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 remasters come with improved visuals. Photo: Nintendo
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
Hades II offers character-driven storytelling. Photo: Supergiant Games
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
Silksong is the long-awaited sequel to the 2017 game Hollow Knight. Photo: Team Cherry
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
Donkey Kong Bananza features jungle-based challenges. Photo: Nintendo
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
Street Fighter 6 continues a long legacy of the fighting game's popularity among fans. Photo: Capcom
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 Mario Kart series gets its first mainline entry in more than a decade. Photo: Nintendo
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.
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