"20 Hidden Gems: Nintendo Switch Games You Missed"

As the Nintendo Switch gracefully approaches its final days, with the much-anticipated Switch 2 on the horizon, it's the perfect moment to revisit some hidden gems that might have slipped through your gaming radar. 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 undoubtedly captured the hearts of many, the Switch's library is brimming with other exceptional games that deserve your attention before you transition to the next generation.

We understand that time and budgets can be limiting factors, but don't let these constraints prevent you from experiencing some of the best games on Nintendo's hybrid console. Here’s a curated list of 20 overlooked Nintendo Switch games that you should play before the Switch 2 arrives. You won’t regret it.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

21 Images20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Delve into the enchanting origins of the demon-slaying witch with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This game combines a stunning storybook art style with engaging puzzle-platforming, while still offering the thrilling combat that fans of the series adore. Its unique prequel perspective and distinct visual approach might have overshadowed its brilliance, but it's a must-play for any Bayonetta enthusiast.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Immerse yourself in the musou-style action of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, where you can take on the role of Link and other champions from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Though not part of the main canon, this game offers a satisfying experience of defending Hyrule against waves of enemies. It's a perfect addition for fans of the Zelda series who crave more epic battles.

18. New Pokemon Snap

Revisit the joy of capturing Pokemon in their natural habitats with New Pokemon Snap. This long-awaited sequel to the beloved Nintendo 64 classic expands on the original with more Pokemon to photograph and hidden secrets in various biomes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this game offers a unique and delightful Pokemon experience.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Experience Kirby's first fully 3D adventure in Kirby and the Forgotten Land. The game leverages the third dimension to offer expansive exploration and innovative abilities, such as transforming into a car. It's a standout title in the Kirby series that you shouldn't miss during the Switch era.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Explore the charming world of Paper Mario: The Origami King, which combines a unique art style with puzzle-RPG gameplay. Though the combat may not be as engaging as its predecessors, the game compensates with its visually stunning open world, making it a beautiful addition to the Paper Mario series.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Don't miss out on Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, one of the finest 2D platformers available. Its challenging levels and breathtaking visuals make it a must-play for platformer enthusiasts. The game's difficulty and rewarding gameplay are a testament to Nintendo's commitment to quality.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses stole the spotlight, Fire Emblem Engage offers a compelling narrative and strategic gameplay that brings back beloved characters from across the series. It's a fantastic tactical RPG that deserves recognition among fans of the genre.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

Dive into the vibrant world of Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore, a unique crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem set against Japan's idol music culture. Its engaging combat and colorful art style make it a refreshing and fun experience.

12. Astral Chain

Astral Chain showcases PlatinumGames' signature fluid combat and innovative gameplay mechanics. With its cyberfuturistic setting and diverse challenges, it's a Switch exclusive that deserves more attention for its quality and depth.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Enjoy the delightful strategy RPG Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope, where the worlds of Mario and Ubisoft's Rabbids collide in a fun and action-packed adventure. It's a perfect blend of humor and tactical gameplay that appeals to fans of both franchises.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

Experience the beloved Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door, a ground-up remake of the GameCube classic. Its enhanced visuals and gameplay make it one of the best entries in the Paper Mario series, offering a charming and engaging adventure.

9. F-Zero 99

F-Zero 99 brings the iconic racing series back with a thrilling 99-player battle royale format. Despite initial skepticism, it has proven to be a fantastic addition to the franchise, offering intense races and strategic depth.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Rediscover the joy of commanding your Pikmin army in Pikmin 3 Deluxe. With new Pikmin types, improved controls, and additional content, this game is a delightful and humorous entry in the series that shouldn't be overlooked.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Embark on a clever puzzle-platforming adventure with Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. Its unique mechanics and bite-sized levels make it a perfect fit for the Switch, offering a charming and engaging experience.

6. Game Builder Garage

Unlock your creativity with Game Builder Garage, a user-friendly game development tool from Nintendo. It's an excellent way to learn game design through engaging lessons and hands-on experience, making it a valuable resource for aspiring developers.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Explore the vast, beautiful worlds of the Xenoblade Chronicles Series. With its epic narratives and expansive open worlds, this series offers hundreds of hours of immersive gameplay that combines traditional JRPG elements with modern technology.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Join the fun in Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe, a delightful 2D platformer with robust multiplayer features. Its extensive levels and collectibles make it a perfect introduction to platformers for new players and a joy for veterans.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Get active and engaged with Ring Fit Adventure, a unique blend of fitness and RPG gameplay. It's a fun and effective way to stay motivated and enjoy a narrative-driven adventure at the same time.

2. Metroid Dread

Experience the thrilling return of Samus Aran in Metroid Dread, a 2.5D game that brings back the series' signature tension and exploration. Its challenging gameplay and atmospheric design make it a standout title on the Switch.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

Relive the classic adventure with Metroid Prime Remastered, a stunning overhaul of the original GameCube game. With updated graphics and refined gameplay, it's a testament to the enduring quality of the Metroid series and a must-play for Switch owners.