As the Nintendo Switch 2 approaches its first anniversary, its library has started to show a clear mix of strong ports, major third-party releases, and sequels to popular franchises. While it may not yet have the high-profile exclusives that defined the original Switch’s early years, the system now offers a variety of games that demonstrate its technical capabilities and portable design. From action-packed RPGs to cooperative platformers, these twelve games highlight what the console does best.
Expanding Classic RPGs for Portable Play
The Switch 2 has proven capable of handling large-scale RPGs, with Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade standing out as a prime example. The game retains the story and atmosphere of the original while introducing real-time hybrid combat and cinematic setpieces. Its Switch 2 port maintains the visual fidelity and narrative depth, making it one of the most ambitious RPGs available on the system. Similarly, Cyberpunk 2077 shows how the console can manage complex open-world environments, offering smooth performance and intuitive controls in Night City, even in handheld mode.
New Approaches to Familiar Franchises
Franchise sequels like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Hades 2 illustrate experimentation within established series. Pokémon Legends: Z-A focuses on a single city setting and real-time battles, delivering a fresh approach to the long-running monster-taming series. Hades 2 builds on the first game’s roguelike formula, adding new mechanics and progression systems while remaining challenging and engaging for returning players.
Platforming and Cooperative Experiences
Nintendo’s platforming heritage remains strong on the Switch 2. Games like Kirby Air Riders and Donkey Kong Bananza combine accessible controls with creative level design. Kirby Air Riders emphasizes playful racing mechanics suitable for parties, while Donkey Kong Bananza leverages destructible environments and problem-solving challenges to provide a technically robust platforming experience. Cooperative titles like Split Fiction are best played on a television display but showcase how teamwork can be integrated into platforming in a meaningful way.
Open-World Adventures and Exploration
Exploration-focused games remain a highlight on the system. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its sequel The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom run at a smooth 60fps on the Switch 2, with additional content that enriches the open-world experience. Hollow Knight: Silksong offers precise exploration and demanding combat that rewards player mastery. These games illustrate the console’s ability to balance performance with expansive, detail-rich worlds.
Competitive and Social Gameplay
Racing and fighting games also perform well on the Switch 2. Mario Kart World continues the franchise’s emphasis on multiplayer fun, supporting larger races and expanded stunts. Street Fighter 6 brings competitive fighting to the platform, with smooth performance and responsive controls. System-specific features like motion controls and amiibo support are included but remain secondary to the core gameplay experience.
Immersive Story-Driven Worlds
For players seeking narrative depth, Star Wars Outlaws provides an open-world story in the Star Wars universe. While some gameplay elements are simplified, the game offers detailed environments and character interactions, allowing players to experience the franchise’s setting in a new way.
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best Nintendo Switch 2 games in 2026?
The top titles include Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Hades 2, Mario Kart World, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. These games span multiple genres and showcase the system’s strengths.
Can the Switch 2 run large-scale open-world games?
Yes. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Star Wars Outlaws demonstrate that the console can handle complex open-world environments while maintaining smooth performance.
Which games are best for multiplayer or co-op play?
Mario Kart World, Kirby Air Riders, Split Fiction, and Street Fighter 6 are all designed with multiplayer or cooperative gameplay in mind. These titles offer social experiences both locally and online.
Are RPGs available on the Switch 2?
The system features a strong RPG lineup, including Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Hades 2, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A, offering a mix of narrative-driven and action-focused role-playing experiences.
Should I replay older titles on the Switch 2?
Enhanced versions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom benefit from improved performance, additional content, and smoother frame rates, making them worth revisiting for both new and returning players.
