10 Best Action Games for Nintendo Switch That Will Get Your Heart Racing (2025)

Nintendo Switch has redefined what we expect from the best action games for Nintendo Switch, blending home console power with go-anywhere portability. I've spent countless hours gaming on mine—from epic 50-hour adventures in Fire Emblem: Three Houses to racking up over 1,500 hours in Slay the Spire, mostly on my Switch.

Whether you're battling through elemental temples with unique puzzles or exploring vast open worlds like Skyrim, action games on Switch deliver heart-pounding excitement without compromise. The hybrid nature of the console enhances the entire gaming experience, letting you enjoy intense combat sessions anywhere.

Looking for your next adrenaline rush? We've carefully selected the most thrilling, challenging, and satisfying action games available on Switch. From lightning-fast combat to strategic battles that'll test your reflexes, these ten titles represent the absolute best Switch action games you can play in 2025. Let's dive into the action!

Bayonetta 3

Image Source: Nintendo

Platinum Games delivers a heart-racing third installment in their signature action series with Bayonetta 3. As one of the most ambitious action games for Nintendo Switch, it expands the series' scope dramatically with multiverse storylines, massive set pieces, and new gameplay mechanics that push the boundaries of what fans expect.

Bayonetta 3 gameplay overview

The titular witch returns with her signature style in a bombastic adventure that far exceeds previous entries in scale. Bayonetta 3 thrusts players into a wild multiverse experience featuring multiple playable characters and a smorgasbord of different Bayonettas from alternate realities. The core combat remains lightning-fast and responsive, centered around melee combos, dodge mechanics, and the signature Witch Time ability that activates when perfectly dodging attacks. Unlike previous games, enemies are generally larger, forcing the camera to zoom out further and creating more expansive battle arenas.

What truly sets this entry apart is how it handles combat scale. While previous games occasionally featured large bosses, Bayonetta 3 regularly pits you against screen-filling monstrosities that require entirely different tactical approaches. Furthermore, you'll battle against mysterious entities called Homunculi - man-made bioweapons that threaten reality itself.

Bayonetta 3 key features

The revolutionary Demon Slave system stands as Bayonetta 3's most significant addition. This feature allows you to:

Summon and directly control powerful demons in real-time combat

Equip up to three different Infernal Demons simultaneously

Access unique abilities for each demon, from Madama Butterfly's graceful attacks to Gomorrah's devastating bites

However, controlling these demons leaves Bayonetta vulnerable, creating an engaging risk-reward dynamic during battles. Additionally, the game introduces Demon Masquerade, letting Bayonetta channel demons linked to her weapons for transformative abilities. These transformations replace movement abilities from previous games while adding new traversal options.

Another key addition is Viola, a new playable character with a distinctly different combat style. Instead of dodging to trigger Witch Time, she must perfectly parry attacks, creating a fresh challenge for veterans. Her demon companion, Cheshire, resides in her sword - summoning him means fighting bare-handed until recalled.

Bayonetta 3 visuals & performance

Despite its ambitious scope, Bayonetta 3 struggles technically on the Switch hardware. The game runs at a dynamic 810p resolution when docked and approximately 480p in handheld mode. Performance rarely hits the target 60fps, with most battles running at an unstable frame rate throughout. Even empty rooms fail to maintain steady performance, suggesting the game's ambition exceeds the Switch's capabilities.

The visual quality varies dramatically between chapters - some environments appear stunningly beautiful while others look surprisingly drab with low-resolution textures. In contrast, the character models, especially Bayonetta herself, remain impressively detailed, and the demon designs showcase magnificent creativity.

Bayonetta 3 replayability & challenge

For those seeking challenges, Bayonetta 3 offers multiple difficulty options, including Casual, Standard, and Expert modes that can be switched freely at any time. Players seeking a more accessible experience can equip the Immortal Marionette accessory, which automates complex combos with single button presses.

The game embraces exploration with larger, more open levels filled with collectibles, challenges, and secrets. Throughout your journey, you'll discover three currencies - Orbs for upgrading skills, Halos for cosmetic options, and Lotus Seeds for purchasing items and accessories. Special challenge rooms called Niflheim gates offer opportunities to earn health and magic upgrades.

