Best cheap Nintendo Switch game deals of June 2023
The best cheap Nintendo Switch game deals of June continue to impress. Game retailers continue to offer solid discounts on new release games and older titles. And with the blockbuster success of this year’s “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”, retailers continue to slash on select Mario games.
So if you’re looking for a specific Nintendo Switch game or the best Switch games for kids, you don’t have to burden your wallet.
While the Nintendo‘s Game Store offers daily discounts on Switch games, there are tons of deals to be had at several retailers. Whether you want to stockpile digital or physical format Nintendo Switch games, you’ve come to the right place.
We’re rounding up the best cheap Nintendo Switch game deals worth your while and sharing them below. From Pokémon Scarlet to beloved Mario games, here are today’s best Nintendo Switch game deals.
Nintendo Switch game deals — Quick links
Best Nintendo Switch game deals
Nintendo eShop Gift Card: 50 48 @ Sam’s Club Save 2 on a Nintendo eShop Gift Card at checkout. This gift card is redeemable in the Nintendo eShop to spend on games and DLC for the Nintendo Switch, Wii U, and Nintendo 3DS game consoles.
Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles: 59 @ Best Buy Pick up Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles for Nintendo Switch for 59. The Hinokami Chronicles features a wide roster of characters like Tanjiro and Nezuko from the anime series. Master their multitude of skills and test your mettle in exhilarating arena battles.
Pokémon Scarlet: 59 48 @ Amazon Save 11 on Pokémon Scarlet. Enjoy traveling through the Paldea region in the newest iteration of Pokémon games. In Pokémon Scarlet, team up with starters Fuecoco, Sprigatito, and Quaxly as you journey in a new town. Take on new classes as the new kid in school, or explore the open-world region to your heart’s content.
FIFA 23 Legacy Edition: 39 29 @ GameStop Save 10 on FIFA 23 Legacy Edition for Nintendo Switch. Great for soccer fans, FIFA 23 Legacy Edition includes the latest kits, clubs and squads from the world’s top soccer leagues. It also features top women’s club teams and some of the most famous stadiums of the world — new venues included. It’s also available at Best Buy and Walmart
Nintendo Ring Fit Adventure: 79 69 @ Walmart Save 10 on Nintendo’s Ring Fit Adventure game. It’s one of the best games to help you lose weight. You’ll burn calories playing games that make you jog, sprint, and jump in place.
Sonic Frontiers: 59 44 @ Amazon Save 15 on Sonic Frontiers. Sonic Frontiers is the grand return to a 3D platformer for everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog. This price is available across all gaming platforms.
NBA 2K23: 59 19 @ Best Buy Save 40 on NBA 2K23. Rise to the occasion and realize your full potential and prove yourself against the best players in the world and showcase your talent in MyCareer mode. Or, take on NBA or WNBA teams in Play Now mode to experience true-to-life gameplay.
Splatoon 3: 59 48 @ Amazon Save 11 on Splatoom 3 and Ink up the Splatlands in the latest Splatoon game! Enter the Splatlands, a sun-scorched desert inhabited by battle-hardened Inklings and Octolings. Splatsville, the city of chaos, is the adrenaline-fueled heart of this dusty wasteland.
Sonic Colors Ultimate: 39 29 @ Walmart Save 10 on Sonic Colors Ultimate. In this high-speed adventure, you’ll free a captured alien race called, “Wisps” from the hands of Dr. Eggman. You’ll explore six unique colorful worlds filled with dangerous enemies and hurdles.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons: 59 49 @ Walmart Save 10 on Animal Crossing: New Horizons — an easy to understand, fun, educational game with an abundance of cute characters. This social simulation game lets players customize their character, home, decorations, and the landscape itself. In our Animal Crossing: New Horizon review, we loved its relaxing gameplay and refreshing new content. We gave it an overall rating rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars and our Editor’s Choice award thumbs up.
Pokémon Legends Arceus: 59 49 @ Walmart Save 10 on Pokémon Legends: Arceus. A must-have for Pokemon fans, this latest release combines RPG with action gameplay. Your journey takes you through the glorious Hisui region where you embark on missions to study, and catch various species of Pokémon.
