The Nintendo Switch has continued to dominate the video game world thanks to its portable design, along with its ability to be played on a TV. On top of that, the Switch is home to one of the best game lineups in history, ranging from multiplayer experiences to those that can be played solo, and some in between. While multiplayer and online titles have huge audiences, single-player games have been a staple of video games since the medium began — leading to some unforgettable experiences.
With that in mind, we’ve decided to take a look at the best single-player games on Nintendo Switch. This list is made up of games that can be played offline, even if some have a multiplayer component or online functionality. We’ll cover lots of different genres — from RPGs to platformers and puzzle games — so hopefully there will be a little something for everyone.
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These are the best single-player Nintendo Switch games.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt - Complete Edition
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
CD Projekt RED
Publisher
CD Projekt RED
Release
August 29, 2016
Let’s start off with a game that was not originally designed for Nintendo Switch. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt first launched for PS4, Xbox One, and PC in 2015 and went on to become one of the most beloved RPGs of all time thanks to its beautiful sprawling open-world, interesting characters and story, and the sheer amount of things to do. In 2019, CD Projekt Red partnered with Saber Interactive and Nintendo to bring The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Complete Edition to the Switch, and it’s a glorious achievement. This version comes with all the previously released DLC and expansions — including Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine — playable either on the go or on your TV. Of course, it doesn’t look and run as well on Switch as it does on other platforms, but it’s miraculous to see such a graphically intensive game available on a handheld device. It’s a great RPG to get lost in, with more than 150 hours of content for you to enjoy.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
E
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Simulator
Developer
Nintendo EPD, Nintendo
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
March 19, 2020
The entire world was going through a rough time in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s one of the reasons Animal Crossing: New Horizons was so beloved, as it brought so many of us together during a hard time. It’s a game that is approachable to players of all skill levels — even those who have never touched a controller in their lives. And it offered a way for us to explore tropical islands during a time when traveling was not an option. Its social aspects can’t be ignored, either. Being able to hang out with your fellow villagers or even other real players still is an absolute joy. But, of course, you can still have a blast with New Horizons while playing solo, and for that, it deserves a place on this list. Take a look at our Animal Crossing: New Horizons beginner’s guide if you’re just getting started.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
T
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Tactical, Adventure
Developer
Intelligent Systems
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
July 25, 2019
The tactical RPG genre isn’t the most popular in the world, but it has a highly dedicated audience that buys pretty much everything it has to offer. One of the more popular JRPG games that falls into that category is Fire Emblem: Three Houses, which features the classic grid-based mechanics — but this time, includes three distinct houses to choose from (hence the name), all of which are part of a school. These houses all feature different characters and stories, meaning you’ll have plenty to do if you want to see everything the game has to offer. The great thing about this particular entry is that it’s one of the most approachable of the Fire Emblem series, offering various difficulties and modes for all skill levels. It also features a major social aspect like the Persona games, wherein you can “hang out” with friends to make them more effective in battle. This is yet another single-player adventure with potentially hundreds of hours of things to do.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Switch
M
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Bethesda Game Studios
Publisher
Bethesda Softworks
Release
November 17, 2017
We probably don’t need to explain too much about The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. It’s a classic RPG that has made its way to pretty much every modern platform available, including Nintendo Switch. Skyrim can be as deep as you want it to be, with lots of different options for nearly every playstyle from stealth, to long-range magic user, and of course traditional hand-to-hand combat. This version has everything that comes in the Special Edition, including the Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn expansions. Plus, the Nintendo Switch version has some fancy Zelda-related gear such as the Master Sword, Hylian Shield, and Link’s tunic. You can also utilize the Switch’s motion controls in this version, which is a lot of fun.
Super Mario Odyssey
E10
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform, Adventure
Developer
Nintendo
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
October 27, 2017
For some reason, many Nintendo fans seem to overlook just how good Super Mario Odyssey is. It’s a game that takes some risks, expanding on the tried and true Super Mario formula, making it one of the most refreshing games in the series. Odyssey features large open levels with various themes, offering a ton of variety — not just aesthetically, but in its gameplay, as well. These levels feature a slew of secrets for you to discover, many of which range in how difficult they are to find. One of the new features in this game is the Cappy hat, which can be thrown to “possess” many of the creatures you come across, including a T-rex! This game is pure joy and features one of the most impressive musical sections of all time (we won’t spoil that here) during the New Donk City level.
