The Nintendo Switch 2, which released in June, has firmly established itself as a worthy successor to one of the best-selling consoles of all time.
With more than 25 million units sold since its launch, the hybrid handheld console upholds Nintendo’s tradition of combining innovation with mass-market appeal.
No console is complete without great games, though, and Switch 2 has continued to grow its library. Here, we highlight the best releases of the year – titles that have defined the early life of the system, as well as refined versions of older games.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Remastered
Metacritic scores: 95 each
Key review: “Lives up to the high expectations created by the success of Breath of the Wild” – Shacknews
Both beloved titles from Switch return with enhanced graphics and performance, taking full advantage of Switch 2's upgraded hardware. These remasters provide an opportunity for players to revisit the game’s kingdom of Hyrule with improved visuals and smoother gameplay.
2. Hades II
Metacritic scores: 95
Key review: “Hades II is much more than a sequel. Supergiant Games’ work exceeds all expectations, with a gameplay loop that keeps you hooked at every moment” – IGN Spain
Supergiant Games returns with another masterfully crafted roguelike release. Hades II is a mix of fast-paced action, character-driven storytelling and expressive art that has made it one of the year’s most captivating titles. The sequel also introduces a richer overworld, more complex upgrade paths and a broader supporting cast that grows with each run.
Players have embraced its balance of challenge and accessibility, where every defeat teaches something useful. Hades II continues Supergiant’s tradition of presenting games with warmth, personality and unmistakable identity.
3. Hollow Knight: Silksong
Metacritic score: 91
Key review: “A staggering achievement in world-building and narrative depth” – VGC
The game is a rich Metroidvania with beautifully animated environments, deep combat mechanics and a compelling story. Switch 2 enhancements improve frame rate and visuals, making it one of the best ways to experience Silksong.
4. Donkey Kong Bananza
Metacritic score: 91
Key review: “A thrilling revival of a Nintendo icon, bursting with inventive level design” – Polygon
Bananza is a Switch 2-exclusive 3D platformer featuring jungle ecosystems, co-operative animal companions and rhythm-based jungle challenges. It leverages the system’s hardware for stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.
5. Split Fiction
Metacritic score: 91
Key review: “Split Fiction is a perfect game, I can’t put it any other way” – PSX Extreme
Under the guidance of Lebanese-Swedish director Josef Fares, game design studio Hazelight has produced some of the best co-op game experiences. Its latest game, Split Fiction, is about two writers – one penning a sci-fi and the second writing a fantasy – who both get sucked into virtually constructed versions of their stories.
The game received rave reviews upon its release on other consoles, and can now be enjoyed on Switch 2.
6. Street Fighter 6
Metacritic score: 86
Key review: “The series’ most cinematic entry yet, with a branching narrative that feels truly player-driven” – Eurogamer
This iteration brings the full fighting experience to Switch 2, with cross-platform online play, performance modes, and a robust roster of classic and new fighters.
7. Mario Kart World
Metacritic score: 86
Key review: “Mario Kart World is bold, ambitious and utterly charming” – Loot Level Chill
The biggest game release alongside the launch of Switch 2 is Mario Kart World, the first new mainline entry in the Mario Kart series in more than a decade. This instalment introduces open-world tracks, off-road mechanics, elimination modes and supports up to 24-player races. It also features unlockable costumes, which offer a fresh take on the beloved racing series.
8. Deltarune
Metacritic score: 86
Key review: “Deltarune continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in RPGs, with its signature charm and inventive mechanics” – Game Informer
Chapter 3 of Toby Fox’s acclaimed RPG series arrives on Switch 2, offering expanded graphics, new combat systems and extra content that leverages the console’s performance enhancements.
9. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
Metacritic score: 85
Key review: “A solid port that captures the essence of Night City on the go” – IGN
This version of Cyberpunk was optimised for Switch 2 with improved loading times, adaptive resolution and control refinements for handheld and docked play.
10. Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut
Metacritic score: 85
Key review: “An incredible introduction to the Yakuza series, polished and full of life” – IGN
The Director’s Cut version brings Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima’s prequel adventures to Switch 2 with enhanced visuals, smoother frame rates and all previously released content. It’s an ideal way for newcomers and returning fans to experience the gritty world of Kamurocho.
11. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metacritic score: 80
Key review: “Samus Aran makes a strong comeback: Metroid Prime 4 is not only a great game, but also looks fantastic” – 4P.de
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond marks the return of one of Nintendo’s most acclaimed franchises, bringing a renewed sense of scale and atmosphere to Samus Aran’s journey. The game ventures into unfamiliar regions of space, where ancient Chozo history and new threats converge.
Early impressions highlight richer world building, more deliberate pacing and environments designed for thoughtful exploration rather than spectacle. With expanded suit abilities and refined combat, Beyond seeks to balance nostalgia with innovation, offering a measured yet ambitious step forward for a series cherished by long-time fans.
12. Super Mario Party Jamboree
Metacritic score: 76
Key review: “Jamboree's achievements will keep players very motivated to explore the entire game, and its lifespan is surprisingly long” – Starbit
With more than 200 mini-games and 10 new boards, Super Mario Party Jamboree renews the party-game genre. The boards are now interactive with dynamic weather and events that can change the outcome.
There’s also a 100-player online tournament mode, which adds a competitive experience. Characters now have personal items that allow them the option of strategic plays. The custom mini-game playlists, meanwhile, will let players create their own party experience.
