Best Nintendo Switch 2 Games, Ranked by Critic Scores
Looking for the best Nintendo Switch 2 games? This list pulls together the highest-rated titles on the system, based on published critic scores from Metacritic and OpenCritic. We did not play these games for this roundup. Instead, we checked each game’s score and release date so you can see which ones critics agree on.
The Switch 2 is now well into its second year. Its library has grown from a small launch lineup into a mix of Nintendo exclusives, big third-party ports and standout indie games. Below you’ll find a quick table, a short note on why each game earns its spot, and who it suits best. Scores can shift a point or two as new reviews come in, so treat them as a snapshot as of October 2026.
Last updated: October 27, 2026
Nintendo Switch 2 at a glance
The Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025, at $449.99 in the U.S., or $499.99 in a bundle with Mario Kart World. It plays many original Switch games and adds sharper visuals, more storage and new online features.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch date | June 5, 2025 |
| Launch price (U.S.) | $449.99 console; $499.99 Mario Kart World bundle |
| Screen | 7.9-inch 1080p LCD with HDR support |
| TV mode | Up to 4K output in supported games |
| Frame rate | Up to 120 fps in compatible games |
| Storage | 256 GB internal; expands with microSD Express cards |
| Online extras | GameChat voice and video chat (needs Nintendo Switch Online) |
| Backward compatibility | Plays many Switch 1 games; some are not supported |
Hardware details come from Nintendo’s official Switch 2 features page. As of October 2026, that page also notes a September 10, 2026 system update that added VRR support in TV mode.
The best Nintendo Switch 2 games by critic score
The highest-rated Switch 2 games right now are Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and Hades II, both at 95 on Metacritic. Donkey Kong Bananza and Hollow Knight: Silksong follow close behind at 91.
The table below lists the Switch 2 Metascore from Metacritic’s Switch 2 rankings and the score shown on OpenCritic’s Switch 2 list. Release dates are the dates those sites list for each game.
| Game | Genre | Release date | Metacritic (Switch 2) | OpenCritic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition | Open-world adventure | June 5, 2025 | 95 | 94 |
| Hades II | Action roguelike | Sept. 25, 2025 | 95 | 94 |
| The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Remastered | Action RPG | Sept. 29, 2026 | 92 | 91 |
| Donkey Kong Bananza | 3D platformer | July 17, 2025 | 91 | 91 |
| Hollow Knight: Silksong | Metroidvania | Sept. 4, 2025 | 91 | 91 |
| Mina the Hollower | Action adventure | May 29, 2026 | 90 | 91 |
| Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition | Action RPG | Aug. 28, 2026 | 90 | 89 |
| Resident Evil Requiem | Survival horror | Feb. 27, 2026 | 90 | 89 |
| Pokémon Pokopia | Life sim | March 5, 2026 | 89 | 90 |
| Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave | Turn-based tactics | Sept. 17, 2026 | 89 | 90 |
| Mario Kart World | Racing | June 5, 2025 | 86 | 87 |
A high score means critics broadly agree a game is good. It does not mean every game fits every player. Use the notes below to match a game to your taste.
Why each game is recommended
Each pick below scored in the high 80s or 90s with critics. Here is what reviewers praise and who will get the most out of it.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
This upgraded version of the 2023 hit is tied for the top Metascore on Switch 2. Critics point to smoother performance, sharper visuals and faster loading on the new hardware. If you own the Switch 1 version, you can buy an upgrade instead of the full game.
Best for: Players who want a huge open world to explore and build in at their own pace.
Hades II
Supergiant Games’ sequel is a fast action roguelike where each run through the underworld plays out a little differently. It matches Zelda’s 95 on Metacritic. Short runs make it a strong fit for handheld play.
Best for: Fans of tight combat who like to play in short bursts and slowly get stronger.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Remastered
This remaster of the 2015 RPG includes the Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine expansions. As of October 2026, its 92 Metascore comes from a fairly small group of about 10 critic reviews, so it may move as more arrive.
Best for: Players who want a long, story-heavy fantasy RPG with lots of side quests.
Donkey Kong Bananza
Nintendo’s 3D platformer is built around smashing through the world. Critics singled out its varied levels, power-ups and strong music. It is one of the highest-scoring Switch 2 exclusives.
Best for: Families and platformer fans who want a bright, playful Nintendo adventure.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Team Cherry’s follow-up to Hollow Knight is a large Metroidvania with quick, demanding combat and many boss fights. It costs less than most games on this list. Expect a real challenge.
Best for: Players who enjoy tough 2D action and exploring a big map full of secrets.