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle
E10
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Puzzle, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Tactical, Adventure
Developer
Ubisoft Milan, Ubisoft Paris
Publisher
Ubisoft Entertainment, Ubisoft
Release
August 29, 2017
Here’s a game most people didn’t expect to like — let alone love. Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is a turn-based tactics game in the same vein as XCOM. In it, you can play as familiar characters from the Mushroom Kingdom, including Mario, Peach, or Yoshi, along with their Rabbids counterparts. Each character has its own unique abilities, which can be used to tackle various scenarios in many ways. Kingdom Battle’s main gameplay loop is its shining aspect, which puts you in the shoes of a squad as you maneuver around the levels in a turn-based fashion. As you complete levels, you’re rewarded with XP, which can be turned into new abilities and gear. It’s a fairly sophisticated game in terms of its many systems and surely shocked many players with its high quality, especially since it wasn’t actually made by Nintendo.
The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
E
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Adventure
Developer
GREZZO Co.,Ltd.
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
September 20, 2019
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019) is a remake of the 1993 Game Boy game of the same name, and it’s one of the finest in the series. Part of what makes this remake so good is that it keeps the integrity of the original while adding lots of modern touches that make it playable today. Most noticeably different is the game’s chibi art style, which almost resembles little toys you’d play with as a kid. But above all else, this game is absolutely fascinating. It’s one of the weirdest Zelda games, featuring a range of quirky and dark themes. On the surface, it seems like your average Zelda adventure, and it uses this to its advantage to hook you in. Like most Zelda games, Link’s Awakening is ripe with wonderful characters, smart dungeons, funny writing, and satisfying gameplay.
Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet Double Pack
E
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Release
November 18, 2022
The Pokémon RPG series has been around for over 20 years and at this point, Game Freak has truly honed in on what makes these games so much fun. New in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet is its fully open world, which offers a sense of expansiveness not present in previous entries. This gives players multiple ways to progress through the story, making it feel far less linear than before. Beyond the world’s design, Scarlet and Violet have the signature turn-based Pokémon RPG combat, with its rock-paper-scissor-style gameplay that feels just as satisfying today as it did in the 90s. It’s a beautiful experience that, despite its technical woes at launch, feels like the start of an all-new direction for the series.
Luigi's Mansion 3
E
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Adventure
Developer
Next Level Games
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
October 31, 2019
The Luigi’s Mansion series has always been underrated, but thankfully the third entry has garnered more of an audience on Switch. In Luigi’s Mansion 3, you explore a large hotel while trying to stay safe from the numerous ghosts that stand in your way. Its main mechanic sees you using your flashlight and Poltergust vacuum to suck up ghosts while visiting the many rooms available in the hotel. Clearing out each room and collecting treasure hardly gets old, and it’s addicting when you get in the swing of things. There’s so much Luigi’s Mansion 3 has to offer, from boss battles, smart puzzles, atmospheric stages to explore, and a ton of humor that gives it personality. Luigi is a fantastic lead and is a nice change of pace compared to his more confident brother.
Octopath Traveler
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Google Stadia
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Square Enix
Publisher
Square Enix, Nintendo
Release
July 13, 2018
Oftentimes, when we think of classic SNES art styles, games like Octopath Traveler come to mind — but in reality, this game looks way better than anything the SNES had to offer. Octopath Traveler is a turn-based RPG with one of the most gorgeous art styles available on the Nintendo Switch — featuring eight playable characters with various abilities and backgrounds. The turn-based combat works somewhat like you’d expect, but thanks to being able to store boost points, you can stack your attacks in a smart way. This adds an additional layer of strategy and turns the system on its head. While the playable characters’ stories don’t differ as much as many had hoped, the overarching narrative and dialogue of this game is enough to keep you around. As is exploring the beautiful world of Octopath Traveler, which is full of little things to discover here and there.
Dark Souls: Remastered
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
QLOC, Virtuos, FromSoftware
Publisher
Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release
May 23, 2018
Being able to play the original Dark Souls on Nintendo Switch is special. It’s a game that is near and dear to many hearts in the video game community, and with the release of Dark Souls Remastered, you can play it on the go. This version features slightly enhanced visuals and quality-of-life updates while maintaining the foundation of the original. Sure, it doesn’t look the best — especially on Switch — but even the first game looked rough when it launched. Its visuals aren’t what has attracted so many players around the world. This version keeps the tight, heart-pounding gameplay, with its superb level design, and atmospheric storytelling, making it one of the best action RPGs of all time. It has shown signs of age, but that doesn’t take away from just how important Dark Souls is from a design point of view.
