When it comes to Nintendo, most people immediately think of whimsical adventures, adorable characters, and charming, cartoonish worlds. While the Switch is indeed packed with Mario and other beloved icons, the console offers far more than just classic platformers. From immersive open worlds to inventive multiplayer experiences, the Switch has something for casual players and hardcore gamers alike. As Baltimore Chronicle notes, these are the 15 must-play games for 2025.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ultimate virtual retreat. Players can create a dream island, decorate it with endless trinkets, and invite friends over for relaxing social activities. This life-sim offers a peaceful, gentle experience perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Why it stands out: “Animal Crossing is everything I have been craving: it is gentle, soothing, social and creative.”
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Fire Emblem: Three Houses blends tactical combat with a dramatic school-life narrative. Guide your students through intricate battles, complex relationships, and a story full of twists and emotional moments.
Why it stands out: “By turns grandiose and silly, but always engrossing, this bubbling school soap opera is a game to spend a summer with.”
Hades
Hades is an award-winning rogue-like dungeon crawler where players face the underworld’s monsters while engaging in witty, flirtatious banter with the gods themselves. Its procedural gameplay ensures every run feels fresh.
Why it stands out: “No matter how long I spend with Hades, I feel like I am only just getting acquainted with it.”
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight offers a dark, atmospheric journey through a vast subterranean world teeming with strange creatures. Combining platforming, exploration, and combat, it is a hauntingly beautiful experience for those who enjoy challenging gameplay.
Why it stands out: “A game that worms its way into your subconscious – the excellent sound design and animation are noteworthy, too.”
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby explores a quirky post-apocalyptic world in this 3D adventure. With fun new abilities and cooperative gameplay options, it delivers charming and accessible platforming fun for all ages.
Why it stands out: “Has surprisingly cinematic flair, and many levels are complemented by slick cutscenes and a rip-roaring orchestral soundtrack.”
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Link returns to a reinvented Hyrule in this groundbreaking open-world adventure. Combining classic Zelda mechanics with new exploration opportunities, it’s a benchmark in modern gaming. Its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, continues this extraordinary journey.
Why it stands out: “A game that marries the best bits of the franchise’s long history with the best bits of the rest of the gaming world.”
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains the ultimate cartoon racing game. With 48 circuits, a wide roster of characters, and chaotic multiplayer fun, it’s a must-have for Switch owners.
Why it stands out: “Mario Kart is a vehicle for fun with all your friends and family, and this Deluxe edition is the best yet.”
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Pokémon Legends: Arceus reinvents the franchise with an open-world experience and a more challenging capture system. It’s perfect for veteran players seeking a fresh approach.
Why it stands out: “This ambitious reboot sets Pokémon on an exciting new trajectory, recapturing the thrill of discovery.”
Sea of Stars
A love letter to 1990s Japanese RPGs, Sea of Stars features turn-based battles, epic adventures, and heartfelt storytelling. Its visuals and soundtrack evoke classic RPG magic while feeling fresh and modern.
Why it stands out: “Sea of Stars is no shallow mirror of RPGs past; its depth and sparkle make it a modern classic.”
Splatoon 3
Splatoon 3 delivers messy, colorful multiplayer mayhem without guns or violence. Players engage in paint-based battles, solos, or co-op, with endless customization options.
Why it stands out: “It offers more fashions, modes, and ways to play in its chaotic universe. It is delightful to be back.”
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a cozy, charming farming simulator where players cultivate crops, explore caves, and form social bonds with townsfolk. Its engaging simplicity hides a rich, detailed world.
Why it stands out: “Part farming sim, part RPG, Stardew Valley offers charm, wit, and a beautiful little world.”
Super Mario Odyssey
Mario traverses deserts, cities, and fantastical lands to rescue Princess Peach in this imaginative 3D adventure. Its inventive gameplay and surreal humor make it unforgettable.
Why it stands out: “A truly joyful, fizzily creative game that revels in movement and imagination.”
Super Mario Bros Wonder
Returning to side-scrolling roots, Mario Bros Wonder blends nostalgia with inventive new mechanics and slightly hallucinatory visuals. It’s perfect for families and newcomers alike.
Why it stands out: “A wonderful introduction to the creativity and detail that have made Mario a family staple for decades.”
Super Smash Bros Ultimate
Nintendo’s iconic multiplayer brawler brings together characters from across gaming history, from Pac-Man to Solid Snake, offering chaotic, competitive fun for all.
Why it stands out: “A palpable love of video games infuses everything, from iconic franchises to obscure gems.”
Tetris 99
Tetris 99 transforms the classic block-stacking puzzle into a competitive battle royale, combining strategy, speed, and addictive gameplay in a uniquely modern format.
Why it stands out: “Once you start playing, it’s impossible to stop – every near-success pulls you back for more.”
Earlier we wrote about Oscar nominee Timothée Chalamet stuns in Netflix’s The King and Don’t look up.