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin: 59 29 @ GameStop Save 50% on Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin right now. This latest installment of the wildly popular game series has an immersive storyline, charming characters and challenging quests. For RPG and Monster Hunter fans alike, Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a must-buy adventure game.
Cobra Kai The Karate Kid Saga Continues: 29 @ Best Buy Master your moves, and embrace your destiny with this epic beat ’em up adventure game. It features 8 playable characters with unique move sets, combos, progressions, and more.
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted: 29 19 @ Amazon Save 10 on Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted — a collection of classic and original mini-games set in the Five Nights universe. Survive terrifying encounters with your favorite killer animatronics in a collection of new and classic survival adventures.
Metroid Dread: 59 49 @ Walmart Don’t miss 10 off this highly anticipated game continuing the story of our favorite galactic bounty hunter Samus Aran. Join Samus in her journey to discover the source of strange transmissions coming from a remote planet harboring dangerous parasites. Retaining the side-scrolling gameplay style of the original games, Metroid Dread takes us on another immersive adventure with a few new exciting mechanics sprinkled in.
Star Wars Racer and Commando Combo: 29 19 @ Walmart Save 50% on Star Wars Racer and Commando combo with this 2-in-1 game deal. It includes two classic Star Wars games — Star Wars: Episode I Racer and Star Wars Republic Commando. Relive the adrenaline-pumping Podracing sequence from Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace with Star Wars: Episode I Racer. Lead an elite squad as you infiltrate, dominate, and annihilate the opposition in Star Wars Republic Commando.
Hot Wheels Unleashed: 29 19 @ Best Buy Save 10 on Hot Wheels Unleashed — a must for any Hot Wheels fan. The graphics are breathtaking and the driving mechanics are as wild as they are satisfying. And best of all, there’s tons of custom content to dive into when you’re looking for something to do. Amazon sells it for the same price.
Mario game deals
Mario Rabbids Sparks of Hope: 59 29 @ Walmart Save 50% on MarioRabbids Sparks of Hope, the latest adventure in the frachise. Team up with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Rabbid Peach, Rabbid Luigi, and their friends on a galactic journey to defeat a malevolent entity and save your Spark companions. Amazon and Best Buy have it for the same price.
Super Mario 3D World Bowser’s Fury: 59 49 @ Walmart Super Mario 3D World Bower’s Fury is a must-buy game for Mario fans. In this adventure game, you can choose to play as Mario himself or another memorable character from the franchise. Run, jump, and climb your way through dozens of colorful courses to collect stars and find hidden treasures. Thanks to multiplayer support, you can team up with friends locally or online to complete stages.
Super Mario Bros. Deluxe U: 59 49 @ Target Super Mario Bros. Deluxe U and join Mario, Luigi, and their gang of pals for single-player or multiplayer fun. With its easy-to-use controls and new playable characters, this game is suitable for beginner and veteran players alike.
Super Mario Odyssey: 59 49 @ Walmart Save 10 on Super Mario Odyssey, a must-buy Nintendo Switch game. Mario’s latest adventure features intricate, gorgeous levels, 14 different levels and over 100 collectibles.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: 59 49 @ Target Save 10 on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must buy Nintendo Switch game for Mario fans. Race with friends or battle them in battle mode on a variety of battle courses. This best-selling Mario game is an absolute blast and is rated E for everyone.
Luigi’s Mansion 3: 59 49 @ Walmart In Luigi’s Manshion 3, catch colorful ghosts and solve fun puzzles while searching for Mario and his friends at the Last Resort Hotel. As Luigi, players can also summon Googigi, a ghastly green doppelganger, to overcome various obstacles. In addition to single-player and co-op modes, up to 8 friends can play together online in a variety of minigames.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze: 59 49 @ Target Pick up Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze and Barrel-blast into this critically acclaimed Donkey Kong adventure game. Explore islands to collect letters and puzzle pieces as classic Kongs from the original game. Players will also enjoy playing as the hip-looking Funky Kong in an all-new Funky Mode.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker: 39 @ GameStop Pick up Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker for 39. Dodge dangers and track treasures across trap-filled courses as well as new courses based on the Super Mario Odyssey game. Adventure alone or invite a friend to help you conquer each puzzle course in two-player mode.
