## Tick-Tock, Switch Fans: Famitsu Names the 50 Must-Play Games Before the Next Big Thing
The winds of change are blowing through the gaming world. Switch 2 whispers are growing louder, and with it, the burning question arises: what are the absolute ESSENTIAL Nintendo Switch games you must experience before the next console generation takes center stage?
Fear not, intrepid gamers, for the esteemed Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu has stepped up to the plate! They’ve compiled a prestigious list of the Top 50 Switch games, a veritable treasure trove of adventures, challenges, and unforgettable experiences.

From beloved classics to hidden gems, this curated list will guide you through the best of the Switch library, ensuring you don’t miss a single beat before the curtain falls on the current era.
So grab your Joy-Cons, buckle up, and prepare to embark on a gaming odyssey. This is your ultimate countdown to Switch greatness!Multiplayer Mayhem: The Social Sphere of the Switch
Famitsu’s top 50 list shines a light on the Nintendo Switch’s prowess in multiplayer gaming. Titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Splatoon 3 dominate the social scene, offering vibrant arenas for competitive clashes and casual fun. The enduring popularity of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe further emphasizes the Switch’s strength in accessible, family-friendly multiplayer experiences.
These games transcend mere entertainment; they become social hubs, fostering connections and shared memories. The competitive spirit ignited by Smash Bros. Ultimate fuels intense rivalries, while Splatoon 3’s team-based battles encourage strategic collaboration. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, with its simple controls and diverse roster, brings families and friends together for chaotic, laughter-filled races.
Switch 2 on the Horizon: Decoding the List’s Signals
Transitional Titles: A Portent of Things to Come?
Famitsu’s list raises intriguing questions about the future of these beloved titles on the Switch 2. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Xenoblade Chronicles 3, already graphically impressive, could benefit from a visual and performance boost on the next-generation hardware. The inclusion of Metroid Dread, with its tense atmosphere and demanding level design, suggests a potential for enhanced graphical fidelity and refined gameplay mechanics in a potential remake or remaster.
Genre Trends: Charting the Course for the Future
While the list spans multiple genres, certain categories stand out. The prominence of action-adventure titles, exemplified by the Zelda series and Hollow Knight, suggests a continued focus on immersive, story-driven experiences. The inclusion of several RPGs, including Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age and Fire Emblem: Three Houses , indicates ongoing support for this beloved genre.
Missing Pieces: Unveiling the Unseen
The absence of certain franchises, such as Animal Crossing and Pokémon, from the top 50 list is noteworthy. While these series are undoubtedly popular on the Switch, their absence might signify a strategic shift for Nintendo. Perhaps the company is focusing its resources on developing entirely new experiences for the Switch 2, leaving room for beloved franchises to make their mark in future iterations.
Your Switch 2 Countdown: Gamestanza’s Picks
Our Top 10: A Curated Selection
Based on Famitsu’s ranking and our own expert analysis, we present our top 10 must-play Switch games:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
- Metroid Dread
- Xenoblade Chronicles 3
- Splatoon 3
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- Hades
- Hollow Knight
- Tears of the Kingdom
- Triangle Strategy: A tactical RPG with captivating storytelling and branching narratives that shape the world.
- Snack World: The Dungeon Crawl Gold: A charming and addictive dungeon crawler with a unique art style and addictive gameplay loop.
- Monster Hunter Rise: A thrilling action RPG that demands skill and strategy as you hunt down colossal monsters.
Hidden Gems: Underrated Treasures
While the big hitters deserve their place in the spotlight, some gems often get overlooked. From Famitsu’s list, we recommend checking out:
Your Turn: Share Your Favorites
We want to hear from you! Which Switch games have left a lasting impression on you? Share your top picks and the reasons behind your choices in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the incredible library of games that have made the Nintendo Switch a gaming phenomenon.
Conclusion
So there you have it, Famitsu’s definitive list of 50 Switch games you absolutely cannot miss before the dawn of the Switch 2 era. From beloved classics like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey to hidden gems and genre-defining titles, the list offers a compelling journey through the console’s impressive library. It’s a testament to the Switch’s enduring legacy, showcasing its versatility and ability to captivate players across all demographics. This curated selection serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible experiences that await those who haven’t yet explored this gaming marvel.
But the significance goes beyond mere nostalgia. This list isn’t just about revisiting past triumphs; it’s about understanding the foundations upon which the Switch 2 will be built. By immersing ourselves in these games, we gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of gameplay, graphics, and storytelling that has shaped the industry. As we eagerly anticipate the next generation, let Famitsu’s list serve as a guide, illuminating the path forward and inspiring us to discover new worlds and experiences on the horizon. The Switch may be preparing to pass the torch, but its legacy will continue to resonate long after the credits roll.
As the Switch 2 looms on the horizon, let us celebrate the games that have made this console a legend.