25 Best Nintendo Switch Games You Must Play in 2025

Switch games 2025 are shaping up to be an incredible lineup, despite the Nintendo Switch being more than eight years old and its successor, the Switch 2, already arriving on the scene.

While the Switch era might be winding down, this groundbreaking hybrid console is gearing up for what looks like a lengthy retirement tour with an impressive catalog that continues to grow. I've spent countless hours exploring the newest Nintendo Switch games, and what stands out is the sheer quality across the board. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild both boast remarkable Metascores of 95, while Hades II follows closely with a 94.

Additionally, popular Switch games span every genre imaginable, from action-adventures to RPGs and everything in between. If you're looking for something more relaxing, there are plenty of cozy Switch games too – I've discovered over 100 titles perfect for those quiet gaming sessions when you just want to take a deep breath and unwind. With new games for Switch still releasing regularly, and many set to run on the Switch 2, there's never been a better time to dive into this diverse gaming ecosystem.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

 

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The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom represents Nintendo's masterful evolution of what made Breath of the Wild legendary, creating what many consider the definitive Switch experience even in 2025. As one of the most popular Switch games ever released, it continues to attract new players years after its debut.

Tears of the Kingdom overview

Tears of the Kingdom picks up after Breath of the Wild's events, quickly resetting Link's abilities through a clever narrative device. Once again, Link must discover what happened to Princess Zelda following a catastrophic event called the Upheaval. Unlike its predecessor, this sequel features a more involved storyline with exceptional environmental storytelling that made me feel genuinely invested in both new and returning characters. The game expands Hyrule vertically, adding mysterious sky islands above and the ominous Depths below, creating a world that feels three times larger than before.

Tears of the Kingdom gameplay highlights

Link's new abilities completely transform gameplay possibilities. Ultrahand lets you build practically anything by connecting objects; Fuse allows combining weapons with nearly any item; Ascend enables traveling through ceilings; and Recall reverses time for objects. The building mechanic initially seemed potentially tedious, yet somehow Nintendo made it feel essential—constructing outlandish contraptions to solve puzzles becomes genuinely addicting. Furthermore, the traditional dungeons make a welcome return, offering more structured challenges than Breath of the Wild's Divine Beasts, with boss battles that feel genuinely epic.

Tears of the Kingdom visuals & sound

Visually, the game builds upon Breath of the Wild's beautiful art style with notably more detailed environments. Mountains feature greater intricacy, and there's a wider variety of biomes throughout. Consequently, the sound design achieves something remarkable—an organic, physics-based system that simulates how sound naturally travels through different environments. Every object interaction, from arrow hits to building collapses, follows consistent acoustic rules based on distance, material, and surroundings.

Why you should play Tears of the Kingdom

In fact, Tears of the Kingdom makes Breath of the Wild feel like a proof of concept, improving every aspect while giving players unprecedented freedom. The game excels at making exploration consistently rewarding—I found myself constantly distracted by interesting landmarks, creating a perfect "just one more thing" gameplay loop. Most importantly, while pushing the Switch hardware to its limits, the game demonstrates Nintendo's unmatched ability to balance innovation with accessibility, making it an essential title in any Switch collection for 2025.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

 

Image Source: Nintendo

Super Mario Bros. Wonder breathes new life into the 2D platforming genre, standing as one of the most innovative Switch games of 2025. This colorful adventure through the Flower Kingdom follows Mario and friends as they attempt to stop Bowser after he steals a Wonder Flower and merges with Flower Castle, sending Prince Florian's kingdom into chaos.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder overview

Mario Wonder marks a significant departure from the New Super Mario Bros. series, offering something genuinely fresh. The game does away with traditional level timers, allowing players to explore at their own pace. Instead of focusing solely on reaching the end, the joy comes from discovering the unpredictable wonders hidden throughout each stage. The Flower Kingdom introduces talking flowers that offer encouragement as you progress, creating an environment that feels alive and responsive to your actions.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder gameplay highlights

The eponymous Wonder Effects serve as the game's standout feature. Hidden Wonder Flowers transform levels in completely unexpected ways when activated—turning Mario into a Goomba, shifting to top-down perspectives, or even starting impromptu dance parties. Moreover, the new badge system allows for unprecedented customization, letting players equip abilities like grappling hooks, spin jumps, and safety bounces that fundamentally change how levels can be approached.

