2024's top 26 Nintendo Switch games

We can assist you in finding a list of the top Nintendo Switch games. We've played a ton of Nintendo games here at SmartRead, ranging from amazing AAA titles to amazing indies, and we've put together this guide with some of our favorites. We'll make sure to update this list as additional games come in, so come back often if you're looking for something new to play.

There are a ton of must-play titles on the Nintendo Switch, whether you believe the regular, OLED, or Lite model to be the finest.We've tried to provide you with an overview that takes into account all player preferences, from the best Switch RPGs to the greatest Switch multiplayer games.

Here is our list of the top Nintendo Switch games, which is not ranked in any particular order:

1. Tears of the Kingdom: The Legend of Zelda

It's difficult to top a masterpiece with something as amazing, but Nintendo is the one who can pull it off. Tears of the Kingdom has an enormous globe filled with dungeons, shrines, and adventure missions, making it the greatest sandbox adventure game available right now, even on the Switch. There are other abilities as well, with a focus on creation. Link and Ultrahand can both build vehicles, while Fuse enables the development of new weaponry.

In Tears of the Kingdom, which takes place after the events of Breath of the Wild, Link and Zelda are once again apart as a long-dormant evil comes to life and sweeps over Hyrule. It's your responsibility as Link to recover your power, track down the princess, and bring peace back to the region.

Check out our guides on Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom shrines, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom koroks, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom gleeoks, and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom depths for some assistance navigating Hyrule's significant revamp. Alternatively, if you're still on the fence, maybe our Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom review can persuade you.

2.

Super Mario Odyssey

Nintendo didn't stop at just delivering the most revolutionary Zelda game in 2017; they went above and beyond by giving us one of the greatest Mario games ever on the Switch, as well as one of the plumber's greatest adventures ever. Super Mario Odyssey takes players back to the "sandbox" gameplay of Super Mario Sunshine by having them explore expansive areas in search of hidden obstacles and collect hundreds of Power Moons. These Moons are then required to power the player's hat-shaped spacecraft, The Odyssey, and rescue peach.

Mario can mimic the skills of almost every adversary in the game, which makes a difference in this situation. No, he hasn't been learning from Kirby; instead, he has become pals with a hat that can cast spells. Mario is able to possess random items, NPCs, and foes thanks to Cappy, which grants him abilities and maneuvers that have never been seen before. Mario's most recent journey should keep kids entertained for weeks with so many entertaining ways to move and things to do (including a variety of Super Mario Odyssey amiibo available to improve the game).

3.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

When Animal Crossing was a specialized Gamecube game, do you recall? The one with the gyroids that wobble and the strange folks. Now that Animal Crossing: New Horizons has sold over 30 million copies on the Nintendo Switch, it has become a sensation that has spawned a ton of Animal Crossing games as well as an abundance of Animal Crossing toys and plushes. The series went viral thanks to some fortunate timing and a truck full of fresh ideas for personalizing not only your home but also your island.

Shiny HD makes New Horizons appear stunning. The villages are more adorable than before, there are bugs to be found, and the ambiance created by the breathtaking night sky is incomparable. A sizable update and some premium DLC were also added to this amazing game.

4. Astral Chain

Platinum is as adept at creating action games as Gordon Ramsey is at yelling at people and preparing food. These days, it's an art form, and they never disappoint. Astral Chain is a Nintendo Switch exclusive that showcases Platinum showing off its action game prowess in novel ways and boasts what may be the greatest visuals the system has ever seen.

As Akira, a police officer in a futuristic metropolis, you have to use Legion creatures as weapons. The Astral Chain binds the Legion to you, and you may strike with your Legion and on your own, as well as by fusing your blows with the chain itself. Astral Chain is an amazing action game full of flair, and any action enthusiast would be remiss not to give it a try. It's part detective narrative, part crazy.

5. Three Houses as the Fire Emblem

Not only is Fire Emblem: Three Houses among the greatest Switch titles available, but it may be the finest title overall. It's a particular favorite of mine from the Switch library because of its captivating story that begs for numerous playsthroughs, strategic combat features that force you to think outside the box when it comes to defeating adversaries, and excellent language that makes you feel connected to the characters.

The ties that develop between these individuals and the outside world have a significant impact on the game in which you play as Byleth, a professor at a school where many groups reside. Fire Emblem: Three Houses is an enormous adventure and an easy recommendation for any strategy or RPG lover, with so many endearing Fire Emblem: Three Houses characters, three distinct tales to go through, and some excellent additions to the series' RPG components.

6.

Luigi's Mansion 3

Luigi, poor guy. He certainly does wind up in a lot of scary locations for someone who is so easily spooked! This installment is no different, as Luigi finds himself pursuing ghosts across the several levels of this eerie edifice after accepting an unexpectedly generous offer to stay at a luxurious hotel. Luigi's Mansion 2 for the 3DS taught its developer, Next Level Games, a lot of valuable lessons, and this version not only runs more smoothly but also has an animated movie-like appearance.

