Best Nintendo Switch Games: Top Picks For 2024

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the awesome world of Nintendo Switch gaming? If you're a proud owner of this versatile console or planning to get one, you've come to the right place. The Nintendo Switch has revolutionized the gaming scene with its unique hybrid nature, allowing you to play both on your TV and on the go. But with so many amazing games available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best ones. That's why we've compiled this comprehensive guide to the top games for Nintendo Switch, ensuring you get the most out of your gaming experience. So, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's jump in!

Before we dive into our list, let's talk about what makes a Nintendo Switch game truly exceptional. There are several factors to consider, and understanding these will help you appreciate the variety and quality of titles available. First and foremost, gameplay is king. A great game should have engaging mechanics, smooth controls, and a satisfying core loop that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it's exploring vast open worlds, solving intricate puzzles, or battling formidable foes, the gameplay needs to be fun and rewarding. Next up, we have the narrative aspect. A compelling story, memorable characters, and meaningful choices can elevate a game from good to legendary. Think about the emotional journey in "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" or the gripping plot twists in "Fire Emblem: Three Houses." The narrative should complement the gameplay, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.

Visuals and performance are also crucial. The Nintendo Switch may not be the most powerful console on the market, but its games often make up for it with clever art direction and optimized performance. Games like "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe" and "Super Mario Odyssey" are vibrant and visually appealing, while titles like "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt" demonstrate the console's ability to handle complex, graphically intensive games. Multiplayer options are another key consideration. The Switch is perfect for both local and online multiplayer, making it a fantastic console for playing with friends and family. Games like "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate" and "Splatoon 2" thrive on their competitive multiplayer modes, while cooperative games like "Animal Crossing: New Horizons" and "Luigi's Mansion 3" offer delightful shared experiences. Finally, replayability adds significant value. A game that offers multiple playthroughs, new game plus modes, or a wealth of post-game content can keep you entertained for hours on end. Games like "Stardew Valley" and "The Binding of Isaac: Afterbirth+" are renowned for their almost endless replayability.

Alright, let's get to the heart of the matter! Here's our curated list of the top games for Nintendo Switch, spanning various genres and playstyles. We've made sure to include something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the Nintendo universe.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is not just a game; it's an experience. This masterpiece redefined the open-world genre with its sprawling Hyrule, filled with secrets, challenges, and breathtaking vistas. From the moment you step out of the Shrine of Resurrection, you're free to explore, discover, and forge your own path. The sense of freedom is unparalleled, and the game constantly rewards curiosity and experimentation. Gameplay in Breath of the Wild is incredibly versatile. You can climb almost any surface, cook meals with foraged ingredients, battle enemies with a variety of weapons and tactics, and solve environmental puzzles using Link's Sheikah Slate abilities. The physics engine is incredibly robust, allowing for emergent gameplay moments that are both surprising and satisfying. For instance, you might use a metal weapon to attract lightning during a thunderstorm or set fire to tall grass to create an updraft for your paraglider.

The narrative, while minimalist, is deeply impactful. The story revolves around Link's quest to defeat Calamity Ganon and rescue Princess Zelda, but the game's strength lies in its world-building and character interactions. Each region of Hyrule feels distinct, with its own culture, history, and inhabitants. Meeting the diverse cast of characters, from the Zora prince Sidon to the Gerudo chief Riju, adds depth and emotion to your journey. Breath of the Wild's visuals are stunning, even on the Switch's relatively modest hardware. The game's art style is a beautiful blend of realism and cartoonish charm, creating a world that is both inviting and awe-inspiring. The dynamic weather system and day-night cycle further enhance the immersion, making each playthrough feel unique. In terms of performance, the game generally runs smoothly, although occasional frame rate drops can occur in densely populated areas. However, these are minor issues in an otherwise polished experience. Breath of the Wild offers a high degree of replayability. You can explore different regions, tackle shrines in various orders, experiment with different combat strategies, and uncover hidden secrets. The game also includes a Master Mode, which increases the difficulty and adds new challenges. Whether you're a longtime Zelda fan or new to the series, Breath of the Wild is a must-play title that showcases the best of what the Nintendo Switch has to offer. It's a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing, and one that you'll want to revisit again and again.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is a joyful celebration of everything that makes Mario games great. This 3D platformer takes Mario on a globe-trotting adventure, introducing new mechanics and worlds that are bursting with creativity and charm. If you're looking for a game that will put a smile on your face, Super Mario Odyssey is it. Gameplay in Super Mario Odyssey revolves around exploration and collection. Mario travels to various kingdoms, each with its own unique theme and challenges. The introduction of Cappy, a sentient hat that allows Mario to capture and control enemies and objects, adds a fresh twist to the classic Mario formula. You can capture everything from Goombas and Hammer Bros to dinosaurs and tanks, each offering unique abilities and gameplay possibilities. This mechanic opens up new ways to traverse environments, solve puzzles, and defeat enemies, making the game feel constantly fresh and exciting. The narrative in Super Mario Odyssey is simple but effective. Mario must rescue Princess Peach from Bowser, who is planning a forced wedding. However, the story takes a backseat to the gameplay and exploration, allowing the worlds and characters to shine. Each kingdom is filled with memorable NPCs and charming details that bring the world to life. From the bustling Metro Kingdom to the serene Seaside Kingdom, each location is a joy to explore and discover.

