The Best Nintendo Switch Games of All Time
Richard WeissThe Nintendo Switch has cemented itself as one of the greatest consoles in gaming history. With a library that spans nearly a decade, the system offers an overwhelming number of choices. Whether you just picked up a console or you are a long-time collector hunting for sealed copies, figuring out what to play next can be a challenge.
At Chronic Sports Cards, we specialize in physical media. We know that for many gamers, a digital download just doesn't compare to the feeling of peeling the shrink wrap off a factory-sealed case. In this guide, we’re breaking down the absolute essential titles, the best new Nintendo Switch games released recently, and the rare "holy grails" that serious collectors are hunting for right now.
Best Selling Nintendo Switch Games of All Time
If you are building a library from scratch, these are the "must-haves." These titles have defined the console's lifecycle and remain the most popular choices for gamers worldwide.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
It is impossible to talk about the Switch without mentioning the king of kart racers. As the #1 best-selling game on the platform, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is essential for multiplayer fun. With the Booster Course Pass now complete, the game features a massive track list that keeps it fresh years after release.
Collector Tip: Early print runs of this game (2017) have different cart variations than the newer ones that include the DLC on the cartridge. Collectors often hunt for the "complete on cart" versions released later in the lifecycle.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom
These two titles reinvented the open-world genre. Breath of the Wild was the launch title that sold millions on the console concept, while Tears of the Kingdom expanded the physics and creativity to new heights. Both are critical additions to any physical collection.
Why It's Essential: Breath of the Wild cartridges have gone through multiple revisions. Later prints include all the patches and DLC on the cart, making them more valuable to preservationists.
3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
"Everyone is here!" remains one of the most ambitious taglines in gaming history. With every fighter from previous entries and a slew of DLC characters, this is the definitive fighting game for the system.
4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
The game that defined 2020. Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ultimate cozy game, offering hundreds of hours of island customization, fishing, and bug catching. It remains a top seller for casual gamers.
5. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
Despite technical debates at launch, the 9th generation of Pokémon games introduced a fully open world and new mechanics like Terastallizing. For collectors, holding a physical copy of the latest generation is a non-negotiable part of the hobby.
Best New Nintendo Switch Games (2025 Releases)
The Switch isn't slowing down. The 2025 release calendar is packed with titles that push the hardware to its limits. If you are looking for new games for Nintendo Switch, these are the titles you need to pre-order or grab immediately.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
After years of anticipation, Samus Aran returns in what is arguably the most technically impressive game on the system. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond delivers the atmospheric first-person exploration fans have waited nearly a decade for.
Investment Outlook: As a late-generation release, this title may have a smaller print run than early hits, making sealed copies potentially valuable in the future.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Returning to the Kalos region, Pokémon Legends: Z-A builds on the innovative gameplay of Arceus. Set entirely within Lumiose City, this ambitious title offers a fresh take on the Pokémon formula and is already shaping up to be one of the best new Nintendo Switch games of 2025.
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD
A stunning remaster of the Wii classic released in early 2025. This platformer is notoriously difficult but incredibly rewarding. The HD version brings crisp visuals and tight controls, making it the definitive way to experience the game.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
For the first time in a mainline entry, you play as Zelda herself. Using the power of the Tri Rod to create "echoes" of objects and enemies, this game offers a unique puzzle-solving twist on the classic top-down Zelda formula.
Rare & Collectible Switch Games (The "Holy Grails")
At Chronic Sports Cards, we know that for some, gaming is about the hunt. The Switch has become a haven for physical collectors, with limited print runs creating high-value rarities. Here are a few "grails" to look out for.
The Messenger (Special Reserve Games)
This retro-inspired ninja platformer is widely considered one of the best indies on the system. Its limited physical release by Special Reserve Games has skyrocketed in value, making sealed copies a centerpiece for many collections.
Value Check: Sealed copies now routinely sell for over $300, purely due to the low print run and high quality of the game.
Shantae and the Pirate's Curse (Limited Run Games)
While the Shantae series is popular, this specific entry released by Limited Run Games is notoriously expensive and hard to find. It is a perfect example of how digital-first games can become premium physical collectibles.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster Collection
When Square Enix released this collection physically, stock vanished almost instantly. It contains the classic NES and SNES era Final Fantasy games on a single cartridge.
Why It's Rare: The North American ESRB version was sold exclusively through the Square Enix store in tiny quantities. It is currently one of the most expensive standard edition games on the system.
Bayonetta Non-Stop Climax Edition
A Japanese exclusive that includes physical cartridges for both Bayonetta 1 and 2 (unlike the US version which used a download code for the first game). Collectors specifically import this version to have the complete set on physical media.
How to Buy: New vs. Used vs. Digital
When building your library, you have options. Here is why we recommend sticking to physical media.
Why Buy New & Sealed?
For collectors, condition is everything. Buying new Nintendo Switch games ensures you get a pristine case, original artwork, and the satisfaction of breaking the seal yourself. At Chronic Sports Cards, we ship all new games in sturdy protection to prevent crushing during transit—something big-box retailers often fail to do.
The Value of Used Games
If you just want to play, used Nintendo Switch games are a fantastic way to save money. Nintendo titles rarely drop in price digitally, so buying a pre-owned physical copy is often the cheapest way to play hits like Mario Kart or Zelda. Plus, unlike digital downloads, you can resell the cartridge when you are done.
Region Free Gaming
Remember, the Nintendo Switch is region-free. This means you can play PAL (European) or Japanese versions of games on your US console without issue. This opens up a world of collecting possibilities, allowing you to buy physical versions of games that may only be available digitally in North America.
Ready to Build Your Collection?
Whether you are looking for the latest new Xbox games, new PS5 games, or expanding your Switch library, physical media is the only way to truly own your games.
Check out our full inventory at Chronic Sports Cards to find your next favorite game. From factory-sealed pre-orders to tested pre-owned gems, we have everything a gamer needs.
