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The best Nintendo Switch games to play in 2026

Julia11 JANUARY 2026

If you want to play exciting games, you'd be wise to get a Nintendo Switch. Whether you're relaxing in your armchair, on the go, or even on vacation, you can enjoy the device. There are thousands of games for the Nintendo console to play, both solo and with friends via local and online multiplayer. If you own a Nintendo Switch, these are the best Switch games to play.

What’s the best Switch game?

Two Nintendo Switch consoles with colourful Joy-Con controllers, being played on a terracotta tiled floor with a small plant in the background.

Everyone has their own taste, which means the best Switch game differs for each player. Luckily, the Nintendo Switch has incredible games that impress everyone. Iconic characters like Super Mario Gand Pokémon have risen thanks to Nintendo consoles over the years. Here are the 10 best Switch games everyone should have in their collection.

10 handy Nintendo Switch tips

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Epic Zelda artwork featuring Link overlooking a vast mountainous landscape at sunset, with birds flying through the sky above.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the reason the Nintendo Switch got off to such a strong start. This Zelda game revolutionised open-world gaming, placing exploration of Hyrule at the forefront. The world is a vast treasure map full of mysteries and secrets, keeping you amazed at every turn. As Link, you face Calamity Ganon, who spreads chaos across the kingdom. It’s up to the young hero to save Hyrule from Ganon’s plague.

View The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Super Mario Odyssey

Mario running through a vibrant city street filled with neon signs and yellow taxis, with his iconic red cap visible in motion.

Pure fun is at the heart of Super Mario Odyssey. This 3D platformer with the moustachioed plumber takes you through colourful worlds where you collect moons to power your ship, the Odyssey. Discover new ways to reach secret locations, complete challenges to gather even more moons, and rescue Princess Peach from Bowser!

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Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Characters from Super Smash Bros. fight in a castle arena. King Dedede, Kirby, Yoshi and others are visible.

Fighting is accessible for the whole family in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. In this brawler, everyone can throw virtual punches with Mario, Link, Samus, Pikachu, and many more beloved characters. The roster is bigger than ever, making it a celebration of video games. You can battle with up to 8 players locally or compete online with players around the world via Nintendo Switch Online.

View Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet

Pokémon group photo with trainers and their Pokémon posing in front of a large castle under a radiant sky filled with beams of light.

Is there anything more popular than Pokémon? The series offers several Switch games, with Pokémon Scarlet & Violet being the latest entries. In the sunny Paldea region, a new generation of Pokémon awaits in a fully open world you can explore solo or with up to 4 players. All Pokémon roam freely, bringing this world vividly to life. This adventure is not to be missed.

View Pokémon Scarlet

Super Mario Party Jamboree

Split-screen Mario Party gameplay with four players running through a colourful level filled with wooden crates and green hills.

The most extensive Mario Party on the Nintendo Switch is Super Mario Party Jamboree. With 6 boards and 22 characters to choose from, every game is a new party. Jamboree partners appear during sessions to help collect more stars. With over 110 minigames, it promises countless hours of fun with up to 4 players on the couch.

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Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Character in Animal Crossing stands on grass with flowers, near a house, using a design tool with ground textures.

No game relaxes you quite like Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Arriving on a deserted island, you’re free to create your own paradise. Make furniture for your house, cultivate your garden, or go fishing and sell your catch for resources. Meanwhile, your vacation spot fills with adorable residents who, like you, enjoy island life.

View Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Two cartoon figures race on yellow tracks in small go-karts, set against a backdrop of urban signs and structures.

The ultimate Nintendo Switch racing game is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. While a Nintendo Switch 2 player may prefer Mario Kart World, it doesn’t take away from how good Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is. With the expansion pass doubling the number of tracks, it’s the largest Mario Kart yet. Whether racing solo or with friends, the game offers countless driver options and a battle mode for variety.

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The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Epic Zelda group photo featuring Link and his companions posing in a green field before dramatic mountains and blue skies.

While Breath of the Wild had you exploring, Tears of the Kingdom turns you into an architect too. Hyrule is turned upside down in this new adventure, and it’s again up to Link to save the world (and Zelda). With a range of new mechanics, you can build various constructions and vehicles – from flying cars to rocket launchers and even giant combat robots – to save Hyrule.

View The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Nintendo Switch Sports

A tennis player in green hits a blue and yellow ball with a racket on a pink court with a net. Tall buildings in the background.

Wii Sports introduced motion-controlled games to everyone, and Nintendo Switch Sports brings back popular sports in a new format. Play tennis, golf, and bowling, or try volleyball and football with your custom characters.

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Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Super Mario gameplay in a dreamy cloud world with Mario jumping between white platforms and yellow Koopa Troopas.

Mario games are always a recommendation, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder is no exception. This 2D platformer adds twists with the wonder flower in every level. Each level is a crazy rollercoaster full of creative challenges, with colourful environments that pop off the screen. The game supports up to 4 local players, increasing the fun.

View Super Mario Bros. Wonder

The best Switch games at MediaMarkt

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