{"id":135395,"date":"2025-12-24T16:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-24T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/#article-192376"},"modified":"2025-12-24T16:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T16:00:00","slug":"guide-best-nintendo-switch-1-2-games-of-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/2025\/12\/24\/guide-best-nintendo-switch-1-2-games-of-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Guide: Best Nintendo Switch 1 &amp; 2 Games Of 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"media_block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/3704ff8a13598\/large.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/3704ff8a13598\/small.jpg\" class=\"media_thumbnail\"><\/a><\/div>\n<p>2025 was filled with brilliant games, large and small, launching every single month. It&#8217;s the year that both Switch 2 and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hollow-knight-silksong-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Silksong<\/a> <em>finally<\/em> came out. Wowzers.<\/p>\n<p>The quality has been exceptionally high for both the original Switch and the newer console. Below we present the top 50 best games of the year for Switch 1 <em>and<\/em> 2 combined.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch\/suikoden_i_and_ii_hd_remaster_gate_rune_and_dunan_unification_wars\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/fc7f61e8cb9ce\/suikoden-i-and-ii-hd-remaster-gate-rune-and-dunan-unification-wars-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Suikoden I &amp; II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars (Switch)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/suikoden_i_and_ii_hd_remaster_gate_rune_and_dunan_unification_wars\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/13fd73eb58122\/suikoden-i-and-ii-hd-remaster-gate-rune-and-dunan-unification-wars-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"237\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Suikoden I &amp; II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars (Switch)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Konami<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Konami<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>6th Mar 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>6th Mar 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>While not as feature-rich as some collections, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/suikoden_i_and_ii_hd_remaster_gate_rune_and_dunan_unification_wars\">Suikoden I &amp; II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars<\/a> proves that these RPGs have largely stood the test of time.<\/p>\n<p>While a few issues with this remaster don\u2019t take away too much from the original games&#8217; brilliance, we think these classics deserve the very best and we hope Konami sees just how important this series is to many and makes a handful of tweaks.<\/p>\n<p>Still, boasting ambition, narrative stakes, and heart that few other RPGs of the time can muster, Suikoden burns bright in its origins and comes recommended.<\/p>\n<p><!-- cache: html:nintendolife.com\/ssl\/nintendo-switch\/related-articles:162575,162582 @ 1766631243 --><\/p>\n<aside class=\"block object-related\"> <\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/bravely-default-flying-fairy-hd-remaster\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/3e2f774e1baba\/bravely-default-flying-fairy-hd-remaster-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/bravely-default-flying-fairy-hd-remaster\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/4f6a4caf9643f\/bravely-default-flying-fairy-hd-remaster-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"248\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Square Enix<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Silicon Studio<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/bravely-default-flying-fairy-hd-remaster\">Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster<\/a> is a solid update of one of Square\u2019s finest modern turn-based RPGs. Its combination of a flexible job system, dynamic combat, and unexpectedly interesting story makes for an adventure that no fans of the JRPG genre will want to miss out on, especially any such fans that enjoyed Team Asano\u2019s more recent work on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/octopath_traveler\">Octopath Traveler<\/a> duology.<\/p>\n<p>That in mind, there isn\u2019t really anything <em>new<\/em> in this remaster that justifies the price of a double dip\u2014if you already put a lot of time into this one on the 3DS back in the day, we\u2019d caution you to first consider just how badly you want to spend your money on what ultimately amounts to little more than a nice visual bump.<\/p>\n<p>All the same, Bravely Default was and still is a great RPG; if you haven\u2019t had the chance to give this one a shot yet, this port is a great way to see what the fuss is about.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/switch-eshop\/ninja_gaiden_ragebound\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/46b3f1bc32e35\/ninja-gaiden-ragebound-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (Switch eShop)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ninja_gaiden_ragebound\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/aaeeb8a1db193\/ninja-gaiden-ragebound-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound (Switch eShop)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Koei Tecmo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>The Game Kitchen<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>31st Jul 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>31st Jul 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ninja_gaiden_ragebound\">Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound<\/a> is the kind of game that makes you want to improve. Chaining death with balletic grace feels so liberating that you don\u2019t want to be interrupted in your flow. The way it implements all of its mechanics, along with increasingly interesting, beautiful, and ever-taut stage design, is a treat, and a truly linear arcade-style DLC would be a blessing should one ever transpire.<\/p>\n<p>While some Talismans can be purchased to actually make the game harder, the base challenge will certainly test you. It&#8217;s a real shame about that frame-rate judder, but in terms of seductive 2D Ninja action, it lands squarely on catlike feet. