20 Underrated Nintendo Switch Titles Revealed

As the Nintendo Switch nears the end of its lifecycle, with the highly anticipated Switch 2 on the horizon, it's the perfect time to revisit some of the overlooked gems that have graced Nintendo's hybrid console. 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 Switch games that deserve your attention before you transition to the next generation.

We understand that time and budgets can be constraints, and the sheer volume of games can be overwhelming. However, taking the time to explore these hidden treasures will undoubtedly enhance your gaming experience. Here's a curated list of 20 overlooked Nintendo Switch games that you should play before the Switch 2 arrives.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

21 Images20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Delve into the origins of the beloved demon-slaying witch with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This enchanting puzzle platformer boasts a stunning storybook art style while still incorporating the classic action-packed combos fans adore. Although its prequel nature and unique art style might have caused it to be overlooked, it's a must-play for any Bayonetta enthusiast.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Blending the musou genre with The Legend of Zelda, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity offers a thrilling experience. While not officially part of the Breath of the Wild storyline, it's immensely satisfying to step into the shoes of Link and the other Champions to fend off hordes of enemies. If you've enjoyed Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, don't miss out on this exhilarating trip back in time.

18. New Pokemon Snap

Fans eagerly awaited a sequel to the beloved Nintendo 64 classic, and New Pokemon Snap delivered in 2021. This game expands on everything you loved about the original, offering more Pokemon to photograph and hidden secrets in diverse biomes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this unique Pokemon spinoff is a delightful experience.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks the series' first fully 3D adventure, making the most of its new dimension. Kirby retains his signature ability to inhale enemies and objects, but now you can explore expansive 3D environments and utilize new powers like transforming into a car. This entry is a standout in the Kirby franchise and a must-play on the Switch.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Renowned for its charming art style and engaging puzzle RPG gameplay, the Paper Mario series has a special place in many hearts. The Origami King introduces a fully explorable open world, making it one of the most visually stunning entries in the series. While the combat may differ from past games, its aesthetic appeal is undeniable.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a pinnacle of 2D platforming, challenging even the most seasoned gamers. Navigate through crumbling icebergs and jiggling jello cubes on DK's quest to reclaim his island. With its stunning graphics, exceptional soundtrack, and precise controls, this game is a must-play for platformer enthusiasts.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses garnered much acclaim, Fire Emblem Engage offers a unique experience. Although its narrative may not be as tight, it reintroduces beloved characters from past games through a multiverse concept. This title appeals to fans of classic SRPGs with its smaller maps and challenging difficulty, making it a worthy addition to the series.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

A surprising crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem set against Japan's idol music scene, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is a vibrant blend of RPG combat and colorful art. Despite some localization changes, its unique setting and engaging gameplay make it a hidden gem worth exploring.

12. Astral Chain

Astral Chain is a must-play for fans of action games, offering fluid and dynamic combat with summonable living weapons known as "Legion." The game also features a cyberfuturistic world to explore, complete with investigations and puzzles reminiscent of old-school Nintendo dungeons. Its exclusivity to the Switch may have limited its recognition, but it's a standout title.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is an entertaining strategy RPG that combines the worlds of Mario and Ubisoft's Rabbids. Its action-focused combat allows for creative character combinations and powerful combos, making it a fun and engaging experience for fans of both franchises.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

A ground-up remake of the beloved GameCube game, Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door offers enhanced visuals, music, and gameplay improvements. This entry is a perfect introduction to the Paper Mario series, featuring Mario's adventurous treasure hunt and the charm the franchise is known for.

9. F-Zero 99

F-Zero 99 surprised fans with its 99-player battle royale format, reinvigorating the series after a 20-year hiatus. Its thrilling races and strategic elements have made it a top-tier entry in the F-Zero franchise, proving that sometimes the most unexpected games can be the most rewarding.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Pikmin 3 Deluxe brought joy to fans after a nine-year wait since Pikmin 2. With new Pikmin types, improved controls, and additional content, including co-op mode and the Piklopedia, this game is a delightful addition to the franchise. Its humorous elements and engaging gameplay make it a must-have for any Pikmin collection.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is an ingenious puzzle platformer where Captain Toad navigates levels without jumping due to his heavy backpack. Perfect for short bursts of play, this game is a delightful addition to the Switch library, showcasing the platform's versatility.

6. Game Builder Garage

Game Builder Garage is an underappreciated gem that teaches players how to create their own games through charming lessons and a user-friendly interface. It's an excellent starting point for aspiring game developers and a fun way to explore game design principles.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles series offers some of the most expansive and visually stunning open worlds on the Switch. With sweeping narratives and a blend of old-school JRPG elements and modern technology, these games are a must-play for fans of the genre, offering hundreds of hours of immersive gameplay.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe complements the 3D adventure of The Forgotten Land with a robust 2D experience. Featuring excellent multiplayer and a wealth of levels and collectibles, it's a fantastic entry point for new gamers and a joyful experience for Kirby fans.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Ring Fit Adventure is not just a fitness game; it's a compelling RPG that keeps players engaged throughout. Using the fitness ring to battle a quirky evil dragon, this game seamlessly blends physical activity with an immersive storyline, making it a unique and enjoyable experience.

2. Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread revitalizes the 2D Metroid series with its 2.5D gameplay and the terrifying E.M.M.I. machines that relentlessly hunt Samus. Despite its success, it remains an underappreciated gem, offering a thrilling and atmospheric experience that showcases the Switch's potential.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

Metroid Prime Remastered is a stunning graphical overhaul of the classic GameCube title, bringing it to modern standards with enhanced controls and gameplay. Priced at an affordable $39.99, this remaster captures the original's sense of isolation and exploration, making it a must-play for both new and returning fans.