The amazing animation work effectively conveys the physical humor of Luigi running away afraid, and mastering the gameplay feels pleasant and rewarding. You'll enjoy searching every square inch of the hotel for cash cows and secret riches while battling the many ghosts and amazing enemies that stand in Luigi's path. Given its lighthearted tone, it says a lot that it made our list of the top ghost games.

7. Rise of Monster Hunter

Monster Hunter World, which debuted with dazzling HD visuals and much-needed series improvements, may have made Switch owners a little envious. Given that our Monster Hunter Rise review explains why the game blew fans away on the Nintendo Switch this year, the debate over the greatest Monster Hunter game is now much more heated.

in the addition of some acrobatics and a reliable new companion in the palamute, Monster Hunter has never seemed more agile or astute than in Rise. If you love taking out waves of adversaries, there's also a new option called "rampage mode." Playing multiplayer games with friends is also enjoyable. Additionally, Rise has undergone a huge expansion; we've been astounded by the amount of new material that Monster Hunter Rise Sunbreak has added to the already vast bundle. To keep ahead of the competition, you may also make use of our Monster Hunter Rise skills guide.

8. Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley, oh. This independent classic is a terrific game to play on the Nintendo Switch, which provides over 100 hours of entertaining gameplay and opportunities to interact with the people of Pelican Town. This endearing game is well-known for its gameplay loop, which entices players to return season after season.

Along with these activities, there's the option to construct the community center, explore the mines, go fishing, get married, and design your home. Play Stardew Valley at your own speed and in whatever way you like. When you finally do plunge in, don't forget to consult our Stardew Valley fish guide.

9.

Hollow KnightYou should play Hollow Knight if you've ever loved a Metroidvania game (Metroid, Castlevania, Axiom Verge, Ori & The Will of the Wisps, etc.). It's more difficult than most, drawing inspiration from Dark Souls, where challenging bosses are hidden away in most places and need a lengthy journey to reach. It's also a struggle against oneself to recover whatever souls you lose when you die.However, world-building and gaming sense are areas in which Hollow Knight shines. Controlling Hollow Knight is a really amazing experience, and your armament becomes stronger with each new skill you gain. Then I was driven to explore every inch of the universe because of its mystery and the striking visual aesthetic. The brilliance of this game still astounds me, and hopefully Team Cherry is putting a lot of effort on the sequel so that the Hollow Knight Silksong release date is not too far off.

10. Fear of Metroid

Let's talk about arriving late in style. Samus makes her long-awaited return in Metroid Dread, a follow-up to the 2001 GBA title Metroid Fusion, even though it seems like she was never gone. We hope we never have to wait this long again for Dread, which might be the finest game in the 35-year-old series with smooth movement, exciting weaponry, and an immensely evocative setting to explore. It has a ton of stuff, and if you also use the Metroid Dread amiibo, it has even more.After so many years, Dread brings the epic Metroid saga to a close, and those who have been waiting will find enough of legend to savor. On the other hand, if this is your first time playing Metroid, you're about to embark on an amazing action-adventure game that coincidentally wraps up a tale. This is a great place to start, and congratulations if Dread ends up turning you into a Metroid enthusiast!See our Metroid Dread review for further details on this fantastic science fiction book.

11.

Super Mario Maker 2It was becoming harder to see where the 2D sidescrolling series may go in the future after so many Mario games over the years. Instead, Nintendo handed the fans the tools, and we are overjoyed about it. Make your own levels in the vein of the original Mario games, but as challenging and clever as you can.Slopes, planets, and new styles are just a few of the thrilling new aspects that Super Mario Maker 2 brings to the formula. We even get a sneak peek at a Zelda Maker with a NES Link power-up that mimics the powers of the time traveler. Where would Mario go after this? Who knows? However, there's no urgency since there are hundreds of amazing Mario levels for us to play till then.

12. The definitive edition of Xenoblade Chronicles

Xenoblade is the epitome of a JRPG, a massive open-world role-playing game with a massive tale that spans realms constructed on the corpses of deceased gods. It does, however, manage to cleverly combine skill and strategy with some excellent active fighting features.Even if you become a little tired of hearing "It's Reyn time," the primary characters are still endearing, and this transfer beautifully brings the Wii classic to life with stunning graphics that finally do this vast world credit. Using your Switch to play this beloved JRPG is the best experience ever. If you find entering this universe a little intimidating, check out our guide on the Xenoblade Chronicles timeline.13. Bayonetta 2What do you call a witch with a passion for detonations? Michael Bayonetta, eh? Well, Bayonetta 2 is a shining example of PlatinumGames at its best, and fortunately it wasn't confined to the WiiU for long. Great action games with a wild flare for detail can be found in both of the series' Switch entries, but the sequel is slowly gaining ground on us because of its enormous set pieces and sporadic Nintendo nods. Action game aficionados must play both of these titles since they are simply must-haves.It's understandable why so many games have included this legendary figure. She was fantastic in the original game, but this one kicks things up a level and offers a more vibrant, action-packed journey. If you haven't played the first Bayonetta game, don't worry—many copies of the sequel include a download code for it. If you're one of her many devoted followers, check out our guide on Bayonetta figures.

