If you’re planning to buy and play new Nintendo Switch 2 games with enhanced graphics, improved performance, and exciting new features, it’s the perfect time to build your game library, as more games have started coming out. So either you’re picking new must-haves as a new player, or you already owned a previous Switch console, so you will be upgrading old favorites to Switch 2 with both paid and free upgrades. This guide utilizes the latest information on Switch 2 releases, paid upgrade packs, and free enhancements for existing games, helping you select the 25 best titles to own now. Plus, we’ll highlight five games that might not be worth your money, so you can spend smarter. Here are the 25 best Nintendo Switch 2 games to buy, and 5 you should skip in this console generation.
Top 25 Nintendo Switch 2 Games You Should Consider Buying
With the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo fans are being treated to a wave of exciting games and enhanced editions that showcase the system’s power, versatility, and social features. From fresh exclusives to upgraded classics, these are the titles that stand out as must-haves for your library. Here’s our ranked list of Switch 2-ready games, perfect for both newcomers and series veterans.
Rank #25 – ARMS
On the Nintendo Switch 2, ARMS received a free performance and content update that revitalized the experience. Running at better framerates, improved load times, and upgraded textures, matches feel sharper and more responsive than ever.
Why it ranks here: ARMS still has that quirky charm and inventive gameplay loop, but even with the Switch 2 enhancements, it remains more of a niche fighter compared to Nintendo’s flagship titles. Still, for fans of unique, skill-based competition with personality, it’s a welcome reminder that Nintendo’s oddball ideas can pack a punch.
Rank #24 – Splatoon 3
Splatoon 3 already brought ink-slinging chaos to its peak on the original Switch, but the free Nintendo Switch 2 update makes it pop like never before. Now running at a stable 4K 60fps in competitive modes with crisper textures and improved lighting, every splash of color looks almost too good to get splattered on.
Why it ranks here: Splatoon 3 is more refined than ever, but its core loop hasn’t changed dramatically from earlier entries. The Switch 2 enhancements are fantastic for existing fans, but for others, the jump may not feel revolutionary. Still, it’s an essential pick for players who thrive on fast-paced, style-heavy team battles.
Rank #23 – Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut
This isn’t just a straight port; the Switch 2 edition runs at 4K with HDR, offers improved load times thanks to the faster storage, and upgrades character models with higher-poly facial animations. The vibrant night streets now gleam with extra detail, making the bustling nightlife feel more alive than ever on Nintendo hardware. Director’s Cut also bundles in all the DLC, including side stories, extra outfits, and the expanded mini-games.
Why it ranks here: Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut is an ideal entry point for newcomers and a nostalgic revisit for fans. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel for Switch 2, but the presentation upgrades and complete content package make it the most definitive portable version of one of the series’ best entries.
Rank #22 – Fast Fusion
Fast Fusion delivers breakneck, futuristic racing that’s built from the ground up for Nintendo Switch 2. You’ll hurtle through stunning tracks, think Redwood Forest canopies, storm-ravaged Tempesta, and the lofty heights of Yama Crest, and perform daring antigrav hyper-jumps to outmaneuver your rivals.
Why it ranks here: Fast Fusion is a stellar showcase for Switch 2’s capabilities and a solid entry in the antigrav racing genre. While not as endlessly replayable or content-rich as Mario Kart World, it delivers a fresh, sleek, and competitive experience at a price point that makes it hard to resist for fans of high-speed futurism.
Rank #21 – Game Builder Garage
Game Builder Garage turns the fundamentals of programming into a playful, hands-on experience through its friendly “Nodon” system. Players can follow interactive lessons or dive into free programming mode to help players make games themselves, from simple shooters to full puzzle adventures. The June 2025 Switch 2 update adds optimized visuals for high-resolution TVs, enhanced performance, and Joy-Con 2 mouse controls for faster, more precise editing. Sharing projects is now simpler thanks to integrated Switch 2 friend codes and cloud saves, making collaboration far smoother than before.
Why it ranks here: While not a “game” in the traditional sense, Game Builder Garage remains one of the best creative sandboxes on a Nintendo platform. The Switch 2 enhancements remove much of the friction from the original, letting players focus on building, learning, and experimenting. It earns this spot for its educational value, community creativity, and how well it takes advantage of Switch 2’s upgraded hardware.
