"20 Hidden Gems: Nintendo Switch Games You Missed"

As the Nintendo Switch nears the end of its lifecycle, with the Switch 2 on the horizon, it's the perfect time to revisit some of the overlooked gems that might have slipped under your radar. While iconic titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons have captured the hearts of many, there's a treasure trove of other fantastic games that deserve your attention before you transition to the next generation.

We understand the constraints of time and budget, but these hidden gems are worth your while. Dive back into the Switch library and explore these 20 overlooked titles before the Switch 2 arrives. You won't regret it.

20 Overlooked Nintendo Switch Games

21 Images20. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon

Delve into the enchanting origin story of the beloved demon-slaying witch, Bayonetta. Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon captivates with its stunning storybook art style, transforming into a mesmerizing puzzle platformer. Fans of the series will still find the classic, adrenaline-pumping combos they love. Despite its prequel nature and unique art style, this game stands as a worthy addition to the Bayonetta saga that many might have missed.

19. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Combining the musou genre with the rich world of The Legend of Zelda, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity offers a thrilling experience. Although not considered canon to Breath of the Wild's storyline, it's immensely satisfying to step into the shoes of Link or the Champions and defend Hyrule from waves of enemies. If you're a fan of the Zelda series but haven't yet explored Age of Calamity, it's a journey worth taking.

18. New Pokemon Snap

After years of anticipation, New Pokemon Snap brought the beloved Nintendo 64 classic into the modern era on the Switch. It amplifies everything fans adored about the original, from capturing more Pokemon to uncovering secrets in diverse biomes. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this unique Pokemon spinoff deserves a spot in your gaming collection.

17. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Marking a milestone as the first fully 3D Kirby game, Kirby and the Forgotten Land revolutionizes the series with expansive, explorable environments. While Kirby retains his signature ability to inhale enemies and objects, the 3D world opens up new possibilities, including transforming into a car for exploration. Don't miss out on one of the best Kirby games during the Switch era.

16. Paper Mario: The Origami King

Renowned for its charming art style and unique puzzle RPG gameplay, the Paper Mario series stands out. The Origami King offers a breathtaking open world, possibly the most visually stunning in the series. While the combat may not match the thrill of previous entries, the game's aesthetic beauty and engaging puzzles make it a must-play.

15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Celebrated as one of the finest 2D platformers, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze challenges even seasoned gamers. From climbing crumbling icebergs to navigating jiggly jello cubes, this game blends stunning visuals, an immersive soundtrack, and precise controls to deliver an unforgettable platforming experience. It's a modern masterpiece that every platformer enthusiast should experience.

14. Fire Emblem Engage

While Fire Emblem: Three Houses took the spotlight, Fire Emblem Engage offers a compelling narrative and tactical gameplay. By reintroducing beloved characters from across the series through "the multiverse," it captures the essence of classic SRPGs with its challenging maps and strategic depth. It's a throwback worth revisiting for fans of the genre.

13. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore

An unexpected yet delightful crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, set against Japan's idol music culture, Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore blends vibrant visuals with engaging RPG combat. Though the localization softened some themes, the game's unique charm and breezy gameplay make it a standout title.

12. Astral Chain

Experience the fluid and dynamic combat of Astral Chain, a PlatinumGames masterpiece exclusive to the Switch. Switching between summonable "Legion" adds variety to battles, while the cyberfuturistic world and investigative elements enrich the gameplay. It's a hidden gem that showcases the potential of the Switch's capabilities.

11. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope

Combining Mario's charm with the Rabbids' humor, Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope delivers a fun-filled strategy RPG. Its action-focused combat and the ability to mix characters and upgrades for powerful combos make it a delightful experience for fans of both franchises.

10. Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door

A ground-up remake of the cherished GameCube title, Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door enhances visuals, music, and gameplay. As one of the best entries in the series, it's the perfect entry point for anyone new to the Paper Mario world, offering a charming and engaging adventure.

9. F-Zero 99

Surprising fans with its 99-player battle royale format, F-Zero 99 reinvigorated the long-dormant series. Its exhilarating races and strategic use of the Skyway offer thrilling gameplay that has revitalized the franchise. It's a must-play for racing enthusiasts and F-Zero fans alike.

8. Pikmin 3 Deluxe

Pikmin 3 Deluxe expanded on the beloved series with new Pikmin types and enhanced controls. The addition of co-op mode and the Piklopedia enriched the experience, making it a humorous and enjoyable entry in the franchise. It's essential for any Pikmin collection.

7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker

Originally a Wii U gem, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker found new life on the Switch. Its ingenious puzzle-platforming, perfect for short bursts of play, makes it an ideal Switch game. Don't overlook this delightful adventure.

6. Game Builder Garage

Game Builder Garage is an often-ignored gem that offers a simplified game engine to teach players how to create their own games. With charming lessons and a user-friendly interface, it's an excellent starting point for aspiring game developers. Dive in and start building your own games today.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles Series

Monolith Soft's Xenoblade Chronicles series delivers some of the most expansive and beautiful open worlds on the Switch. From sweeping narratives to intricate RPG gameplay, the series offers hundreds of hours of immersive content. It's a must-play for JRPG enthusiasts.

4. Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe

Complementing Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Kirby’s Return to Dreamland Deluxe shines as one of the best 2D Kirby games. Its multiplayer mode is exceptional, making it perfect for group play. With a wealth of levels and collectibles, it's an excellent introduction to platformers for new gamers.

3. Ring Fit Adventure

Though a best-seller, many might have set aside Ring Fit Adventure after their initial enthusiasm waned. Its RPG elements and engaging fitness challenges make it worth revisiting. Power up both your character and yourself in this innovative fitness game.

2. Metroid Dread

Metroid Dread revived the series with its 2.5D action, reminding players of the franchise's thrilling atmosphere. The terrifying E.M.M.I. machines add to the tension, making it a standout title that might have been overlooked despite its acclaim.

1. Metroid Prime Remastered

With Metroid Prime 4 on the horizon, revisiting Metroid Prime Remastered is a must. This isn't just a re-release; it's a graphical overhaul that brings the classic GameCube game to modern standards. At a budget-friendly price, it's an essential experience for any Switch owner.

These are our top picks for Switch games that deserve more attention before the Switch 2 arrives. With backward compatibility expected, now is the perfect time to explore these titles and continue your adventures on the new console.