Mario Strikers: Battle League: 59 40 @ Amazon Save 19 on Mario Strikers: Battle League for Nintendo Switch. Mario Strikers: Battle League is a 5-on-5 is an action packed soccer-like sport where anything goes when it comes to winning. Tackle enemies, use items and execute score-boosting Hyper Strikes.
Mario Tennis Aces: 59 42 @ Best Buy Save 17 on Mario Tennis Aces and enjoy all-out tennis battles with friends, family and fan-favorite Mushroom Kingdom characters. Play singles or doubles matches with up to 4 players in local or online multiplayer. Tournament Mode, lets you test your skills as you challenge the CPU.
Super Mario Party: 59 49 @ Amazon Super Mario Party lets you compete against family and friends as you race across the board to collect the most stars in the original four-player Mario Party series board game mode. Face off against opponents in the 2 vs. 2 modes with grid-based maps.
Mario Sonic Olympic Games Tokyo: 59 41 @ Walmart Save 18 on Mario Sonic at the Olympic Games. You get to compete in action-packed classic sports games like track and field and four brand new events to Tokyo 2020 — skateboarding, karate, surfing, and sport climbing.
Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit Mario Set: 99 75 @ Target Save 25 on Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit — a must have accessory for Mario fans. It lets you control a real-life Mario Kart with the Nintendo Switch and watch it come to life in the game. This is one of the best Nintendo Switch deals you can get.
Nintendo Switch game deals retailers
- Amazon:save up to 50% on select Nintendo Switch games
- Best Buy:save up to 50% off on select video games
- Target:save up to 50% on select Nintendo Switch games
- Walmart:save on select Nintendo Switch games from 10
- GameStop:save on new and pre-owned Nintendo Switch games
Best games to play on Switch OLED
Nintendo’s Switch OLED is finally here – but what are the best games that take advantage of the bigger, brighter screen?
Nintendo’s new Switch OLED may have been lacking in 4K output, but its larger, brighter display is breathing new life into games that have been around since the console launched in 2017.
That’s because colors have never looked better than they have on the Switch OLED, and while our review will follow in the coming days, it can’t be understated how much of a difference that new display makes.
If you’ve just got yourself a new console, or are looking for a reason to pick one up, here are some games that look at their best on the Switch OLED.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Breath of the Wild has never looked better.
Sure, if you’ve got a Nintendo Switch, there’s a good chance you’ve already played Breath of the Wild. On the Switch OLED, though, it’s that little bit more engrossing. Hyrule’s plains have never looked more verdant, its mountains have never felt more uninhabitable, and the bigger screen makes it feel like an entire world on your handheld device even more than before.
Daemon X Machina
Daemon X Machina deserves a second chance on the Switch OLED
While you may have played Breath of the Wild, you may have missed this mecha-style action game when it launched. Offering customizable giant robots duking it out across a desolate Earth, Daemon X Machina’s penchant for crimson red and flashy explosions makes it a perfect fit for your Switch OLED.
Metroid Dread
Samus’ latest adventure is a perfect showcase for the Switch OLED
Launching alongside the Switch OLED, it’d be fair to say Metroid Dread, a game that’s been years in the making, represents a great reason to upgrade your console hardware. Planet ZDR is full of small details and touches, and whether Samus is sprinting through environments fleeing from robotic pursuers or trying to blast a path through its labyrinthine world, the Switch OLED relishes every missile, counter, and epic boss encounter.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Sora is coming, and the Switch OLED is the best place to play Smash when he does
Thoughts on Sora’s imminent arrival aside, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a must-play on whichever Switch you own – but the Switch OLED feels like the best place for it. Fights are easier to follow, and if you’ve spent any time in tabletop mode on your regular Switch then it cannot be understated how much the larger display helps when playing against friends.
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Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight’s haunting world has never been better.
Hollow Knight is an indie darling, but it’s not the most colorful of adventures. Instead, Hollow Knight highlights the deeper blacks possible of the Switch OLED. Hallowsnest has never looked darker or more mysterious, all without losing any of its detail or allure. Now, where’s Silksong?