Rank #20 – Street Fighter 6
Street Fighter 6 is the sixth mainline entry in Capcom’s legendary fighting series, arriving on Switch 2 as a fully loaded 2025 release. This version includes all additional characters from the game’s first two years of content across other platforms, including guest fighters Terry Bogard and Mai Shiranui from Fatal Fury. Amiibo support is built in, with collectible cards for most of the roster and a handful of detailed figures for fan favorites. Running at 60 FPS with rapid load times, this port offers the complete SF6 experience on Nintendo’s newest hardware.
Why it ranks here: By launching alongside Switch 2 and including a robust roster right out of the gate, Street Fighter 6 sets a high standard for fighting games on the system. Its blend of accessibility, depth, and crossover appeal makes it a must-have for competitive players and casual brawlers alike, and the Amiibo integration is a clever Nintendo-flavored bonus.
Rank #19 – Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
This all-in-one party package packs 51 tabletop-inspired games ranging from Chess and Shogi to Bowling and Texas Hold’em. Whether you’re in the mood for quick card matches or laid-back board games, Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics has you covered with both local and online multiplayer. The June 2025 Switch 2 update introduces GameShare support, letting up to four players enjoy 34 of the games together by sharing locally or online via GameChat, perfect for casual hangouts or family nights.
Why it ranks here: With its huge variety and now easier-than-ever sharing features, Clubhouse Games remains a go-to for social gaming on Switch 2. It’s the kind of title that quietly stays in your rotation for years because there’s always “just one more round” to play.
Rank #18 – Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World marks the first mainline console entry in the series since Mario Kart 8 on the Wii U in 2014. Launching alongside the Switch 2, it brings new open-world-style “intermission” courses that connect traditional racetracks, plus a much-touted “free roam” mode. While visually stunning and mechanically polished, the absence of local co-op in free roam drew criticism, as did the heavy focus on the connecting courses in online play, especially after update 1.1.2, which forced the “random” lobby option to pick these courses most of the time.
Why it ranks here: Despite its gorgeous presentation and fresh ideas, Mario Kart World stumbled in delivering the freedom players expected. Many still love it for classic circuit racing, but online matchmaking frustrations and missing co-op options keep it from climbing higher on this list.
Rank #17 – Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster
The beloved 2012 Nintendo 3DS classic returns as Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster, launching day-one with the Nintendo Switch 2. This edition enhances the original’s striking art style with crisp high-definition visuals, fully reorchestrated music, and new quality-of-life features such as adjustable encounter rates and streamlined job management. The turn-based “Brave and Default” battle system remains a highlight, tactically blending risk and reward.
Why it ranks here: A faithful remaster that modernizes the visuals and systems without losing the charm of the original, it’s a must-play for JRPG fans, but its ranking is tempered by the fact that it’s essentially a prettier, smoother version of a game many have already experienced.
Rank #16 – Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars
Two of the most beloved PlayStation-era RPGs return in this HD remaster, bringing Suikoden I and II together with enhanced character portraits, remastered backgrounds, reworked audio, and modernized UI. The Switch 2 version takes full advantage of the hardware with sharper visuals, faster loading, and save-anywhere functionality. Players can recruit over 100 characters in each game, building armies and shaping political destinies across two epic tales.
Why it ranks here: This remaster offers tremendous value and storytelling depth, but its placement reflects the fact that these are faithful upgrades rather than reimaginings, perfect for series veterans and newcomers who can appreciate their classic pacing and design.
Rank #15 – Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess blends action combat with real-time strategy in a world inspired by Japanese mythology. Players protect and guide a maiden through demon-infested landscapes, balancing resource management with fast-paced swordplay. In Japan, four critics from Famitsu awarded it a combined score of 34/40, praising its originality and atmospheric presentation.
Why it ranks here: Its unique genre mix and cultural flair set it apart, but the niche gameplay loop and learning curve mean it won’t click with everyone. For those who do connect, however, it’s a distinctive gem in the Switch 2’s library.
Rank #14 – Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World
The Switch 2 edition of Kirby and the Forgotten Land enhances the beloved 3D platformer with improved resolution, smoother frame rates, and a brand-new story expansion, Star-Crossed World. In this new adventure, a mysterious meteor crash-lands, prompting Kirby to explore uncharted lands using new Mouthful Modes and his classic copy abilities. The upgraded visuals and performance make its vibrant post-civilization landscapes feel even more alive, while the additional levels and story beats extend the charm of the original.
Why it ranks here: While it’s not a full sequel, this enhanced edition plus its DLC offers enough fresh content to make it a worthy return trip for fans. Its polish and charm are undeniable, but its familiarity compared to other Switch 2 exclusives keeps it just outside the top ten.