Mina the Hollower
From the team behind Shovel Knight, this action adventure has you burrowing under hazards and fighting monsters on a cursed island. Its retro style and boss battles earned a 90 on Metacritic.
Best for: Fans of classic, top-down action games with a pixel-art look.
Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition
FromSoftware’s dark fantasy RPG arrives on Switch 2 with the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion included. It is rated M for Mature. Bosses are hard, and the game expects you to learn from failure.
Best for: Experienced action players who want a huge, punishing open world.
Resident Evil Requiem
Capcom’s latest Resident Evil splits its story between FBI analyst Grace Ashcroft and series hero Leon S. Kennedy. Grace’s sections lean into horror, while Leon’s lean into action. Critics scored the Switch 2 version a 90.
Best for: Adult horror fans who want a modern big-budget scare on a handheld.
Pokémon Pokopia
You play as a Ditto who rebuilds an empty world into a cozy Pokémon community. You craft, transform and learn moves from your Pokémon friends to reshape the land. It is rated E for Everyone.
Best for: Kids and cozy-game fans who like building and decorating more than battling.
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave
This tactics RPG sends four heroes through time to stop the demon god Balor. You command armies on grid-based maps, then prepare between fights in the city of Dagsion. It is one of the newest games on this list.
Best for: Strategy fans who enjoy planning each move and growing a team of characters.
Mario Kart World
The launch title mixes classic kart racing with connected tracks, a free-roam mode and a Knockout race mode. Its 86 Metascore is the lowest here, but it remains the go-to party game on the system.
Best for: Groups, families and anyone who wants quick local or online multiplayer.
How to pick the right Switch 2 game for you
Start with the type of game you already enjoy, then use critic scores to narrow it down. A 90+ game in a genre you dislike is still a poor pick.
- For kids and families: Donkey Kong Bananza, Pokémon Pokopia and Mario Kart World.
- For short play sessions: Hades II and Mario Kart World.
- For a big challenge: Hollow Knight: Silksong and Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition.
- For long stories: The Witcher 3 Remastered and Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave.
- For mature players: Resident Evil Requiem and Elden Ring (check ratings before buying for younger players).
It also helps to read a few full reviews, not just the score. For more help choosing and getting started, browse our gaming tips and our step-by-step game guides.
Switch 2 Editions vs. Switch 2 games
Some of the top-rated titles are upgraded versions of older Switch games, not brand-new releases. If you already own the original, an upgrade pack can be cheaper than buying again.
Tears of the Kingdom is the clearest example. Its Switch 2 Edition is a paid upgrade for Switch 1 owners, and Nintendo has offered these Zelda upgrades at no extra cost to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members. Check the eShop listing before you buy, since prices and offers can change.
Many original Switch games also run on Switch 2 without any upgrade. Nintendo notes that some Switch 1 games are not supported or fully compatible, so check before relying on an older game.
Conclusion
As of October 2026, the best Nintendo Switch 2 games by critic score are Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and Hades II, followed by The Witcher 3 Remastered, Donkey Kong Bananza and Hollow Knight: Silksong. Newer releases like Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave and Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition show the library is still growing. Pick by genre first, then let the scores guide you. For more roundups like this one, visit our game reviews section.
FAQ
What is the highest-rated Nintendo Switch 2 game?
As of October 2026, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and Hades II share the top Switch 2 Metascore of 95.
What is the best Switch 2 exclusive?
Among games made only for Switch 2, Donkey Kong Bananza has one of the highest scores at 91 on Metacritic. Pokémon Pokopia and Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave both sit at 89.
When did the Nintendo Switch 2 come out?
The Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025. It cost $449.99 in the U.S., or $499.99 bundled with Mario Kart World.
Can the Switch 2 play original Switch games?
Yes, it plays many physical and digital Switch 1 games. Nintendo says some are not supported or fully compatible.
What is a good Switch 2 game for kids?
Donkey Kong Bananza, Pokémon Pokopia and Mario Kart World are strong picks. Pokopia is rated E for Everyone, and all three are well reviewed by critics.
Do Metacritic and OpenCritic scores ever change?
Yes. Scores can move as more reviews are added, especially for new games with few reviews. The scores in this article are a snapshot from October 2026.
Sources
- Metacritic – Best Nintendo Switch 2 games (by Metascore) and individual game pages
- OpenCritic – Best Nintendo Switch 2 video games of all time
- Nintendo – Nintendo Switch 2 features page
- Nintendo Life – Nintendo Switch 2 launch date and price announcement (April 2025)
- Engadget – The best Nintendo Switch 2 games