Power-ups particularly shine in this installment:

Elephant Mario offers trunk attacks, water-spraying abilities, and brick-smashing bulk

The Bubble Flower traps enemies in bubbles, converting them to coins

The Drill Mushroom enables burrowing through walls and floors

Super Mario Bros. Wonder visuals & sound

Remarkably, the game establishes a new visual standard for 2D Mario platformers. Characters feature more joints and animations, resulting in expressive movements reminiscent of Mario's iconic pixel-art poses. Enemies now display personality through eye-tracking and reactive expressions—Goombas might greet each other or sleep peacefully until disturbed.

The sound design has evolved significantly, with jump sounds that change based on player input, similar to how string instruments respond to different playing techniques. The soundtrack, coupled with the dynamic audio that responds to Wonder Effects, creates a cohesive audiovisual experience.

Why you should play Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Essentially, Wonder delivers the most creative 2D Mario entry in nearly 30 years. Each level introduces unique mechanics that rarely appear elsewhere in the game, creating memorable experiences rather than formulaic challenges. The online multiplayer removes collision frustrations of previous games while maintaining cooperative elements like ghost revivals. The game constantly surprises, delights, and shows that Nintendo still has plenty of innovation left for this iconic franchise, making it an essential addition to any Switch collection in 2025.

Hades II

 

Image Source: Nintendo

Supergiant Games delivers a bewitching experience with Hades II, once again setting a new standard for roguelites on Nintendo Switch. As the immortal Princess of the Underworld, Melinoë, you'll embark on a mission to defeat Chronos, the Titan of Time, who has imprisoned your family.

Hades II overview

Hades II expands significantly upon its predecessor, introducing Melinoë (Zagreus' sister) as a witch trained in the arcane arts. The game features dual pathways—journey downward through the Underworld or ascend to Mount Olympus—effectively doubling the content of the original. Between runs, you'll return to the Crossroads, a witchy hub where you can conduct incantations at Hecate's cauldron to unlock new mechanics, pathways, and helpful shrines to enhance future attempts.

Hades II gameplay highlights

Certainly, combat feels distinctly different from the original. Melinoë plays more like a spellcaster, with an emphasis on ranged attacks and clever battlefield control. Her Cast ability places magic circles that slow and trap enemies, adding strategic depth to encounters. Throughout your journey, you'll collect boons from gods that fundamentally alter your abilities rather than simply boosting stats. The Nocturnal Arms weapon variety—including the ammo-based Argent Skull and twirling torches—ensures multiple playstyles remain viable.

Hades II visuals & sound

Visually, the game shines with stunning character designs and environmental variety. The opulent, clockwork esthetic of Chronos' Tartarus contrasts beautifully with the snow-capped cliffs of Mount Olympus. Darren Korb's soundtrack undoubtedly stands as a highlight—the Scylla and Sirens boss fight features the pop-rock banger "I Am Gonna Claw (Out Your Eyes then Drown You To Death)" that changes as you defeat individual band members.

Why you should play Hades II

With approximately four hours of music, dozens of fully-voiced characters, and meaningful progression even after failed runs, Hades II offers extraordinary value among popular Switch games in 2025. Its witty writing, flawless character development, and endless replayability make this an essential addition to any Switch collection.

Hollow Knight: Silksong

 

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After years of anticipation, Team Cherry has delivered Hollow Knight: Silksong for the Nintendo Switch, marking one of the most anticipated releases among switch games 2025. This direct sequel to the beloved metroidvania finally brings the fan-favorite character Hornet into the spotlight.

Hollow Knight: Silksong overview

Silksong transports players to Pharloom, a strange new kingdom where Hornet must battle through challenging environments on a deadly pilgrimage toward the citadel's peak. Originally planned as DLC, the project evolved into a full standalone game due to its expanding scope. The narrative builds upon Hornet's established character from the original, yet remains accessible to newcomers.