Rank #13 – Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker returns with upgraded visuals optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2’s display and high-resolution TVs, plus HDR support for richer colors and lighting. This charming puzzle-platformer lets players guide Captain Toad and Toadette through creative, diorama-like levels filled with secrets and hazards. The update also adds GameShare support, allowing two players to tackle all courses together, either locally or online via GameChat.
Why it ranks here: The Switch 2 upgrade breathes fresh life into one of Nintendo’s most charming puzzle games, especially with HDR and full co-op support. However, as it’s largely the same adventure at its core, it earns a respectable mid-tier placement rather than a top slot.
Rank #12 – Hogwarts Legacy
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition brings notable enhancements: Joy-Con 2 mouse sensor support for wand precision, upgraded visuals and audio, faster load times, and refined controls. These improvements make spellcasting, potion brewing, and exploration across Hogwarts and beyond more immersive than ever.
Why it ranks here: The Switch 2 enhancements significantly improve the overall experience, especially in terms of performance and input precision. However, as the core adventure remains unchanged from its earlier release, it doesn’t climb higher on the list despite its quality polish.
Rank #11 – The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
The beloved remake of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening has been further enhanced for the Nintendo Switch 2. This update optimizes the game’s visuals for the new system’s display and high-resolution TVs, and adds HDR support for more vibrant colors and lighting. The whimsical diorama art style now shines brighter than ever, making Koholint Island feel even more magical.
Why it ranks here: Already a standout on Switch, the improved graphics and HDR give this classic a fresh polish. However, as the core adventure remains unchanged, it lands just outside the top 10 despite its timeless charm.
Rank #10 – Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
The Ultimate Edition of Cyberpunk 2077 makes full use of Nintendo Switch 2’s capabilities, adding Joy-Con 2 motion controls for hacking, melee attacks, and dodging in combat. Gyroscope aiming improves precision in firefights, while the right Joy-Con 2 can function like a mouse for pinpoint accuracy both in and out of combat. Cross-save support allows players to carry their V across platforms, and Night City’s chaos can now follow you seamlessly from docked play to handheld mode.
Why it ranks here: Years of updates have turned Cyberpunk 2077 into a much smoother and richer experience, and the Switch 2 version is surprisingly competent for such an ambitious open world. Some visual compromises remain, but the ability to explore Night City anywhere gives it a strong place in our top ten.
Rank #9 – The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Launched alongside the Nintendo Switch 2’s debut, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom received a notable upgrade that refined its already striking art style. The update added HDR support and optimized visuals for the new console’s display, delivering sharper textures, richer colors, and an overall more immersive presentation for players exploring Hyrule’s latest mysteries.
Why it ranks here: While not the most revolutionary Zelda in terms of gameplay, the Switch 2 enhancements give Echoes of Wisdom a visual polish that makes every moment, whether in sweeping landscapes or tense dungeon battles, feel richer. It earns its spot for being a solid, modern Zelda that takes full advantage of the hardware without losing the series’ timeless charm.
Rank #8 – Deltarune
Toby Fox’s quirky and heartfelt RPG finally arrived in fuller form with the paid release of Chapters 3 and 4, launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025. Originally debuting with a free Chapter 1 in 2019 and expanding to Chapter 2 in 2021, Deltarune has steadily grown into a richer, more elaborate journey while retaining its sharp writing, memorable characters, and unconventional combat system.
Why it ranks here: The new chapters deepen the world and relationships in ways that reward longtime fans, while the Switch 2’s faster load times and crisp visuals make every encounter and set piece smoother to enjoy. It lands high on the list for being a rare blend of indie charm and ambitious storytelling, although with one more chapter to go, it feels like the best is still to come.
Rank #7 – Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is a spin-off entry in the Rune Factory series, released worldwide on June 5, 2025, for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam. Set in a myth-inspired new region, the game combines farming, crafting, and monster taming with more action-oriented combat than previous entries. The Switch 2 version benefits from larger seamless environments, smoother performance, and sharper visuals, giving the game a more ambitious feel compared to its predecessors.
Why it ranks here: As a spin-off, Guardians of Azuma takes creative risks, expanding the series’ formula while keeping the life-sim and RPG balance intact. Its wide release across platforms made it more accessible than ever, but the Switch 2 edition stands out for its technical improvements. While some longtime fans miss the cozier pace of the mainline titles, its polished presentation and fresh direction secured it a top-ten spot.