Despite occasional frustrations with camera angles and performance issues, I found the 14-hour campaign incredibly satisfying with its wildly creative boss battles and varied combat scenarios. The replay value comes from mastering different weapon combinations, finding all secrets, and striving for higher scores on each verse.

Monster Hunter Rise

Image Source: Nintendo

Capcom's Monster Hunter Rise brings the beloved hunting franchise to Switch with remarkable enhancements that elevate the action experience. This ninja-inspired entry introduces revolutionary mobility options and cooperative hunting that make it one of the most accessible yet deeply satisfying action games on Switch.

Monster Hunter Rise gameplay overview

Set in the beautiful ninja-inspired land of Kamura Village, the game takes place half a century after the last calamity, with a terrifying new monster threatening to plunge the land into chaos once again. As a hunter, you'll track and battle fearsome monsters across five distinct hunting areas, each offering unique environments to master.

The core gameplay loop remains consistent with previous entries: hunt monsters, harvest materials, craft weapons and armor, then tackle even more challenging beasts. Nevertheless, what sets Rise apart is its significantly improved mobility and combat fluidity. Each hunt begins from a base camp, where supply boxes provide essential items like First-Aid Meds and Rations for forgetful hunters. Throughout your adventures, you'll discover endemic life forms that provide various buffs to health, stamina, attack, and defense for the duration of your hunt.

Monster Hunter Rise key features

The revolutionary Wirebug mechanic stands as Rise's most transformative feature, allowing hunters to swing through environments Spider-Man style and adding unprecedented vertical mobility to exploration. This mechanic integrates seamlessly into combat through Silkbind attacks that vary by weapon type, offering new strategic options during monster encounters.

The addition of Palamutes (canine companions) alongside the returning Palicos (feline partners) significantly enhances the hunting experience. These loyal dogs not only assist in combat but can be ridden to traverse maps quickly, eliminating the tedious running between areas that plagued earlier entries. Consequently, the entire game feels more streamlined and action-focused.

Rise is also the first game in the series built on Capcom's RE Engine, allowing for seamless open environments rather than the segmented areas Monster Hunter was previously known for. This technical improvement creates more immersive hunting grounds filled with hidden paths, secret areas, and collectibles.

Monster Hunter Rise co-op and multiplayer

The multiplayer experience forms the heart of Monster Hunter Rise, with options for both local and online play:

Up to four players can form hunting parties either locally via wireless LAN or online

Online play requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership

Village quests are single-player only, while Hub quests support 1-4 players

Join Requests allow players to jump into hunts already in progress

The game intelligently scales difficulty based on player count (1, 2, 3, or 4 hunters), adjusting even mid-hunt if players join or leave. Primarily, coordination happens through customizable shoutouts rather than voice chat, since the Switch version lacks built-in voice communication.

Before multiplayer hunts, players gather in Lobbies where they can access facilities, prepare equipment, and coordinate strategy. Each Lobby hosts up to four hunters, with options to search for existing Lobbies or create your own. The Rampage mode particularly shines in multiplayer, combining traditional Monster Hunter gameplay with tower defense elements as your team defends Kamura from waves of monsters.

Monster Hunter Rise visuals & performance

On Switch, Monster Hunter Rise maintains a respectable technical performance despite ambitious scope. The game runs at a resolution of 1344×756 when docked and approximately 540p in handheld mode. Frame rate targets 30fps and remains largely stable throughout most gameplay scenarios.

While Rise doesn't match the visual fidelity of Monster Hunter World on more powerful platforms, it compensates with distinctive art direction and impressive environmental design. The RE Engine allows for larger, more detailed hunting areas with minimal loading times between zones, creating a seamless hunting experience.

For those concerned about performance, Rise offers a remarkably smooth experience on Switch hardware, with only occasional frame rate dips during particularly chaotic moments with multiple monsters and players on screen simultaneously.

Astral Chain

Image Source: PlatinumGames

Developed by PlatinumGames, Astral Chain delivers a revolutionary twist on traditional action game mechanics through its synergetic combat system. This Nintendo Switch exclusive stands among the best action games for Switch by fusing police investigation with interdimensional combat in a cyberpunk world teetering on the brink of extinction.