Hollow Knight: Silksong gameplay highlights

Hornet feels dramatically different from the Knight—she's quicker, more agile, and equipped with abilities like sprinting, floating, and a grappling hook. The game introduces a new tool system replacing the previous charm mechanics, alongside a structured journal of quests. Boss battles are expertly balanced between challenging and unfair, requiring players to learn attack patterns and develop counters.

Hollow Knight: Silksong visuals & sound

Christopher Larkin's soundtrack for Silksong features a broader orchestral sound with gorgeous atmosphere. The visually stunning environments showcase incredible art design, as you traverse from mossy tunnels to cogwork cities. Sound design excels with distinct audio cues that enhance immersion.

Why you should play Hollow Knight: Silksong

Silksong respects player freedom, allowing natural exploration without excessive guidance. The game rewards deep engagement with hidden content—at least an entire story Act remains undiscovered for players who only complete minimum requirements. This sequel stands as a high watermark for the metroidvania genre, offering countless hours of challenging yet satisfying gameplay.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

 

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Even five years after its release, Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains among the most beloved cozy switch games in 2025, having sold over 48.19 million copies worldwide.

Animal Crossing overview

Arriving in March 2020 just as global lockdowns began, this island getaway became perfect pandemic therapy for countless players. In contrast to previous titles, you start on a nearly deserted island rather than an established town, gradually developing your community from scratch. Alongside Tom Nook and two villagers, you transform an empty landscape into a personalized paradise.

Animal Crossing gameplay highlights

Your daily routine typically includes:

Collecting resources to craft furniture and tools

Earning Bells (primary currency) and Nook Miles (secondary currency)

Customizing both indoor and outdoor spaces with remarkable freedom

The game's genius lies in its progression system—each day brings new surprises as your island slowly evolves through your efforts.

Animal Crossing visuals & sound

Undeniably, the game's soundscape creates an immersive experience. Background music changes hourly, shifting from sleepy morning melodies to funky evening tunes. Ambient sounds adjust based on weather conditions—rain removes percussion layers, allowing environmental audio to shine through.

Why you should play Animal Crossing

Beyond mere escapism, the game offers therapeutic benefits through its calm, predictable routines. Whenever you return—even after months away—your island welcomes you back without judgment.

Metroid Prime Remastered

 

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Nintendo's surprise drop of Metroid Prime Remastered in February 2023 brought one of gaming's most influential titles back into the spotlight among the newest nintendo switch games, proving that true classics never fade.

Metroid Prime Remastered overview

This remaster goes beyond a simple visual update, offering a complete overhaul while preserving what made the original groundbreaking. Retro Studios transformed the 2002 GameCube classic into a modern experience, pushing the Switch hardware to its limits. The game follows bounty hunter Samus Aran on the hostile world of Tallon IV, where environmental storytelling replaces traditional narrative. Remarkably, the solitary nature of this adventure—with no conversations or AI assistants—creates a uniquely moody atmosphere.

Metroid Prime Remastered gameplay highlights

The remaster introduces four control schemes:

Modern dual-stick controls that feel natural for today's players

Classic GameCube layout for purists

Wii-style pointer controls using detached Joy-Cons

Hybrid options blending different styles

Scanning your environment remains central to gameplay, revealing crucial information about enemies, environments, and the history of Tallon IV. This inquisitive approach encourages players to slow down and observe, showing empathy toward the world.

Metroid Prime Remastered visuals & sound

Visually, the game received a substantial upgrade from 480p to 900p resolution while maintaining a steady 60fps. Every element has been meticulously enhanced—water ripples, steam occludes vision, insects cast shadows, and metal surfaces reflect light. Furthermore, the iconic soundtrack returns in full glory, enhanced with improved ambient sounds that create genuine immersion.

