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The Nintendo Switch has been a smash hit since its release in 2017, with gamers of all ages and abilities flocking to its innovative and versatile design. But with so many great games available, it can be tough to know which ones are worth your time and money. In this article, we’ll take a look at the most popular Nintendo Switch games right now, from the latest releases to the all-time classics. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your Switch and get ready to play!

Most Popular Nintendo Switch Games by Category

When it comes to the most popular Nintendo Switch games, there are a variety of categories to consider. Here are some of the most popular games in each category:

Action-Adventure Games

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: This game has consistently been one of the most popular Nintendo Switch games since its release in 2017. It’s an open-world action-adventure game that allows players to explore the land of Hyrule and battle enemies using swords, shields, and magical abilities.
• Mario Odyssey: Another classic Nintendo franchise, Mario Odyssey is a must-play for fans of the series. Players control Mario as he explores various kingdoms, solving puzzles and battling enemies using a variety of abilities and power-ups.
• Bayonetta 3: This game is a must-play for fans of the Bayonetta series, which is known for its fast-paced action and over-the-top combat. Bayonetta 3 continues the series’ tradition of combining gunplay, magic, and melee combat to create a unique and thrilling experience.

Role-Playing Games (RPGs)

• The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: This game is a critically acclaimed RPG that follows the story of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a fantasy world. Players can explore the open world, complete quests, and battle various creatures using a variety of weapons and abilities.
• Final Fantasy XV: This game is a fan-favorite RPG that follows the story of Noctis, a prince who must travel across the world to reclaim his kingdom. Players can customize their characters, explore the world, and battle enemies using a variety of weapons and spells.
• Persona 5 Royal: This game is a highly-rated RPG that follows the story of a high school student who becomes a phantom thief. Players can explore the game’s world, complete quests, and battle enemies using a variety of weapons and abilities.

Sports Games

• Mario Tennis Aces: This game is a fun and competitive sports game that allows players to compete against each other in tennis matches. Players can choose from a variety of characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
• FIFA 22: This game is a popular sports game that allows players to compete against each other in soccer matches. Players can choose from a variety of teams and players, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
• NBA 2K22: This game is a popular sports game that allows players to compete against each other in basketball matches. Players can choose from a variety of teams and players, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.

Other Popular Games

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons: This game is a popular simulation game that allows players to create their own virtual island and live life in a peaceful and relaxing environment. Players can build their own homes, interact with animals, and decorate their island to their heart’s content.
• Pokémon Sword and Shield: This game is a popular RPG that allows players to explore the Pokémon world and battle against other trainers using their own unique team of Pokémon. Players can catch new Pokémon, evolve them, and train them to become stronger.
• Splatoon 3: This game is a popular third-person shooter that allows players to compete against each other in paint battles. Players can choose from a variety of characters, each with their own unique weapons and abilities.

Action Games

First-Person Shooters

• Call of Duty: Warzone
  • As a battle royale game, Call of Duty: Warzone has become incredibly popular among Nintendo Switch players.
  • With its fast-paced gameplay and numerous game modes, it offers a thrilling experience for those who enjoy first-person shooters.
• Doom Eternal
  • Doom Eternal is a highly-acclaimed first-person shooter that has been praised for its intense gameplay and stunning graphics.
  • The game’s storyline follows the protagonist as he battles against demonic forces in a post-apocalyptic world.
• Halo 3
  • Halo 3 is a classic first-person shooter that has been ported to the Nintendo Switch.
  • With its epic campaign and multiplayer modes, it offers a fantastic gaming experience for fans of the series.

Action-Adventure Games

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
  • The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a critically-acclaimed action-adventure game that has won numerous awards.
  • The game’s open-world design and engaging storyline have made it a fan favorite among Nintendo Switch players.
• Super Mario Odyssey
  • Super Mario Odyssey is a beloved action-adventure game that has been praised for its innovative gameplay and charming characters.
  • The game’s unique mechanics and diverse levels offer a fantastic gaming experience for players of all ages.
• Batman: Arkham Knight
  • Batman: Arkham Knight is a highly-regarded action-adventure game that follows the Dark Knight as he battles against Gotham City’s villains.
  • With its engaging storyline and challenging gameplay, it offers a thrilling experience for fans of the Batman series.

