If you had your hands on the Nintendo Switch, you’d probably agree that this is a fun little console with a lot of potential. We are not 100% sure if the new Nintendo console will be released in 2024. However, the new Switch games continue to come out on the market well into the next year. This console is not ready to be retired just yet, and we’d like to share our top 5 best Nintendo Switch games for 2023.

Related: Nintendo Switch vs. PS5.

Best Nintendo Switch Games to Play in 2023

1. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey takes the Nintendo Switch gamer on an exciting 3D world exploration. It offers plenty of nostalgic references to seasoned Mario gamers. But the game’s vibrant and detailed visuals, along with its catchy soundtrack, appeal to new users as well. 

Released in 2017, this game is the 16th main installment in the iconic Super Mario series. It follows Mario on a grand adventure as he embarks on a quest to rescue kidnapped Princess Peach. However, the Super Mario Odyssey takes a unique twist on the traditional Mario formula. It introduces a new gameplay mechanic: Mario’s sentient hat, Cappy. Cappy can control various objects and have enemies in the game world, which adds a new layer of complexity and puzzle-solving to the gameplay.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

This game has topped Nintendo Switch player’s lists for years. Also released in 2017, it is the 18th main installment in the highly acclaimed The Legend of Zelda series. The Breath of the Wild offers a groundbreaking open-world design and innovative and challenging gameplay. Many gamers regard it as incredibly immersive, which is quite an achievement considering how compact the Nintendo Switch is. The Breath of the Wild revolves around Link’s (the protagonist in The Legend of Zelda) quest to defeat the evil Calamity Ganon and save Princess Zelda. 

The game won numerous awards and is often considered one of the greatest video games ever. The innovative approach to storytelling and willingness to break away from traditional Zelda conventions contributed to its success. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is now a classic in the gaming industry. It is only fitting the game made our best Nintendo Switch games in 2023 list.

3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

If you enjoy kart racing, the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game is for you. Players will be pleased to discover an extensive roster of characters, including famous figures like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Bowser, and many more. In total, there are 42 characters to choose from. But you can also choose from a wide range of karts, bikes, and ATVs, each with its handling characteristics and stats. There are various customizable parts and vehicle combinations to suit different playstyles.

Our favorite part about this game is that it supports local and online multiplayer modes. Up to four players can compete on a single screen to in local split-screen mode, and online play allows players to compete with others worldwide.

4. Xenoblade Chronicles 2

This is an action role-playing video game developed by Monolith Soft and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch. The Xenoblade Chronicles series offers an expansive, vibrant, and fantastical open-world gaming experience with a deep narrative and intricate gameplay systems.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 features a distinctive anime-inspired art style. It adds a unique sense of charm to the characters and the game world. The game follows the story of Rex, a young scavenger, and Pyra, a mysterious Blade with the power of a legendary Aegis. Together, they embark on a quest to reach the World Tree, Elysium, and uncover the truth behind Alrest’s mysteries. The Xenoblade Chronicles 2 narrative contains complex characters, political intrigue, and deep philosophical themes.

While not for everyone, it definitely caters to fans of Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs). Many Switch players appreciate the game’s memorable characters and epic adventures. It has been a significant addition to the Nintendo Switch’s library, offering a rich and immersive RPG experience for players seeking a thrilling adventure.

5. Hades for Nintendo Switch

Hades is an action roguelike video game developed by Supergiant Games. It was officially launched for the Nintendo Switch in September 2020. The game quickly gained critical acclaim for its engaging gameplay, storytelling, and unique approach to the roguelike genre.

Hades offers dynamic and fast-paced combat, with Zagreus (the game’s key character) possessing various weapons and abilities. Players can mix and match different weapons and powers to create unique playstyles. Throughout the game, you will receive Boons, special abilities granted by gods and goddesses. Use those Boons to enhance Zagreus’ combat abilities.

Hades has a distinctive art style, combining detailed character designs with vivid, hand-painted artwork. But for us, the best part is the multiple endings. The gamer has various possible outcomes and endings based on the player’s choices and progression, adding to the game’s replayability.

In Conclusion

These are our top five best games to play on a Nintendo Switch this year. And it looks like a new Nintendo device might see the light of day in the second half of 2024. So, now is a good time to catch up on your favorite games and maybe start considering to sell your console in preparation for an upgrade. In any case, what is the best Nintendo Switch game in your opinion? Let us know!