14. Arceus in Pokémon Legends

Who knew that the secret to moving ahead was to take a step back? Our protagonist is thrust into the past in Pokémon Legends: Arceus, to the country of Hisui, centuries before it became Sinnoh. However, in Ponyta's years, this quasi-open-world experience succeeded in offering the most innovative perspective on Pokémon.While discovering new areas of Hisui and seeing Pokémon in the wild is exciting, the ability to toss Pokéballs and capture the various'mon available was a basic but crucial discovery. Why not check out some of our numerous guides, like Pokémon Legends: Arceus surprise gift codes, Pokémon Legends: Arceus shiny Pokémon, and Pokémon Legends: Arceus Eevee guide, if you're still exploring Hisui?Additionally, we have our whole opinions in our Pokémon Legends: Arceus review

15. Live Alive

Remade from a 90s Super Famicom game exclusive to Japan, Live A Live tells the story of many short tales, more accurately referred to as vignettes, set in a variety of eras and locales. Although it may seem a little jumbled at times, there's a good reason why this game is so beloved.Each of the short, stand-alone tales accomplishes its goal of telling a good narrative while also delving into new areas on each occasion. Without giving anything away, the HD-2D boost is stunning and the finest display of the graphics engine to yet. The conclusion does, however, tie a number of things together in a really gratifying manner. In our comprehensive Live A Live review, we awarded this enjoyable role-playing game a highly-coveted 10.16. Chronicles of Xenoblade 3It's amazing how this series has evolved from a valiant attempt to be Westernized to a hit trilogy with a new addition that surpasses all expectations. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a prime example of Monolith Soft's skill in creating expansive environments and engaging JRPG combat. Monolith Soft is a great master of the genre.Set in a planet ripped apart by conflict between Agnus and Keves, XC3 manages to jam a large universe into the Switch and manages to look better than its predecessors, all the while fitting seven distinct characters into each combat. The plot is the darkest the series has yet explored, and the ouroboros approach adds an exciting new twist. See our Xenoblade Chronicles 3 review for additional details on this one.17. Splatoon 3It works the third time. Splatoon was already a big hit in Japan and the West, but it seems that Splatoon 3 will be much more popular worldwide. Anyone who calls Splatoon 3 an iteration has taken one too many Splattershots to the head. Introducing the thrilling new Tri-Colour Splatfests, along with several enhancements to the game's overall quality and a plethora of new weaponry.Along with decorating our Splatoon 3 lockers and collecting eggs in the Splatoon 3 Salmon Run mode, we have been hooked to the new Splatoon 3 Tableturf Battle mode. Read our post on the Splatoon 3 soundtrack and its fascinating elements after reading our comprehensive Splatoon 3 review to see why we like this newest release so much.18. Sparks of Hope: Mario + RabbidsThough, like Wanda and Vision, it works! Mazza is a spin-off from the Rayman series, and it still seems strange to see her brandishing weapons next to the Rabbids! The tactical marvel Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a follow-up to Kingdom Battle. It does away with the linear grid, offering players a tactical role-playing game that is more centered on movement and placement, while still offers a variety of weapons and status effects to experiment with.The plot takes place against the background of a galactic journey, including the eponymous Sparks—an unholy hybrid of the Rabbids and Lumas from Super Mario Galaxy—and is visually stunning as well. Even the Kingdom Hearts soundtrack, including Grant Kirkhope, Gareth Coker, and Yoko Shimomura, is (inter)stellar. This is an amazing game for all ages that will still challenge the tactical giants out there, with terrific gameplay and a multitude of difficulty choices.For other reasons why we like Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, see our review.

19. Tropical Freeze in Donkey Kong Country

Since most great work isn't acknowledged during the creator's lifetime, back in 2014, responses to Retro Studios' creation of "just another" Donkey Kong game varied from disinterested to outright hostile. Fortunately, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze has endured the test of time and is today regarded as one of the best 2D platformers to ever grace a Nintendo system, proving that those who doubted the power of Retro were mistaken. Naturally, even if DK isn't a monkey, it also makes our list of the top monkey games.Thanks to the vibrant, colorful graphics and the brilliant music composed by the renowned David Wise, the intricate and gratifying level design is infused with an abundance of personality. Yes, it's as hard as nails, but if you're having a lot of trouble, there's a great new funky mode that may help the younger players and let you to really enjoy this game's glacial grandeur.20. Superstars of Mario PartyNo party compares to a Mario Party, and happily Mario Party Superstars brought the struggling series back to its former splendor by eliminating Super Mario Party's flaws and adding a healthy helping of nostalgia.With a good hundred minigames from previous entries and some of the most reliable and practical online features in a Nintendo game to date, this is an excellent game to play with friends or, if you prefer, play for hours on end if you just want to improve alone. Our whole review of Mario Party Superstars can be found here .

