As the Nintendo Switch nears the end of its lifecycle, with the eagerly anticipated Switch 2 on the horizon, it's the perfect time to revisit some of the hidden gems that may have slipped under your radar. While many players have enjoyed the likes of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, there's a treasure trove of other fantastic titles waiting to be discovered on this versatile console.

We understand that time and budget constraints can make it challenging to explore every game, but before you transition to the next generation, make sure to give these overlooked Nintendo Switch games a try. You'll find a diverse range of experiences that showcase the versatility and brilliance of the Switch's library.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

21 Images20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Delve into the origins of the iconic demon-slaying witch with Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. This game offers a captivating puzzle-platformer experience wrapped in a stunning storybook art style. Despite its departure from the series' traditional action, fans of Bayonetta will still enjoy the familiar button-mashing combos. Don't let its prequel status and unique visuals cause you to miss out on this worthy addition to the Bayonetta series.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

If you're a fan of The Legend of Zelda series, particularly Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is a must-play. This musou-style game lets you step into the shoes of Link and other champions to defend Hyrule against hordes of enemies. While it might not be canon, the thrill of battling thousands of foes and exploring the rich lore makes it a rewarding experience.

18. New Pokemon Snap

For those who cherished the original Pokemon Snap on the Nintendo 64, New Pokemon Snap is a dream come true. Released in 2021, this sequel offers more of what fans loved: capturing snapshots of a diverse range of Pokemon in various biomes filled with secrets. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this beloved and unique Pokemon spinoff is well worth your time.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Marking a significant milestone as the first fully 3D Kirby game, Kirby and the Forgotten Land truly shines. The freedom to explore expansive 3D environments, combined with Kirby's classic ability to absorb enemies and objects, creates a fresh and engaging experience. With innovative powers like transforming into a car, this title stands out as one of the best in the Kirby series.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Paper Mario: The Origami King captivates with its charming art style and puzzle-based RPG gameplay, setting it apart from the traditional Mario platformers. While the combat may not be as robust as in previous entries, the game's visually stunning open world more than compensates, making it a beautiful addition to the Paper Mario series.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a masterpiece among 2D platformers. Its challenging levels will push even seasoned gamers to their limits, featuring thrilling sequences like climbing crumbling icebergs and bouncing on jello cubes. With its stunning graphics, superb soundtrack, and precise controls, this game is a must-play for platformer enthusiasts.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses took the series to new heights, Fire Emblem Engage offers a unique twist by bringing back beloved characters from past games through a multiverse concept. Its return to classic SRPG mechanics, smaller maps, and challenging difficulty will appeal to fans of the genre looking for a strategic challenge.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore combines the worlds of Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem in a vibrant, poppy setting centered around Japan's idol music culture. Its unique blend of RPG combat and colorful art style, despite some toned-down themes, makes for an engaging and enjoyable experience.

12. Astral Chain

Astral Chain is a hidden gem exclusive to the Switch, offering a blend of fluid, flashy combat and a cyberfuturistic world to explore. With summonable living weapons called "Legion" and challenging bosses, this game provides a thrilling experience that's both action-packed and investigative, with an Astral Plane filled with platforming and puzzles.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a delightful strategy RPG that merges the worlds of Mario and Ubisoft's Rabbids. Its action-focused combat system, allowing for creative combos and character upgrades, offers endless fun, making it a great entry point for fans of both franchises.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door is a lovingly crafted remake of the GameCube classic, enhancing the visuals, music, and gameplay. It's an excellent starting point for anyone new to the Paper Mario series, offering a charming and engaging treasure hunt through the world of Rogueport.

9. F-Zero 99

F-Zero 99 brought the beloved racing series back after a 20-year hiatus with a surprising 99-player battle royale format. Its post-launch updates have elevated it to a top-tier entry, offering exhilarating races and strategic gameplay that keeps players on the edge of their seats.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Pikmin 3 Deluxe is a joy for fans of the series, expanding on the original with new Pikmin types, improved controls, and additional content. The Switch version adds co-op play and the Piklopedia, making it a comprehensive and entertaining experience that's essential for any Pikmin collection.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a charming puzzle-platformer that challenges players to navigate levels without jumping, due to the titular character's heavy backpack. Its delightful brain teasers and suitability for short, on-the-go sessions make it a perfect fit for the Switch.

6. Game Builder Garage

Game Builder Garage is an often-overlooked gem that teaches players how to create their own games through a user-friendly interface. It's not just a coding tutorial but a journey through game design, making it an invaluable tool for aspiring game developers and a fun experience for anyone curious about game creation.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles series offers some of the most expansive and beautiful open worlds on the Switch. From the sweeping narratives of warring civilizations to the exploration of vast landscapes, these games are a testament to the power of modern JRPGs and are well worth the hundreds of hours they demand.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe is an excellent 2D platformer that complements the 3D adventure of The Forgotten Land. With robust multiplayer and a wealth of levels and collectibles, it's perfect for both seasoned gamers and newcomers to the genre, offering endless fun for solo and co-op play.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Ring Fit Adventure combines fitness with RPG elements, making it both a best-seller and a unique gaming experience. Its engaging story and innovative use of the fitness ring keep players motivated to stay active and complete the adventure.

2. Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread revitalizes the classic 2D Metroid formula with its 2.5D perspective and terrifying E.M.M.I. machines. As one of the best-selling Metroid games, it showcases the series' ability to blend exploration with intense action, making it a standout title on the Switch.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

Metroid Prime Remastered is a stunning remake of a classic, offering a graphical overhaul that brings the GameCube original to modern standards. With its sense of isolation, exploration, and tension, this remaster is a must-play, especially with the promise of Metroid Prime 4 on the horizon.