles of 2025.

13. Luigi’s Mansion 3

A charming and spooky adventure, Luigi’s Mansion 3 lets you take on the role of Luigi as he explores a haunted hotel to rescue his friends. The game features excellent puzzles, creative ghosts, and a lot of personality, making it a fantastic title for all ages.

14. Octopath Traveler II

Building on the success of the first game, Octopath Traveler II delivers another classic-style RPG with gorgeous 2D-HD visuals, deep turn-based combat, and an intricate narrative. The game’s multiple characters and their individual stories offer hours of entertainment and intrigue.

15. Bayonetta 3

If you’re looking for high-octane action, Bayonetta 3 delivers just that. The game follows the iconic witch Bayonetta on an epic journey filled with jaw-dropping combat and stylish visuals. Its fast-paced gameplay and intricate combos make it one of the best action games on the Switch.

16. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley continues to be a fan-favorite, offering a relaxing farming sim with rich RPG elements. Build your farm, interact with the local townsfolk, and enjoy a peaceful life in the countryside. The game’s charm and depth keep players coming back year after year.

17. Luigi’s Mansion 4

Continuing the spooky, whimsical adventure of the Luigi’s Mansion series, Luigi’s Mansion 4 brings more ghost-hunting fun to the Switch. This new entry introduces new mechanics, power-ups, and multiplayer modes, ensuring that the series remains fresh and fun for new and returning fans.

18. Astral Chain

Astral Chain offers a stylish and innovative action experience. Set in a futuristic world where humanity faces the threat of invasion, you play as a police officer working alongside a mysterious living weapon. The unique combat mechanics and deep narrative make it a standout action title on the Switch.

19. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong’s tropical adventure returns to the Switch with enhanced visuals and gameplay. This challenging platformer is perfect for fans of 2D action games and features tight controls, inventive level design, and memorable music.

20. Tetris 99

For fans of puzzle games, Tetris 99 offers a competitive twist on the classic. Players battle it out against 98 others in a fast-paced, multiplayer Tetris match. It’s a fun and addictive game that’s perfect for quick sessions or longer gaming marathons.

21. Monster Hunter Rise

In Monster Hunter Rise, players embark on epic hunts to take down massive creatures in beautifully crafted environments. With its excellent multiplayer modes, intricate combat, and tons of content, it’s one of the best action RPGs available on the Switch.

22. Celeste

Celeste is a visually stunning, emotionally impactful platformer that tells a heartfelt story while offering challenging gameplay. With its tight controls and beautiful soundtrack, it’s an unforgettable experience for fans of both indie games and platformers.

23. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope

The Mario + Rabbids series blends turn-based strategy with quirky humor and Mario’s signature charm. Sparks of Hope offers expanded gameplay mechanics and a variety of new characters, making it an enjoyable experience for fans of tactical games.

24. Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course

The Delicious Last Course DLC for Cuphead is a must-have for fans of the original. It introduces new bosses, levels, and challenges in the same beautiful 1930s animation style. It’s one of the best co-op platformers to play with a friend.

25. Hades

Hades remains one of the best roguelikes in the genre. With addictive gameplay, a gripping narrative, and an array of power-ups and abilities to experiment with, it’s a title that’s hard to put down. The game’s presentation and voice acting are top-notch, making every run feel fresh and exciting.

26. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Kirby and the Forgotten Land brings the beloved pink puffball into a 3D world, filled with platforming and exploration. This entry is packed with creativity, from innovative abilities to new environments, ensuring that Kirby fans old and new have a delightful experience.