Top 20 Underrated Nintendo Switch Games

As the Nintendo Switch approaches its final days after an impressive eight-year run, the anticipation for the Switch 2 grows. Before you retire your current console, take a moment to explore some of the overlooked gems that have graced the Switch's library. While iconic 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 many, there are numerous other games that deserve your attention before the next generation arrives.

We understand that time and budget constraints can make it challenging to dive into every game. However, revisiting these hidden treasures on the Switch before the Switch 2 launches could enhance your gaming experience. Here's a curated list of 20 overlooked Nintendo Switch games that you should consider playing.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

21 Images20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Delve into the origin story of the beloved demon-slaying witch with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This game offers a stunning puzzle platformer experience wrapped in a captivating storybook art style. Fans of Bayonetta's action-packed combat will find familiar button-mashing combos, making it a worthy addition to the series that might have been overlooked due to its prequel nature and unique visual approach.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Experience the thrill of the Dynasty Warriors/musou genre with a Legend of Zelda twist in Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. While not canon to Breath of the Wild, the game offers a gratifying experience as you take on the role of Link or other Champions to defend Hyrule from hordes of enemies. If you're a fan of the Zelda series, this game is a must-play before the Switch 2 arrives.

18. New Pokemon Snap

For those who cherished the original Pokemon Snap on the Nintendo 64, New Pokemon Snap on the Switch is a dream come true. This sequel expands on everything fans loved about the original, offering more Pokemon to photograph and hidden secrets to uncover across various biomes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this unique Pokemon spinoff is worth exploring.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks the first fully 3D entry in the Kirby series, taking full advantage of the new dimension. Kirby's ability to inhale enemies and objects remains, but the 3D environments allow for more exploration and innovative abilities like transforming into a car. Don't miss out on one of the best Kirby games during the Switch era.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Paper Mario: The Origami King stands out with its charming art style and puzzle RPG gameplay, diverging from the traditional Mario platformers. The game's open world is beautifully crafted, making it one of the most visually appealing entries in the Paper Mario series. While the combat may not be as engaging as its predecessors, the game's aesthetic and exploration make it a worthwhile experience.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a masterpiece of 2D platforming that deserves more recognition. Its challenging levels will test even seasoned players, featuring unique environments and tight controls. With stunning graphics and an unforgettable soundtrack, this game is a must-play for platformer enthusiasts.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses may have stolen the spotlight, Fire Emblem Engage offers a compelling experience with its multiverse concept, bringing back beloved characters from past games. Its tactical RPG gameplay and challenging difficulty make it a standout title for fans of the genre.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is a unique crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, set against the backdrop of Japan's idol music culture. Its vibrant art style and engaging RPG combat make it a delightful experience, despite some toned-down themes in the localization.

12. Astral Chain

Astral Chain is a must-play for fans of action games, offering fluid and flashy combat with a variety of summonable weapons. The game's cyberfuturistic world and investigative elements add depth, while the Astral Plane provides additional challenges reminiscent of classic Nintendo dungeons. Its exclusivity to the Switch may have limited its recognition, but it's a gem worth discovering.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope combines the worlds of Mario and Ubisoft's Rabbids in a fun and engaging strategy RPG. The action-focused combat and character combinations offer a fresh and enjoyable experience, appealing to fans of both franchises.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door is a ground-up remake of the beloved GameCube title, enhancing its visuals, music, and gameplay. As one of the most cherished entries in the Paper Mario series, it's the perfect introduction to Mario's paper-based adventures.

9. F-Zero 99

F-Zero 99 surprised fans with its 99-player battle royale format, offering exhilarating races and strategic gameplay. Despite initial skepticism, it has become a top-tier entry in the series, revitalizing the franchise with post-launch content updates.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Pikmin 3 Deluxe brought the beloved franchise back after a nine-year hiatus, introducing new Pikmin types and improved controls. The Switch version added co-op mode and extra content, making it a must-play for Pikmin fans looking to collect fruit and enjoy the series' humor.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a charming puzzle platformer where Captain Toad navigates levels without jumping due to his heavy backpack. Its delightful brain teasers and portability make it an ideal Switch game, deserving of more recognition.

6. Game Builder Garage

Game Builder Garage is an underappreciated gem that teaches players how to create their own games through engaging lessons. Its user-friendly interface and educational approach make it a valuable tool for aspiring game developers.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles series offers some of the most expansive and beautiful open worlds on the Switch. With sweeping stories and hundreds of hours of gameplay, these games are a must-play for fans of Japanese RPGs.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe is a fantastic 2D platformer with robust multiplayer features. Its extensive levels and collectibles make it a great choice for both new and experienced gamers, enhanced by the Switch version's new content and subgames.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Ring Fit Adventure combines fitness with RPG elements, offering a unique and engaging experience. Its innovative approach to exercise and compelling storyline make it a standout title that you should revisit before the Switch 2.

2. Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread revitalizes the series with its 2.5D gameplay and terrifying E.M.M.I. machines. As one of the best-selling Metroid games, it showcases the Switch's potential as a home for the franchise, offering a thrilling experience that shouldn't be missed.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

Metroid Prime Remastered is a stunning remake of the classic GameCube title, featuring a graphical overhaul and modernized controls. Despite its sales performance, it remains one of the best video games of all time, deserving of your attention before the Switch 2 arrives.