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/shinobi_art_of_vengeance\">SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance<\/a>, you have been challenged to a duel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch\/guilty_gear_-strive-_nintendo_switch_edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/1c04f6b3ad908\/guilty-gear--strive--nintendo-switch-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Guilty Gear -Strive- Nintendo Switch Edition (Switch)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/guilty_gear_-strive-_nintendo_switch_edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/8779f7f7fa02f\/guilty-gear--strive--nintendo-switch-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"246\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Guilty Gear -Strive- Nintendo Switch Edition (Switch)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Arc System Works<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Arc System Works<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>23rd Jan 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>23rd Jan 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/guilty_gear_-strive-_nintendo_switch_edition\">Guilty Gear Strive<\/a> is a bold step in a new direction for the Guilty Gear series. Its visual creativity and attention to detail without fault, Arc System Works has again gone above and beyond in its graphical evolution. True, there are some background clashes, but when all is said and done, it\u2019s dazzling. With all DLC characters unlocked, there\u2019s a lifetime of learning here, as well as tons of modes and bonuses to pore through.<\/p>\n<p>While Strive is perhaps only the first step for Guilty Gear\u2019s new evolutionary arc, and its sequels will no doubt improve certain aspects and find a way to better appease fans new and old, it remains undeniably solid. The most impressive aspect, though, is the strength of the port here, crafted with a kind of magic to perform near enough 1:1 with its multi-platform counterparts. And the soundtrack? Whether it&#8217;s your heaven or hell, it most certainly rocks.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kunitsu-gami-path-of-the-goddess\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/7af62a697b9f9\/kunitsu-gami-path-of-the-goddess-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kunitsu-gami-path-of-the-goddess\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/7eb2bafc94b90\/kunitsu-gami-path-of-the-goddess-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Capcom<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Capcom<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kunitsu-gami-path-of-the-goddess\">Kunitsu-Gami<\/a> was a real surprise. A solid blend of strategy and action that incorporates aspects of Shinto and Japanese folklore to create a visually stunning experience. It&#8217;s a great showcase for Switch 2, as well, even if mouse controls might not quite work for everyone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/switch-eshop\/pipistrello_and_the_cursed_yoyo\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/38b542ee373ae\/pipistrello-and-the-cursed-yoyo-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo (Switch eShop)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/pipistrello_and_the_cursed_yoyo\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/d0fa0ff23a1e1\/pipistrello-and-the-cursed-yoyo-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo (Switch eShop)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>PM Studios<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Pocket Trap<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>28th May 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>28th May 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/pipistrello_and_the_cursed_yoyo\">Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo<\/a> is a masterclass in retro Zelda-like game design, expertly fusing classic mechanics with creative new ideas to make for a thoroughly memorable and worthwhile experience.<\/p>\n<p>Occasional difficulty spikes aside, we\u2019d highly recommend you pick up Pipistrello at the next available opportunity, especially if you&#8217;re a Zelda fan who prefers the top-down design of games such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/gba\/legend_of_zelda_the_minish_cap\">The Minish Cap<\/a>. Much like its title character, this one has a lot of cool tricks up its sleeve.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/sid-meiers-civilization-vii-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/bee5ea3436fcf\/sid-meiers-civilization-vii-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Sid Meier's Civilization VII - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/sid-meiers-civilization-vii-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/b7de77b322e83\/sid-meiers-civilization-vii-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Sid Meier's Civilization VII - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Take-Two Interactive<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Firaxis Games<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>Adding Mouse Mode controls, the expected boost to visuals with a 4K\/30 option while docked (or 1080\/60 if you prefer), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/sid-meiers-civilization-vii-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Civ VII &#8211; Nintendo Switch 2 Edition<\/a> also supports all map sizes and more players in multiplayer. As a 10-local-currency-units upgrade to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/sid_meiers_civilization_vii\">the Switch 1 version<\/a>, it&#8217;d be rude not to.<\/p>\n<p><!-- cache: html:nintendolife.com\/ssl\/nintendo-switch\/related-articles:178138 @ 1766632211 --><\/p>\n<aside class=\"block object-related\"> <\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/touryst-deluxe\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/a970378349b23\/touryst-deluxe-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Touryst: Deluxe (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/touryst-deluxe\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/3c4bb3138c2c1\/touryst-deluxe-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Touryst: Deluxe (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Shin&#8217;en Multimedia<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Shin&#8217;en Multimedia<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>25th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>25th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/touryst-deluxe\">The Touryst: Deluxe<\/a> gives us Shin&#8217;en&#8217;s excellent 2019 adventure, plus a new island, fun new minigames and missions, and a new arcade game that&#8217;s worth the price of entry alone.