9 Best Selling Nintendo Switch Games You Need to Play Now

If you’re a Nintendo Switch owner, you know the thrill of diving into a new game. The Switch’s versatility and robust game library make it a favorite among gamers of all ages. Whether you’re into action-packed adventures, strategic puzzles, or immersive RPGs, there’s something for everyone.

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – A Social Simulation Phenomenon

Overview of the Game’s Features

Animal Crossing: New Horizons brings a delightful blend of creativity and relaxation. You start on a deserted island with the freedom to build and customize your paradise. The game lets you gather resources, craft tools, and decorate your home and island. Notable features include the ability to visit friends’ islands, seasonal events, and in-game purchases.

Impact on Pop Culture and Sales Achievements

Animal Crossing: New Horizons has become a cultural icon, especially during 2020’s lockdowns. Its gentle gameplay and social aspects made it a global hit, selling over 38 million copies worldwide. The game inspired memes, celebrity endorsements, and even virtual talk shows, cementing its place in pop culture.

2. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Racing to the Top

Few games capture the excitement of the race quite like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This best-seller has kept fans on the edge of their seats with its thrilling gameplay and vibrant tracks.

Key Features and Gameplay Enhancements from Previous Versions

Revamped Visuals: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe wows players with its stunning high-definition graphics and smoother animations, making each race a visual treat.

Expanded Roster: The game boasts 42 characters, including new additions like Inkling Boy and Inkling Girl from Splatoon, offering diverse racing experiences.

Smart Steering: Newcomers benefit from the Smart Steering feature, which helps keep karts on the track, ensuring a more accessible gameplay experience.

Battle Mode: Unlike its predecessor, this version revamps the Battle Mode, introducing new arenas and classic options like Balloon Battle and Shine Thief.

Double Items: Players can now hold two items simultaneously, adding strategic depth and intense competition during races.

Sales Milestones and Fan Base

Millions Sold: As of 2024, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has sold over 53 million copies, solidifying its place as one of the best-selling Switch games of all time.

Global Appeal: The game’s universal appeal has garnered a massive fan base, with players praising its engaging races and nostalgic charm.

E-sports Presence: It’s a staple in e-sports, hosting numerous tournaments and events, drawing both competitive players and casual fans to the action.

Evergreen Favorite: Consistent updates and downloadable content have kept the community thriving and engaged, making it a perennial favorite among gamers.

3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – The Ultimate Fighting Experience

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers an unmatched fighting experience with its extensive roster and diverse stages. It’s a must-have for any Nintendo Switch owner.

Extensive Roster and Stage Variety

Dive into battles with a roster of over 80 characters, including beloved icons like Mario, Pikachu, and Link. Each character has unique moves and specials, providing endless strategies and matchups. Explore more than 100 dynamic stages, each with its hazards and layouts, ensuring every battle feels fresh and exciting.

Record-Breaking Sales and Critical Acclaim

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has sold over 29 million copies worldwide as of 2024, making it one of the best-selling Switch games. It has garnered critical acclaim for its deep gameplay, polished mechanics, and expansive content. Reviews often highlight its fun multiplayer mode, robust online features, and regular updates, keeping players engaged and entertained for years.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Redefining an Epic

Innovation in Open-World Gaming

Breath of the Wild’s open-world design revolutionizes the genre. You can explore vast, interconnected landscapes without loading screens. Interactive elements, like weather impacts and breakable weapons, add depth. The game’s freedom lets you solve puzzles and tackle challenges your way.

Awards and Enduring Popularity

Breath of the Wild has won numerous awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2017. Sales topped 30 million copies by 2024, proving its lasting appeal. The game continues to be a favorite for both new and returning players, maintaining strong community engagement.

5. Pokémon Sword and Shield – Continuing the Legacy

Pokémon Sword and Shield brought fresh excitement to the long-running Pokémon series with new features and Pokémon. These games, set in the Galar region, offer plenty for both seasoned trainers and newcomers.

New Features and Pokémon Introduced

Gigantamaxing: This feature lets certain Pokémon grow in size and power, adding new strategies to battles.
Galarian Forms: Classic Pokémon received unique Galarian forms, enhancing the variety.
Wild Area: This open-world segment allows for free camera movement and dynamic encounters.
Raid Battles: You can team up with others to take down powerful Dynamax Pokémon.
New Pokémon: Over 80 new creatures, including fan favorites like Grookey and Scorbunny.

