As the Nintendo Switch gracefully approaches the end of its lifecycle, with the much-anticipated Switch 2 on the horizon, it's the perfect time to dive back into the library of overlooked gems the Switch has to offer. While everyone's likely played the big hitters like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, there's a treasure trove of other games that deserve your attention before you shelve your Switch for good.
We understand the constraints of time and budget, but these Switch games are worth revisiting before the Switch 2 takes the stage. Trust us, you won't regret it.
20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games
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20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon
Delve into the origin story of the iconic demon-slaying witch with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This game transforms into a stunning puzzle platformer, enveloped in a mesmerizing storybook art style. Yet, it doesn't stray too far from its roots, as fans of Bayonetta's action-packed combat will find familiar, exhilarating combos. Despite its prequel nature and unique visual approach, Bayonetta Origins is a gem that deserves more recognition.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
Embrace the musou-genre's charm with Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, a thrilling crossover with The Legend of Zelda. Though not canon to Breath of the Wild, the game offers a deeply satisfying experience where you can step into the shoes of Link and the Champions to defend Hyrule against hordes of enemies. If you're a fan of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Age of Calamity is a must-play for a nostalgic yet exhilarating journey.
New Pokemon Snap
For those who cherished the original Pokemon Snap on the Nintendo 64, New Pokemon Snap on the Switch is a dream come true. It amplifies everything fans adored about the first game, offering more Pokemon to capture in stunning photographs and hidden secrets to uncover in diverse biomes. Whether you're a veteran or new to the franchise, New Pokemon Snap is a unique and beloved Pokemon spinoff that deserves your attention.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks the series' first fully 3D adventure, and it does not disappoint. Kirby's ability to inhale enemies and objects remains, but the new 3D world opens up vast exploration possibilities. From turning into a car for navigating expansive landscapes to exploring new abilities, this game is a standout in the Kirby series and a must-play for any Switch owner.
Paper Mario: The Origami King
Paper Mario: The Origami King is a testament to the series' beloved charm, combining its unique art style with puzzle RPG gameplay. While the combat may differ from past entries, the game compensates with its visually stunning open world. If you appreciate a departure from the traditional Mario platformers, The Origami King is a visually delightful experience.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a masterpiece of 2D platforming that deserves a broader audience. Its challenging levels will test your skills, with fast-paced action that keeps you on your toes. From scaling crumbling icebergs to bouncing on jello cubes, the game's difficulty is matched by its gorgeous graphics, captivating soundtrack, and precise controls. A must-try for any platformer enthusiast.
Fire Emblem Engage
While Fire Emblem: Three Houses garnered much acclaim, Fire Emblem Engage shouldn't be overlooked. Though its narrative may not be as tight, it brings back beloved characters from across the series via a multiverse concept. For tactics RPG fans, Engage offers a throwback to classic SRPGs with smaller, intense battle maps and a challenging difficulty that truly tests your strategic prowess.
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is an unexpected yet delightful crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, set against Japan's idol music culture. Its colorful, poppy aesthetic and engaging mix of Fire Emblem and SMT RPG combat make it a unique and enjoyable experience, despite some toned-down themes in the localization.
Astral Chain
Astral Chain is a must-play for action game enthusiasts, offering fluid and dynamic combat with the ability to switch between summonable living weapons known as "Legion." The game's cyberfuturistic world, investigative elements, and challenging bosses, combined with the exploration of the Astral Plane, make it a standout title exclusive to the Switch.
Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope
Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a delightful strategy RPG that merges the worlds of Mario and Ubisoft's Rabbids. Its action-focused combat and character customization offer a fresh and engaging experience, proving that the unlikely pairing of these two universes creates something truly special.
Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door
Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door is a lovingly crafted remake of the GameCube classic, now shining on the Switch. Its enhanced visuals, music, and gameplay improvements make it one of the best entries in the series. Whether you're new to the Paper Mario series or a long-time fan, this is the perfect starting point for an enchanting adventure.
F-Zero 99
F-Zero 99 surprised fans with its 99-player battle royale twist on the classic racing series. Despite the initial skepticism, the game has evolved into a top-tier entry with exciting races and strategic elements. Its thrilling gameplay and post-launch updates have revitalized the franchise, making it a must-play for racing enthusiasts.
Pikmin 3 Deluxe
Pikmin 3 Deluxe is a charming addition to the Pikmin series, introducing new Pikmin types and enhanced controls. The Switch version adds co-op mode, extra content, and the Piklopedia, making it a comprehensive and enjoyable experience. Its humor and engaging gameplay ensure it's a worthy addition to any Pikmin collection.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a clever puzzle platformer where the titular character navigates levels without jumping, due to his heavy backpack. Its delightful brain teasers and perfect fit for short bursts of play make it an ideal Switch game. A hidden gem from the Wii U era, it truly shines on the Switch.
Game Builder Garage
Game Builder Garage is an underrated gem that teaches players how to create their own games. It's not just a coding tutorial but a charming journey through game design principles. If you've ever been intimidated by game engines, this game is the perfect starting point to unleash your creativity and build your own games.
Xenoblade Chronicles Series
Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles series offers some of the most expansive and visually stunning open worlds on the Switch. From Xenoblade Chronicles 1, 2, and 3 to the spinoff Xenoblade Chronicles X, these games blend classic JRPG elements with modern technology, offering epic stories and hundreds of hours of exploration.
Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe
Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe is a fantastic 2D platformer that complements the 3D adventure of The Forgotten Land. With robust multiplayer features and a plethora of levels and collectibles, it's perfect for both seasoned gamers and newcomers. The Deluxe version adds new content and subgames, making it an essential Kirby experience.
Ring Fit Adventure
Ring Fit Adventure is more than just a fitness game; it's a fully-fledged RPG that keeps you engaged through its innovative use of the fitness ring. Whether you're revisiting it or playing for the first time, the journey to defeat the "bootilicious" evil dragon is both fun and rewarding.
Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread revitalizes the series with its 2.5D gameplay, bringing back the tension and isolation that fans love. The E.M.M.I. machines add a terrifying element to the game, making it a standout title on the Switch. Despite its sales, Metroid Dread is an essential play for any fan of the franchise.
Metroid Prime Remastered
With Metroid Prime 4 potentially marking the end of the Switch's era, now is the perfect time to experience the remastered version of the original. Metroid Prime Remastered isn't just a re-release; it's a visually stunning remake that brings the classic to modern standards at an affordable price. Its sense of isolation and exploration remains intact, making it a must-play for any Switch owner.