Hollow Knight
E10
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform, Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Team Cherry
Publisher
Team Cherry
Release
February 24, 2017
When it comes to 2D Metroidvanias, few games even come close to the quality of Hollow Knight. It borrows some of the ideas introduced in Dark Souls, like the ability to retrieve your lost items when you die, as well as its sense of atmosphere — but done from a 2D perspective. The game is designed in such a way that encourages you to explore while retreading your steps to past areas once you’ve collected certain items and abilities. While it’s absolutely challenging in its combat, it feels manageable if you put in the work. There’s something so deeply unsettling about Hollow Knight, but that’s what makes it so good. It’s certainly not for everyone, but if you like 2D action platformers with deep mechanics and an emphasis on exploration, you’ll feel right at home with this game. You can also keep an eye out for Hollow Knight: Silksong which has yet to be released.
Celeste
E10
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Google Stadia
Genre
Platform, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Extremely OK Games
Publisher
Extremely OK Games
Release
January 25, 2018
What an extraordinary game Celeste is. On the surface, it’s a challenging 2D platformer, but even after spending just 30 minutes with it, you’ll discover it’s so much more. The main idea in Celeste is to overcome challenges. In the game, you literally are tasked with climbing a mountain — which serves as a metaphor for real-life obstacles. That’s why it’s fitting to see Celeste ramp up its difficulty, offering a fair challenge that never seems impossible. The entire premise is to overcome the challenge and climb the mountain as you learn to discover yourself. Not only is its premise striking, but its gameplay is superbly satisfying, with tight, responsive controls that feel right. We won’t spoil its story here but suffice it to say that there’s a reason Celeste won so many Game of the Year awards in 2018.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3
T
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Monolith Soft
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
July 29, 2022
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is an epic, expansive RPG that builds upon its predecessors in smart ways, while mostly concluding the story. Its open world is impressive, its characters are lovable, and its combat is easily the best in the entire series. Speaking of which, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 offers plenty of new ways to engage in battle, such as the ability to combine different Combat Arts to effectively defeat enemies. In terms of expansiveness and the sheer number of things to do, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is one of the top choices on this list, with over 100 hours of content packed in.
Bayonetta 3
M
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up
Developer
PlatinumGames
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
October 28, 2022
The first two Bayonetta games are excellent, but the third installment is the best, with bigger set pieces and more ridiculous action to enjoy. It still features the fast-paced action combat from the previous installments, which feels like a mix between Devil May Cry and Ninja Gaiden, while also implementing new ideas such as the ability to control large angels and demons to dish out attacks. Bayonetta 3 is best known for its buttery smooth combat that feels fluid and complex, rewarding players for learning the ins and outs of battles. While its story leaves a little to be desired, it’s tough to not fall in love with the Bayonetta 3’s characters and gameplay. The first two entries, as well as Bayonetta Origins, are also on Switch.
Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Square Enix
Publisher
Nintendo, Square Enix
Release
September 27, 2019
For our next JRPG of the list, we wanted to give a shout-out to Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age — Definitive Edition, the version that was released for Nintendo Switch. This definitive edition is made up of the base Dragon Quest XI game but with lots of added features and includes over 120 hours of things to do. One of the most noticeable improvements with this release is its orchestrated soundtrack, which was not present in the original game (and was something many fans griped about since many prefer the orchestral sounds over the synth sounds of the original). Aside from all that, you get the turn-based JRPG goodness you’ve grown to expect from the series with Dragon Quest XI. It has a large world to explore, lots of secrets, and of course, a party made up of memorable characters. We also love how the story isn’t exactly what you’d expect — offering some twists and turns that give it a more memorable narrative. There’s even the option to play the entire game in a 2D pixelated mode, paying homage to the classic entries, which is a nice touch. Take a look at our list of the best Dragon Quest games for more options in the series.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
E
Platforms
Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform, Puzzle, Strategy, Adventure
Developer
Nintendo EAD Group No. 2, Nintendo EPD, Nintendo Software Technology, Nintendo
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
November 13, 2014
In Super Mario 3D World, Nintendo implemented multiple diorama-style levels that allowed you to play as Captain Toad. That idea was so beloved that it became its own game in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. If you’ve grown tired of standard 3D platformers and want to try something new, this is the game for you. The twist is that Captain Toad can’t jump, leading to some interesting and well-designed levels that radiate creativity. The satisfaction of fully exploring each level to gather all the treasure never gets old, so if you’re a completionist, you should give this game a try. It’s also stunningly cute, with silly character designs across the board. The boss battles are smart, the music is catchy, and much like the Mario games, Treasure Tracker is just pure joy.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
E
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform
Developer
Retro Studios
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
May 04, 2018
When it comes to 2.5D platformers, it doesn’t get much better than Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze. In it, you have many of the Kong family members to choose from, all of whom have their own unique abilities. The levels themselves are absolutely gorgeous, with beautiful oceans, snowy mountains, jungles, and everything in between. These levels are home to hidden secrets that you’ll absolutely want to go out of your way to find — especially since they might help you gain access to special items. This gives you the incentive to be thorough when making your way through each level, with many reasons to replay them. In the Switch version, you also gain access to the Funky character, who is playable in the New Funky Mode. This makes things easier, giving you extra health and a double jump so you don’t get as frustrated. That’s the thing about Tropical Freeze — it’s tough as nails, but the Funky mode does wonders and makes it more enjoyable. Everything from the visuals to the sounds and the platforming is top-notch. We especially love how the music is tied to each of the stages, making them feel much more personal. In short, this game is a blast and is even better on Nintendo Switch.