Role-Playing Games

JRPGs

• Persona 5 Royal
  • Released in 2019, Persona 5 Royal is an enhanced version of the popular JRPG Persona 5.
  • Players take on the role of a high school student who moonlights as a phantom thief, using his Persona abilities to defeat enemies and solve puzzles.
  • The game features a unique blend of role-playing, simulation, and rhythm game elements, making it a standout title in the JRPG genre.
• Pokémon Sword and Shield
  • The latest installment in the long-running Pokémon series, Sword and Shield was released in 2019.
  • Players explore the new region of Galar, encountering familiar Pokémon and making new discoveries.
  • The game features a new dynamic weather system and a focus on battling other trainers and the iconic Pokémon League.
• Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition
  • Originally released in 2010, the Definitive Edition of Xenoblade Chronicles was released in 2019.
  • The game follows the story of a group of characters as they search for a legendary hero across a massive, procedurally generated world.
  • Combat is real-time and strategic, with players using a variety of weapons and special abilities to defeat enemies.

Western RPGs

• The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
  • Released in 2015, The Witcher 3 is an open-world RPG set in a fantasy world based on Polish folklore.
  • Players control Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with supernatural abilities, as he searches for his missing adopted daughter.
  • The game features a complex combat system, a large variety of weapons and abilities, and a rich, mature storyline.
• Fallout 4
  • Released in 2015, Fallout 4 is the latest installment in the classic post-apocalyptic RPG series.
  • Players explore the ruins of Boston, Massachusetts, building and upgrading their own base, and engaging in turn-based combat with a variety of enemies.
  • The game features a robust crafting system, a deep settlement building system, and a branching main storyline.
• Skyrim
  • Released in 2011, Skyrim is a classic open-world RPG set in the fantasy world of Skyrim, a province in the fictional land of Tamriel.
  • Players control a Nordic warrior as they explore the world, complete quests, and engage in real-time combat with a variety of weapons and magic.
  • The game features a large, open world to explore, a deep character creation system, and a branching main storyline.

If you’re a sports fan and a gaming enthusiast, then you’re in luck because the Nintendo Switch has a variety of sports games that you can enjoy. Here are some of the most popular sports games on the Nintendo Switch right now:

Mario Tennis Aces

Mario Tennis Aces is a popular sports game on the Nintendo Switch that features the iconic characters from the Mario franchise. In this game, players can choose to play as their favorite Mario characters and compete against each other in a variety of tennis matches. The game has received rave reviews for its fun and intuitive gameplay, as well as its excellent graphics and sound design.

FIFA 21

FIFA 21 is one of the most popular sports games on the Nintendo Switch, and it’s no surprise given its reputation as one of the best football (soccer) games available. The game features a variety of modes, including online multiplayer, where players can compete against each other in real-time matches. The game has received praise for its realistic gameplay, as well as its extensive roster of licensed teams and players.

NBA 2K21

NBA 2K21 is another popular sports game on the Nintendo Switch, and it’s perfect for basketball fans. The game features a variety of modes, including online multiplayer, where players can compete against each other in real-time matches. The game has received praise for its realistic gameplay, as well as its excellent graphics and sound design. It also features a variety of licensed teams and players, which adds to the overall authenticity of the experience.

Strategy Games

Civilization VI

Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K Games. It was released for the Nintendo Switch in November 2018. The game has players build and manage their own civilization from the ancient times to the modern era. Players can choose from a variety of different civilizations, each with their own unique abilities and characteristics. The goal of the game is to build a successful civilization by expanding territories, advancing technology, and engaging in diplomacy with other players.

Stellaris

Stellaris is a science fiction grand strategy game developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. It was released for the Nintendo Switch in November 2020. The game is set in space and allows players to explore the galaxy, encounter other civilizations, and engage in interstellar warfare. Players can choose to play as one of several different alien races, each with their own unique abilities and characteristics. The goal of the game is to build a successful space-faring civilization by exploring new worlds, developing new technologies, and engaging in diplomacy with other players.

XCOM 2

XCOM 2 is a turn-based tactical game developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K Games. It was released for the Nintendo Switch in September 2018. The game is a sequel to the original XCOM game and has players take on the role of the commander of a military organization tasked with defending Earth from an alien invasion. Players must strategically manage their resources, recruit and train soldiers, and engage in turn-based battles with the aliens. The goal of the game is to save humanity from extinction and restore Earth to its former glory.

