Top 20 Underrated Nintendo Switch Titles Revealed

As the Nintendo Switch nears the end of its life cycle, making way for the highly anticipated Switch 2, it's the perfect time to revisit some of the overlooked gems on the current console. While iconic titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons have dominated the spotlight, there's a wealth of other fantastic games that deserve your attention before you transition to the next generation.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

21 Images20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Discover the enchanting origins of the demon-slaying witch with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This visually stunning puzzle platformer adopts a captivating storybook art style while retaining the series' signature action-packed combat. Although its prequel status and unique aesthetic may have overshadowed it, Bayonetta Origins is a must-play for fans of the franchise.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Experience the thrill of defending Hyrule in the musou-style action of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. While not considered canon to Breath of the Wild, this game offers immense satisfaction as you control Link and the Champions, battling hordes of enemies. If you're a fan of The Legend of Zelda's expansive world, Age of Calamity is a delightful journey back in time.

18. New Pokemon Snap

After years of anticipation, New Pokemon Snap fulfills the dreams of fans who cherished the original Nintendo 64 game. This sequel enhances everything you loved about the first, with more Pokemon to photograph and numerous secrets to uncover across diverse biomes. Whether you're a veteran or new to the series, New Pokemon Snap is a unique and beloved spinoff worth exploring.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Marking the first fully 3D Kirby game, Kirby and the Forgotten Land elevates the series with expansive, explorable environments. Kirby's classic ability to inhale enemies and gain powers remains, but new mechanics like transforming into a car enhance exploration. Don't miss out on one of the best Kirby adventures during the Switch's lifespan.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Celebrated for its charming art style and puzzle RPG gameplay, Paper Mario: The Origami King offers a visually stunning open world. Though the combat may not be as engaging as its predecessors, the game's aesthetic and exploration make it a standout in the Paper Mario series.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze stands as one of the greatest 2D platformers ever created. Its challenging levels, paired with beautiful graphics, an amazing soundtrack, and precise controls, make it a must-play for platformer enthusiasts. Prepare to navigate crumbling icebergs and jello cubes in this exhilarating adventure.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

Following the success of Fire Emblem: Three Houses, Fire Emblem Engage brings back beloved characters from past games through a multiverse concept. While its narrative may not be as strong, the game offers a return to classic tactics RPG gameplay with smaller, intense combat scenarios. Engage is perfect for fans seeking a strategic challenge.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

A unique blend of Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem set in Japan's idol music scene, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is a colorful and engaging RPG. Its breezy combat and vibrant art style make it a delightful experience, despite some toned-down themes in its localization.

12. Astral Chain

Astral Chain's fluid combat and unique mechanics, involving summonable living weapons called "Legion," set it apart. Beyond its action, the game offers a cyberfuturistic world to explore and a variety of challenges. Its exclusivity to the Switch may have limited its audience, but it's a gem worth discovering.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Combining Mario and Ubisoft's Rabbids in a strategy RPG, Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope delivers fun and action-packed combat. Whether you're a fan of either franchise, the game's engaging mechanics and character combinations make it a standout title.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

A remake of the beloved GameCube classic, Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door brings enhanced visuals, music, and gameplay to the Switch. Join Mario on a swashbuckling treasure hunt filled with charm and excellence, making it the perfect entry point for newcomers to the Paper Mario series.

9. F-Zero 99

After a 20-year hiatus, F-Zero 99 surprised fans with its 99-player battle royale format. The game's post-launch updates have elevated it to a top-tier entry in the series, offering thrilling races and strategic gameplay. It may not be what fans expected, but it's a vital revival for the franchise.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Pikmin 3 Deluxe brought the beloved franchise back after a long wait, introducing new Pikmin types and improved controls. The Switch version added co-op play, more content, and the Piklopedia, making it a comprehensive and enjoyable entry in the series. Don't miss out on this fun and humorous addition to your Pikmin collection.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a charming puzzle platformer where the titular character navigates levels without jumping due to his heavy backpack. Perfect for short bursts of play, this ingenious game is a must-have on the Switch, especially for those who appreciate clever level design.

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 focus on building algorithms make it an ideal starting point for aspiring game developers. Dive in and let your creativity soar.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles series offers vast, beautiful open worlds and epic stories across four games. Combining classic JRPG elements with modern technology, these games provide hundreds of hours of exploration and adventure. Each entry is a masterpiece in its own right.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Complementing The Forgotten Land, Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe is a stellar 2D platformer with robust multiplayer features. With a plethora of levels and collectibles, it's an excellent introduction to platforming for new gamers and a fun experience for veterans. The Switch version adds an epilogue and classic subgames, enhancing its appeal.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

A best-seller that combines fitness with RPG elements, Ring Fit Adventure is more than just a New Year's resolution tool. Its engaging storyline and innovative use of the fitness ring make it a unique and rewarding experience. Get back to it and power up both your character and yourself.

2. Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread revitalizes the series with its 2.5D gameplay and terrifying E.M.M.I. machines that hunt Samus through claustrophobic corridors. Though it sold well, it remains underappreciated compared to other Switch titles. Experience the suspense and action that define Metroid.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

With Metroid Prime 4 on the horizon, revisiting the remastered version of the original Metroid Prime is essential. This isn't just a re-release; it's a graphically enhanced remake with modernized controls, all at a budget-friendly price. The game's sense of isolation and exploration remains unparalleled, making it a must-play for any Switch owner.

These are our favorite Switch games that we believe more players should experience before the Switch 2 arrives. With backward compatibility, now is the ideal time to explore these titles and continue your adventures on the new console.