Katana Zero
Katana Zero’s colors are a perfect fit for the Switch OLED’s brighter display
This 2D action-platformer gets a whole new life on Switch OLED, thanks to its vibrant colors, lightning-fast gameplay, and an incredible soundtrack that really helps show off the console’s improved stereo speakers. Slowing time, slicing through enemies, and dying over and over again has never looked so good.
Astral Chain
Astral Chain was good-looking on the base Switch, but it’s even better now.
Platinum Games’s oft-forgotten Switch exclusive is another title well worth a reply on the Switch OLED. Set in a bizarre parallel Tokyo where monsters are popping out of another dimension, players take control of a special police force that battles these ‘Chimera’ while being bonded to monsters of their very own. Flashy effects and a dark, cyberpunk-infused world make this a must-play on your new Switch.
Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise remains one of Switch’s most visually impressive games
Fight big monsters, carve them up, and use them as weapons against other big monsters – Monster Hunter’s core gameplay loop has never been more refined than it is in Monster Hunter Rise.
On the Switch OLED, though, you have a larger canvas to take in those beasts before you get to swinging your sword made of its brother, and can check out your armor in more detail than ever before.
Pokemon Sword and Shield
Pokemon Sword and Shield looks great on the Switch OLED.
Sure, it might have drawn plenty of ire from the fanbase when it launched, but the Sword and Shield generation of Pokemon has its moments. The Galar region absolutely pops off of the screen on the Switch OLED, and the Isle of Armor DLC, in particular, looks great.
So, there you have it – the best games to play on your shiny new Switch OLED. Which will you jump into first?
Best Looking Limited Edition Nintendo Switches, Ranked
Nintendo fans have their fair share of striking limited edition Nintendo Switch consoles, from Legend of Zelda designs to Pokémon Scarlet Violet.
The Nintendo Switch has become one of Nintendo’s most successful consoles. With its innovative hybrid functionality and impressive catalog of games, the Switch has been a hit with Nintendo fans. Part of that success is no doubt thanks to Nintendo creating some truly beautiful looking limited edition consoles.
Usually made to celebrate the release of a big new game, limited edition Nintendo Switches are consoles with a special design. Whether the design is on the Joycons, the dock, the Switch itself, or all three, these devices make a fine addition to the shelves of any collector. While Nintendo has released many of these consoles, some stand out from the pack.
Nintendo Switch Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Edition
Made to celebrate the release of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, this Switch features artwork of the original game’s default 8 characters. The artwork is limited to the console’s dock, with no special artwork appearing on the console itself. The included Joycons are standard gray, with the iconic Super Smash Bros. cross-shaped logo stretched across both controllers.
While the incredibly detailed artwork of the eight characters is beautiful, the lack of color keeps it from standing out. And though the Smash Bros. logo on the Joycons has a sharp, minimalist appeal, the nature of the logo means the right Joycon only has a small line on the bottom. It’s a great looking console, but not Nintendo’s best.
Nintendo Switch Lite Jack Jeanne Edition
While not available in the West, this Nintendo Switch Lite was released in Japan to commemorate the launch of the game Jack Jeanne. Designed by famed Tokyo Ghoul creator Sui Ishida, Jack Jeanne didn’t exactly make waves upon release. However, fans of Ishida’s work may be interested in the console itself.
While this edition is just a regular turquoise Switch Lite, the back of the console features gorgeous artwork from Ishida himself. Showing off a character from the game, this console will surely be a must-have for Ishida fans. It’s a shame that it’s unavailable in the West and that it lacks any other design elements to help it stand out.
Nintendo Switch Monster Hunter Rise Deluxe Edition
Celebrating the release of Monster Hunter Rise, this Nintendo Switch offers a splash of color. The dock and console are covered with beautiful symbols and art, with the dock featuring the fearsome Magnamalo in brilliant gold. The Joycons are also covered in symbols on the front and back.
The gold Magnamalo makes this awesome-looking console truly stand out, and the artwork on the back of the console is beautifully minimalist. The Joycons benefit from an equal amount of art on each device, meaning none feel left out. While the dull gray holds the console back among its peers, it’s still a must-have for Monster Hunter fans.
Nintendo Switch Mario Red Blue Edition
This console is created with the same color scheme as Nintendo’s mascot himself, Mario. While it doesn’t have any special artwork, this Switch has a sharp red coat of paint on the console, dock, and Joycons. The grip and wrist straps are done in a brilliant blue to add a nice contrast.