Astral Chain gameplay overview

Set in 2077, Astral Chain places you in the role of a special police task force member stationed in "the Ark" – humanity's last refuge after mysterious interdimensional invaders called Chimeras have corrupted most of Earth with red matter. As part of Neuron, an elite unit equipped with sentient weapons called Legions, your duties extend beyond combat into detective work.

The gameplay expertly balances investigation segments with intense action sequences. During investigations, I found myself questioning suspects, examining evidence, and using special Legion abilities to track scents or listen to conversations. Moreover, these quieter moments offer opportunities to explore the richly detailed futuristic city, complete side quests, and clean up red matter residue left by Chimera attacks.

Astral Chain combat mechanics

What truly sets Astral Chain apart from other action games for Nintendo Switch is its innovative dual-character combat system. Throughout battles, you simultaneously control both your character and your Legion, connected by the titular astral chain. This mechanic fundamentally transforms how you approach combat situations.

Each Legion offers distinct abilities and combat styles:

Sword Legion: All-around fighter with swift attacks that can interrupt enemy strikes

Arrow Legion: Ranged specialist perfect for airborne enemies and hitting distant switches

Arm Legion: Heavy-hitter that can move large objects and be worn as armor

Beast Legion: Fast tracker that can be ridden for increased mobility

Ax Legion: Defensive powerhouse with shields and devastating area attacks

The astral chain itself serves as both weapon and tool. By encircling enemies with the chain, you can bind and immobilize them for easy damage. Essentially, this creates unique strategic options beyond typical hack-and-slash gameplay. You can also use the chain to launch yourself toward enemies, creating spectacular aerial combos or quickly escaping dangerous situations.

Astral Chain visuals & sci-fi setting

The game's cyberpunk esthetic is remarkably implemented, creating a visually striking world filled with neon-lit streets, holographic interfaces, and futuristic architecture. Notably, the art direction combines 2D and 3D cell-shaped elements that remain consistently impressive in both docked and handheld modes.

Performance-wise, Astral Chain maintains a locked 30fps throughout most gameplay scenarios, a commendable achievement given the visual density and simultaneous character control. The environments are object-dense yet run smoothly, establishing much of the nuance and history described in the game's lore.

The soundtrack perfectly complements the setting, blending electric guitar, synthesizers, and orchestral elements. According to lead composer Satoshi Igarashi, he deliberately created "geometrical phrases for a metal sound" while ensuring drum phrasings remained "strict and somewhat mechanical" to match the game's technological setting.

In essence, Astral Chain creates a unique action experience that could only exist on Nintendo Switch, combining innovative gameplay mechanics with a compelling sci-fi world worth exploring.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Image Source: Nintendo

Combining frantic hack-and-slash action with the beloved Zelda universe, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity stands as one of the most unique action games on Switch. This intense collaboration between Koei Tecmo and Nintendo takes players 100 years before The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, offering a fresh perspective on the Great Calamity that devastated Hyrule.

Hyrule Warriors gameplay overview

At its core, Age of Calamity delivers classic musou-style combat where you'll face hordes of familiar Zelda enemies. From barbaric Bokoblins to towering Lynels, the battlefield teems with foes requiring strategic approaches to overcome. As you fight through these massive battles, you'll employ various techniques:

Combos: Perform powerful attack sequences by pressing buttons in succession, unlocking additional moves by gathering materials and completing side quests

Special Attacks: When your gage fills, unleash devastating moves that decimate surrounding enemies

Weak-point Gage: Target enemy weak points to deplete their gage, then execute a Smash Attack for massive damage

Sheikah Runes: Use familiar abilities from Breath of the Wild like Remote Bombs, Stasis, Cryonis, and Magnesis, each adapted to fit different characters' playstyles

The gameplay loop is more relaxed than previous Hyrule Warriors titles, focusing less on multitasking and more on achieving specific objectives. Between missions, you can manage character progression by leveling up, upgrading weapons, and completing hundreds of sidequests.