Rank #6 – Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Originally released on the Nintendo Switch in 2021, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury continues to shine on Nintendo Switch 2 thanks to a major free update. Released alongside the new system on June 5, 2025, this update enhanced visuals in both handheld and docked modes, improved the frame rate for smoother play, and introduced HDR support exclusively for Bowser’s Fury. GameShare and GameChat support were also added, allowing up to four people to enjoy Super Mario 3D World together, or two players to team up in Bowser’s Fury with Mario and Bowser Jr.
Why it ranks here: This package already offered one of the most inventive combinations in modern Mario, classic multiplayer 3D platforming paired with an experimental open-world mini-adventure. The Switch 2 enhancements further elevate the experience, making the lively co-op even smoother and Bowser’s Fury more visually striking. While not a brand-new title, its polish, replay value, and cooperative fun ensure it remains a top-tier Mario experience on Nintendo’s latest hardware.
Rank #5 – The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was already a landmark title when it launched on Nintendo Switch in 2023, and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition elevates it further. This enhanced version takes full advantage of the new hardware, offering smoother frame rates, higher resolution textures, HDR support, and dramatically reduced load times. Exclusive features like ZELDA NOTES, a smart-device companion service available through the Nintendo Switch app for Expansion Pack members, provide additional in-game navigation support, voiced insights from key characters, and a second save file option, perfect for starting a fresh journey while keeping your old progress.
Why it ranks here: As one of the most ambitious open-world adventures ever made, Tears of the Kingdom thrives on Nintendo Switch 2’s improvements. The performance boost alone makes exploring Hyrule’s vast landscapes more seamless than ever, while HDR and sharper visuals enhance the sense of scale and beauty. The inclusion of unique Switch 2 features like ZELDA NOTES makes this more than just a technical upgrade; it’s the definitive way to experience Link’s latest adventure.
Rank #4 – The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild remains one of Nintendo’s most influential titles, redefining open-world design when it launched in 2017. The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition gives this modern classic a fresh life, with upgraded visuals, higher frame rates, HDR support, and faster load times. The edition also integrates with ZELDA NOTES, a Switch 2 exclusive service on the Nintendo Switch app, providing additional story details through Voice Memories and offering helpful guidance during exploration. While the DLC packs The Master Trials and The Champions’ Ballad are not included, they remain available separately.
Why it ranks here: Even years later, Breath of the Wild is still a genre-defining masterpiece. The Switch 2 Edition enhances the adventure with meaningful technical improvements, making Hyrule feel more alive and fluid than ever. The addition of ZELDA NOTES adds a new layer of immersion for returning players, while newcomers can now experience one of Nintendo’s greatest games in its most polished form to date.
Rank #3 – Split Fiction
Hazelight’s Split Fiction is widely celebrated as one of the best co-op experiences of its generation, blending heartfelt storytelling with a wildly inventive range of gameplay. The Nintendo Switch 2 version not only retains the excellent writing and character-driven journey but also expands how players can connect. With Friend’s Pass, only one copy of the game is required for two people to play together online, while GameShare allows local wireless co-op even between a Switch 2 and an original Switch. The addition of GameChat, with voice and optional video support via the Switch 2 Camera, makes it easier than ever to share the experience, no matter the distance.
Why it ranks here: Split Fiction isn’t just about solving puzzles or tackling challenges; it’s about connection. By combining Hazelight’s trademark co-op design with Nintendo Switch 2’s social innovations, the game captures the feeling of sitting on the couch together, even when miles apart. It ranks this high because it proves that sometimes the most important upgrade isn’t visual polish or frame rates, but the ability to share meaningful moments seamlessly with a friend. This is one of the core philosophies of the Switch as a console.
Rank #2 – Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey remains one of the crown jewels of the Nintendo Switch library, and the Nintendo Switch 2 update has ensured its brilliance shines even brighter. A free update released on June 5, 2025, enhanced the game with optimized visuals for the Switch 2 display and high-resolution TVs, smoother performance, and full HDR support. It also introduced GameShare functionality, allowing two players to team up, one as Mario and the other as Cappy, either locally or online via GameChat.
Why it ranks here: Few platformers in history have achieved the same balance of creativity, accessibility, and pure joy that Odyssey offers. Its Switch 2 enhancements polish an already near-perfect experience, making it more immersive and collaborative than ever before. Even years after its release, it continues to feel fresh, endlessly replayable, and like the very definition of Nintendo magic, easily earning its place at #2.