The buttons on the wrist straps are colored yellow to simulate the buttons on Mario’s overalls. It’s a fun little addition that helps bring Mario’s color scheme to the Switch. It would have been nice to see some artwork on the hardware itself, but the unique color scheme makes this console a worthy addition to any collection.
Nintendo Switch Labo Edition
One of Nintendo’s most interesting experiments was Labo, a system for making cardboard toys that could be used to play games on the Switch. In order to help promote Labo, Nintendo held a contest where players would submit their cardboard creations. One of the prizes was a Nintendo Switch that looked like it was made of cardboard.
With the console, dock, and Joycons all sporting this unique color scheme, this system truly stands out. The paint job even includes speckles to make it really look like cardboard. While it isn’t as fancy as other Switches, the attention to detail makes this an eye-catching console.
Nintendo Switch Pikachu Eevee Edition
Made to launch with Pokémon: Let’s Go Pikachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go Eevee!, this Switch features adorable artwork of Pikachu and Eevee on the dock. Even the console itself was included with black decals of the two Pokémon covering the back. The package was topped off with a left Joycon bearing Eevee’s color scheme, and a right Joycon with Pikachu’s.
The rare Joycons alone would have made this console worth it, but the artwork elevates it. The image of the iconic Pokémon playfully lounging perfectly matches the cuter tone of Pokémon: Let’s Go! Even if the games have something of a mixed reputation among Pokémon fans, this Switch is still an enviable collector’s item.
Nintendo Switch Animal Crossing: New Horizons Edition
With Animal Crossing: New Horizons being about starting a cozy new life on an island paradise, it makes sense that its accompanying Nintendo Switch had an island motif. From the artwork on the colorful dock to decals of islands on the back of the console, the game’s premise was well-represented. The light green, blue, and white of the Joycons help call the sea to mind.
The soft color palette and adorable artwork of this system perfectly suits the gentle nature of the Animal Crossing franchise. The dual-colored Joycons could only be obtained with this Switch, making it a must-have. The fully colored dock and level of detail make this Switch a cut above many others.
Nintendo Switch OLED Model Splatoon 3 Edition
The Splatoon series is well-known by fans for its bright colors and over-the-top street art aesthetic, and both are captured perfectly in the Splatoon 3 edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED. Every square inch of space on both the dock and the console is covered with decals from the game. The Joycons are similarly festooned, while also appearing in the game’s signature blue and yellow.
This gorgeous device is everything a Splatoon-themed console should be. It’s chaotic and cluttered in the best possible way, looking like something players could pick up from a shop in Splatsville. The yellow spot on the dock is the perfect detail to make it look like it narrowly escaped a Turf War battle.
Nintendo Switch OLED Model Pokémon Scarlet Violet Edition
The school setting of Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet is perfectly represented by this limited edition Switch OLED. The dock and front of the Joycons are perfectly ordered and clean, bearing both the legendary Pokémon and school crest of each game. On the other hand, the back of the Joycons and console are covered with overlapping decals in scarlet and violet.
It looks exactly like something that a school would provide that has since been customized by a rebellious student. The decals themselves look absolutely adorable and are represented in eye-popping color. With a mix of chaos and order, even non-Pokémon fans will find this console a worthy addition to their collection.
Nintendo Switch OLED Model The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom Edition
Released to commemorate The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom, Nintendo’s best-looking limited edition Switch sports an eye-catching gold, white, and green color scheme. The dock sports an ornate design that’s full of tiny details. The golden Joycons boast an asymmetrical design without one Joycon looking better than the other.
This is a system that demands to be displayed proudly on the shelf. With its heavily detailed designs and rich gold colors, players will feel like they’re playing a work of art rather than a game console. With its design blending both ancient mysteries and high-tech corruption, it suits Tears Of The Kingdom’s aesthetic perfectly.
Monster hunter nintendo switch oled
The Nintendo Switch Monster Hunter Rise Edition features an image of Magnamalo, the game’00s flagship monster, on the dock, along with other evocative Monster Hunter Rise themed designs that adorn the console and both Joy-Con controllers. It also comes bundled with a download code for Monster Hunter Rise plus the Deluxe Kit DLC.
