Last updated: October 29, 2026
The Nintendo Switch 2 is one of the most popular gifts of the 2026 holiday season, and it now has a library to match. Whether you are buying games for yourself or for someone else, here are the best Switch 2 games to pick up right now, sorted by the kind of player they suit.
Quick picks
| If you want... | Get this |
|---|---|
| The game everyone plays | Mario Kart World |
| A huge adventure | The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition |
| Co-op fun | Donkey Kong Bananza |
| Action for experienced players | Hades II |
| A challenging indie | Hollow Knight: Silksong |
| Something cozy | Pokopia |
| Horror | Resident Evil Requiem |
| A classic | The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (Nov 5) |
Best for everyone: Mario Kart World
If you buy just one Switch 2 game, make it Mario Kart World. It is easy for anyone to pick up, works great for local multiplayer and has plenty of depth for competitive players. It is also available in the Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle (about $549), which is one of the best-value ways to buy the console this holiday.
Best adventure: Zelda Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition
Tears of the Kingdom is one of the highest-rated games of all time, and the Switch 2 Edition runs better and looks sharper than the original. If the person you are buying for has not played it, it can last them for months. Breath of the Wild – Switch 2 Edition is an equally great starting point.
Best co-op: Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza is a 3D platformer built around smashing through almost everything around you. It is colorful, inventive and great to play with a partner or a child.
Best action: Hades II
Hades II is a stylish roguelike action game with fast combat and an excellent story that unfolds run after run. It is one of the best-reviewed games available on the system and perfect for short play sessions in handheld mode.
Best indie: Hollow Knight: Silksong
The long-awaited sequel to Hollow Knight is a beautiful, challenging 2D action-adventure. It is best for players who enjoy difficult games and exploration.
Best cozy game: Pokopia
Pokopia is one of the best-reviewed new games of 2026 and a great pick for players who prefer relaxing, creative games over action.
Best horror: Resident Evil Requiem
For older players who like scares, Resident Evil Requiem brings Capcom's latest survival horror to Switch 2. It is one of the strongest third-party games on the system. Note that it is rated M for Mature.
New November releases worth considering
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (November 5): one of the most influential games ever made.
- Metaphor: ReFantazio (November 12): an acclaimed fantasy RPG from the team behind Persona.
- Pikmin 4 – Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy (November 12): a great strategy game for families.
- Stellar Blade (early November): stylish action for mature players.
Tips for buying Switch 2 games this holiday
- Check for Switch 2 Editions. Some games have upgraded versions with better performance; owners of the original Switch version can often buy an upgrade pack instead of the full game.
- Buy a microSD Express card. Switch 2 games need a microSD Express card for expanded storage; older microSD cards cannot hold Switch 2 games.
- Consider Nintendo Switch Online. It is needed for online play and includes cloud saves and classic games.
- Watch for Black Friday (November 27). Nintendo rarely discounts the console itself, but retailers often discount games and offer gift cards with bundles.
Bottom line
For most people, Mario Kart World is the first game to buy. Add Zelda Tears of the Kingdom for adventure, Donkey Kong Bananza for co-op or Hades II and Silksong for experienced players. If you are shopping in November, Ocarina of Time and Metaphor: ReFantazio are two great new arrivals.
