Top Nintendo Switch Games: Best To Worst Ranked!

So, you're looking to dive into the world of Nintendo Switch games, huh? Awesome! But with so many titles out there, it can feel like wading through a swamp to find those hidden gems. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered. Let's break down some of the top Nintendo Switch games, ranking them from the absolute must-plays to those you might want to skip. Whether you're into action-packed adventures, brain-teasing puzzles, or just chilling with some wholesome vibes, there's something here for everyone.

The Pinnacle: Absolute Must-Play Nintendo Switch Games

When we talk about the best Nintendo Switch games, we're talking about titles that redefine genres, offer endless replayability, and leave a lasting impression long after you've put down the console. These are the games that showcase the Switch's capabilities and offer unforgettable experiences.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Come on, you knew this would be at the top. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild isn't just a game; it's a masterpiece. Its open-world design is unparalleled, offering a sense of freedom and discovery that's rarely matched. From the moment you step out of the Shrine of Resurrection, the vast world of Hyrule stretches before you, inviting you to explore every nook and cranny. The game's physics-based interactions are mind-blowing. You can use fire to create updrafts, freeze enemies with ice arrows, and solve puzzles in incredibly creative ways. The story, while familiar, is delivered with emotional depth, and the characters are memorable. Plus, the sheer amount of content is staggering. You could easily sink hundreds of hours into exploring Hyrule, completing side quests, and mastering the combat. Breath of the Wild is a system-seller, and if you own a Switch, it's an absolute must-play. Seriously, if you haven't played it yet, what are you waiting for?

Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is pure, unadulterated joy. It's a love letter to the entire Mario franchise, packed with inventive gameplay mechanics and a boundless sense of creativity. Cappy, Mario's new companion, adds a fresh twist to the classic formula, allowing you to capture enemies and objects, each with their unique abilities. This opens up a wealth of possibilities for exploration and puzzle-solving. The game's kingdoms are vibrant and diverse, each with its own distinct atmosphere and challenges. From the bustling streets of New Donk City to the serene beaches of Seaside Kingdom, every location is a visual treat. The sheer number of collectibles and secrets hidden throughout the game ensures that you'll always have something new to discover. Super Mario Odyssey is a celebration of everything that makes Mario great, and it's a must-have for any Switch owner.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Need a chill game that lets you escape from reality? Animal Crossing: New Horizons is your ticket to paradise. This game took the world by storm, and for good reason. It's a relaxing and endlessly charming life simulator where you can build your own island paradise, befriend adorable animal villagers, and engage in a variety of activities, from fishing and bug-catching to crafting and decorating. The game's real-time clock and calendar create a sense of connection to the virtual world, making it feel like a living, breathing place. The constant stream of events and updates keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the perfect game to unwind with after a long day, and it's a great way to connect with friends and family.

The Great Tier: Highly Recommended Nintendo Switch Games

These Nintendo Switch games are fantastic, offering engaging gameplay, compelling stories, and high production values. While they might not reach the heights of the absolute must-plays, they're still well worth your time and money.

Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread is a triumphant return to form for the Metroid series. It's a tense and atmospheric action-adventure game that perfectly captures the feeling of isolation and dread. Samus Aran is at her best, navigating a hostile alien world while being hunted by relentless E.M.M.I. robots. The game's level design is intricate and rewarding, encouraging exploration and careful planning. The combat is challenging but fair, and the boss battles are epic. Metroid Dread is a must-play for fans of the Metroid series and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted action-adventure game.

Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight is an indie masterpiece that has captivated players with its haunting atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and intricate world-building. It's a Metroidvania-style game set in the decaying kingdom of Hallownest, where you play as a silent knight tasked with unraveling the mysteries of the Infection. The game's combat is precise and demanding, requiring you to master your character's abilities and learn enemy patterns. The world is vast and interconnected, with hidden areas and secrets to discover at every turn. Hollow Knight is a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience that will stay with you long after you've finished playing.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is another indie darling that has won the hearts of gamers with its charming pixel art, relaxing gameplay, and heartwarming story. It's a farming simulator where you inherit your grandfather's old farm and must rebuild it into a thriving business. You can plant crops, raise animals, go fishing, explore mines, and befriend the townsfolk. The game's open-ended structure allows you to play at your own pace, and there's always something to do. Stardew Valley is a perfect game for anyone who enjoys a relaxing and rewarding experience.

The Good Tier: Solid Nintendo Switch Games

These Nintendo Switch games are enjoyable and offer unique experiences, but they might have some flaws or lack the polish of the higher-ranked titles. Still, they're worth considering if you're looking for something a little different.

Luigi's Mansion 3

Luigi's Mansion 3 is a charming and humorous action-adventure game where you play as Luigi, who must rescue Mario and his friends from a haunted hotel. The game's puzzles are clever and engaging, and the ghost-hunting gameplay is satisfying. The hotel is filled with quirky characters and spooky surprises, making it a delight to explore. Luigi's Mansion 3 is a great game for families and anyone who enjoys a lighthearted adventure.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a strategy RPG that puts you in the role of a professor at a military academy. You must choose one of three houses to lead, train your students, and guide them through battles. The game's story is complex and engaging, with branching paths and multiple endings. The characters are well-developed and memorable, and the combat is strategic and rewarding. Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a must-play for fans of strategy RPGs.

Pokémon Sword and Shield

Pokémon Sword and Shield are the latest installments in the Pokémon series, and they offer a new region to explore, new Pokémon to catch, and a new story to experience. The game's open-world areas are a welcome addition, and the Dynamax and Gigantamax features add a new layer of strategy to battles. While the games have been criticized for their lack of innovation and some technical issues, they're still enjoyable for fans of the Pokémon series.

The Okay Tier: Decent Nintendo Switch Games

These games for Nintendo Switch are playable and might offer some entertainment, but they're often generic, repetitive, or lacking in content. You might want to wait for a sale or consider other options.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a collection of mini-games based on the Olympic Games. The game is fun for a while, but it quickly becomes repetitive. The mini-games are simple and easy to master, and there's not much depth to the gameplay. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 is a decent party game, but it's not a must-have.

Just Dance 2023 Edition

Just Dance 2023 Edition is a dance game that features a variety of popular songs and dance moves. The game is fun to play with friends and family, but it can be repetitive if you're playing alone. The song selection is decent, but it's not as diverse as in previous entries. Just Dance 2023 Edition is a decent dance game, but it's not a must-have.

The Avoid Tier: Not Recommended Nintendo Switch Games

These Nintendo Switch games are generally considered to be low-quality, broken, or simply not worth your time. You should avoid them unless you're a completionist or have a specific interest in the game.

Override: Mech City Brawl

Override: Mech City Brawl is a fighting game where you control giant mechs and battle each other in destructible arenas. The game is clunky and unresponsive, and the combat is repetitive. The graphics are unimpressive, and the story is forgettable. Override: Mech City Brawl is not a recommended game.

Tiny Racer

Tiny Racer is a top-down racing game that is plagued with glitches and poor performance. The game's controls are unresponsive, and the graphics are blurry. The track design is uninspired, and the gameplay is repetitive. Tiny Racer is not a recommended game.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, folks! A breakdown of some of the best and worst Nintendo Switch games. Remember, this is just my opinion, and your mileage may vary. But hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point for exploring the vast library of Nintendo Switch games. Happy gaming!