Hyrule Warriors character variety

Beyond Link and Zelda, the game lets you control the four Champions and a young Impa, each with distinct abilities tailored for different combat situations. As you progress through the story, you'll unlock:

Link: A skilled swordsman with access to one-handed weapons, two-handed weapons, and spears

Zelda: A scholar of ancient Sheikah technology with unique magical abilities

Impa: A royal adviser who creates clones for devastating combo attacks

Four Champions: Revali (archer), Daruk (defender), Urbosa (lightning wielder), and Mipha (spear expert)

In fact, certain missions place you in control of Divine Beasts, transforming gameplay into on-rail shooter segments where you decimate thousands of enemies as these massive ancient machines.

Hyrule Warriors connection to Zelda universe

Unlike the original Hyrule Warriors, Age of Calamity was developed with Nintendo's oversight to deliberately tell an alternate-history prequel to Breath of the Wild. Through fully-voiced cutscenes, the game explores events only hinted at in Breath of the Wild, including the kingdom's preparation for the prophesied Calamity Ganon.

The story focuses on gathering pilots for the Divine Beasts, finding the wielder of the Master Sword, and awakening Zelda's sealing power. Although primarily an action game, Age of Calamity incorporates many familiar elements from Breath of the Wild, such as Flurry Rush mechanics, parrying, and environmental reactions like setting grass on fire or using electricity on wet enemies.

While the game presents some inconsistencies with Breath of the Wild's established timeline, these changes were implemented to avoid predictability while still honoring the source material.

DOOM Eternal

Image Source: Slayers Club - Bethesda.net

id Software's DOOM Eternal rips and tears its way onto Nintendo Switch, bringing hellishly fast first-person action that tests both reflexes and tactical thinking. Among the most technically impressive action games on Switch, this demonic sequel elevates the franchise with deeper combat mechanics and remarkable performance despite hardware limitations.

DOOM Eternal gameplay overview

DOOM Eternal builds upon its predecessor with more aggressive resource management. The game forces constant movement through its "push-forward combat" design – standing still means certain death. Initially, you'll wield only the Combat Shotgun, gradually expanding your arsenal throughout the campaign. Health, armor, and ammunition must be actively harvested from enemies through three core mechanics:

Glory Kills (melee executions) to recover health

Chainsaw kills to replenish ammunition

Flame Belch to generate armor shards

This resource trinity creates a thrilling combat loop where you're constantly calculating your next move while dodging incoming attacks, truly earning the nickname "combat chess."

DOOM Eternal weapons and combat

The weapons arsenal forms the heart of DOOM Eternal's exhilarating gameplay. Each weapon serves specific purposes – the Pulse Rifle effectively breaks shields, while the rocket launcher excels against flying Cacodemons. Mastering "fast weapon switching" becomes vital, especially on higher difficulties. This technique allows players to bypass reload animations, dramatically increasing damage output against tough enemies.

Many experienced players consider weapon-switching mandatory for conquering Nightmare and Ultra-Nightmare difficulties. For example, rapidly alternating between Super Shotgun and Ballista can quickly destroy even supermassive demons. Targeting specific weak points, like immediately destroying a Doom Hunter's sled to disable its shield, showcases how strategic weapon selection dramatically affects combat outcomes.

DOOM Eternal visuals & performance

On Switch, Panic Button delivers their most impressive port yet. While docked, resolution ranges from just under 540p to a maximum of 720p. Handheld mode fluctuates between 360p and 612p. Despite these compromises, DOOM Eternal maintains a nearly locked 30 frames per second throughout most gameplay – a substantial improvement over previous id Tech Switch ports.

The visual sacrifices primarily affect texture resolution and post-processing effects. Motion blur and depth of field have been eliminated entirely. Nevertheless, the port preserves impressive level geometry and animation quality, maintaining DOOM Eternal's core visual identity despite the necessary compromises.

DOOM Eternal replayability

The campaign offers approximately twice the length of DOOM 2016, alongside multiple difficulty options that can be adjusted freely anytime during gameplay. For additional challenge, "Master Levels" feature remixed mission stages with more powerful enemies introduced earlier in the campaign.

After launch, id Software expanded the game with seasonal content, allowing players to earn experience through challenges that reset weekly. This progression system unlocks cosmetic items and gameplay-altering features, encouraging continued demon-slaying long after completing the main campaign.

