12 Must-Play Games That Make Nintendo Switch 2 Truly Shine
Ready to dive into the best games you can play on Nintendo’s fresh Switch 2? Whether you’re a fan of racing, RPGs, or co-op adventures, the Switch 2 lineup offers a fantastic mix of titles that make the most of this new handheld’s power and portability. From updated classics to innovative new releases, here’s a quick rundown of what’s worth your time.
- Discover top picks like Mario Kart World and Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2
- Explore enhanced versions of Zelda games and No Man’s Sky
- Find unique indie gems like Kunitsu-Gami and Survival Kids
- Learn about free upgrades that boost your favorite Switch games on the new console
Arcade Archives 2: Ridge Racer – Classic Racing at Its Purest
If you love racing games, Arcade Archives 2: Ridge Racer is a delightful throwback. This 32-year-old Namco arcade title shines on Switch 2 with smooth gameplay and authentic drifting mechanics. It’s stripped down to just one car and track, making it a pure and nostalgic experience for racing fans.
Cyberpunk 2077 – Explore Night City Anywhere
Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 lets you roam the sprawling urban RPG world wherever you go. Despite some performance hiccups in the Phantom Liberty expansion, the base game runs smoothly with sharp visuals. Plus, motion controls and mouse support add fresh ways to play this gritty, story-rich adventure.
Deltarune – A Clever Turn-Based Adventure
Deltarune, the spiritual successor to Undertale, offers a charming mix of quirky storytelling and an inventive battle system. You’ll navigate supernatural plots and unique combat challenges, making it a standout turn-based game for those who enjoy emotional narratives and clever gameplay twists.
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time – Cozy RPG Grind
Level-5’s Fantasy Life i blends RPG and life-sim elements into a cozy, addictive experience. With over a dozen job classes to master, this game is perfect if you want to lose yourself in crafting, combat, and cooking on the Switch 2. It’s the ultimate comfort game until the next Animal Crossing arrives.
Fast Fusion – High-Speed, Strategic Racing
Fast Fusion brings thrilling futuristic racing at breakneck speeds. Collect coins to boost your speed while mastering gravity-defying tracks. Its gorgeous sci-fi and natural landscapes make it a visual treat on the Switch 2.
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess – Unique Strategy Meets Folklore
This blend of Japanese folklore, tower defense, and real-time strategy tasks you with protecting a shrine maiden from otherworldly creatures. Kunitsu-Gami’s unpredictable enemies and surreal visuals make it a rare and captivating experience on the Switch 2.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom – Timeless Adventures Enhanced
Switch 2 Editions of these legendary Zelda titles deliver sharper visuals and smoother 60fps gameplay. Whether you prefer the survival-focused Breath of the Wild or the expansive, innovative Tears of the Kingdom, both are must-plays that feel even better on Nintendo’s new hardware.
Mario Kart World – A Bold New Take on Racing
Mario Kart World expands the classic formula with open-world racing and point-to-point contests, while keeping the familiar fun intact. It’s perfect for local multiplayer sessions, boasting fantastic music, creative characters, and a chill free-roam mode for solo play.
No Man’s Sky – Space Exploration Reimagined
The Switch 2 upgrade for No Man’s Sky fixes performance and visuals, making this vast space survival game a joy to explore. With deep customization, base building, and story quests, it’s a rich experience that finally shines on handheld.
Split Fiction – Co-op Action Adventure for Two
From the creators of It Takes Two, Split Fiction offers fun split-screen co-op gameplay packed with novel mechanics. It’s an ideal game to enjoy with a partner or family member, especially with Switch 2’s detachable controllers and tabletop mode.
Street Fighter 6 – Fighting Game Made Friendly
Street Fighter 6 welcomes both newcomers and veterans with a vast character roster and detailed tutorials. The Switch 2 version looks great and plays smoothly, though serious online players might prefer a Pro Controller for the best experience.
Survival Kids – Family-Friendly Co-op Survival
This surprise hit is a simple, approachable survival game that shines in local co-op. With easy one-button controls and support for Nintendo’s GameShare system, it’s a charming adventure perfect for families on the Switch 2.
The Best Free Switch 2 Upgrades
Several classic Switch games have received free updates to enhance visuals, performance, and features on Switch 2. Highlights include:
- Arms – Now runs at 4K and 60fps, making this quirky fighting game feel fresh again.
- Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics – Adds GameShare support, perfect for family game sessions.
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening & Echoes of Wisdom – Improved performance and smoother gameplay.
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury – Runs at a crisp 60fps, giving new life to this lesser-played Mario adventure.
- Super Mario Odyssey – Enhanced visuals and GameShare support for playing as Cappy.
If you want to see some of these games in action or learn more, check out official trailers and gameplay videos on Nintendo’s channels and other gaming platforms.