Why you should play Metroid Prime Remastered

Above all, this remaster proves that Metroid Prime has stood the test of time for over two decades. The carefully designed rooms, atmospheric exploration, and challenging combat create an experience that remains fresh even compared to modern titles. At $40, it offers exceptional value, serving as both a perfect entry point for newcomers and a nostalgic journey for veterans awaiting Metroid Prime 4.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

 

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Fire Emblem: Three Houses stands out as a tactical masterpiece among popular switch games, offering one of the most engrossing experiences even years after its release. This 70+ hour adventure combines deep strategy with meaningful character development.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses overview

As a mysterious mercenary-turned-professor at Garreg Mach Monastery, you choose between three student houses representing rival nations. Your choice determines which storyline you'll follow, with each offering entirely different experiences. Throughout the game, you guide students through both academic life and increasingly tense political conflicts, ultimately leading to all-out war.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses gameplay highlights

The battle system features turn-based strategy on a grid battlefield where positioning is crucial. You'll develop your students' skills through tutoring sessions, certification exams, and combat experience. Outside of battle, monastery exploration allows fishing, gardening, sharing meals, and hosting tea parties—activities that build relationships between characters. These bonds unlock "support conversations" that reveal deeper character backgrounds while providing combat benefits.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses visuals & sound

The game showcases impressive environmental design alongside fully-voiced cutscenes in both English and Japanese. Its soundtrack receives particular praise for excellent battle themes that dynamically shift between "Rain" (map view) and "Thunder" (combat) versions.

Why you should play Fire Emblem: Three Houses

First, the exceptional character development makes you genuinely care about your students' fates. Second, with three completely different storylines, replay value extends to 200+ potential hours. Lastly, the gameplay depth satisfies strategy enthusiasts while remaining accessible to newcomers.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land

 

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Kirby's transition into full 3D gameplay makes Kirby and the Forgotten Land a standout title among popular switch games, offering a perfect blend of classic abilities and fresh mechanics that remain compelling even in 2025.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land overview

Released on March 25, 2022, Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks the pink puffball's first fully 3D adventure. After a mysterious wormhole transports Kirby and the citizens of Planet Popstar to an abandoned post-apocalyptic world, our hero must rescue kidnapped Waddle Dees from the Beast Pack while exploring abandoned cities, theme parks, and various biomes with newfound friend Elfilin.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land gameplay highlights

The game brilliantly translates Kirby's signature copy abilities to 3D while introducing the innovative Mouthful Mode that allows Kirby to stretch around larger objects like cars, vending machines, and traffic cones for unique transformations. Each ability can be upgraded through blueprints, evolving into more powerful versions like Dragon Fire or Space Ranger. Meanwhile, optional Treasure Road challenges test your skills with specific abilities under time limits, rewarding Rare Stones needed for upgrades.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land visuals & sound

Visually, the game creates stunningly detailed abandoned environments with impressive lighting effects. The soundtrack perfectly complements each area with dynamic themes that shift based on situations, creating a cohesive audiovisual experience.

Why you should play Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Overall, the game offers exceptional level design where each stage contains unique elements and memorable set pieces. Waddle Dee Town evolves as you rescue more Waddle Dees, unlocking shops, minigames, and additional features. Though approachable for all ages, the challenge gradually increases, making it the most balanced Kirby experience to date.

Splatoon 3

 

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Nintendo's colorful ink-shooter Splatoon 3 remains a standout among popular switch games, offering chaotic fun in the sun-scorched Splatlands where battle-hardened Inklings and Octolings compete.

Splatoon 3 overview

Set in Splatsville, the "city of chaos," Splatoon 3 builds upon its predecessors with expanded multiplayer options and a fascinating single-player campaign called "Return of the Mammalians". The story sends players exploring Alterna, a snowy area with mysterious Fuzzy Ooze, where your little buddy Smallfry helps solve puzzles and attack enemies.

Splatoon 3 gameplay highlights

The game introduces revolutionary movement techniques:

Squid Surge - charge in ink to blast upward on walls

Squid Roll - perform quick directional changes while gaining brief invincibility

Beyond the signature Turf War battles, Splatoon 3 offers Tableturf Battle card games, Salmon Run co-op mode available 24/7, and three-way Splatfest events. Customization reaches new heights with decoratable lockers and collectible badges.

