Nintendo Switch is already eight years old, and to date, it is reigning the handheld console market with almost no competitor even near to it. As of March 2025, this console is still captivating the gaming world with a diverse library of titles. From action-adventure to catching Pokémon, it has almost every genre of game present. So, if one is looking for new entries to try in 2025 or some of the iconic games on the console, this list will include all the innovative and groundbreaking entries.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is one of the most acclaimed sequels ever released on Nintendo Switch. Being the release title of the Nintendo Switch, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is still one of the best Nintendo Switch games to play, and the sequel has taken it to the next height. Built upon the storyline of its predecessor, this sequel has expanded the open-world exploration of its predecessor with intricate puzzles and intense challenges. In this journey, players will once again join Link on a quest to save Hyrule.
The next game that should be added to the list is from the most celebrated Nintendo franchise: Super Mario Odyssey 2. It’s going to be the twenty-third title in the Super Mario series and the eighth 3D Super Mario title on a home console. The iconic protagonist, Mario, will return in Super Mario Odyssey 2 and offers new worlds, power-ups, and creative gameplay mechanics. Currently, the game is scheduled to be released on June 12, 2025.
Metroid Prime 4 is finally coming this year; at least that’s what speculations hint at. Announced in 2017, the development of the game has faced loads of ups and downs to reach its current state. Reportedly, this game will continue the saga of Samus Aran and blend exploration with combat and minutely designed in-game worlds. The exact date of its official launch is not yet known, but it is going to be one of the best choices to go for this year with a compelling storyline and new in-game mechanics.
The next game that deserves a mention on a list of the best Nintendo games to play this year is undoubtedly Splatoon 3. This is one of the most popular multiplayer games that brings vibrant, action-filled modes with new weapons and customization options. The most attractive part of the game involves its dynamic gameplay and colourful aesthetics, which makes it a must-play for fans of the series.
For Nintendo Switch fans, Animal Crossing is one of those games that can’t be missed out on. While Animal Crossing: New Horizons is already popular enough, the Happy Home Paradise expansion adds new content to the original game to keep it equally exciting. It has added new items, activities, and areas to explore. Animal Crossing games are relaxing games without much intensity, but this expansion pack has enhanced the relaxing nature of it with the addition of creativity.
Recently, at the Humble Games Showcase, developer Chuhai Labs announced Wild Blue, which is going to be a spiritual successor to Star Fox. This upcoming Nintendo Switch game will feature animal pilots, dogfights, and vibrant environments. Additionally, it will offer gamers engaging classic arcade flight-combat experiences and captivating enemy battles to restore peace.
Star of Providence offers a rogue-like, shooter experience that offers the exploration of a large, abandoned facility where players must search for incredible power. However, this process is accompanied by fighting dangerous foes to acquire new weapons and upgrades. Basically, this is a twin-stick bullet hell shooter that combines retro and modern gaming elements to prepare creative gameplay for players. So, for Nintendo Switch gamers who love challenging boss fights, it's a must-try game.
The next Nintendo game that is worth mentioning here is Atari's Missile Command Delta. This game is basically a reimagined version of the classic arcade game in a 3D turn-based mystery version. It takes players to explore underground bunkers, interact with hex-based grids, and uncover twisted narratives. So, if one hasn’t yet given it a try, they must do it this year.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus is one of the legendary Pokémon games that one must not miss on Nintendo Switch. This game offers an iconic Pokémon experience with an open-world design and real-time action mechanics. It is set in the ancient Sinnoh region and offers players the opportunity to explore vast landscapes and discover the origins of the Pokémon universe.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is another immensely popular Nintendo Switch game that gamers must give a try. It offers gamers a captivating tactical role-playing experience that provides players with in-depth character development and strategic battles. The storyline involves players leading students through complex narratives, and each choice they make will impact the game’s consequences.
The Nintendo Switch’s 2025 lineup is extraordinarily exciting. Whether it's the existing games or the ones coming this year, all deserve a try from gamers. It’s kind of impossible to try all the games that the console library offers, but one must not miss the ones mentioned on this above-mentioned list.