21]. Triangle Technique

See, we're not big fans of the name either, but give it a go. Fans of beloved games such as Tactics Ogre, Fire Emblem, and Final Fantasy Tactics will undoubtedly enjoy Triangle Strategy. The political drama that lies behind the strategic hood is rather intense, and almost every choice you make will affect how your tale turns out.The people you choose to interact with, save, murder, and make decisions with all put your resolve to the test and have a significant impact on your choices. We think you should play this if you know strategy is your thing since the fighting is really excellent. See our whole analysis in our illustrious Triangle Strategy review.22. HadesOver the last several years, the rogue-like genre seems to have taken off, and Switch has plenty of excellent options in this genre. However, if finances allowed for only one, we would choose Hades. Hades is an absolute pleasure to play through every minute of its gorgeous landscape, engaging narrative, and smooth action gameplay.Zagreus has to get out of Hell, where the gods of Olympus help him ascend through the numerous tiers and escape the oppressive weight of his father Hades. But every death is a necessary part of the adventure, since the Hades characters provide insights into your shortcomings and assist you in developing the necessary abilities. It's a masterclass in telling a story via game design, and it also plays like a dream. Completely necessary. To learn more about this amazing game, read our Hades review.

23.

Mario Kart 8 DeluxeWith Mario Kart 8 Deluxe alone selling close to 40 million copies (not counting the Wii U version), chances are excellent that you already possess this masterpiece if you own a Switch. With several of the greatest Mario Kart tracks accessible for racing, Nintendo's flagship racing series, Mario Kart 8, never fails to disappoint.In addition to the gravity-defying fun, the Switch edition features a robust fight mode and all the DLC, including additional racers and courses (Link, Isabelle, Inklings, and more), all of which combine with the Nintendo Switch's user-friendly interface. Even after all these years, you still absolutely must acquire this game since it features a plethora of online possibilities and plays quite well. A few beloved Mario Kart characters and songs that weren't initially featured are also returning with the new Booster Pass.

24].

Super Smash Bros. UltimateThis game, which is now the best-selling fighting game ever, is compatible with almost every popular video game series ever created, including Pac-Man and Sora from Kingdom Hearts. The gameplay of every character varies greatly, and the whole experience of the game seems like an homage to the video game genre. Check out our Super Smash Bros. . See the Ultimate tier list for a detailed roster analysis.Smash Bros. is a great game because anybody can play it and have a good time laughing while hurling objects about like Bowser and Steve from Minecraft, or they can play it skillfully online and have their skills put to the test. You'll never run out of things to learn since there are over 80 characters, making it simple to comprehend yet difficult to master.25. Breath of the Wild: The Legend of ZeldaThis genre-defining journey, which debuted on the same day as the Nintendo Switch, completely altered the video game and franchise. The most fulfilling toolkit in video games to yet is created by matching an enormously rich set of mechanics with a large and breathtaking environment to explore. More entertaining than most video games is just exploring and discovering weaponry while using Link's numerous new powers.Breath of the Wild succeeds in elevating the franchise in other areas as well. It introduces voice acting for the first time and gives the plot a genuine feeling of grandeur. Though we don't get to engage with them directly, characters like Daruk and Urbosa are wonderful new additions to BotW, which is full of intriguing individuals entwined with their tales.To be honest, there has never been a greater Zelda series, and some may argue that the same cannot be said of video games. We would suggest this Nintendo Switch game if you could only afford one.And just so you know, if you have the cash for two, you should definitely check out our Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom review.26. Princess Peach: Get set, everybody!It took years for a spin-off featuring members of Mushroom Kingdom monarchy to arrive, but at last, Princess Peach: Showtime! in 2024, and it was not let down. Even while Nintendo may have released this game with younger players in mind, there is still a ton of fun to be had by all ages as you go on a journey with Peach as the Princess cosplays as a pastry chef, musketeer, cowboy, and more.Among our fave aspects about Showtime! is the artistic style, in which creator Good-Feel creates a vibrant universe in a manner that is ideal for the legendary Princess. Check out our Princess Peach: Showtime for additional information on this one! Examine.Here is our carefully curated list of the top Nintendo Switch games. While you're here, why not peruse our list of the best mobile games to see what you could be missing out on, or peruse our list of the best portable gaming consoles to see what the competition has to offer in handheld gaming?