Splatoon 3 visuals & sound

Visually, Splatoon 3 maintains its vibrant esthetic while adding environmental details. Subsequently, the soundtrack blends punk rock and hip-hop influences, occasionally incorporating new wave elements.

Why you should play Splatoon 3

Regardless of skill level, Splatoon 3 welcomes players with multiple contribution styles—aggressively hunting splats or methodically covering turf. Hence, with 11.96 million copies sold as of 2024, this ink-splatting phenomenon continues to thrive in 2025.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

 

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Super Smash Bros. Ultimate stands as the definitive crossover fighting game among switch games 2025, boasting an impressive "everyone is here" roster that assembles gaming's greatest icons for battle.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate overview

Nintendo's fighting masterpiece features 74 characters in the base game (86 total with DLC), 108 stages, and approximately 1300 collectible Spirits. This ambitious package includes numerous modes—from the 30-hour single-player "World of Light" adventure to customizable multiplayer options like Squad Strike and Tournament. Simultaneously, the game offers both depth for competitive players and accessibility for casual fans.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate gameplay highlights

Gameplay feels noticeably faster and harder-hitting than previous entries. The dramatic zoom-in effect when landing potential KO hits adds excitement to matches. Throughout battles, the Stage Morph feature allows seamless transitions between two selected stages.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate visuals & sound

Visually, the game represents a substantial upgrade from Smash Wii U with improved character models, enhanced lighting, and more vibrant colors. The sound design shines with distinctive audio cues—from satisfying spike sounds to Roy's meaty "sweet spot" jab.

Why you should play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Although released in 2018, this fighter remains among popular switch games through exceptional multiplayer experiences and unmatched nostalgic appeal. Accordingly, with its 9.5/10 rating and status as the best-selling fighting game ever, Ultimate delivers unparalleled value that continues to reward both new and returning players.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

 

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Originally launched on Wii U in 2014, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe continues to race ahead as one of the most played switch games 2025. Its enduring success stems from Nintendo's perfect refinement of the kart racing formula.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe overview

This definitive version delivers the biggest Mario Kart roster ever with 42 playable characters and 48 expertly designed courses. Every track, character, and mode comes unlocked from the start, allowing immediate access to all content. The revamped Battle mode brings back arena-style combat with five distinct objective-based modes across eight varied arenas.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe gameplay highlights

Smart Steering helps newcomers stay on track, likewise Auto-Accelerate makes racing more accessible. The ability to hold two items simultaneously adds strategic depth to races. Battle modes include:

Balloon Battle (pop opponents' balloons)

Shine Thief (keep-away with the Shine Sprite)

Renegade Roundup (cops vs. robbers with Piranha Plants)

Plus, the insanely fast 200cc class requires actual braking around corners. Online play supports up to 12 racers, alongside local wireless multiplayer for up to 8 players.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe visuals & sound

Currently, the game runs at a steady 60fps at 1080p in TV mode, with stunningly detailed environments. Courses like Mario Circuit twist like Möbius strips. The soundtrack excels with unique themes for each track, enhancing the racing experience.

Why you should play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Simply put, this remains "the best arcade racer of all time". The exquisite design, portability factor, and sheer replay value make it essential among popular switch games even as we await Mario Kart World.

Bayonetta 3

 

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PlatinumGames' Bayonetta 3 elevates the hack-and-slash genre with audacious combat innovations and spectacle that pushes the Switch to its limits.

Bayonetta 3 overview

After eight years of anticipation, this third chapter introduces a multiverse storyline where the Umbra Witch battles mysterious Homunculi across dimensions. Throughout the 10-12 hour campaign, players control both Bayonetta and newcomer Viola in a standalone adventure that remains accessible to series newcomers.

Bayonetta 3 gameplay highlights

The revolutionary Demon Slave system allows direct control of massive demons during combat while Bayonetta remains vulnerable. These summonable allies include Madama Butterfly, Gomorrah, and even a demon train called Wartrain Gouon. Witch Time remains crucial—triggered by perfect dodges with Bayonetta or successful blocks when playing as Viola.

