20 Must-Play Nintendo Switch Games That You Might Have Missed

As the Nintendo Switch nears the end of its journey after eight extraordinary years, gamers are buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming Switch 2. Before you stow your beloved console away, take a moment to explore these hidden gems that you might have overlooked. With so many titles available, it can be easy to miss out on these incredible experiences.

1. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Dive into the fascinating world of Bayonetta like never before! This enchanting puzzle platformer tells the origin story of the iconic demon-slaying witch, presented in stunning storybook art that sets a unique tone. While fans will find familiar combat elements, this whimsical narrative offers a refreshing twist and is a must-play for any Bayonetta enthusiast.

2. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

The crossover between Hyrule and the Dynasty Warriors universe is not to be missed! While Age of Calamity may not fit perfectly into Breath of the Wild's storyline, it allows players to experience epic battles as Link and other beloved champions against waves of enemies. If you appreciated the expansive open-world exploration of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, this spin-off is a worthy adventure.

3. New Pokémon Snap

Relive the nostalgia with New Pokémon Snap, a long-awaited sequel to the classic N64 game. This delightful return offers a plethora of new Pokémon to photograph and hidden secrets waiting to be discovered across vibrant biomes. A perfect blend of exploration and creativity, it's essential for both old fans and new players drawn to the Pokémon universe.

4. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Step into the vibrant world of Kirby's first full 3D adventure! With immense environments to explore and new abilities to wield—such as transforming into a car—this game revitalizes the series. Fans of Kirby will find it indispensable to experience the pink puffball's most ambitious outing yet.

5. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Immerse yourself in the whimsical artistry of Paper Mario: The Origami King. With its charming visuals and engaging RPG mechanic, this installment offers a gorgeous open world to explore. While its combat may differ from previous reincarnations, the aesthetics and narrative make it a standout title in the series.

6. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a triumph in 2D platforming. With its fast-paced gameplay and challenging levels, it's sure to push the limits of even the most skilled players. Featuring a beautiful art style and an unforgettable soundtrack, this title deserves a spot in every platformer fan's library.

7. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses captivated players, its successor, Fire Emblem Engage, offers a distinctive experience with a nostalgic nod to the series’ history. Engaging tactics and a blend of beloved characters help to create a gameplay experience that challenges both new and veteran players alike.

8. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

This unconventional crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem presents an engaging story set against Japan's vibrant idol culture. With its unique combat and colorful art design, this RPG is an entertaining surprise waiting to be uncovered.

9. Astral Chain

Engage in exhilarating battles in Astral Chain, where you’ll command both the protagonist and a living weapon in a visually immersive world. It's a blend of action and detective work, ensuring that players are hooked from start to finish. This action-packed title showcases the best of PlatinumGames' development talent.

10. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Experience the unexpected joy of Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, an RPG that cleverly fuses beloved characters from the Mario universe with Ubisoft's Rabbids. With fun action-oriented combat and strategic gameplay, this title is an enjoyable blend of humor and challenge.

11. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door

Returning with a remastered version of a beloved classic, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door retains its charm and enhances it with modern graphics and gameplay mechanics. This is a quintessential experience for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

12. F-Zero 99

F-Zero 99 takes the racing franchise to new heights with a thrilling 99-player battle royale format. Fast-paced and intense, racing against numerous opponents brings a fresh spin while still delivering the franchise's trademark adrenaline and strategy.

13. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

With improved graphics and gameplay in Pikmin 3 Deluxe, this charming adventure takes you on a quest filled with clever challenges and exploration. The addition of co-op mode and new content makes it even more appealing for fans old and new.

14. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

A delightful addition to any collection, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a charming puzzle platformer that challenges players to navigate levels without jumping. Its engaging gameplay makes it perfect for brief sessions or longer gaming marathons.

15. Game Builder Garage

Unleash your creativity with Game Builder Garage, an innovative game-building tool designed for aspiring developers. It offers a fun and accessible way to understand game design, bringing education and entertainment together.

16. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Discover expansive worlds and riveting tales in the Xenoblade Chronicles series, known for its grand storytelling and breathtaking landscapes. With over 100 hours of gameplay across its titles, it's an RPG experience that demands your time and attention.

17. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

This 2D adventure offers thrilling multiplayer action with friends, capturing youthful fondness for co-op gaming. Enhanced content and classic mini-games ensure a blast from the past alongside new challenges for modern players.

18. Ring Fit Adventure

Ring Fit Adventure combines fitness with gaming in an engaging way. Its RPG mechanics and unique exercise elements encourage players to get active while enjoying a captivating storyline. Return to this must-have title for both health benefits and entertainment!

19. Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread breathes new life into the series, emphasizing both atmosphere and strategic mechanics. As Samus navigates through chilling environments while evading deadly E.M.M.I. machines, it keeps players on the edge of their seats.

20. Metroid Prime Remastered

A true masterpiece, Metroid Prime Remastered skillfully redefines a classic game with modern enhancements. Its immersive world and expertly tuned gameplay invite both nostalgic fans and curious newcomers to experience one of gaming's finest titles.

These are not just games; they are experiences that enrich the Nintendo Switch's library and are waiting to be explored. Before switching to the next console generation, don’t miss out on these hidden gems lurking within the Switch's expansive game catalog!