20 Hidden Gems for Nintendo Switch

As the Nintendo Switch approaches its twilight years, anticipation builds for the imminent arrival of the Switch 2. Before you archive your beloved console, take a moment to revisit some of the hidden gems that may have slipped under your radar. While blockbuster titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons are household names among Switch owners, there are numerous other titles that deserve your attention. Time and budget constraints are real, but these overlooked games are worth exploring before transitioning to the next generation.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

21 Images20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Delve into the enchanting origins of the demon-slaying witch, Bayonetta, with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This prequel stands out with its stunning storybook art style and captivating puzzle-platforming gameplay. While it may diverge from the series' traditional action, it still retains satisfying combat sequences, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike who appreciate a fresh take on a beloved character.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Experience the thrill of the musou genre with Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, a spin-off that brilliantly merges The Legend of Zelda universe with the frenetic action of Dynasty Warriors. Although not part of the main Zelda canon, the game offers a gratifying experience where you can step into the shoes of Link and other champions to fend off hordes of enemies. If you've enjoyed Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Age of Calamity is a compelling addition to your Switch library.

18. New Pokemon Snap

Revisit the magic of the original Nintendo 64 classic with New Pokemon Snap. Released in 2021, this sequel expands on the beloved photo-taking adventure, offering more Pokemon to discover and secrets hidden in diverse biomes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the franchise, New Pokemon Snap provides a unique and engaging experience that's a standout in the Pokemon series.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Step into the first fully 3D Kirby adventure with Kirby and the Forgotten Land. This game revolutionizes the series by offering expansive, explorable 3D environments. Kirby's iconic ability to inhale enemies and objects remains, but the added dimension allows for innovative gameplay mechanics like transforming into a car. Don't miss this standout entry in the Kirby franchise before the Switch era ends.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Embrace the charm and whimsy of Paper Mario: The Origami King, a delightful addition to the beloved Paper Mario series. With its unique puzzle-RPG gameplay and charming art style, this game offers a refreshing departure from traditional Mario platformers. While the combat might not satisfy all fans, the visually stunning world and engaging story make it a gem worth exploring.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Don't miss out on Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, a 2D platformer that's both challenging and visually spectacular. This game demands precision and skill, making it a thrilling experience for platformer enthusiasts. From navigating crumbling icebergs to bouncing on jello cubes, Tropical Freeze delivers a rewarding gameplay experience that's not to be missed.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses captured many hearts, Fire Emblem Engage offers a compelling alternative. Though the narrative might not be as tight, Engage brings back beloved characters from the series' past through a multiverse concept. Its tactical gameplay and smaller, more intense maps provide a challenging experience for strategy RPG fans.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

Experience the unique blend of Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem in Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore. Set against Japan's idol music culture, this game combines colorful aesthetics with engaging RPG combat. Despite some toned-down themes in the localization, the poppy atmosphere and innovative gameplay make it a worthwhile adventure.

12. Astral Chain

Dive into the action-packed world of Astral Chain, an exclusive Switch title from PlatinumGames. With its fluid combat system and engaging cyberfuturistic setting, this game offers a thrilling experience. From battling challenging bosses to exploring the Astral Plane, Astral Chain is a must-play for action game enthusiasts.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Discover the surprising synergy between Mario and the Rabbids in Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope. This strategy RPG blends action-focused combat with character customization, delivering a fun and engaging experience. Whether you're a fan of Mario or Rabbids, this game offers a delightful mix of both worlds.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

Relive the magic of the beloved GameCube classic with the ground-up remake of Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door. With enhanced visuals, music, and gameplay, this title is a testament to the charm of the Paper Mario series. If you're new to the series, this is the perfect entry point.

9. F-Zero 99

Rev up your engines with F-Zero 99, a thrilling battle royale racing game that reinvents the classic series. While it may differ from traditional F-Zero games, the excitement of racing against 98 other players and strategic use of the Skyway make it a standout title. Don't miss out on this unexpected but exhilarating addition to the franchise.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Explore the charming world of Pikmin 3 Deluxe, an enhanced version of the beloved Wii U title. With new Pikmin types, improved controls, and additional content, this game offers a delightful experience for fans of the series. The humorous interactions between the protagonists add a lighthearted touch to the adventure.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Embark on a brain-teasing adventure with Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. This puzzle-platformer challenges you to navigate levels without jumping, offering a unique and engaging gameplay experience. Perfect for short bursts of play, it's an ideal game for the Switch's portable nature.

6. Game Builder Garage

Unlock your creativity with Game Builder Garage, Nintendo's innovative tool for learning game development. This game simplifies the process of building games, offering lessons that guide you through creating various game types. It's an excellent starting point for aspiring game developers and a fun way to explore game design.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Immerse yourself in the expansive worlds of the Xenoblade Chronicles series. With sweeping narratives and breathtaking open worlds, these games offer hundreds of hours of engaging gameplay. Whether you're new to the series or a longtime fan, the Xenoblade games are a must-play for JRPG enthusiasts.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Enjoy the multiplayer fun of Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe, a vibrant 2D platformer that shines with its cooperative gameplay. With a wealth of levels and collectibles, this game is perfect for both solo and group play. The added epilogue and subgames make it an even richer experience.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Get active with Ring Fit Adventure, a unique blend of fitness and RPG gameplay. While it was a bestseller, many may have abandoned it before reaching the end. Rediscover its engaging story and effective workout regimen, and power up both your character and yourself.

2. Metroid Dread

Experience the resurgence of the Metroid series with Metroid Dread, a 2.5D masterpiece that brings back the series' signature tension and exploration. The relentless E.M.M.I. robots add a thrilling layer of fear, making this game a standout title on the Switch.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

Rediscover the brilliance of Metroid Prime with its remastered version on the Switch. This isn't just a re-release; it's a graphical overhaul that brings the classic to modern standards. With enhanced controls and gameplay tweaks, it's a must-play for both new and returning fans. Despite its sales, it remains one of the best video games of all time.