Bayonetta 3 visuals & sound

Primarily a visual feast despite occasional performance dips, the game maintains 60fps during most combat encounters. The impressive soundtrack features 265 songs across 8 CDs—over 8 hours of music created by multiple composers. Jennifer Hale delivers a phenomenal performance replacing original voice actress Hellena Taylor.

Why you should play Bayonetta 3

Indeed, this ambitious sequel offers unprecedented weapon variety alongside diverse gameplay experiences—from stealth missions starring Jeanne to rhythm game boss battles. Remarkably, the combat system encourages creative expression with customizable demon abilities, making it an essential addition for action game enthusiasts.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD

 

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Retro Studios' 15-year-old platformer returns once again with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, giving switch games 2025 players a chance to experience this challenging classic with modern enhancements.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD overview

Originally released in 2010, this third version brings DK's barrel-blasting adventure to Switch after the tiki masks steal his precious banana hoard. The remaster incorporates all 80 levels from both Wii and 3DS versions, offering a complete experience as Donkey and Diddy Kong pursue the thieves through jungles, caves, factories, and more.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD gameplay highlights

Primarily focused on momentum-based platforming, the game features DK's satisfying rolling-jump mechanic that enables impressive mid-air maneuvers. Throughout the journey, players can choose between Modern Mode with extra hearts and helpful items or Original Mode for purists seeking the classic challenge. Local two-player co-op returns, yet feels better suited for passing the controller back and forth than simultaneous play.

Donkey Kong Country Returns HD visuals & sound

Running at native 1080p in docked mode, this Unity-built remaster offers enhanced textures and improved character models. Generally maintaining 60fps, occasional performance hiccups appear during boss fights. The memorable soundtrack reimagines classic SNES themes with impressive results.

Why you should play Donkey Kong Country Returns HD

Beyond that visual upgrade, this remains "one of the best 2D platformers Nintendo has released this century". Its remarkable attention to level design creates cohesive environments where every platform seamlessly integrates into the landscape.

Octopath Traveler II

 

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Team Asano's Octopath Traveler II shines as a polished gem among new games for switch, taking everything wonderful about the original and dialing it up to eleven.

Octopath Traveler II overview

First and foremost, this sequel transports players to the land of Solistia with eight new protagonists, each with their distinct storylines and personalities. The game introduces a clever day/night cycle that transforms both towns and the overworld, affecting enemy difficulty and NPC interactions. Much like its predecessor, you begin by selecting one character who becomes locked into your party until their story concludes, afterward collecting the remaining seven adventurers.

Octopath Traveler II gameplay highlights

The exceptional turn-based combat system returns virtually unchanged—a welcome decision considering its brilliance. Characters gain one Boost Point (BP) per turn to power up attacks, while enemies have shield points that must be depleted by targeting weaknesses to "Break" them. The exciting new addition is the Latent Power system, granting each character unique abilities that charge through dealing and receiving damage. Each traveler possesses two distinct Path Actions—one for daytime, another for night—ranging from pickpocketing to gathering information.

Octopath Traveler II visuals & sound

Equally impressive, the visuals build upon the signature HD-2D style with enhanced particle effects, dynamic camera work, and photorealistic lighting that changes between day and night. Nevertheless, the soundtrack by Yasunori Nishiki stands as the true masterpiece—over 8 hours of orchestral compositions that perfectly capture each environment's mood.

Why you should play Octopath Traveler II

In particular, the storytelling has been significantly improved through added Crossed Paths chapters where characters directly interact. With varied chapter structures, optional paths, and a final chapter connecting everyone's journeys, this 80-hour adventure offers extraordinary value.

Pokemon Legends: Arceus

 

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Game Freak's experimental Pokémon Legends: Arceus bravely reimagines the traditional formula, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience among switch games 2025 that still captivates players.

Pokemon Legends: Arceus overview

Set in the historical Hisui region (ancient Sinnoh), players assume the role of a character mysteriously transported from the future by Arceus itself to complete the region's first Pokédex. This narrative departure creates a world where humans and Pokémon don't yet coexist peacefully. Practically every aspect of the familiar Pokémon structure—from gym battles to trainers—has been rebuilt from scratch.

