20 Underrated Nintendo Switch Titles Revealed

As the Nintendo Switch gracefully approaches the end of its lifecycle, paving the way for the eagerly anticipated Switch 2, it's the perfect time to revisit some of the hidden gems on the current console. While blockbuster titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons have captured the hearts of millions, there are still numerous overlooked treasures waiting to be discovered on the Nintendo Switch.

We understand that time and budget constraints can make it challenging to dive into every game. However, before you transition to the Switch 2, take a moment to explore these exceptional games. You'll find that they offer unique experiences and enrich your gaming library in ways you might not expect.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

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20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Dive into the enchanting origin story of the demon-slaying witch, Bayonetta, with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This game stands out with its stunning storybook art style and engaging puzzle platforming. While it diverges from the high-octane action of its predecessors, it retains classic combat combos that fans adore. Don't miss this captivating addition to the Bayonetta series.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Experience the thrill of the musou genre with a Zelda twist in Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. Although it's not canon to Breath of the Wild, the game offers a gratifying experience where you can step into the shoes of Link and other champions to defend Hyrule from hordes of enemies. It's a must-play for fans of the Zelda universe looking for a different kind of adventure.

18. New Pokemon Snap

Fulfill your dream of exploring the world of Pokémon with New Pokemon Snap. This sequel to the beloved Nintendo 64 title enhances everything you loved about the original, offering more Pokémon to photograph and secrets to uncover across various biomes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this unique spin-off is a delightful journey.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Step into the first fully 3D Kirby game with Kirby and the Forgotten Land. This title expands the series with new abilities and fully explorable environments, allowing Kirby to roam freely and turn into a car for exploration. It's a testament to the enduring charm of Kirby and a highlight of the Switch's library.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Embrace the unique charm of the Paper Mario series with The Origami King. Its distinctive art style and puzzle RPG gameplay offer a refreshing departure from traditional Mario titles. While the combat may not be as robust as its predecessors, the game's visual splendor and open-world exploration make it a standout.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

For fans of challenging 2D platformers, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a must-play. Its fast-paced action and demanding levels will test your skills, but the reward is a beautifully crafted game with tight controls and an unforgettable soundtrack. It's a modern classic that deserves more recognition.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses stole the spotlight, Fire Emblem Engage offers a compelling alternative. With its multiverse concept bringing back beloved characters and a tactical gameplay style reminiscent of classic SRPGs, it's a game that strategy fans should not overlook.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

Experience a unique crossover with Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore, blending Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem in a vibrant idol music setting. Its colorful art style and engaging combat system make it a refreshing addition to the Switch library, despite its toned-down themes.

12. Astral Chain

Immerse yourself in the action-packed world of Astral Chain. This PlatinumGames title offers fluid combat with a variety of summonable weapons and a rich cyberfuturistic setting to explore. Its unique blend of action, investigation, and puzzle-solving makes it a gem on the Switch.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Join forces with Mario and the Rabbids in Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, a strategy RPG that combines the best of both worlds. Its action-focused combat and character synergy make it a fun and engaging experience for fans of either series.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

Rediscover the charm of Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, a beloved GameCube classic remade for the Switch. Its improved visuals, music, and gameplay enhancements make it one of the best entries in the series, perfect for newcomers and longtime fans alike.

9. F-Zero 99

Revive the thrill of F-Zero with F-Zero 99, a 99-player battle royale that brought the series back after a 20-year hiatus. Its intense racing and strategic elements offer a fresh take on the franchise, proving to be a surprising yet worthy addition.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Explore the delightful world of Pikmin 3 Deluxe, a game that expanded the franchise with new Pikmin types and engaging content. Its humorous narrative and added co-op features make it a joy to play, ensuring it's a valuable addition to any Pikmin collection.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Delve into the clever puzzle platforming of Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. Its unique mechanics, where Captain Toad navigates levels without jumping, offer a delightful challenge. Perfect for short bursts of play, it's a gem that deserves more attention.

6. Game Builder Garage

Unlock your creativity with Game Builder Garage, a tool that teaches you how to build games through charming lessons. It's an accessible entry point into game development, perfect for anyone who's ever wanted to create their own games.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Embark on epic journeys with the Xenoblade Chronicles series, featuring some of the most expansive and beautiful open worlds on the Switch. Each game offers a rich narrative and engaging gameplay that will captivate you for hundreds of hours.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Enjoy the cooperative fun of Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe, a 2D platformer with robust multiplayer features. Its extensive levels and collectibles, along with a new epilogue and subgames, make it a perfect entry point for new gamers and a delight for Kirby fans.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Get active with Ring Fit Adventure, a best-selling game that combines fitness with RPG elements. Its engaging story and innovative use of the fitness ring make it an enjoyable way to stay fit, and it's worth seeing through to the end.

2. Metroid Dread

Experience the thrilling return of Samus Aran with Metroid Dread. This 2.5D game captures the essence of classic Metroid titles while introducing new elements like the terrifying E.M.M.I. machines. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of the series.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

Relive the classic with Metroid Prime Remastered, a stunning update to one of the greatest games of all time. Its graphical overhaul and refined gameplay make it an essential play on the Switch, especially with the anticipation of Metroid Prime 4.

These are our top picks for overlooked Nintendo Switch games that deserve your attention before the Switch 2 arrives. With backward compatibility expected, now is the perfect time to dive into these titles and continue your adventure on the new console.