Puzzle Games

• Tetris 99
  • A modern twist on the classic puzzle game, Tetris 99 is a multiplayer battle royale game where players compete against each other to be the last one standing.
  • Players drop Tetris pieces, and the board automatically clears rows when a line is filled. The game ends when a player reaches the top of the screen, and the last player standing wins.
  • With a variety of game modes and the ability to play locally or online, Tetris 99 is a must-play for puzzle game fans.
• The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
  • A remake of the classic Game Boy game, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is a puzzle-adventure game set in the world of Koholint Island.
  • Players control Link as he explores the island, solves puzzles, and battles enemies using a variety of weapons and tools.
  • The game features updated graphics and a new Chamber Dungeon mode, where players can create and play their own dungeons.
  • With its charming characters and challenging puzzles, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is a beloved classic that continues to delight players today.
• Overcooked! All You Can Eat
  • Overcooked! All You Can Eat is a fast-paced cooking simulation game that requires players to work together to prepare and serve meals.
  • Players must chop vegetables, cook meat, and assemble dishes while navigating through a variety of kitchen environments.
  • The game features a variety of levels, challenges, and playable characters, making it a great choice for both solo and multiplayer play.
  • With its addictive gameplay and humorous graphics, Overcooked! All You Can Eat is a fun and entertaining game for players of all ages.

Nintendo Switch Games with High Replay Value

• Dark Souls Remastered
  • A critically acclaimed action role-playing game that was first released in 2011, Dark Souls Remastered is a must-play for any action game enthusiast. With its challenging gameplay, immersive world, and deep lore, this game has become a staple of the genre. Players will journey through the undead world of Lordran, battling fearsome foes and uncovering ancient secrets along the way. With its rewarding combat system and high replay value, Dark Souls Remastered is a game that players will keep coming back to time and time again.
• Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
  • Released in 2019, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is an action-adventure game developed by FromSoftware. This game is known for its fast-paced combat and unique protagonist, a one-armed shinobi named Sekiro. Players will navigate through a beautiful and deadly world, fighting off monsters and bosses with a variety of weapons and abilities. With its intense action and challenging gameplay, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a game that will keep players on the edge of their seats.

• Resident Evil Village

  • The latest installment in the Resident Evil series, Resident Evil Village is a survival horror game that was released in 2021. Players will take on the role of Ethan Winters, the protagonist of the previous game, as he navigates through a creepy and dangerous village filled with monsters and other terrifying creatures. With its immersive story and terrifying gameplay, Resident Evil Village is a must-play for any horror fan. Whether players are fans of the series or newcomers to the franchise, this game is sure to provide a thrilling and memorable experience.

• Final Fantasy VII Remake

  • The latest installment in the beloved Final Fantasy series, this game brings a fresh take on the classic story of Cloud and his friends.
  • Players can experience the iconic characters and memorable moments from the original game, but with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.
  • With a unique battle system and an engaging story, Final Fantasy VII Remake is a must-play for RPG fans.
• Disco Elysium
  • This dark and gritty RPG follows the story of a disgraced detective as he attempts to solve a murder case in a decaying city.
  • The game features a deep and complex storyline, with well-developed characters and a unique setting.
  • Disco Elysium has won numerous awards for its writing and storytelling, making it a standout in the RPG genre.
• The Outer Worlds
  • Set in a future where corporations have taken over the world, The Outer Worlds follows a group of characters as they attempt to survive and thrive in this new reality.
  • The game features a branching storyline and multiple endings, allowing players to shape the course of the story.
  • With a strong emphasis on character development and a unique setting, The Outer Worlds is a must-play for fans of sci-fi RPGs.

Puyo Puyo Tetris

Puyo Puyo Tetris is a unique crossover between two classic puzzle games, Puyo Puyo and Tetris. The game features a variety of modes, including single-player, multiplayer, and online play, making it a great choice for both casual and competitive players. With its colorful graphics and addictive gameplay, Puyo Puyo Tetris is a must-play for any Nintendo Switch owner.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a popular fighting game that features a roster of iconic Nintendo characters, including Mario, Link, and Pokémon. The game has a steep learning curve, but players can enjoy hours of gameplay as they master the unique moves and strategies of each character. With its intense competitive scene and constant updates, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a game that keeps on giving.

