What Are the Best Nintendo Switch Games to Play Right Now?

[charlesrich]

With so many releases, it’s hard to decide. What are the best nintendo switch games in terms of gameplay, replay value, and fun for both casual and hardcore players?

 

[Lisa]

I’ve been trying to put together a list of the best Nintendo Switch games to jump into stuff that’s not just popular, but genuinely worth your time whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore gamer. Which ones do you think nail gameplay, replay value, and just overall fun? I’ve already played the big ones like Breath of the Wild, but I’m curious what else is actually great on the system.

 

[AnnP111966]

Totally agree with you on the struggle the Switch library is massive now. For me, it splits into a few must‑play tiers:

All‑Around Great:
• Super Mario Odyssey - so much creativity and replay value with Moons to hunt.
• Zelda: Breath of the Wild - still the best open world on Switch.
• Metroid Dread - amazing for action fans.

Excellent But Niche:
• Fire Emblem: Three Houses - huge story and replay value, but it’s more tactical nerd‑time than pick‑up‑and‑play.
• Hollow Knight - gorgeous metroidvania, tough as nails.

For casual vibes: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe still slaps with friends. For a more chill but deep experience: Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

 

[Ragnar Lothbrok]

If we’re talking replay value especially for hardcore folks, don’t sleep on Monster Hunter Rise (and Sunbreak). The loop is insanely addictive, and the Switch version runs super smooth. The seasonal events and weapon variety keep pulling me back in.

And for competitive players:
• Super Smash Bros. Ultimate insane roster, tons of tech skill.
• Splatoon 3 not exactly traditional, but great online turf wars.

 

[jameswill8520]

This is subjective, but I think replay value should be weighted heavier than story for a best games list. If so, here’s mine:

• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - endless fun.
• Animal Crossing: New Horizons - slow burn but sticks with you
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - endless sandbox opportunities
• Ring Fit Adventure - fitness + game? I keep coming back weekly
• Super Mario Party - local multiplayer chaos
  
  

 

[captainghost]

For people who love indies, check these out:

1. Celeste - tight platforming + meaningful story
2. Dead Cells - rogue‑lite with awesome combat
3. Slay the Spire - perfect deck‑builder on the go
4. Octopath Traveler II - if you like JRPG vibes

They aren’t as flashy as Nintendo first‑party titles, but IMO they’re some of the most fun and addictive experiences on Switch.

 

[ethancarter]

Question for the group: I just got my first Switch and haven’t played the classics yet. Is it worth going back and playing older hits like Mario Odyssey and Breath of the Wild before newer stuff like Tears of the Kingdom or Splatoon 3? Trying to prioritize what to buy first!

 

[Emmawoods]

100% yes play the older ones first. The best Nintendo Switch games are often the ones that defined the platform early on. Odyssey and BOTW are basically required Switch experiences and make the newer titles feel even better once you understand Nintendo’s design language.

Also, if you like RPGs, Pokemon Scarlet & Violet offers huge open worlds and tons of replay with multiplayer raids.

 

[jimmy]

Personally, I like splitting my Switch time:
For deep sessions: Tears of the Kingdom, Fire Emblem, Metroid Dread
For quick fun: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Party
Chill play: Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley, Spiritfarer

That kind of balance keeps the Switch feeling fresh instead of exhausting your attention on one genre.