20 Hidden Gems: Nintendo Switch Games You Missed

As the Nintendo Switch approaches 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 the current 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's a treasure trove of other Switch games that deserve your attention before you transition to the next generation.

We understand that time and budget constraints can make it challenging to explore every game on the market. However, these 20 overlooked Nintendo Switch games are truly worth your time, and you'll want to experience them before the Switch 2 arrives.

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 combines a stunning storybook art style with puzzle-platforming elements, yet retains the series' signature action-packed combat. It's a must-play for fans and newcomers alike, offering a fresh perspective on the Bayonetta universe that may have been overshadowed by its prequel nature and unique visuals.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity blends the Dynasty Warriors musou-style gameplay with the rich world of The Legend of Zelda. Although not officially part of the Breath of the Wild canon, the game offers a thrilling experience where you can step into the shoes of Link and other Champions to defend Hyrule against hordes of enemies. It's a perfect complement to your Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom adventures.

18. New Pokemon Snap

New Pokemon Snap fulfills the long-held dream of fans who cherished the original Nintendo 64 game. Released in 2021, it expands on everything that made the original great, with more Pokemon to photograph and hidden secrets across diverse biomes. Whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, this unique Pokemon spinoff is a delightful experience you shouldn't miss.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks the series' first foray into fully 3D gameplay, and it does so brilliantly. While retaining Kirby's iconic ability to absorb enemies and gain new powers, the game offers expansive 3D environments to explore. Innovative abilities like transforming into a car add a fun twist to exploration, making it one of the standout Kirby titles on the Switch.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Paper Mario: The Origami King captivates with its charming art style and unique puzzle RPG gameplay, setting it apart from traditional Mario platformers. The game's open world is a visual treat, making up for any perceived shortcomings in combat mechanics with its stunning aesthetics and engaging exploration.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a testament to the excellence of 2D platforming. Its challenging levels push players to their limits, with fast-paced action and intricate environments. The game's stunning visuals, memorable soundtrack, and precise controls make it a must-play for fans of the genre, offering a rewarding experience for those willing to take on its difficulty.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses garnered significant attention, Fire Emblem Engage should not be overlooked. Though its narrative may not be as tightly woven, the game brings back beloved characters from the series' history and offers a more traditional tactical RPG experience with challenging combat scenarios. It's a worthy entry for strategy fans.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

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

12. Astral Chain

Astral Chain is a masterpiece of action gaming from PlatinumGames. Its fluid combat system and diverse summonable weapons keep the gameplay fresh and exciting. Beyond the battles, the game offers a rich cyberfuturistic world to explore and investigate, with challenging platforming and puzzles in the Astral Plane. It's a hidden gem exclusive to the Switch that deserves wider recognition.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a surprising yet fantastic blend of Mario's world and Ubisoft's Rabbids. The strategy RPG offers engaging, action-focused combat with a variety of character combinations and upgrades. It's a fun and innovative take on the genre that appeals to fans of both franchises.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door is a beautifully remade version of the beloved GameCube classic. With updated visuals, music, and gameplay enhancements, it stands as one of the best entries in the Paper Mario series. Its charm and engaging RPG elements make it an essential experience for newcomers and fans alike.

9. F-Zero 99

F-Zero 99 surprised fans with its 99-player battle royale format, bringing the series back after a long hiatus. The game's thrilling races and strategic elements, such as using the Skyway, have made it a standout entry. It's a must-play for racing enthusiasts and F-Zero fans looking for a fresh take on the series.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Pikmin 3 Deluxe enhances the original Wii U release with new content, co-op play, and the Piklopedia. The game introduced new Pikmin types and improved controls, making it a delightful addition to the franchise. Its humor and engaging gameplay make it a must-play for Pikmin fans.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a charming puzzle platformer that challenges players to navigate levels without jumping. Its ingenious design and bite-sized levels make it perfect for the Switch's portability. It's a gem that deserves recognition on this popular console.

6. Game Builder Garage

Game Builder Garage is an underappreciated tool that teaches players how to create their own games. Its user-friendly interface and engaging lessons make it accessible to beginners and aspiring game developers alike. It's a valuable resource that deserves more attention.

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 engaging RPG mechanics, these games provide hundreds of hours of immersive gameplay. They are essential experiences for fans of Japanese RPGs.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe is a fantastic 2D platformer that shines with its multiplayer capabilities. Its extensive levels and collectibles make it a great choice for both seasoned players and newcomers. The Deluxe version adds new content, making it an even more compelling experience.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Ring Fit Adventure is not just a fitness game; it's a full-fledged RPG that keeps you engaged with its unique gameplay mechanics. Whether you're looking to get active or dive into a new adventure, this game offers a fun and rewarding experience that's easy to pick up and hard to put down.

2. Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread brings the series back to its 2D roots with a thrilling experience that showcases the Switch's capabilities. The game's tense atmosphere and challenging gameplay, especially with the E.M.M.I. machines, make it a standout title. Despite its commercial success, it remains an overlooked gem in the broader gaming landscape.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

Metroid Prime Remastered is a stunning revival of the classic GameCube game, featuring a graphical overhaul and gameplay tweaks that make it feel at home on the Switch. Its sense of isolation and exploration is expertly preserved, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. Despite its quality, it's a title that didn't receive the sales it deserved.