The Nintendo Switch Monster Hunter Rise Edition features an image of Magnamalo, the game’00s flagship monster, on the dock, along with other evocative Monster Hunter Rise themed designs that adorn the console and both Joy-Con controllers. It also comes bundled with a download code for Monster Hunter Rise plus the Deluxe Kit DLC.
Enjoy the home console gaming experience, even without access to a TV. Nintendo Switch can transform to suit your situation, so you can play the games you want, no matter how busy life may be. It’00s a new era where you don’00t have to adjust your lifestyle to play games. instead, your console adjusts to fit around your lifestyle. Enjoy games anytime, anywhere, with anyone! Improved battery life.
Approximately 4.5-9 hours. The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
TV mode
Tabletop mode
Flip the stand to share the screen, then share the fun with a multiplayer game.
The Best Nintendo Switch Games to Play in 2023
All the best games you need to play on Nintendo Switch.
The Nintendo Switch has a world-class library of games
Despite being a little older now, the Nintendo Switch is still arguably the best video game console on the market. With PS5 and Xbox Series X shortages still an issue, the Switch is the most easily accessible console out there.
The Switch OLED is our pick of the bunch, but the Nintendo Switch Lite is also available if you’re so inclined.
The Nintendo Switch has one of the best, most varied and deepest libraries of any console out there. In short: There’s a lot to choose from.
Here are our choices for the best games on Nintendo Switch.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Following Breath of the Wild.- in many people’s eyes the best video game ever made.- was always going to be nigh on impossible. But Nintendo has done it. A completely brand new game, with multiple quality of life improvements and some revolutionary departures, Tears of the Kingdom is another slam dunk. It could be even better than Breath of the Wild. Almost certainly the best game of 2023 so far.
Metroid Prime
This is the game. The best video game. In 2002, when Metroid Prime was first released, it felt like a game air dropped from the future. In 2023, with this incredible new remaster, it somehow still feels futuristic.
The upgraded visuals are subtle, but worthwhile. The all-new controls are simply phenomenal. For me, personally, Metroid Prime is one of the greatest video games ever made. It’s so exciting that folks get to experience it all over again.
Super Mario Odyssey
Here is a list of trash words that don’t come close to describing Super Mario Odyssey : inventive, dazzling, Smart, seamless, joyful, creative.
Super Mario Odyssey is a Nintendo game that continues in the spirit of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. All bets are off, everything you thought you knew about Mario has been reinvented. But here’s what remains: perfectly tuned, precision gameplay that feels incredible every second your hands are on the controller.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Breath of the Wild was only the consensus best game of 2017. The game many believe is the best ever made. The game that somehow managed to actually outsell the Nintendo Switch itself on launch.
Still no idea how that actually happened, but it did.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a legitimate masterpiece that strips back the open-world genre to its core elements and rewrites its DNA for pure adventure.
It’s a world alive with surprise and dense with detail. An incredible, milestone achievement.
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
It’s not quite as good as Pokémon Arceus, but Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is still pretty damn good. It’s a more traditional Pokémon title, and struggles on the aging Nintendo Switch hardware, but if you can get past those failings, you’ll love it.
Mario Rabbids Sparks of Hope
The first Mario Rabbids was a shockingly good, massively successful turn-based strategy game. For a genre that’s traditionally been quite impenetrable, particularly for younger audiences, that was quite the feat.
But Mario Rabbids Sparks of Hope outperforms its predecessor in almost every way. It’s legitimately one of the best new games released on the Nintendo Switch.
Splatoon 3
Splatoon rules. It’s ruled since day one, and the latest sequel, Splatoon 3, is no different. Not much has changed in the series, but the high concept is still intoxicating. It’s a first-person shooter with a twist: You can shoot your opponents, sure, but to win the game you have to shoot the environment. With paint! It’s a great, slightly less violent entry point for kids. But it’s fun for adults as well!