No More Heroes 3

 

Image Source: Nintendo

Grasshopper Manufacture's No More Heroes 3 slashes onto Nintendo Switch, delivering one of the most outrageously stylish action games available on the platform. This third mainline entry brings the foul-mouthed otaku assassin Travis Touchdown back to his hometown of Santa Destroy after a long absence, only to face an alien invasion led by the criminal overlord Jess-Baptiste VI (better known as Prince FU).

No More Heroes 3 gameplay overview

The core structure revolves around climbing the Galactic Superhero Rankings, replacing the assassin rankings of previous games. Prior to qualifying for these ranked battles against alien "superheroes," Travis must earn enough money through combat missions and bizarre odd jobs around town. These jobs range from unclogging toilets to mowing lawns, creating a deliberately jarring contrast to the high-stakes boss fights.

Once you've paid the entry fee, you'll face one of FU's alien cronies in increasingly challenging and creative boss battles. Each confrontation begins with an Ultraman-inspired opening sequence, cementing the game's tokusatsu influence. The open world has been expanded beyond the original Santa Destroy, now featuring five distinct islands connected by Travis's modified motorcycle, the "Demzamtiger".

No More Heroes 3 story and humor

The narrative drips with Suda51's trademark bizarre humor and pop culture references. Characters frequently break the fourth wall, discuss real-world filmmakers like Takashi Miike, and even reference the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Coupled with off-the-wall conversations (like aliens discussing their newfound love for bubble tea), the story takes players on an emotional rollercoaster.

As much as it's an action game, No More Heroes 3 functions as a love letter to Japanese tokusatsu series like Ultraman and Kamen Rider, with boss fights structured episodically. The humor might not connect with everyone given its deliberately low-brow approach, yet there's an undeniable charm to its schlocky B-movie presentation.

No More Heroes 3 combat style

Combat revolves around Travis's iconic Beam Katana, supplemented by wrestling moves and the Death Glove that grants four special abilities. Light and heavy attacks form the foundation, while perfectly timed dodges open enemies to devastating counterattacks. After defeating enemies, a slot machine activates, potentially granting powerful buffs like invincibility or the ability to throw foes.

The combat system shines through its visceral finishing moves called "Killer Slashes," executed by following directional prompts that trigger stylish, blood-gushing finishers. Given these points, what truly elevates the fighting experience is the strategic resource management – charging your beam katana mid-battle creates tense moments that force you to constantly adapt your approach.

Hades

Image Source: Nintendo

Supergiant Games' Hades stands as a revolutionary roguelike that redefined action gaming on Nintendo Switch with its perfect blend of combat, storytelling, and progression systems.

Hades gameplay overview

I play as Zagreus, the immortal son of Hades, fighting to escape the Underworld against his father's wishes. The combat system combines hack-and-slash action with strategic decision-making through four primary mechanics: main weapon attacks, special attacks, dash abilities, and magic casts. Each escape attempt features randomized room layouts filled with enemies, rewards, and occasional story events. Throughout my journey, Olympian gods offer divine assistance against the countless souls trying to keep me trapped below.

Hades roguelike mechanics

Obviously, death isn't the end—it's core to the experience. Upon dying, I'm swept back to the House of Hades, ready to attempt escape again. The game's brilliance emerges through its Boon system, where gods like Zeus (lightning effects) and Poseidon (wave pushback) bestow unique powers. These boons create thousands of viable character builds, encouraging experimentation across runs. Henceforth, no two escape attempts feel identical thanks to procedurally generated room sequences and different enemy combinations.

Hades visuals & soundtrack

Jen Zee's stunning hand-painted environments bring the Underworld to life with vivid colors and detailed character designs. Meanwhile, Darren Korb's blood-pumping soundtrack—featuring vocalist Ashley Barrett—perfectly complements the action. The art style beautifully honors Greek mythology while adding Supergiant's distinctive flair.

Hades replayability & progression

Ordinarily, roguelikes can feel punishing, yet Hades expertly balances difficulty with progression. The Mirror of Night provides permanent upgrades between runs, alongside a compelling relationship system with the game's expansive cast. After defeating Hades, the Pact of Punishment lets me customize difficulty levels for greater challenges and rewards. Subsequently, I've discovered that even after dozens of hours, new character builds and story events continue to emerge.

