Top Nintendo Switch OLED Games to Experience in 2025

A thrilling array of games awaits Nintendo Switch enthusiasts in 2025, with fresh titles enriching both the traditional and OLED models every month. Our meticulously curated selection highlights the essential Nintendo Switch games that players cannot miss this year.

Despite the emergence of the Steam Deck as a formidable contender, the Nintendo Switch maintains its stronghold in the handheld console market. This is largely due to its consistent stream of new releases, alongside a passionate and loyal fanbase.

We’ve undertaken the task of exploring the extensive catalog of beloved titles, including Pokémon, The Legend of Zelda, and Minecraft, to assist you in discovering the top gaming experiences on your Nintendo Switch in 2025.

Top Nintendo Switch OLED Games for 2025

Players have a wealth of exciting options to choose from when looking for standout Nintendo Switch OLED games, including iconic titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Here are our top recommendations:

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

This action-adventure masterpiece continues the legacy established by its predecessor, Breath of the Wild. Players will once again traverse the expansive open world of Hyrule, enhanced for thrilling vertical exploration.

As Link, players will engage in a gripping quest to save Princess Zelda while confronting the ominous Demon King. With innovative mechanics and classic Zelda gameplay seamlessly fused, it’s an enriching experience that builds upon prior journeys.

Metroid Dread

Released as a launch title for the Switch OLED, Metroid Dread is a stunning showcase for the console. Set on the richly detailed planet of ZDR, players guide Samus through an environment filled with danger and secrets.

Whether evading robotic foes or battling massive bosses, every encounter makes full use of the Switch’s capabilities, enhancing the gaming thrill.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

The eighth installment of the Mario Kart franchise encapsulates the essence of party gaming. With a diverse roster of characters from the Mario universe and the ability to customize karts, players can engage in exhilarating races, complete with competitive multiplayer action.

For solo players, a compelling single-player mode awaits, though be prepared for some friendly rivalries if playing with others!

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

For platforming enthusiasts, Super Mario Bros. Wonder pays homage to the franchise’s roots, delivering nostalgic and colorful gameplay that remains enjoyable for players of all ages.

Featuring refined movement and imaginative level design, it’s an essential title for anyone enjoying an OLED-equipped Switch.

Fire Emblem Engage

As the latest entry in this esteemed series, Fire Emblem Engage capitalizes on the enhanced visuals of the Switch OLED. The game emphasizes tactical gameplay while capturing the franchise’s strategic heart.

While the narrative may feel less robust than earlier titles, the return of iconic characters as allies adds a layer of nostalgia for fans.

Pokemon Legends: Arceus

Breaking away from tradition, Pokemon Legends: Arceus introduces players to an open-world format set in the ancient Sinnoh region, known as Hisui.

Exploration becomes the heart of the game as players join the Galaxy Expedition Team, battling regular Pokémon and their powerful Alpha counterparts. The mechanics of crafting items from resources found in the wild revitalizes the experience, making it a standout title.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet

If Arceus wasn’t to your taste, then Pokemon Scarlet and Violet offers an equally engaging experience. With vibrant visuals, exciting battles, and endless exploration, this recent addition to the Pokémon franchise is ideal for both newcomers and seasoned players alike.

Top Nintendo Switch Lite Games for 2025

Designed exclusively for portable enjoyment, the Nintendo Switch Lite allows gamers to take their adventures on-the-go. As joycons cannot be detached, certain games shine on this model while others are better suited for the OLED. Below are the best Nintendo Switch Lite titles targeting players in 2025:

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

A quintessential title for any Nintendo console, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate excels on the Switch Lite, allowing for exciting matches on a portable device.

With the ability to engage in intense battles anywhere, this game enhances the experience of fighting games.

Hollow Knight

The beloved indie title Hollow Knight showcases the Nintendo Switch Lite’s capabilities with its striking visuals and deep atmosphere, enhanced by the console’s ability to highlight darker hues.

The expansive world remains enchanting, inviting players to explore Hallownest’s mysteries.

Megaman Battle Network Legacy Collection

This modern compilation of the classic Megaman Battle Network series finds its home perfectly on the Switch Lite. With charming updated visuals and nostalgic gameplay, fans can enjoy all six titles along with valuable extras.

This collection caters to both veteran players and newcomers to the series alike.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, players create and cultivate their personal island paradise. Gathering resources through fishing, bug-catching, and farming leads to new opportunities and experiences as you develop your dream getaway.

The charm of befriending villagers and customizing homes fosters a relaxing gaming atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

Disney Dreamlight Valley

This life simulation game focuses on crafting, farming, and exploring within a world filled with beloved Disney characters. Since its September 2022 release during early access, Disney Dreamlight Valley has quickly gained traction, making it a perfect choice for fans of cozy gameplay.

Best Nintendo Switch Online Games for 2025

The Nintendo Switch Online service offers a treasure trove of classic titles, providing players with the chance to relive nostalgic moments or step into iconic games for the first time. We’ve highlighted several must-plays for 2025:

Super Metroid

As a hallmark of the Metroid series, Super Metroid represents a pinnacle of 2D action-adventure gaming. Available on the Switch, players can enjoy resolution enhancements while exploring an alien world brimming with surprises and thrilling challenges.

Tetris 99

The classic block-building game receives a modern twist with Tetris 99, where strategy and speed coalesce in this exhilarating battle royale format. It breathes new life into a beloved franchise for a new generation of gamers.

Super Mario Bros. (1985)

Cited as a savior of the video game industry, the original Super Mario Bros. continues to stand the test of time. Despite its simple graphics, the gameplay remains challenging and impactful, making it a fundamental experience for any gamer.

Super Mario Kart (1992)

The inaugural Super Mario Kart provides a nostalgic racing experience, differing significantly from more contemporary entries. Its simplistic charm and gameplay mechanics paved the way for future iterations of the franchise.

Star Fox 64 (1997)

Combining engaging storytelling with excellent gameplay, Star Fox 64 seamlessly delivers an on-rails shooter experience that remains enjoyable and accessible, perfect for a day’s worth of explosive fun.

Sonic The Hedgehog 2 (1992)

As a sequel to the revolutionary franchise, Sonic The Hedgehog 2 enhanced gameplay with new levels and characters, further solidifying Sonic’s place in gaming history.

Streets of Rage 2 (1992)

This co-op beat ’em up remains a genre-defining classic, encouraging players to take down foes using unique abilities and strategies, influencing the design of successful gaming franchises for years.

Super Mario Bros. 3 (1988)

This game introduced new mechanics, costumes, and power-ups that changes the gameplay landscape, creating a richer and more engaging experience for players.

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991)

A paragon of the action-adventure genre, A Link to the Past still captivates players today. Its gameplay and exploration foster an engaging experience that generations of gamers hold dear.

Super Mario 64 (1996)

Widely celebrated for revolutionizing 3D platforming, Super Mario 64 is a cornerstone of gaming history, showcasing vibrant worlds and unforgettable music that embody the essence of adventure.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)

With an extraordinary score of 99 out of 100 on Metacritic, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time has transcended generations, offering groundbreaking gameplay elements that have influenced the industry.

This title stands out as one of the most essential gaming experiences available on the Switch Online platform for 2025!

In summary, these are the best Nintendo Switch games to explore in 2025, whether you’re playing online or on your OLED model.

Source & Images