If you're looking for the best Switch 2 games to play right now in 2026, then you've come to the right place.
As a big fan who's always tucking into the latest new games on Nintendo's current-gen console, I've put my head together with fellow players on team to carefully consider which releases in the Switch 2's ever-growing library deserve a spot in our top 20 ranking. From standout Switch 2 launch games to notable Switch 2 game upgrades for some of the best Switch games, we've also included some fantastic third-party highlights that run very well on the Switch 2.
Of course, I'll be keeping an eye on all of the upcoming Switch 2 games coming our way this year and beyond to keep this list as up-to-date as possible, too. So, whether you're curious to see what makes our ranking, or you're after some recommendations, read on to discover our pick of the best Switch 2 games.
The 20 best Switch 2 games to play in 2026
20. Fantasy Life I: The Girl Who Steals Time (Switch 2 Edition)
Developer: LEVEL5 Inc. | Released: 2025 | Genre: RPG
Fantasy Life I: The Girl Who Steals Time is one of the best cozy games to release in 2025, and it's the perfect Switch 2 game to crack on with if you're looking for an Animal Crossing meets Zelda kind of experience. The sequel to the 2014 title Fantasy Life (aka one of the best 3DS games of all time), Fantasy Life I: The Girl Who Steals Time revolves around a hero who finds themselves in the fantasy world of Reveria after a run-in with some dragons.
It'll be up to you to choose between fourteen jobs known as "life classes" and level them up as you progress through the story. Fantasy Life I: The Girl Who Steals Time is a laid-back RPG that is addictive, rewarding, and offers tons of gameplay. You can focus on combat, decorating, crafting, or all of the above. The Switch 2 version also offers faster loading times and better graphics. It's an all-around winner!
19. Deltarune Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4
Developer: tobyfox | Released: 2025 | Genre: RPG
Deltarune is a "sort of" Undertale prequel, and has just as much charm and heart as Toby Fox's breakout success. While this new game features some characters and features from Undertale, Deltarune centers around a new human child called Chris, who is transported into a new dark world. Chris must make their way through this new magical setting to find a way back home.
You'll have to explore, solve puzzles, and fight enemies in turn-based combat. Whether you kill your foes or choose to spare them is up to you. Deltarune has been releasing episodic chapters for years now. However, chapters three and four are brand new! New chapters will be released in the future as well, but for now, we can play through what's available with this delightfully comical story and even discover a secret room that uses exclusive Switch 2 controls.
18. Marvel's Cosmic Invasion
Developer: Tribute Games Inc | Released: 2025 | Genre: Beat 'em up
If you're looking for a beat-em-up brawler to get stuck into on the Switch 2, Marvel Comic Invasion is just the ticket. Tapping into some '90s nostalgia with its colorful pixel art designs, Cosmic Invasion offers up a roster of 15 playable characters plucked from the Marvel universe, from Wolverine to She-Hulk, Iron Man, and Rocket Raccoon. With their unique powers at play, you choose two super heroes for each level and switch between them using the game's tag-team system, or get stuck battling with pals in four-player online or local co-op.
As the heroes band together, you'll have to set out to stop disaster striking after a star-spanning threat known as the Annihilation Wave comes into the picture. Taking on various villains and enemies, this is a great beat-em-up for both genre and Marvel fans, and it's easy to get swept up in the action on Switch 2. For more, check out our Marvel Cosmic Invasion review.
17. Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar Switch 2 Edition
Developer: Marvelous Inc | Released: 2025 | Genre: Life sim
If you're looking for a laid-back, rewarding, and cozy experience to get stuck into on Switch 2, you can't go wrong with Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar. It's welcoming, colorful world looks beautiful on Switch 2, and with a satisfying farming loop that sees you grow crops, raise animals, and forage, you'll then be able to see your goods at the local bazaar every week.
With lots of upgrades to work towards, plenty to discover out in the world, and lots to do to occupy your days throughout each season, it's such an easy farming sim to sink into. And with all characters fully voiced, it's a joy getting to know the locals - and yes, you can even find love, too. You read more about our impressions here.
16. Yoshi and the Mysterious Book
Developer: Nintendo | Released: 2026 | Genre: Adventure platformer
Yoshi and the Mysterious Book marks the welcome return of the beloved green dinosaur in his very own Switch 2 exclusive platforming adventure. Inviting you into the pages of Mister Encyclopedia (Mr E for short), it shakes up the platformer formula by getting you to investigate the mysterious creatures that inhabit the tome. As you discover their abilities, you have to experiment and play around with them to find out what you need to do to complete any given level.