Persona 5 Royal
M
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Turn-based strategy (TBS), Adventure
Developer
Atlus
Publisher
Atlus USA, Atlus
Release
October 31, 2019
Out of all the games on this list, Persona 5 is easily the most stylish, with a vibrant color palette, and bright, flashy animations that never get old. Beyond its incredible aesthetic, Persona 5 has a wild story that isn’t afraid to get extremely dark. It follows a group of high school students who venture to a supernatural realm called the Metaverse, which contains evil enemies. Once inside the Metaverse, the game turns into a turn-based dungeon crawler. Outside of the Metaverse, it’s more of a social sim, wherein players must befriend other NPCs and spend time with them. The Personas feel like Pokémon, each with various abilities and a slew of them to collect. Persona 5 is an incredible, dense experience from start to finish.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
E10
Platforms
Wii U, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Nintendo
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
March 03, 2017
And finally, what Nintendo Switch list would be complete without The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild? This game took so many risks and went against the traditional Zelda format. To many, this might be a negative aspect, but for most, it was the reset the series so desperately needed. It features a massive open world ranging in different biomes, from the desert to a massive area full of lava, beaches, swamps, and pretty much everything else you can think of. It also has one of the most open-ended approaches to design, giving you free rein to tackle things in the order you choose. In fact, if you want, you can run immediately to the final boss of the game right from the start, though we don’t recommend doing that. It’s a game that’s full of wonder and discovery, made up of so many unexpected little moments that are all worth discussing. Even more impressive is that you can climb nearly any surface, which enhances your ability to explore. Instead of dungeons, Breath of the Wild features 120 Shrines, all of which lean into a certain gameplay theme. There’s a reason why this game is still regarded as one of the best Switch games to this day, and it deserves every ounce of praise given to it.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
E10
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Nintendo EPD Production Group No. 3
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
May 12, 2023
While Breath of the Wild is certainly a masterpiece, it’s tough to ignore its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, which launched in 2023. Somehow, this game took the incredible formula from its predecessor and turned it on its head, building upon Breath of the Wild in nearly every way possible. Despite sharing a map with the previous installment, Nintendo kept things interesting by allowing the player to explore the skies above and the depths below. Beyond that, Tears of the Kingdom features a robust building system that allows players to create nearly anything they want, allowing for a nearly endless number of ways to complete each objective. It’s an impressive experience that will be remembered for years to come.
Metroid Dread
T
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform, Adventure
Developer
MercurySteam, Nintendo EPD
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
October 07, 2021
Metroid has always been an underappreciated series, which is why it was so surprising to see Nintendo finally release Metroid Dread, a game 19 years in the making. In this 2.5D action platformer, bounty hunter Samus Aran explores the planet ZDR to investigate a parasite. Throughout the game, Samus unlocks new abilities and battles deadly enemies in one of the most satisfying gameplay loops ever. Beyond its incredibly fun, yet challenging gameplay, Dread’s atmosphere is top-notch, evoking the feeling of dread all throughout.
Pikmin 4
E10
Platforms
Nintendo Switch
Genre
Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy, Adventure
Developer
Nintendo
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
July 21, 2023
Pikmin 4 is the most refreshing game on this list, with unique gameplay that sets itself apart from Nintendo’s heavy hitters. It’s a real-time strategy game wherein you must command your army of Pikmin, little plant-like alien creatures that have different abilities. It’s a quirky, charming adventure that truly rewards and encourages exploration. Each stage is densely packed with little things to uncover and thanks to the Metroidvania elements, the game offers plenty of reasons to revisit older stages to uncover new secrets.
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