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Imagine Breath of the Wild crossed with Pokémon and that’s pretty much Pokémon Legends: Arceus. It’s the first properly open world Pokémon game fulfilling the wishes of many a fan. The visuals.- both the aesthetic and the execution.- are pretty lackluster, but there’s something incredibly compelling about Pokémon Legends: Arceus. It’s different, and a unique leap forward for the series.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is very, very good. Featuring the biggest lineup of characters yet (hence the “Ultimate”), it also has almost certainly the best single-player “campaign” mode of any Smash Bros. game to date. Also.- it’s Smash Bros.
How are you going to own a Nintendo Switch and not pick up this game?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 was initially released on the Wii U. It was great then. It’s even better now with all the additional content.
Not too much has changed, but Mario Kart 8 is about as definitive as it gets. It’s stacked with playable characters, inventive tracks and brand new features. It remains the most compelling multiplayer game on the Nintendo Switch.
Neon White
Neon White is maybe the strangest genre mashup ever. A first-person speed runner with card-game elements, it’s a game that shouldn’t make sense on paper, but in practice it’s already one of the best games of 2022. If you’re looking for something extremely cutting edge, unlike anything you’ve ever played, you need to check out Neon White.
Portal: Companion Collection
This brand new collection pairs up the first two Portal games into one collection. If you haven’t played either of these games, head directly to your Nintendo Switch and buy them immediately.
Both are peerless classics, but Portal 2, especially, is one of the best video games ever made. It might even be the best, period. A mind-bending puzzler with genuinely hilarious comedy elements, this is as good as video games get.
Unpacking
A game about unpacking boxes and moving into a series of new house and apartments doesn’t sound like game of the year material, but it somehow is. Unpacking is brilliantly made and perfectly executed. It’s also. surprisingly emotional. Get on it.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Folks, in these dark and troubled days, it’s time to disappear into a new world, get a virtual mortgage and work your ass off to pay that sucker off quick Smart.
Metroid Dread
It’s not every day.- or even every year.- we get a brand new Metroid game, so we need to appreciate Metroid Dread for the unicorn it is.
A continuation of the 2D Metroid Canon that includes classics like Super Metroid and Metroid Fusion, Metroid Dread is a fantastic entry into a legendary franchise. It looks especially slick on the new OLED Switch. Get on it!
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight might be one of the best games available on the Nintendo Switch. It’s a disturbingly well-designed platformer in the vein of Super Metroid. But it’s more than that. The atmosphere, the audio design, the visuals.
Dear Lord, this game is a stone-cold classic. Play it now.
Return of the Obra Dinn
Return of the Obra Dinn is the most recent game from Lucas Pope, the man behind Papers, Please.
It’s a genuine, proper masterpiece. An investigation story, essentially.- you arrive on the Obra Dinn, a ship where almost all the crewmates have died. Via flashbacks you try to piece together the story of what happened. It’s strange, innovative and completely unforgettable.
Super Mario 3D World Bowser’s Fury
In my humble opinion, Super Mario 3D World is probably the greatest game for young kids ever made. Particularly if you’re a parent who wants to play alongside them. It’s simple, no reading required. The levels are well designed, open and forgiving.
It also rules in every possible sense.
But when you add Bowser’s Fury.- an experimental Mario title that could give us an insight into where Nintendo will take the series next.- this package is unbeatable. Play Super Mario 3D World with your kids, play Bowser’s Fury when they go to bed. Perfect.
Luigi’s Mansion 3
Luigi’s Mansion 3 was one of the best games of 2019. It is a video game clearly made with love: gorgeous environments, pitch-perfect animations. Everything about it feels tactile and precise. Maybe the best Nintendo-made game of the year.
Celeste
Celeste is a video game that makes you want to lodge your controller in your TV.- in a good way.
Featuring incredible level design and flawlessly tuned precision platforming, Celeste is one of the best games of its type ever released. It’s Smart, charming and dense with content.
It’s also perfect for the Nintendo Switch. You’ll be hurling obscenities at this game on public transport, and you’ll love every second of it.
Into The Breach
A very good turn-based strategy game by the creators of Faster Than Light. An intricate, intelligent creation that demands problem solving from the player in interesting ways.
Dead Cells
The traditional words used to describe Dead Cells are “rogue-like” and “metroidvania.” Both common genres, but Dead Cells is a game with a unique conceit: You will play, you will die. But in Dead Cells you get to keep your upgrades and then restart with those upgrades, meaning you slowly progress through the game more easily as you play. Very cool.
