As the Nintendo Switch gracefully nears the end of its life cycle, making way for the eagerly anticipated Switch 2, it's the perfect time to revisit some of the hidden gems that may have slipped under your radar. While iconic titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons have undoubtedly captured the hearts of many, there's a treasure trove of other games that deserve your attention before you transition to the new console.
We understand that time and budgets can be tight, and the sheer volume of games available can be overwhelming. However, taking a moment to explore these overlooked titles will enrich your gaming experience. Here’s a curated list of 20 Nintendo Switch games you should consider playing before the Switch 2 arrives. You won't regret giving them a try.
20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games
21 Images
Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon
Delve into the origins of the beloved demon-slaying witch with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This enchanting puzzle platformer boasts a stunning storybook art style that sets it apart from its predecessors. While it may differ visually, fans of Bayonetta's signature action will still find thrilling combat sequences. This prequel is a must-play, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar character.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
Experience the musou genre's thrill with Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, a perfect blend for Zelda enthusiasts. Though not canon to Breath of the Wild's storyline, the game offers an exhilarating chance to control Link and other champions in epic battles against hordes of enemies. If you adored Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Age of Calamity is a delightful journey back in time that you shouldn't miss.
New Pokemon Snap
Fans of the original Pokemon Snap on the Nintendo 64 finally got their sequel with New Pokemon Snap. This game amplifies everything you loved about the original, featuring more Pokemon to photograph and hidden secrets to uncover in diverse biomes. Whether you're a veteran of the N64 classic or new to the series, New Pokemon Snap is a unique and beloved spin-off that's worth exploring.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks the series' first fully 3D entry, revolutionizing gameplay with expansive environments ripe for exploration. Kirby's signature ability to inhale enemies and objects remains, but now you can transform into a car and explore more freely than ever. As one of the best Kirby games, it's a must-play before the Switch era ends.
Paper Mario: The Origami King
Paper Mario: The Origami King stands out with its unique art style and puzzle RPG mechanics, diverging from the traditional Mario platformers. The game's open world is beautifully crafted, offering a visually stunning experience. While the combat may differ from past entries, the charm and aesthetic appeal of The Origami King make it a worthwhile addition to your Switch library.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a masterpiece of 2D platforming that deserves more recognition. Its challenging gameplay will test even seasoned players, as you navigate through diverse and dynamic environments. With its stunning graphics, captivating soundtrack, and precise controls, Tropical Freeze is an essential play for any platformer enthusiast.
Fire Emblem Engage
While Fire Emblem: Three Houses garnered much acclaim, Fire Emblem Engage is an equally compelling entry. Though its narrative may not be as tight, the game compensates with the return of beloved characters from the series' history through a multiverse concept. Engage offers a throwback to classic SRPGs with intense combat and strategic depth, making it a must-play for tactics RPG fans.
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore blends the worlds of Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem in a vibrant crossover set against Japan's idol music scene. This unexpected fusion delivers a colorful and engaging experience, combining RPG combat with a unique art style. Despite some toned-down themes in its localization, the game is a delightful adventure worth exploring.
Astral Chain
Astral Chain is a gem that showcases PlatinumGames' expertise in action-packed gameplay. With its fluid combat system and the ability to switch between various "Legion" weapons, the game keeps you engaged throughout. Beyond combat, explore a cyberfuturistic world, solve cases, and navigate the intriguing Astral Plane. Its exclusivity to the Switch might have limited its audience, but it's a title that deserves more recognition.
Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope
Don't let the humorous Rabbid Peach distract you from the brilliance of Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope. This strategy RPG combines the whimsical worlds of Mario and the Rabbids in an action-packed adventure. The game's combat system allows for creative character combinations and powerful combos, making it a fun and engaging experience for fans of both franchises.
Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door
Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door is a faithful remake of the beloved GameCube classic, enhancing its visuals, music, and gameplay. As one of the best entries in the Paper Mario series, it offers a captivating treasure hunt filled with charm and engaging mechanics. If you're new to the series, this is the perfect starting point.
F-Zero 99
F-Zero 99 took fans by surprise with its 99-player battle royale format, but it has proven to be a thrilling addition to the series. Despite some changes in precision, the game's excitement lies in the strategic gameplay and intense races. F-Zero 99 has revitalized the franchise and is a must-play for racing enthusiasts.
Pikmin 3 Deluxe
Pikmin 3 Deluxe brought the franchise back to life after a long hiatus, introducing new Pikmin types and enhanced controls. The Deluxe version on Switch added even more content, co-op gameplay, and the Piklopedia, making it a comprehensive and enjoyable experience. With its humor and engaging gameplay, Pikmin 3 Deluxe is a delightful addition to any collection.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a charming puzzle platformer where Captain Toad navigates levels without jumping, thanks to his heavy backpack. Perfect for short bursts of play, this game offers delightful brain teasers and is ideal for on-the-go gaming. As one of the Wii U's overlooked gems, it shines brightly on the Switch.
Game Builder Garage
Game Builder Garage is an underappreciated gem that teaches you how to create games without coding. Its charming lessons guide you through building various game types, making it accessible yet educational. If you've ever been intimidated by game engines, this is the perfect starting point to spark your creativity and build your own games.
Xenoblade Chronicles Series
Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles series offers some of the most expansive and beautiful open worlds on the Switch. With four games in the series, each one delivers epic stories, stunning visuals, and engaging JRPG gameplay. The series is a monumental undertaking, but the hundreds of hours you'll invest will be well worth it.
Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe
Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe complements The Forgotten Land with its strong 2D platforming and exceptional multiplayer. Playing with up to four Kirbys is a blast, and the game's extensive levels and collectibles keep the fun going. The Deluxe version adds new content, making it an ideal introduction to platformers for new gamers.
Ring Fit Adventure
Ring Fit Adventure isn't just a fitness game; it's a full-fledged RPG that cleverly integrates exercise into its gameplay. Whether you started with New Year's resolutions or not, this game offers a unique and engaging way to stay active while battling through its story. It's time to power up both your character and yourself.
Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread revitalizes the series with its 2.5D action and terrifying E.M.M.I. machines that relentlessly pursue Samus. This game is a testament to the Switch's status as a home for Metroid titles, and its sales success, though modest compared to other franchises, highlights its quality. If you haven't experienced the suspense and exploration of Metroid Dread, now's the time.
Metroid Prime Remastered
With Metroid Prime 4 on the horizon, revisiting Metroid Prime Remastered is a perfect way to appreciate the series' roots. This isn't just a re-release; it's a stunning graphical overhaul that brings the classic GameCube game to life on the Switch. At a budget-friendly price, it's an essential play for any gamer, offering a masterclass in isolation, exploration, and tension.
