Nintendo’s latest console, the Switch 2, is gathering a compelling catalog of games. But what titles stand out as the best? Here’s our take on the 15 essential gaming experiences for the handheld/home console hybrid.
Our selection criteria focus on games specifically designed for the Switch 2, excluding those previously available on the original Nintendo Switch (with one exception). We’re not including upgraded Switch 1 games. Instead, we are including multiplatform titles arriving on Nintendo hardware for the first time.
With that said, let’s dive into our picks for the Top 15 Best Nintendo Switch 2 Games.
15. PowerWash Simulator 2
PowerWash Simulator 2 embraces the familiar formula of its predecessor: a relaxing and expanding set of intricate levels. Cleaning these impossibly dirty vehicles, buildings, and furniture is a great way to unwind with your Switch 2. Experience some satisfying, clean fun!
- Expansive levels with intricate details
- Relaxing and satisfying gameplay loop
- Perfect for unwinding after a long day
14. Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Pokémon Legends: Z-A feels like a real step forward in adapting the classic Pokémon template for a modern, 3D world. Going beyond simply battling monsters, Z-A bravely scraps turn-based combat in favor of a more dynamic, real-time system. It is a genuine evolution of the decades-old franchise. Better performance on the Switch 2 allows for the best possible Pokémon adventure on the platform.
- Dynamic, real-time combat system
- Welcome evolution of the Pokémon formula
- Improved performance on Switch 2 hardware
13. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Koei Tecmo revisits the Hyrule Warriors universe with Age of Imprisonment, serving as both a thrilling musou spectacle and a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. While the story might not match the heights of the Zelda series, the combat is remarkably satisfying. Thanks to the new hardware, the game can finally keep up with its action. It is one of the standout Switch 2 exclusives.
- Thrilling musou action combat
- Prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
- Improved performance capabilities
12. Ball X Pit
Brick-breakers are a foundational video game genre, but Ball X Pit offers a fresh take. It borrows from the pixelated chaos of Vampire Survivors, translating that sensation into a selection of superpowered balls that bounce off enemies until they fall. Combine this with light settlement management, and you have one of the toughest Switch 2 games to stop playing.
- Unique brick-breaking gameplay with a “Vampire Survivors” twist
- Superpowered balls with diverse abilities
- Addictive combination of action and settlement management
11. Kirby Air Riders
A sequel to the 2003 GameCube title wasn’t on many people’s radar, yet Kirby Air Riders delivers a surprising and excellent experience. Spearheaded by the legendary Masahiro Sakurai, this combative racing game draws inspiration from both Smash Bros. and Mario Kart. It’s a chaotic, fun experience only on Nintendo Switch 2.
- Combative racing with Smash Bros. elements
- Created by Kirby’s mastermind Masahiro Sakurai
- A chaotic and unexpected experience
Our Nintendo Switch 2 Review
Rating: 7
The Nintendo Switch 2 is everything the original Switch was, but bigger and better. While it retains the hybrid charm of its predecessor, it also addresses its faults. Beefier tech allows for 4K resolution, higher framerates, and quicker loading times. The innovative mouse controls are unfortunately hampered by ergonomics. The console feels like a vital step up, especially if the Switch 1 is your primary gaming platform, but it lacks excitement.
10. Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is a cozy blend of action-adventure RPG and life simulation, perfectly suited for the Switch 2. In the absence of a new Zelda or Animal Crossing, this game offers a great experience. Although it was initially released on the original Switch, its enhanced visuals and optimizations make it a worthwhile addition to the Switch 2 lineup.
- Cosy blend of RPG and life sim
- Perfect game for the Switch 2
- Enhanced visuals and optimizations
9. Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World takes risks by venturing beyond familiar tracks and onto open roads for the first time. It combines colorful courses with open-world time trials and challenges, transforming the Mario Kart formula. This is the most impactful evolution since Double Dash on the GameCube, and it’s poised to be a mainstay on the Switch 2.