Hades
Hades, an isometric rogue-like from Supergiant Games, came out of nowhere in 2020 and was a very strong contender for game of the year.
Why? Part of it is the combat.- which is fluid, weighty and tactile.- but its evolving storyline, which ties the idea of constant death into Hades’ narrative, really pushes it over the edge. This is a rogue-like that people who don’t like rogue-likes can enjoy.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Ever wanted to swallow a car and then.- as a result.- transform into that car and absorb the abilities of a car? Boy, do I have a video game for you.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a recent addition to this list. It rules. It’s the first game to feature 3D gameplay and it might be the best Kirby game ever? Definitely worth checking out. A great game for young kids especially.
Untitled Goose Game
Untitled Goose Game is a game about being a goose.
And not just any goose, a horrible goose. An asshole goose that makes life extremely difficult for everyone around it. Untitled Goose Game has absolutely taken the world by storm. Even Chrissie Teigen got obsessed with it.
But is it good? Yes. Very good. This one should absolutely be on any and all Nintendo Switch consoles.
Baba Is You
Baba Is You is a puzzle game that will break every part of your brain. It’s a puzzle game that forces you to literally rewrite the rules of the game in order to complete tasks.
If that sounds complicated, it’s because it is complicated. In a good way.
It’s also the kind of game that will haunt you, sort of like The Witness. You will be thinking about puzzles while you do the dishes, while you’re driving the car. You’ll scream “eureka!” Then maybe break a dish or crash your car.
This game is dangerous for your health.
OlliOlli World
The OlliOlli series has been low-key fantastic for years now, but OlliOlli World is its final form. 2022 was a fantastic for video games, and OlliOlli World was up there with the best of them.
Monster Hunter Rise
Monster Hunter Rise is perhaps the most accessible Monster Hunter yet. It’s also very good.
And at this point, the game is only available on Nintendo Switch. Get on it.
Eastward
Enjoy games like Zelda: A Link to the Past and Earthbound? Of course you do. You’re a reasonable adult with great taste.
In that case you have to try Eastward, a new top-down game in the vein of every 16-bit RPG you ever loved. It’s slow-paced and takes a while to get going, but it’s well worth the investment.
The Messenger
A quirky 2D slasher game with a retro aesthetic. But here’s the twist: The Messenger begins as a simple hack and slash game in the 8-bit style, but later you get to travel to the future, where the game evolves into a 16-bit style metroidvania.
Pokémon Sword Shield
Look, regardless of controversy, Pokémon is Pokémon, and Pokémon Sword Shield is a good Pokémon.
Don’t believe the online hype: This is one of the best games in the series. It’s also great to see Pokémon being available on Nintendo’s premium console. Definitely check it out.
Super Mario Maker 2
Super Mario Maker 2 doesn’t quite feel made for the Nintendo Switch in the way it was perfect for the Wii U, but it’s still a fantastic piece of software. It makes level design accessible for everyone and has a massively beefed-up single-player mode.
That’s not to mention the endless replay value that comes with the insane user-created levels. Check Super Mario Maker 2 out for sure.
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
It’s overpriced, but if you love Zelda, and you loved Link’s Awakening. you have to play this faithful, lovingly adapted remake. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done.
Paper Mario: The Origami King
If you’ve played a Paper Mario game before, you probably know the drill. The series is set in a 2D “paper” version of Mario, a theme used to create all sorts of Hyper-stylized mechanics and slick visual elements. It’s all laced up with a self-awareness and charm that make the series irresistible to Nintendo fans.
Paper Mario: The Origami King is no exception. Well worth a look.
Mario Tennis Aces
Mario is pretty good at sport. As is Nintendo when it puts its mind to it. Mario Tennis Aces gives us what we haven’t had for a remarkably long time.- a good tennis game.
Sonic Mania
I mean, imagine being an adult, growing up with Sonic. They announce a new game, and you expect it to be bad because Sonic has been bad for like 20 years.
Then they drop Sonic Mania. A game that takes everything good about Sonic, preserves it and then updates it perfectly in a seamless modern interpretation that has no right being this good.