Rocket League

Rocket League is a high-octane sports game that combines soccer with cars. Players control cars as they attempt to score goals by hitting a giant ball into the opponent’s net. The game features fast-paced gameplay, customizable cars, and a wide variety of arenas to play in. With its simple controls and addictive gameplay, Rocket League is a must-play for any sports game fan.

• Total War: Warhammer II
  • A turn-based strategy game that combines the Total War series with the Warhammer Fantasy universe.
  • Players can choose from different factions, each with their unique units and abilities, and engage in battles on a grand scale.
  • The game offers a deep and complex gameplay experience, with a strong emphasis on tactics and strategy.
• Into the Breach
  • A science fiction-themed strategy game that takes place in a future where humanity is on the brink of extinction.
  • Players control powerful mechs known as “Vek” and must defend the last remaining cities from hordes of alien creatures.
  • The game features a unique “roguelike” gameplay mechanic, where each playthrough is different and offers a new challenge.
• Age of Empires: Definitive Edition
  • A real-time strategy game that has been remastered for the Nintendo Switch.
  • Players can choose from a variety of civilizations and guide them through history, building empires and engaging in battles.
  • The game features stunning graphics and improved gameplay mechanics, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Lode Runner Legacy

• Lode Runner Legacy is a revamped version of the classic puzzle game, Lode Runner. The game features new levels, characters, and gameplay mechanics while retaining the core gameplay that made the original game a hit.
• In Lode Runner Legacy, players must navigate a grid-like map, collecting gold and avoiding enemies. The twist is that players can create traps for enemies by digging holes in the map, which can be used to trap and defeat enemies.
• The game offers a high replay value due to its large number of levels, challenges, and puzzles. Additionally, players can create and share their own custom levels, adding to the game’s replayability.

Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead

• Bridge Constructor: The Walking Dead is a crossover between the popular puzzle game series, Bridge Constructor, and the hit TV show, The Walking Dead.
• In this game, players must build bridges to help survivors reach safety. The twist is that the bridges must be built over various obstacles, such as walkers, cars, and other hazards.

Human: Fall Flat

• Human: Fall Flat is a physics-based puzzle game where players control a character who must navigate through various levels to reach a goal.
• The twist is that the character’s movements are physics-based, meaning that players must use their problem-solving skills to figure out how to move the character through each level.

Popular Nintendo Switch Games with Online Multiplayer

• Overwatch
  • Overwatch is a first-person shooter game developed by Blizzard Entertainment.
  • The game is known for its unique heroes, each with their own abilities and playstyles.
  • Players can choose from a variety of heroes and work together to achieve objectives.
  • Overwatch is known for its high-quality graphics and fast-paced gameplay.
• Apex Legends
  • Apex Legends is a battle royale game developed by Respawn Entertainment.
  • The game features a cast of legendary characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
  • Players must scavenge for weapons and equipment while battling other players in a shrinking arena.
  • Apex Legends is known for its intense action and fast-paced gameplay.
• Rocket League
  • Rocket League is a sports game developed by Psyonix.
  • The game combines soccer with cars, with players controlling cars as they try to score goals.
  • Players can customize their cars with different decals and upgrades.
  • Rocket League is known for its fast-paced action and high-replayability.

If you’re a sports fan, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of popular sports games available on the Nintendo Switch. Here are some of the most popular ones:

FIFA 21 is one of the most popular sports games on the Nintendo Switch. This game offers a wide range of game modes, including career mode, ultimate team, and online multiplayer. Players can also enjoy realistic graphics and smooth gameplay.

Madden NFL 21

Madden NFL 21 is another popular sports game on the Nintendo Switch. This game offers a range of game modes, including exhibition mode, season mode, and franchise mode. Players can also enjoy realistic graphics and smooth gameplay.

NBA 2K21 is a popular basketball game on the Nintendo Switch. This game offers a range of game modes, including mycareer mode, myteam mode, and online multiplayer. Players can also enjoy realistic graphics and smooth gameplay.

Overall, these sports games are a great choice for sports fans who want to enjoy some competitive multiplayer action on their Nintendo Switch.

