As the Nintendo Switch nears the end of its lifecycle, with the Switch 2 on the horizon, it's the perfect time to revisit some of the overlooked gems that have graced Nintendo's hybrid console. While titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons have garnered widespread acclaim, there are numerous other games that deserve your attention before you transition to the next generation. Here, we highlight 20 such games that you might have missed but should definitely explore.
20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games
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20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon
Delve into the enchanting origin story of the demon-slaying witch, Bayonetta. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon is a stunning puzzle platformer that adopts a captivating storybook art style. While it diverges from the series' typical action-packed gameplay, fans will still find exhilarating combat sequences. This prequel, with its unique aesthetic, is a must-play for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
Experience the thrill of the musou genre with a Legend of Zelda twist in Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. Though not canon to Breath of the Wild, this game offers an immersive experience where you can embody Link and other champions to defend Hyrule. Its engaging gameplay and connection to the beloved franchise make it a worthwhile adventure for fans of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
New Pokemon Snap
For those who cherished the original Pokemon Snap on the Nintendo 64, New Pokemon Snap brings back the joy of capturing Pokemon in their natural habitats. With more Pokemon to photograph and hidden secrets in diverse biomes, this sequel expands on the original's beloved formula, making it a delightful experience for both longtime fans and newcomers.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Marking the first fully 3D entry in the Kirby series, Kirby and the Forgotten Land offers a fresh take on the franchise. Kirby's ability to explore expansive 3D environments and transform into new forms, like a car, enhances the gameplay. This title stands out as one of the best in the series and is a must-play during the Switch's final days.
Paper Mario: The Origami King
Renowned for its charming art style and engaging puzzle RPG mechanics, Paper Mario: The Origami King brings the series' beloved aesthetic to life in an open-world setting. While its combat may differ from past entries, the game's visual appeal and innovative gameplay make it a standout title.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Regarded as one of the finest 2D platformers, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze challenges players with its demanding yet rewarding gameplay. From navigating crumbling icebergs to bouncing on jello cubes, the game's difficulty is matched by its stunning graphics and exceptional soundtrack. It's a must-try for any platformer enthusiast.
Fire Emblem Engage
While Fire Emblem: Three Houses may have stolen the spotlight, Fire Emblem Engage offers a compelling narrative and tactical gameplay. With the return of fan-favorite characters from across the series and a nod to classic SRPG mechanics, this game is a treat for strategy fans.
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore
This unique crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, set against Japan's idol music culture, offers a vibrant mix of RPG combat and colorful aesthetics. Despite some toned-down themes, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is a refreshing and enjoyable experience.
Astral Chain
From PlatinumGames, Astral Chain delivers a thrilling action experience with its innovative combat system and cyberfuturistic setting. The game's challenging bosses and engaging exploration elements make it a standout title, deserving more recognition on the Switch.
Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope
Combining the worlds of Mario and Rabbids, Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope offers a fun and strategic RPG experience. The game's action-focused combat and character combinations provide a fresh take on the genre, appealing to fans of both franchises.
Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door
A ground-up remake of the beloved GameCube classic, Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door enhances the original with updated visuals and gameplay. This title is a perfect entry point for newcomers to the Paper Mario series, offering a charming and engaging adventure.
F-Zero 99
Returning after a 20-year hiatus, F-Zero 99 reinvents the series with a 99-player battle royale format. The game's post-launch updates and thrilling races make it a surprising yet welcome addition to the franchise, rekindling the excitement of high-speed competition.
Pikmin 3 Deluxe
With new Pikmin types and enhanced gameplay, Pikmin 3 Deluxe expands on the beloved franchise. The addition of co-op mode and extra content, along with the humorous interactions of the protagonists, make it a delightful experience for fans and newcomers alike.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
This ingenious puzzle platformer challenges players to navigate levels without jumping, thanks to Captain Toad's heavy backpack. Its brain-teasing levels and portability make it an ideal Switch game, deserving recognition beyond its Wii U origins.
Game Builder Garage
An overlooked gem, Game Builder Garage is Nintendo's accessible game engine designed to teach players how to create their own games. Its engaging lessons and charming interface make it a perfect starting point for aspiring game developers.
Xenoblade Chronicles Series
With expansive, beautiful open worlds, the Xenoblade Chronicles series on Switch combines classic JRPG elements with modern technology. Each game offers hundreds of hours of immersive storytelling and exploration, making them essential for RPG enthusiasts.
Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe
A fantastic 2D platformer, Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe offers robust multiplayer and a wealth of levels and collectibles. Its seamless drop-in/drop-out feature and new epilogue make it a perfect introduction to the genre for new players.
Ring Fit Adventure
Not just a fitness tool, Ring Fit Adventure offers a compelling RPG experience. Its innovative use of the fitness ring to battle foes and the engaging narrative make it a game you should revisit or start anew before the Switch 2 arrives.
Metroid Dread
Reviving the classic 2D Metroid gameplay, Metroid Dread delivers a tense, atmospheric experience with its E.M.M.I. machines. Despite its sales, this title is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Metroid series and a must-play for fans.
Metroid Prime Remastered
With its stunning graphical overhaul and refined gameplay, Metroid Prime Remastered brings one of the greatest video games to the Switch. Its sense of isolation and exploration remains unparalleled, making it a must-experience title before the Switch 2's arrival.