Katana ZERO

Image Source: GameStop

Askiisoft's Katana ZERO slices through expectations as one of the most stylish action games on Switch, blending tight platforming with lightning-fast combat and an intriguing narrative experience. This neo-noir side-scroller offers a fresh take on the action genre through its innovative time mechanics and striking visual presentation.

Katana ZERO gameplay overview

As the katana-wielding assassin known only as "The Dragon," players undertake assassination missions against various targets throughout a dystopian city. The gameplay centers around one-hit-kill mechanics—both enemies and the protagonist die from a single strike. Each mission consists of interconnected rooms that require planning and precision to clear. Success demands mastery of basic movement options including sword slashes, rolls for temporary invincibility, and carefully timed deflections that can return bullets to senders.

Katana ZERO time manipulation mechanics

The protagonist's mysterious Chronos drug abilities form the cornerstone of gameplay, allowing momentary slowdown of time to navigate chaotic situations. Upon death, time rewinds automatically, framed ingeniously as the protagonist rejecting failed scenarios before they occur. After completing rooms successfully, players watch a real-time replay of their performance, transforming what seemed like impossible feats during slow-motion into a seamless display of skill. This VHS-style rewind mechanic cleverly integrates with the story itself.

Katana ZERO visual style

The retro-wave esthetic permeates every aspect of the game through neon-drenched environments and pixel art that remains consistently impressive. Between its dark synthesized soundtrack and detailed character designs, Katana ZERO embraces 80s-inspired visuals while maintaining its own distinctive identity. The presentation extends beyond mere esthetics—the entire experience is framed as if played from a VHS tape, with rewinding on death and static effects on pause.

Metroid Dread

Image Source: Nintendo

Nintendo and MercurySteam's Metroid Dread brings the iconic bounty hunter Samus Aran back to her 2D roots with a masterful blend of exploration and tension, cementing its place among the best action games for Nintendo Switch.

Metroid Dread gameplay overview

Upon investigating a mysterious transmission on Planet ZDR, Samus becomes trapped in this dangerous world filled with hostile alien lifeforms. After losing her abilities in an ambush, players must guide Samus through interconnected environments while gradually regaining her powers. The gameplay emphasizes parkour-style movement—sliding through tight spaces, countering enemies, and navigating labyrinthine passages. Much like classic entries in the franchise, Dread rewards exploration with hidden upgrades and alternate paths.

Metroid Dread sci-fi horror elements

The game earns its title through the E.M.M.I. (Extraplanetary Multiform Mobile Identifier) robots—originally sent to investigate the X parasite but now hunting Samus with lethal precision. These encounters create genuine tension as these robots can kill Samus instantly, forcing players to either hide or flee until finding temporary weapons capable of destroying them. Between stealth mechanics and the constant threat of one-hit kills, these segments effectively create a sense of vulnerability rarely felt in action games.

Metroid Dread visuals & performance

Technically impressive, Dread runs at 1600x900 resolution when docked and native 720p in handheld mode. The game targets 60fps during gameplay with remarkable stability, only occasionally dropping frames. As an added bonus, Metroid Dread features proper 5.1 surround sound support—something rarely implemented on Switch titles. MercurySteam's developers crafted impressively detailed environments through clever use of lighting effects and atmospheric design.

Metroid Dread challenge level

For those seeking customized difficulty, three options exist: first, the standard experience offers significant challenge with bosses requiring pattern recognition; second, Rookie Mode increases health gained from items while decreasing boss damage; third, the punishing Dread Mode activates one-hit deaths from any enemy. Additionally, Boss Rush mode lets players challenge all major enemies in sequence for speedrun opportunities.

Cuphead

Image Source: Nintendo

Studio MDHR's Cuphead brings 1930s cartoon esthetics to life as one of the most visually distinctive action games on Switch. This run-and-gun title focuses primarily on boss battles as players work to collect soul contracts for the devil.

Cuphead gameplay overview

Throughout this challenging adventure, I control either Cuphead or Mugman in single-player or local co-op mode. Between major encounters, I've discovered that collecting coins in platforming stages unlocks valuable upgrades including spread shots, teleport dashes, and special abilities. Afterward, these enhancements prove essential when facing the game's main attraction – its imaginative bosses.