Pokemon Legends: Arceus gameplay highlights

The core innovation lies in dynamic Pokémon behaviors—some attack immediately, others flee when spotted. Players can:

Throw berries to distract creatures

Sneak through grass for stealth captures

Battle using new Agile Style (faster, weaker) and Strong Style (stronger, slower) moves

Pokemon Legends: Arceus visuals & sound

Historically, Pokémon games featured constant musical themes, yet Arceus opts for ambient soundscapes—wind rustling leaves and distant Pokémon cries create unprecedented immersion. The minimalistic soundtrack swells strategically during encounters, thus complementing the environment rather than dictating emotions.

Why you should play Pokemon Legends: Arceus

Primarily, the game provides genuine challenge with higher damage outputs and alpha Pokémon that can wreck unprepared teams. The fluid, responsive gameplay loops and streamlined mechanics eliminate unnecessary padding from the series.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3

 

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Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles 3 presents an emotionally resonant journey that stands tall among popular switch games through its mature storytelling and complex battle systems.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 overview

Set in the war-torn world of Aionios, this JRPG follows six soldiers from opposing factions forced to work together after gaining mysterious powers. The premise centers on artificially-created soldiers with just ten-year lifespans who fight in a perpetual conflict. Importantly, even series newcomers can enjoy this self-contained story without prior knowledge of previous games. Throughout its 80-100 hour journey, the narrative explores profound themes of life, death, and breaking free from predetermined fates.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 gameplay highlights

The combat system operates on auto-attacks while standing still, supplemented by special abilities called Arts. Beyond basic mechanics, the game introduces:

Class switching that lets characters learn skills from teammates

Chain Attacks for strategic damage dealing and healing

Ouroboros forms that combine two characters into powerful mech-like entities

Exploration remains rewarding with massive, distinct environments and quality-of-life improvements like path-finding toggles.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 visuals & sound

Visually, the game pushes the Switch hardware with beautiful landscapes despite occasional performance limitations. Ultimately, the soundtrack by Yasunori Mitsuda stands as the crowning achievement—featuring custom-made flutes created specifically for the game. The flute-based melodies serve as a key motif, reflecting the characters' roles as "Off-seers" who send off the dead.

Why you should play Xenoblade Chronicles 3

As such, this entry represents the most mature and emotionally charged experience in the series. The balanced combat provides both accessibility for newcomers and strategic depth for veterans. After 100+ hours, the desire to immediately replay through New Game+ speaks volumes about its lasting appeal.

Tetris Effect: Connected

 

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Legendary designer Tetsuya Mizuguchi's Tetris Effect: Connected brings the classic puzzle game home to Switch, offering a mesmerizing blend of music, visuals, and gameplay that makes it a standout among popular switch games.

Tetris Effect overview

This enhanced version combines the original's hypnotic single-player experience with robust multiplayer modes. At its core, it remains Tetris, as blocks fall for players to arrange and clear lines. However, the "synesthesia" concept transforms this familiar activity—every movement, line clear, and drop triggers synchronized audiovisual effects.

Tetris Effect gameplay highlights

The revolutionary "Zone" mechanic sets this version apart. After filling a gage by clearing lines, activating Zone freezes time, allowing blocks to be placed without falling while cleared lines stack at the bottom instead of disappearing. Once the Zone ends, these lines vanish in a satisfying combo. Beyond solo play in Journey mode, the game offers:

"Effect" modes categorized by mood—Relax, Focus, and Adventurous

"Connected" cooperative play where three players unite against AI bosses

Tetris Effect visuals & sound

Even on Switch, the graphics remain stunning—ember-covered figures and particle effects create immersive environments. Moreover, HD Rumble provides subtle vibrations as pieces move left or right.

Why you should play Tetris Effect

First thing to remember, this version supports cross-platform multiplayer with all other versions. After all, Tetris Effect transcends being merely a game to become "a work of art", especially well-suited for portable play.

Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar

 

Image Source: Marvelous Games

Marvelous Inc's Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar breathes fresh air into cozy switch games with its unique marketplace focus and weekly sales structure. This charming remake of the 2008 DS classic has been rebuilt from the ground up for modern platforms.