Rank #1 – Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza marks the long-awaited return of the iconic ape in his first original game since Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze (2014), and only the second-ever 3D platformer in the series after Donkey Kong 64. Developed by Nintendo EPD’s Production Group No. 8, the same team behind Super Mario Odyssey, this Switch 2 launch title has been hailed as a bold and energetic reimagining of the franchise, seamlessly blending platforming with co-op innovation.
In 2-player co-op, one player controls Donkey Kong while the other takes on the role of Pauline, who rides on DK’s shoulder and unleashes devastating vocal blasts. Players can even use Joy-Con™ 2’s mouse controls for pinpoint precision when aiming. Pauline’s ability to copy nearby terrain adds strategic depth, and when combined with Donkey Kong’s raw power, no obstacle stands a chance. For new players, Assist Mode offers options such as automatic path guidance, aim assist, reduced damage, and health regeneration, making the adventure more accessible than ever. Whether playing locally on a single console, via GameShare between two systems, or online with GameChat, Donkey Kong Bananza sets a new standard for cooperative platformers.
Why it ranks here: Few franchises embody Nintendo’s legacy quite like Donkey Kong, and Bananza delivers a triumphant, modern return. With groundbreaking co-op mechanics, polished gameplay, and Switch 2-exclusive innovations, this is not only a standout launch title, it’s a defining game for the system itself. That’s why Donkey Kong Bananza sits proudly at the top of our list.
Worst 5 Switch 2 Games You Might Want to Avoid Paying for Now
Not every Nintendo Switch 2 release is worth jumping on right away, especially if you’re mindful of your budget or already own the Switch 1 versions. Here are a few titles you may want to hold off on:
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Many players across multiple social media platforms call it a paid tech demo rather than a real game: short, repetitive mini-games and tutorial text that feel more like an interactive manual than entertainment. Many point out that it should’ve been free with the console (it launched at about $10), requires extra accessories to fully experience some sections, and offers little replay value; you can get the same information from a quick YouTube walkthrough. If you’re on a budget, don’t buy this one; watch a video or wait for it to be bundled or heavily discounted.
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
You may want to skip Pokémon Scarlet and Violet on Nintendo Switch 2 for now. Despite the free update promising smoother visuals and framerates, players report the game still suffers from major technical issues, low-quality textures, pop-in, lag, and inconsistent performance that barely improves on the new hardware. The open world feels empty and uninspired, with limited exploration rewards, shallow NPC interactions, and buildings you can’t even enter. Combined with lackluster storytelling and the fact that the game rarely goes on sale, it’s hard to justify paying full price when fans are holding out hope for a proper overhaul or a definitive edition in the future.
Hitman: World of Assassination – Signature Edition
Hitman: World of Assassination – Signature Edition might look like a dream package on paper, but the Switch 2 port comes with major caveats. Players report unstable frame rates, frequent crashes, and a muddy image thanks to poor DLSS implementation. Worse, progression is tied to being online, making handheld play on the go frustratingly limited. The so-called “Signature Edition” isn’t even a true physical release; it’s just a download code that eats up more than 60GB of storage. Until performance issues are patched and the storage situation improves, this one is hard to recommend as a full-price purchase.
WWE 2K25
If you’re thinking of buying WWE 2K25 for Switch 2 right now, hold off. Many players call out persistent technical problems (crashes, stuttering, and wildly inconsistent frame rates), huge mandatory downloads tied to “game-key” releases, and design choices that feel unfinished; some players even report progress or online features that don’t work properly when offline. Those problems combine with a feeling among many buyers that the port was rushed and relies too much on patches later. If you want a smooth, worry-free launch experience on Switch 2, the current user feedback suggests waiting for fixes or a sale.
Survival Kids
Survival Kids is not a great pick on the Switch 2, especially for the $49.99 price. The game is very basic and repetitive, so it quickly becomes boring. It doesn’t feel fun for kids, and it’s too simple for older players. Even though it has co-op, it’s not done well enough to make the game enjoyable. There are many other better co-op and family games on Switch 2 right now, so this one is easy to skip.
So, What to Expect Now?
The Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t just an upgrade in graphics and performance; it’s shaping up to redefine how we play together. With new features like GameShare, GameChat, and enhanced motion and gyro controls, Nintendo has taken bold steps to make gaming more connected, immersive, and fun. Whether you’re diving into a brand-new adventure or rediscovering a beloved classic in a whole new light, the Switch 2 launch lineup proves there’s something here for everyone.
No matter your taste, platformers, RPGs, action games, or co-op experiences, the Nintendo Switch 2’s library is already setting a high bar for the next generation of hybrid gaming. One thing is clear: this is only the beginning.
