Launching a couple of years back in 2017, the Nintendo Switch took the world by storm and became the newest gaming sensation. Blowing our minds with its amazing hybrid design that combined the best of handheld and home gaming, the Nintendo Switch solidified itself as a worthy, reliable console. But what really made us fall in love with the Switch were the fantastic games that came with it. Today we’re going to explore the top seven Nintendo Switch games that are not only the highest-selling, but also the most highly rated. Let’s jump right in.

(All copies sold are as of March 31, 2023) 

1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - 53.79 Million Copies Sold

Is it really a surprise to see this beloved video game character topping this list? Mario Kart is an absolute staple when it comes to creating the ultimate family game night or a competitive gaming session with friends. It’s the familiar racing game we’ve come to know and absolutely love all these years but with even better graphics and gameplay. With its fast-paced and chaotic racing, each game is super addictive and fun. And with so many characters, vehicles, and tracks to choose from, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe ensures that no two races will ever be exactly the same.

Image by Anthony Ashley from Pixabay

2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons - 42.41 Million Copies Sold

Arriving just as the world went into lockdown, Animal Crossing: New Horizons couldn’t have arrived at a better time. Saving the world from complete boredom, this adorable little game became a safe haven for millions of players. Filled with charming creatures and a life of relaxation, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a therapeutic escape - from fishing, to catching bugs, to designing your dream home, there’s so many fun things to do. With seasonal updates that add new addictive features to the game, it constantly has players coming back for more.

Photo by Sara Kurfeß on Unsplash

3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - 31.09 Million Copies Sold

There’s no game out there that quite brings excitement and good-natured competition like a good ol’ match of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. With an impressive line-up of over 70 beloved characters, each with their own unique abilities, and a plethora of different stages, this game is the ultimate dream come true for any Nintendo fan. Whether you’re smashing the arena as Link, Pikachu, or even Ridley, it’s the perfect blend of chaos and fun.

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4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - 29.81 Million Copies Sold

It shouldn’t come to you as a surprise that this groundbreaking title has made it onto this list. Released alongside the Switch during its initial release, Breath of the Wild immediately set a high bar for the console. This fantastic action-adventure game is perfect for any fan of the characters or any new player wanting to explore a beautiful, mystical world. The game’s vast, stunning open-world design and intuitive physics-based gameplay have captivated gamers worldwide, offering hundreds of hours of exploration, puzzle-solving, and epic battles. With so many things to do, Breath of the Wild is definitely worth its high price tag.

Photo by Eugene Chystiakov on Unsplash

5. Pokémon Sword and Shield - 25.82 Million Copies Sold

With such a large fan base backing the franchise, it’s no wonder this Pokémon game topped the sales charts. The Galar region (inspired by the United Kingdom) offers a fresh and exciting new setting for Pokémon trainers everywhere. With brand new Pokémon, Gigantamax forms, and unique Dynamax battles, Pokémon Sword and Shield successfully reinvigorated the franchise with its fresh approach. There’s a whole new adventure to be had here so what are you waiting for?

Photo by Alexandr Sadkov on Unsplash

6. Super Mario Odyssey - 25.76 Million Copies Sold  

It looks like our favourite mustachioed hero has jumped his way onto this list once again. Super Mario Odyssey is a triumphant feat that blends together new mechanics and nostalgia-filled homages of past games. This masterful platforming game continues the legacy of Mario rescuing Princess Peach from Bowser, a story we’re all familiar with. Faced with new landscapes and challenges, from the towering skyscrapers of New Donk City to the beautiful Moon, this game will have you entertained for hours on end. 

Photo by R.D. Smith on Unsplash

7. Ring Fit Adventure - 15.38 Million Copies Sold

Who said gaming can’t also be a workout? Bringing back nostalgic memories of the Wii’s unique gameplay, Ring Fit Adventure breaks the mold by turning exercise into a fun, engaging RPG adventure. Players will have to jog in place to move their character through the exciting game world, using the innovative Ring-Con device to perform various exercises that defeat enemies. With this innovative game, you can explore a vast world, fight a bodybuilding dragon, AND get fit at the same time! So if you’re looking for an entertaining way to break a sweat, this is the one for you.

Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

With so many amazing Nintendo Switch games out there, this small list is just the tip of the iceberg. These seven titles have definitely helped define the Nintendo Switch era, each bringing continuous joy and excitement to gamers worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new member to the Switch family, these games are staples that you absolutely need to try.