The visuals in Super Mario Odyssey are stunning. The game's art style is vibrant and colorful, and the worlds are filled with intricate details and hidden secrets. The game runs smoothly in both docked and handheld mode, maintaining a consistent 60 frames per second. This ensures that the platforming feels responsive and precise. Super Mario Odyssey offers a decent amount of replayability. After completing the main story, you can unlock new moons, costumes, and challenges. The game also features a cooperative mode, where one player controls Mario and the other controls Cappy. This adds a new layer of fun and strategy to the gameplay. Overall, Super Mario Odyssey is a masterpiece of 3D platforming. It's a game that is both accessible to newcomers and challenging for veterans. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the series, this is a game that you won't want to miss. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of Mario and a shining example of the creativity and innovation that Nintendo is known for.

3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the perfect game for relaxation and creativity. This social simulation game drops you on a deserted island, where you can build your own paradise, make friends with adorable animal villagers, and enjoy the simple pleasures of island life. If you're looking for a game to unwind with after a long day, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the perfect choice. Gameplay in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is all about customization and progression. You start with a basic tent and a handful of tools, and gradually build your island into a thriving community. You can collect resources, craft furniture and tools, decorate your house, catch fish and bugs, and interact with your villagers. The game operates in real-time, meaning that the seasons change, the sun rises and sets, and events occur according to the real-world clock. This makes the game feel incredibly immersive and encourages you to check in regularly to see what's new. The narrative in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is non-linear and open-ended. There is no main story to complete; instead, the game focuses on creating your own experiences and building relationships with your villagers. Each villager has their own personality and backstory, and getting to know them is one of the most rewarding aspects of the game. You can also invite friends to your island, visit their islands, and participate in special events together. This social aspect adds another layer of depth to the gameplay.

The visuals in Animal Crossing: New Horizons are charming and colorful. The game's art style is cute and whimsical, and the environments are filled with detail. The game runs smoothly in both docked and handheld mode, although frame rate drops can occur in heavily decorated areas. Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers almost endless replayability. There are always new items to collect, new villagers to meet, and new ways to decorate your island. The game also receives regular updates with new content and events, keeping the experience fresh and engaging. Whether you're a long-time Animal Crossing fan or new to the series, this is a game that you can easily lose yourself in for hours on end. It's a perfect example of a game that is both relaxing and rewarding, and a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner.

4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate truly lives up to its name. This crossover fighting game features the largest roster of characters in the series' history, with fighters from a wide range of franchises including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Final Fantasy, and many more. If you're a fan of fighting games or just love seeing your favorite characters duke it out, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a must-have. Gameplay in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is fast-paced and chaotic. Up to eight players can battle simultaneously, using a variety of attacks and special moves to knock their opponents off the stage. The game is easy to pick up and play, but difficult to master, with a deep competitive scene that rewards skill and strategy. There are a variety of game modes to choose from, including classic Smash mode, team battles, and the adventure mode, World of Light. This mode offers a lengthy single-player campaign with a unique story and challenges. The narrative in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is primarily focused on the World of Light mode, which sees the fighters teaming up to defeat a powerful entity known as Galeem. The story is mostly told through cutscenes and character interactions, and while it's not the game's main focus, it provides a fun and engaging backdrop for the action.

The visuals in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate are stunning. The game features detailed character models and vibrant stages, and the action is always smooth and fluid. The game runs at a consistent 60 frames per second, ensuring that the gameplay feels responsive and precise. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers a ton of replayability. With a massive roster of characters to unlock, stages to discover, and challenges to complete, there's always something new to do. The game also features a robust online multiplayer mode, allowing you to battle against players from around the world. Whether you're a casual player or a competitive gamer, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has something to offer. It's a celebration of gaming history and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Smash Bros. series.

5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive version of the beloved kart racing game. This title includes all the content from the original Mario Kart 8 on Wii U, plus new characters, tracks, and modes. If you're looking for a fun and accessible racing game to play with friends and family, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is an excellent choice. Gameplay in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is simple yet addictive. Players race around colorful tracks, collecting power-ups to use against their opponents. The game features a variety of characters from the Mario universe, each with their own unique stats and abilities. There are also different kart parts to unlock and customize, allowing you to fine-tune your vehicle to your playstyle. The game includes several modes, including Grand Prix, Time Trial, Versus Race, and Battle Mode. Battle Mode has been significantly improved in Deluxe, with new modes and arenas that make it a highlight of the game. The narrative in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is minimal, focusing instead on the fun and competitive aspects of racing. The game is all about the thrill of the race, the satisfaction of pulling off a perfect drift, and the hilarity of using a Blue Shell to knock your opponents off course.

The visuals in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe are vibrant and polished. The game's tracks are beautifully designed, with plenty of twists, turns, and obstacles to keep you on your toes. The game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second, even in four-player split-screen mode. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers excellent replayability. With a wide variety of tracks, characters, and kart parts to unlock, there's always something new to discover. The game also features online multiplayer, allowing you to race against players from around the world. Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or new to the genre, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a game that you can easily pick up and enjoy. It's a perfect example of a game that is both accessible and challenging, and a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner.

So there you have it, guys! Our comprehensive guide to the top games for Nintendo Switch. From epic adventures to relaxing simulations and chaotic multiplayer battles, the Switch has something for everyone. We hope this list has given you some great ideas for your next gaming purchase. Remember, the best game is the one that you enjoy the most, so don't be afraid to explore different genres and titles. Happy gaming, and we'll see you in Hyrule, the Mushroom Kingdom, and beyond!