As we said in our Yoshi and the Mysterious book review, it's really driven by the discoveries you make. With every creature being uniquely different, every level feels varied, too, and the delightful storybook aesthetic gives the adventure added charm. With some Yoshi's Island nostalgia and its creative feel, Yoshi's comeback is worth checking out on Switch 2.
15. Octopath Traveler 0
Developer(s): Square Enix, Doki Doki Groove | Released: 2025 | Genre: JRPG
As the latest entry in the series, Octopath Traveler 0 is a prequel that shines bright on the Switch 2. Bringing back the beautifully nostalgic pixelated artstyle that Octopath is known for, 0 sees you create your own custom character as you set out to the continent of Osterra. After witnessing three villainous figures burn down your home village, you have a personal motivation that propels you forward as you seek to bring these tyrants to justice.
Setting out to restore your childhood home of Wishvale brings a cozy building element into the mix, with polished turn-based battles, and recruitable party members who will join you on your adventures. The various enemies you face present different challenges. As we said in our Octopath Traveler 0 review, this is the "strongest entry in this retro JRPG series yet", so it's well worth checking out.
14. Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles
Developer: Square Enix | Released: 2025 | Genre: Tactical RPG
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is a full remake of the 1997 classic that packs refined gameplay, fully voiced dialogue, and a more approachable difficulty setting. But for those who are looking to dive into an experience that's even closer to the original, it also features a classic version.
Set in the kingdom of Ivalice, the game sees you take on the role a knight by the name of Ramza Beoulve who gets caught in the middle of the machinations between warring factions. The strategic battles of Final Fantasy Tactics feels right at home the Switch 2, and the fantasy world and its 3D terrains really come to alive. If you're looking for something to sink into that will test your strategic prowess, then this is the one for you. Check out our Final Fantasy Tactics: Ivalice Chronicles review to learn more.
13. Yakuza 0 Director's Cut
Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio | Released: 2025 | Genre: Beat 'em up
Yakuza 0 is the best Yakuza game ever made (just check out our Yakuza 0 review for more on that), so of course, the new Director's Cut edition of this iconic title made our list of the best Switch 2 games. Set during Japan's '80s economic boom, Yakuza 0 marks the start of the story in terms of the long-running franchise. You'll follow a young Kiryu and Majima, and play through their interconnected stories surrounding their paths in the criminal world, set against a gripping real estate plot.
Yakuza 0 has an amazing story, but is also filled with charming and silly side-quests that keep you smiling in between heavy story reveals. The beat 'em up gameplay is also uber satisfying as you hit combos and plummet enemies into the dirt. However, the big standout here is that the Director's Cut offers new cut scenes and English voice-overs. For Yakuza veterans and series newcomers, this is a Switch 2 must-play.
12. Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter - Switch 2 Edition
Developer: Nihon Falcom | Released: 2025 | Genre: JRPG
Trails in the Sky First Chapter is a fantastic modern remake of the 2004 JPRG that found a home on the PSP, and it's well worth your time if you're looking for something memorable to tuck into on Switch 2. Following the story of Estelle and her adopted brother, Joshua, Trails in the Sky sees you set out on a grand adventure to get to the heart of a conspiracy that threatens their homeland.
With enhanced visuals and refinements made to the combat, the remake brings with it a new real-time and turn-based combat system that's satisfying to play around with. If you never experienced this one back in the day, or you're looking to explore the Trails series, this is a great one to try out.
11. Hollow Knight Silksong
Developer: Team Cherry | Released: 2025 | Genre: Metroidvania
It still doesn't feel real, but Hollow Knight Silksong is finally out in the wild. What's more, it's already taking the Switch 2 by storm. In fact, Team Cherry has garnered such a passionate following in the lead-up to its Metroidvania sequel that the influx of would-be purchasers caused Steam and Nintendo eShop storefronts to literally break on release day.
It's found a happy home on the Switch 2, running beautifully on the new-gen console. If you love a challenge as well as stunning bug-filled world-building, we can confidently say that this game will be right up your street. In fact, you can read our Hollow Knight Silksong review if you need more convincing on its majesty (and of course, if you haven't already, it's well worth checking out its predecessor).
10. Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition
Developer: CD Projekt Red | Released: 2025 | Genre: Action RPG
Cyberpunk 2077 is one of the best RPGs of all time. It's also a pretty taxing game to run with all of its realistic graphics. However, the Switch 2 runs this futuristic story like a dream. Developed by CD Projekt Red, Cyberpunk 2077 is set in the dystopian metropolis Night City, where you take on the role of a mercenary called V. After getting stuck with a cybernetic "bio-chip", you'll have to work to save your life and separate from a Keanu Reeves-shaped engram.
With FPS elements mixed with action-RPG mechanics, Cyberpunk 2077 offers a detailed open world and some of the best quest lines in modern gaming, period. In our Cyberpunk 2077 Switch 2 hands-on preview, we note that the game feels as if we're running the title on a PC with settings ranging from "Medium" to "High". So, don't worry, the Switch 2 does this title justice. It also includes all DLC, so it's a great bargain for new players, especially.
9. Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster
Developer: Cattle Call Inc | Released: 2025 | Genre: JRPG
Bravely Default Flying Fairy is widely considered to be one of the best JRPGs to ever hit Nintendo since it first released in 2012. So, it makes sense that we'd get a shiny remaster to celebrate the launch of the Switch 2. Luckily for us, despite being over a decade old, Bravely Default Flying Fairy is still as charming and captivating as it was back in the day.
Set in Luxendarc and following four heroes who must reclaim elemental crystals from the forces of darkness to save their world, Bravely Default Flying Fairy is a classic turn-based RPG. However, it's Brave and Default system offers a fun twist to the typical combat seen in JRPGs. Gathering Brave points to take multiple actions against a strong enemy never gets old! So, while its story isn't as revolutionary as it once was, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster gives a classic a modern makeover and is still worth your time.
8. Street Fighter 6 (Switch 2 Edition)
Developer: Capcom | Released: 2025 | Genre: Fighting
In our five-star Street Fighter 6 review, we call it "the best overall fighting game package ever made". So, yeah, it's an easy addition to our list of the best Switch 2 games and should be on every gamer's radar, for sure. Complete with an 18-character roster with new and returning fighters, Capcom's latest entry to its iconic competitive fighting series is polished, massive, and the perfect addition to add to your Switch 2 library.
Not only are there tons of modes (such as one of the best online battle hubs ever made), but the Switch 2 exclusive modes like Gyro Battle and Calorie Contest are pure fire co-op hits, that will have your heart pounding and friendships put to the test in the best way possible. Basically, even if you've played Street Fighter 6 before, there is a ton of new content to explore with Nintendo's fresh version of this 2023 masterpiece.
7. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade
Developer: Square Enix | Released: 2026 | Genre: JRPG
Cloud Strife has officially landed on the Switch 2, and what an impression he's made. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade's port on Nintendo's latest console is undeniably impressive, with the remake of one of the best JRPGs of all-time shining both in handheld mode and docked on a TV. Following the first part of Cloud's adventures in Midgar, Intergrade brings together Episode Intermission (starring Yuffie), along with a bunch of bonus content.
So, if you've been holding off on experiencing the remake, or you're looking for the perfect excuse to revisit the first part of Final Fantasy 7's iconic story, then Intergrade's release on the Switch 2 is your answer. If you're keen to learn more, check out our original Final Fantasy 7 Remake review.
6. Pokemon Legends: Z-A
Developer: Game Freak | Released: 2025 | Genre: Action RPG
Pokemon Legends: Z-A is easily one of the best Pokemon games we've played in recent years, and really makes you feel like you are part of your very own slice of life anime series. Set entirely in Lumiose City, the single setting lets you form deeper connections with characters, and as you see Pokemon and humans hanging out all around you (along with a surprisingly mature storyline to follow), you can’t help but feel utterly charmed when playing this new Switch 2 game.
While it's not a mainline title, but instead part of the Legends moniker, Pokemon Z-A feels like an evolution of the tried and tested formula that we all love. Battles are now more intense as they are real-time affairs, where strategy needs to be kept in mind. It'll take some getting used to, but as we mention in our Pokemon Legends: Z-A review, once you get your head around it, the "brilliant battle system changes are a real delight," and we hope this isn't the last we see of Pokemon's innovations. If you want a challenge and a new type of Pokemon experience, this game will be right up your street.
5. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Switch 2 Edition)
Developer: Nintendo | Released: 2025 | Genre: Action-adventure
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of the greatest games ever made, and now you can play it on the Nintendo Switch 2. While its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, is also available (and should be played if possible as well), Breath of the Wild is still one of the best open-world games around and should be your starting point if you want to experience Link's journey all over again as he sets out to rescue Princess Zelda and save the world from Calamity Ganon.
The Switch 2 Edition of the game feels rewarding to play through. Thanks to the new Zelda Notes app via the Nintendo Switch App, your progress feels more involved, as you can experience Voice Memories from characters, have a handy navigation tool at the ready, and even engage in item sharing. It truly feels like we're experiencing The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild all over again, and it's still just as mesmerizing as it was back in 2017. Read our Breath of the Wild review for more details on this must-play!
4. Mario Kart World
Developer: Nintendo | Released: 2025 | Genre: Racing
At this point, Mario Kart is an institution, and Mario Kart World is hands down the best racing game that we've had from the beloved series in a long time. Taking a new Forza Horizon-style approach to gameplay, Mario Kart World expands the tried and tested formula to give players more freedom to explore, take pictures, and just drive for the fun of it in between races, thanks to the new Free Roam mode.
But on the competitive side of things, things have also been cranked up a notch. There are 24 drivers that you'll have to beat, secret characters to unlock, and a battle royale style mode called Knockout Tour that will 1000% cause a few screaming matches in your household. In our Mario Kart World preview, our competitive spirits were pushed to the max, and we couldn't wait to get our hands on the console for another round. For more details, you can also check out our Mario Kart World review!
3. Hades 2
Developer: Supergiant Games | Released: 2025 | Genre: Action-roguelike
Hades 2 has officially left Early Access, and its full release well worth the wait. Not only is the game one of the best-reviewed games of 2025, but it's also a perfect roguelike addition that feels right at home on the Switch 2. Following Melinoë, Princess of the Underworld, as she crawls through beautifully crafted dungeons in order to defeat Chronos, Hades 2 succeeds at being bigger and better than its predecessor (and that's saying something given that the first Hades game reached godly heights. There's a new cast, new weapons, new biomes, and a brand new combat resource that makes the sequel stand just a bit taller.
In our near-perfect Hades 2 review, we praise the game for its innovative combat, attention to detail, and deep post-game progression. It's obvious that this was a labour of love, and every part of the title has been thought through with the player's enjoyment at the front of mind. Hades 2 is completely deserving of all its hype, and will become your new favorite game if given the chance.
2. Pokemon Pokopia
Developer(s): Game Freak, Omega Force | Released: 2026 | Genre: Life sim
For years, Pokemon fans (myself included) have been dreaming of a Pokemon cozy game, one that takes you away from battles and beating up wild critters for XP. Well, Pokemon Pokopia has finally answered all our prayers, and it's easily become one of the top Pokemon games of all time. Here, you play as a Ditto in a post-human Pokémon world. It's up to you to revitalise the area around you, building Pokémon habitats, helping out friends, discovering secrets, and trekking through a surprisingly deep storyline about what happened to your trainer.
The gameplay is a mix of Animal Crossing, Dragon Quest Builders, and Viva Piñata, giving us something totally unique in the cozy game space. I've already put hours into the title and can confirm that once you get sucked into the gameplay loop, you're hooked. If you need more convincing on this absolutely adorable masterpiece, you can read our Pokemon Pokopia review, but trust me, this is a Switch 2 must-play.
1. Donkey Kong Bananza
Developer: Nintendo | Released: 2025 | Genre: Action-adventure platformer
Donkey Kong Bananza officially landed to take the top spot among the very best Switch 2 games around right now. As we detailed in our Donkey Kong Bananza review, the destruction DK is able to unleash really is a smashing good time, and with a story packed full of charm, the adventure is topped off with a variety of different levels that keep the experience feeling fresh and varied throughout.
There's a lot of Super Mario Odyssey DNA on display, with vast areas to work your way through and plenty of collectibles to find, but the pairing of DK and a young Pauline really shines as they work together to reach the center of the earth, where they hope to fulfill their dreams. If there's one Switch 2 game to tuck into right now, it's undoubtedly Donkey Kong Bananza. Hopefully, this is just the beginning of fresh new Switch 2 exclusives that we can look forward to as well.
If you're an RPG fan who's after more recommendations, be sure to check out our pick of the best Switch 2 RPGs.