Story of Seasons overview

Upon arriving in Zephyr Town, players become the new farmer tasked with revitalizing the once-famous bazaar that has fallen into obscurity. The weekly Saturday bazaar serves as the game's central mechanic—planning your farming schedule around having quality goods ready for weekend sales creates a compelling gameplay loop. Throughout your journey, you'll help recruit new vendors and gradually restore the marketplace to its former glory.

Story of Seasons gameplay highlights

The gameplay excels through several distinctive features:

Three windmills process raw materials into valuable goods like cheese, mayonnaise, and crafting materials

Harvest Sprites boost item quality when gifted corresponding resources (fish, bugs, forage-ables)

Weekly bazaar requires strategic planning—what you'll sell, how to display items, and when to ring your bell for customer attention

Story of Seasons visuals & sound

Visually, the game maintains the series' signature charming esthetic with colorful character designs. Given that, the most impressive addition is full voice acting in cutscenes—a first for the series. Background music shifts appropriately with your activities, enhancing immersion.

Why you should play Story of Seasons

Beyond collecting resources, the structured gameplay around weekly bazaar preparations creates an addictive loop. Even so, with 500,000+ copies sold worldwide, this farming simulator offers both management depth and relaxing escapism.

Conclusion

Throughout this gaming journey, we've explored the remarkable diversity that continues to define the Nintendo Switch library even in 2025. Despite the console's eight-year lifespan and the arrival of the Switch 2, these 25 titles showcase why this hybrid platform remains relevant and beloved by millions of players worldwide.

The Switch consistently defies hardware limitations with masterpieces like Tears of the Kingdom pushing creative boundaries, while Mario Wonder breathes fresh life into classic platforming. Undoubtedly, the console excels across every genre – from the roguelite perfection of Hades II to the tactical depth of Fire Emblem: Three Houses.

What stands out most significantly about this collection is how both brand-new releases and remasters of classic games coexist harmoniously. Games like Metroid Prime Remastered prove that true classics can shine with modern enhancements, whereas titles like Silksong demonstrate that developers still see tremendous value in creating new experiences for the platform.

The Switch has fundamentally changed how we experience games, blurring the lines between home console and portable gaming. After all, this versatility explains why games like Tetris Effect and Animal Crossing became global phenomena – they could be enjoyed anywhere, anytime.

Whether you're seeking epic adventures in Xenoblade Chronicles 3, competitive thrills in Splatoon 3, or relaxing escapes with Story of Seasons, the Switch offers something genuinely special for every type of player. Regardless of the Switch 2's arrival, these 25 games represent the pinnacle of Nintendo's innovative approach to gaming, ensuring the original Switch will be remembered as one of the most impactful consoles ever created.

Which Switch games have captured your heart over the years? Will you still be playing them on your original hardware, or are you planning to transfer your collection to the Switch 2? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

FAQs

Q1. What are some highly anticipated Nintendo Switch games for 2025? While specific release dates may change, some eagerly awaited titles include Metroid Prime 4, Bayonetta 4, and a new Mario Kart game. Nintendo continues to support the Switch with both new releases and enhanced ports of popular games.

Q2. Which Nintendo Switch game has sold the most copies worldwide? Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains the best-selling Switch game, with over 50 million copies sold. Its enduring popularity stems from its accessibility, multiplayer fun, and continuous updates with new tracks and characters.

Q3. What makes The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom stand out in 2025? Tears of the Kingdom continues to be praised for its innovative gameplay mechanics, vast open world, and creative problem-solving opportunities. Its depth and replayability keep players engaged even years after release.

Q4. Is the Nintendo Switch still worth buying in 2025? Yes, the Switch remains a worthwhile purchase due to its extensive library of high-quality games, unique hybrid functionality, and strong support from Nintendo and third-party developers. Many new releases are compatible with both the original Switch and its successor.

Q5. How has Super Smash Bros. Ultimate evolved since its initial release? Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has grown significantly through character DLC, balance updates, and a thriving competitive scene. Its massive roster and refined gameplay make it a go-to fighting game for both casual and hardcore players in 2025.