Cuphead boss battles

In fact, boss fights serve as the centerpiece of the experience, featuring elaborate multi-phase encounters. Each adversary transforms throughout their battle, requiring constant adaptation. First, a helpful progress meter shows exactly how close I came to victory after failed attempts, motivating me to try again. Plus, some bosses offer secret alternate paths that allow skipping certain phases while increasing difficulty in others.

Cuphead animation and music

Above all, the hand-drawn cel animation and watercolor backgrounds perfectly recreate 1930s cartoon esthetics. The presentation includes flickering film grain and muffled sound bites that enhance the vintage feel. Beyond visuals, the acclaimed soundtrack features nearly three hours of original jazz, big band, and ragtime performed by live musicians.

Cuphead difficulty and replay value

Though certainly challenging, death never feels frustrating because restarts are nearly instantaneous. Simply put, its difficulty strikes the perfect balance between demanding and accessible.

Conclusion

After spending countless hours slashing demons, hunting monsters, and escaping the underworld, the Nintendo Switch undoubtedly stands as a powerhouse platform for heart-racing action games. Whether you prefer the stylish combat of Bayonetta 3, the strategic hunting of Monster Hunter Rise, or the roguelike perfection of Hades, these ten titles represent the absolute best the system has to offer in 2025.

What makes these games truly special goes beyond their technical achievements. The hybrid nature of the Switch allows us to experience frantic boss battles in Cuphead or tense E.M.M.I. encounters in Metroid Dread anywhere we choose. This versatility transforms how we engage with action games, blending home console depth with portable convenience.

Most importantly, the diversity among these titles ensures something for every action enthusiast. Fast-paced hack-and-slash combat awaits in Astral Chain and No More Heroes 3, while precision platforming challenges appear in Katana ZERO. Meanwhile, DOOM Eternal delivers relentless first-person shooting action that pushes the hardware to its limits.

Additionally, many games feature local multiplayer options, allowing friends to join your adventure without additional consoles. This social aspect adds another dimension to titles like Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity and Monster Hunter Rise.

The Switch might lack the raw power of other consoles, yet developers have found creative ways to deliver thrilling experiences that focus on gameplay innovation rather than graphical fidelity alone. These ten games prove action gaming thrives on Nintendo's platform, offering experiences that get our hearts racing regardless of where we play.

Next time you need an adrenaline rush, pick any title from this curated list. Your pulse will quicken, your palms might sweat, but the satisfaction of mastering these exceptional action games makes every challenge worthwhile. The Nintendo Switch continues to prove itself as the perfect companion for gamers seeking intense action experiences without compromise.

FAQs

Q1. What makes Bayonetta 3 stand out among action games on Nintendo Switch? Bayonetta 3 introduces innovative features like the Demon Slave system, allowing players to summon and control powerful demons in real-time combat. It also expands the series' scope with multiverse storylines and new playable characters, offering a fresh and exciting experience for fans of the franchise.

Q2. How does Monster Hunter Rise improve upon previous entries in the series? Monster Hunter Rise introduces the Wirebug mechanic, which greatly enhances mobility and combat options. It also adds Palamute companions for faster traversal and seamless open environments, making the hunting experience more streamlined and action-focused compared to earlier games.

Q3. What makes Hades unique in the roguelike genre? Hades combines fast-paced combat with a compelling narrative that unfolds over multiple runs. Its innovative Boon system allows for thousands of character builds, while permanent upgrades and relationship systems provide a sense of progression even after failed attempts, making it highly replayable.

Q4. How does Metroid Dread balance exploration with tension? Metroid Dread introduces E.M.M.I. robots that create tense stealth segments within the traditional Metroidvania exploration. These encounters, where Samus must hide or flee from nearly invincible enemies, add a new layer of suspense to the classic formula of ability-gated progression.

Q5. What sets Cuphead apart visually from other action games on Switch? Cuphead features hand-drawn cel animation and watercolor backgrounds that meticulously recreate the look of 1930s cartoons. This unique visual style, combined with an original jazz soundtrack performed by live musicians, creates an immersive and nostalgic gaming experience unlike any other on the platform.