- Open-world exploration integrated into Mario Kart
- Innovative time trials and challenges
- Most impactful evolution since Double Dash
8. Split Fiction
Hazelight Studios, renowned for co-op games, presents Split Fiction. Control authors Mio and Zoe as they travel through sci-fi and fantasy worlds born from their imaginations. It’s a varied gameplay design with strong emphasis on teamwork. Supporting both online and local play, it’s a solid fit for the Switch 2 and its detachable Joy-Cons.
- Co-op gameplay from the masters at Hazelight Studios
- Varied gameplay design across sci-fi and fantasy worlds
- Emphasis on teamwork and communication
7. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
Playing CD Projekt Red’s dense sci-fi RPG on a Nintendo handheld is a surprise treat. Far from its rocky launch state, Cyberpunk 2077 is now a fantastic open-world RPG, with vibrant Night City hosting tales of revolutions and betrayals. The Ultimate Edition includes the incredible Phantom Liberty expansion, presenting one of the best RPGs of recent times on the Switch 2. Performance might not match other platforms, but its portability makes it worthwhile.
- A complete RPG experience on a Nintendo handheld
- Fantastic open-world with a captivating story
- Inclusion of the Phantom Liberty expansion
6. Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake revitalizes two classic RPGs in stunning fashion. Both games receive a welcome facelift while retaining their retro magic. Nearly four decades later, they’re more playable than ever, making them excellent additions to the Switch 2.
- Brings classic RPGs into the modern era with HD-2D visuals
- Retains the retro magic of the originals
- Improves playability and accessibility
The Best Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrades
You might wonder where The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are on this list. While their Switch 2 editions offer better performance and graphics, they are not “Switch 2 games”. The same holds true for Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Super Mario Party Jamboree. Despite added content and new features, they aren’t fully “Switch 2 games” based on our criteria. However, these games are fantastic and worth playing if you missed them on the original Switch.
5. Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles
The Ivalice Chronicles is the definitive way to experience one of Square’s most acclaimed RPGs. The tactical battling system is as tight as ever, with welcome tweaks enhancing the experience and a graphical boost capturing the original charm. With full voice acting, this intricate story is ready for a new generation. It is perfectly played in handheld mode.
- Definitive edition of a classic tactical RPG
- Tactical battling with thoughtful improvements
- Fully voice-acted story with intrigue and conspiracy
4. Deltarune
A chapterised follow-up to Undertale, Deltarune continues subverting the RPG genre. Heartfelt and hilarious, its story captivates with unorthodox gameplay and inventive systems. Its unpredictable storytelling leaves you wanting more. As more chapters get released as free updates, Deltarune promises to be among the best games on Switch 2 now and in the future.
- Subversive RPG follow-up to Undertale
- Heartfelt, funny, and engaging story
- Unorthodox gameplay with inventive systems
3. Hollow Knight: Silksong
The anticipation for Hollow Knight: Silksong was huge. Developer Team Cherry lived up to the hype. Hornet’s metroidvania world is filled with unwelcoming locations, enemies, and platforming challenges, but it begs to be explored. It’s punishing but equally rewarding, with secrets hidden in every corner. The satisfaction throughout is unmatched on the Switch 2.
- Highly anticipated metroidvania sequel
- Punishing but rewarding gameplay
- Secrets and challenging boss fights
2. Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza finally gives Nintendo’s ape a 3D platformer worthy of its Mario counterparts, delivering one of the best games on the Switch 2. This destructive smashathon blends elements from Super Mario Odyssey with a Donkey Kong twist. Players can sculpt their worlds, collecting bananas along the way. It showcases the new generation of Nintendo while staying true to the franchise’s creativity.
- A 3D Donkey Kong platformer on par with Mario games
- Destructive gameplay
- Worlds to sculpt and bananas to collect
1. Hades 2
A Switch 2 console exclusive, Hades 2 improves on its predecessor, elevating the narrative-led roguelike action. Melinoë’s journey is detailed, from intricate weapons and skill systems to striking art direction. At the peak of its genre, Hades 2 is an engaging experience that’s just pure fun.
- Switch 2 console exclusive roguelike action
- Intricate weapons and skill systems
- Striking art direction
Those are our picks for the best Switch 2 games right now. What are your favorites? Let us know in the comments!
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