The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular and versatile consoles out there.
Allowing you to not only enjoy gaming at home but also on the go. After the release of the Switch Lite, this was turned up to eleven—with the Lite becoming the most popular handheld console today.
If you want games for Switch, you can either purchase physical cartridges or you can download them off the Switch store.
Let’s break down some of the best games of many different genres that are must plays on the Nintendo Switch.
1. Open World RPG – The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Argued by many as one of the best games of all time, Breath of the Wild probably needs no introduction at this point.
If you’ve never played a Zelda game, this is an excellent place to start.
Thanks to its open world design, brimming with mysteries and intrigue, the game blends strong narratives with amazing exploration and oh so many systems.
From weather to crafting to hunting down rare horses and solving niche puzzles, Breath of the Wild is a game which would have you entertained for weeks on end, making it a definite must play.
2. Platformer – Super Mario Odyssey
You can’t mention a Nintendo console without mentioning Mario at least once—we’ll come back to that later! Super Mario Odyssey is the perfect sum of forty years of Mario games, bringing together a whole host of locations, characters and gameplay styles in a dynamic and characterful 3D world.
At this point, you probably don’t need much convincing. If you like Mario or platformers, this is a must have.
3. Casual – Animal Crossing: New Horizons
While New Horizons became the perfect game to sink hours into during the pandemic, it has remained a key part of the Switch’s gaming catalogue.
This casual game about quietly constructing, exploring, sharing and playing is the perfect way to unwind and connect with friends quietly.
It has a slow, relaxed pace focused on providing a unique experience tailored to each player’s preferences. So if you’re looking for something chill, New Horizons is a great choice.
4. 3rd Person Shooter – Splatoon 2
While not (yet) as iconic as Zelda, Mario, or Animal Crossing, Splatoon has become one of Nintendo’s most loved IPs in recent years.
While this competitive shooter is sure to lead to many nail-biting moments, it has a notably laid back atmosphere compared to most other shooters out there—thanks to its playful graphics and its notable non-violent play.
5. Racing – Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
At this point, Mario Kart needs no introduction. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the most up to date and extensive Mario game ever released, featuring incredibly tight gameplay, a wide variety of tracks, and endless fun.
You have to try this game at least once—especially if you want something to play with friends!
6. Battle Royale – Fortnite
Perhaps you’re looking for something to pump your blood; Fortnite could scratch that itch.
As one of the world’s largest games, this battle royale needs little introduction.
Pitting players against each other on an endlessly shrinking map until only one player is standing. Run, shoot, and build your way to victory on the Switch in this legendary title.
Better yet, play with friends online and on other consoles with cross-play!
To get ahead in Fortnite, you can buy Fortnite accounts; then you’ll be playing with the pros in no time.
7. Casual RPG – Stardew Valley
Blending elements from the RPG, farming sim, and sandbox genres, Stardew Valley is one of the most beloved indie gems out there.
Its slow pace and pixel art aesthetics are perfectly suited to a handheld Switch, making it an ideal game to play on a commute.
This is the type of game where you’ll create routines, slowly build your village, and connect with many characters on a deep level. You’ll love it!
8. Soulslike – Blasphemous
If you’re looking for something more intense than many of the Switch’s casual offerings, perhaps Blasphemous will scratch that itch.
This Soulslike revolves around twitchy 2D swordplay and epic boss fights.
Drawing much of its design language from games like Dark Souls and Hollow Night, Blasphemous is punchy, addictive, and very hard.
But if that’s what you’re looking for in a game, you’ll be delighted!
9. Fighter – Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The latest installment in one of Nintendo’s most beloved esports franchises, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, offers up fun and competition in equal amounts.
Its gameplay is precise and incredibly specific, which is why the game has such a cult following.
It is also notably different from other fighting games like Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter, thanks to its unique objective to knock each other off the map, its plethora of items, and its matches which often feature more than two players.
10. Roguelike – Hades
The Switch is one of the best consoles for indie gems, especially roguelikes. Hades is one of the best.
It offers up fast paced gameplay, a rich narrative, and really compelling characters.
While I’ve labelled it a roguelike, many would insist that it is more a Rogue-lite, given that progression and unlocks are kept upon death.
But don’t take this as a negative; this makes it much more accessible and provides you with consistent milestones throughout the experience.
The Nintendo Switch is one of the most satisfying consoles available today, and its gaming catalogue doesn’t disappoint.
Whether you’re a fan of action, adventure, simulation, or strategy, the Switch offers an extensive library of top-tier games.
While this list scratches the surface of the spectrum of games available for this amazing console, any of these games is a great place to start your journey into gaming on the switch!