• Description: Stellaris is a science fiction grand strategy game set in space. Players can explore the galaxy, encounter different alien species, and build their own empire.
• Features: The game offers a massive, procedurally generated galaxy to explore, as well as a variety of different alien species to encounter. Players can also customize their own empire and engage in diplomacy or warfare with other players online.
• Reasons for Popularity: Stellaris has been popular on other platforms for its in-depth gameplay and deep customization options. It is also a great choice for those who enjoy building and managing their own empires, and engaging in diplomacy or warfare with other players.

Age of Empires: Definitive Edition

• Description: Age of Empires: Definitive Edition is a real-time strategy game set in history. Players can choose from different civilizations and ages, and build their own empire from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages.
• Features: The game features beautifully-rendered graphics, updated gameplay mechanics, and online multiplayer support for up to 8 players. Players can also enjoy a variety of different game modes, including single-player campaigns and customizable multiplayer matches.

• Reasons for Popularity: Age of Empires is a classic RTS game that has been enjoyed by many players over the years. The Definitive Edition brings updated graphics and mechanics to the game, making it a great choice for both new and experienced players.

• Description: Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game that tasks players with building and managing their own civilization from the ancient times to the modern era. Players can choose from different leaders and civilizations, each with their own unique abilities and traits.

• Features: The game features beautiful graphics, detailed units and buildings, and a variety of different game modes. Players can also engage in online multiplayer matches with other players, or play against AI opponents.

• Reasons for Popularity: Civilization VI is a highly-regarded strategy game that offers a lot of depth and complexity. The game’s online multiplayer support makes it a great choice for those who enjoy competing against other players, and the game’s wide variety of civilizations and leaders means that there is always something new to discover.

• Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit

  • Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit is a popular puzzle game for the Nintendo Switch that features online multiplayer.
  • Players can race against each other in real-life rooms using their Switch consoles and karts.
  • The game uses a combination of physical and virtual elements to create an immersive racing experience.
• Overcooked! All You Can Eat
  • Overcooked! All You Can Eat is a cooperative puzzle game that supports online multiplayer on the Nintendo Switch.
  • Players must work together to prepare and serve meals in a chaotic kitchen.
  • The game features new levels, recipes, and playable characters.
  • Overcooked! All You Can Eat is a great game for players who enjoy fast-paced, challenging puzzle games.
• Puyo Puyo Tetris
  • Puyo Puyo Tetris is a popular puzzle game for the Nintendo Switch that features online multiplayer.
  • Players can compete against each other in both Puyo Puyo and Tetris game modes.
  • The game features a variety of different game modes and difficulty levels.
  • Puyo Puyo Tetris is a great game for players who enjoy both puzzle and strategy games.

FAQs

1. What are the most popular Nintendo Switch games right now?

There are several popular Nintendo Switch games currently available, including:
* Animal Crossing: New Horizons: This game has been a massive hit since its release in March 2020, allowing players to create their own virtual island paradise.
* Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit: This unique racing game uses your living room as the race track and allows players to control the action with a real-life remote control car.
* Among Us: This multiplayer game has been a huge hit on other platforms and is now available on Nintendo Switch, allowing players to find out who the impostor is among their crewmates.
* Minecraft: This popular sandbox game has been a staple on Nintendo platforms for years and continues to be a fan favorite on the Switch.
* Pokémon Sword and Shield: The latest installment in the Pokémon franchise has been a huge success, offering a new region to explore and a vast array of new Pokémon to catch.

2. How can I find out more about these popular Nintendo Switch games?

You can find out more about these popular Nintendo Switch games by visiting the Nintendo eShop or by searching online for reviews and gameplay videos.

3. Are there any other popular Nintendo Switch games besides the ones mentioned?

Yes, there are many other popular Nintendo Switch games available, including Super Mario Odyssey, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Splatoon 2, among others.

4. Can I play these popular Nintendo Switch games on my TV?

Yes, many of these popular Nintendo Switch games can be played on your TV using the Switch’s docking station. Simply connect the Switch to your TV and you’ll be able to play the games on the big screen.

5. Are there any free Nintendo Switch games available?

While most Nintendo Switch games are paid, there are a few free games available on the eShop, such as Fortnite and Rocket League. Additionally, many games offer free trial periods or demo versions that you can try before purchasing.

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