Commercial Success Across the Globe

Massive Sales: Pokémon Sword and Shield sold over 23 million copies worldwide by 2024.
Top Charts: These titles consistently ranked among the best-selling Nintendo Switch games.
Galar Region Appeal: The diverse landscapes and new mechanics attracted a broad audience.
Global Events: Regular events and updates kept the community engaged and playing.
Merchandise Boom: The success extended to toys, cards, and more, making it a cultural phenomenon.

6. Super Mario Odyssey – A Modern Classic

Innovative Gameplay and Level Design

Super Mario Odyssey reinvents the traditional platformer with its open-ended level design and unique gameplay mechanics. You explore various kingdoms, each with its distinct theme and challenges, using Mario’s new partner, Cappy, to possess objects and enemies. This fresh approach enriches the gameplay, offering countless ways to solve puzzles and defeat bosses. The game’s captivating worlds and creative objectives keep you engaged, making Odyssey a standout entry in the Mario series.

Commercial Performance and Awards

Since its release, Super Mario Odyssey has become a commercial powerhouse, selling over 25 million copies by 2024. It was one of the fastest-selling Nintendo Switch games, achieving swift financial success. Critics and players alike have praised its innovation and fun factor, leading to several awards including Game of the Year accolades and Best Game Design honors. Odyssey’s critical and commercial success cements its place as a modern classic, beloved by both new and longtime fans.

7. Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!

Released in 2018, Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! introduce a new approach to the beloved Pokémon series by blending classic gameplay with modern features.

Bridging Generations: Features That Appeal to All

Combining nostalgia with innovation, these games offer a refreshed encounter-catching mechanic inspired by Pokémon GO. You can throw Poké Balls using motion controls or a special Poké Ball Plus accessory, adding realism to your adventure. Familiar Kanto region settings and beloved first-generation Pokémon like Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle delight long-time fans. Meanwhile, streamlined mechanics make the games accessible to newcomers, providing a seamless introduction to the Pokémon world.

Impressive Sales Numbers

Achieving impressive commercial success, Pokémon Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! have sold over 14 million copies worldwide by 2024. Their unique blend of classic and contemporary elements has attracted a diverse audience, contributing significantly to their status as best-selling Nintendo Switch titles. This success also spurred further interest in the Pokémon franchise, demonstrating the enduring appeal of its timeless formula coupled with innovative gameplay.

8. Splatoon 2 – Revolutionizing Team-Based Shooters

Unique Gameplay Mechanics

Splatoon 2 introduces unique ink-based combat mechanics. You play as an Inkling, using ink to cover territories and eliminate opponents. The aim is not just to outshoot but to outpaint the other team. Squid transformation adds mobility, letting you swim through your ink. These mechanics force strategic thinking, making every match dynamic and engaging.

Strong Sales and Active Online Community

Splatoon 2 has sold over 10 million copies globally. Its success is bolstered by a thriving online community. Regular updates keep content fresh, with new weapons, stages, and Splatfests. Nintendo’s commitment to continuous support ensures that there’s always something new to experience, keeping players returning for more.

9. Luigi’s Mansion 3 – Spectral Fun for Everyone

Luigi’s Mansion 3 invites you to embark on a paranormal adventure filled with humor and spookiness. This best-selling title continues to enchant players of all ages.

Game Mechanics and Ghostly Features

Explore a haunted hotel with Luigi, using the Poltergust G-00 to capture ghosts. Solve intricate puzzles by manipulating the environment and using Luigi’s ghostly dog companion, Polterpup. Switch between Luigi and Gooigi, his gooey doppelgänger, to navigate through obstacles and reach new areas. Engage in co-op mode for fun multiplayer action, where you and a friend can team up to tackle the haunted hotel together.

Sales Figures and Critical Reception

Luigi’s Mansion 3 has sold over 9 million copies worldwide. Critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with Metacritic scores averaging 86/100. Reviewers praise the game’s charming graphics, intricate level design, and engaging gameplay. Fans appreciate its balance between fun and challenge, making it a beloved addition to the Nintendo Switch library.

Conclusion: Why These Games Are Must-Haves

These best-selling Nintendo Switch games offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of gamers. From the life-simulation charm of Animal Crossing to the strategic ink battles of Splatoon 2, each game brings something unique to the table. Their widespread popularity and critical acclaim are testaments to their quality and engaging gameplay.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the Nintendo Switch, these titles are essential additions to your collection. They not only provide hours of entertainment but also showcase the versatility and creativity that the Switch platform has to offer. Don’t miss out on these must-have games that have captivated millions worldwide.