<\/p>\n<p>With snazzy Switch 2 graphical effects and super smooth performance, it&#8217;s perfect if you&#8217;ve yet to play it. And with a reduced price point for seasoned travellers \u2014 returning players are presented with a 75% discount on the eShop \u2014 this is a return trip that&#8217;s very hard to knock.<\/p>\n<p><!-- cache: html:nintendolife.com\/ssl\/nintendo-switch\/related-articles:94016 @ 1766630780 --><\/p>\n<aside class=\"block object-related\"> <\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/fast-fusion\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/e231fcc90e592\/fast-fusion-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Fast Fusion (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/fast-fusion\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/c4e83cc1c49a9\/fast-fusion-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Fast Fusion (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Shin&#8217;en Multimedia<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Shin&#8217;en Multimedia<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/fast-fusion\">Fast Fusion<\/a> may not have the most comprehensive collection of tracks, but it&#8217;s easily the most accomplished entry in Shin&#8217;en Multimedia&#8217;s series so far. The new jump ability adds a new layer of strategy to the gameplay, while experimenting with the fusion mechanic to find the perfect vehicle is a joy.<\/p>\n<p>The occasional grinding to save up money can be a momentary drag, but if you&#8217;re after something a bit more &#8216;hardcore&#8217; than Mario Kart World, Fast Fusion is a no-brainer, and an absolute must-buy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/switch-eshop\/ender_magnolia_bloom_in_the_mist\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/47dc3fac5b34b\/ender-magnolia-bloom-in-the-mist-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist (Switch eShop)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ender_magnolia_bloom_in_the_mist\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/69a3644083a0e\/ender-magnolia-bloom-in-the-mist-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist (Switch eShop)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Binary Haze Interactive<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Live Wire<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>22nd Jan 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>22nd Jan 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ender_magnolia_bloom_in_the_mist\">ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist<\/a> is an excellent Metroidvania that exemplifies the best of what the genre has to offer. Its combination of tense combat, interesting worldbuilding, and memorable art style makes for a compelling experience that we\u2019d highly suggest to anybody drawn to games such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/hollow_knight\">Hollow Knight<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/blasphemous\">Blasphemous<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s downbeat, but anyone who isn\u2019t yet exhausted by Metroidvanias will find a lot to love here.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/dragon-ball-sparking-zero\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/bec47dcffdbd6\/dragon-ball-sparking-zero-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/dragon-ball-sparking-zero\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/23dc0b97af224\/dragon-ball-sparking-zero-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"247\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Bandai Namco<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Spike Chunsoft<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>14th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>14th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/dragon-ball-sparking-zero\">Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero<\/a> delivers a commendable 3D brawler experience even if some visual and performance issues persist. The immense roster is sure to please any Dragon Ball fan, no matter what age or era they entered the franchise. The branching narratives in Episode Battles and the online play are fun staples to the game, and it feels right at home on Switch 2, despite the 30fps cap.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hyrule-warriors-age-of-imprisonment\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/3bb40f186fe27\/hyrule-warriors-age-of-imprisonment-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hyrule-warriors-age-of-imprisonment\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/f3c05e0c420d4\/hyrule-warriors-age-of-imprisonment-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>AAA Games Studio<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>6th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>6th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hyrule-warriors-age-of-imprisonment\">Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment<\/a> is a stunning slice of action, and perhaps our favourite musou game so far. Lessons have been learned from both <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/hyrule_warriors_definitive_edition\">Hyrule Warriors<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/hyrule_warriors_age_of_calamity\">Age of Calamity<\/a>, resulting in a game that balances big-time story with top-notch combat that&#8217;s got proper depth to it.<\/p>\n<p>With Zonai devices to play with, a cracking roster, tons of sexy Sync Strikes to pull off, and a ludicrously slick recreation of early Hyrule to set about kicking ass in, this is dream time for hack-and-slash fans and Zelda enthusiasts alike.<\/p>\n<p>Yes, map layouts are still a bit bland, and co-op mode is 30fps, but everything else here combines to make for the best entry in this spin-off franchise to date.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/raidou-remastered-the-mystery-of-the-soulless-army\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/1c71589d286a6\/raidou-remastered-the-mystery-of-the-soulless-army-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/raidou-remastered-the-mystery-of-the-soulless-army\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/cc3a376145573\/raidou-remastered-the-mystery-of-the-soulless-army-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"246\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Atlus<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>19th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>19th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/raidou-remastered-the-mystery-of-the-soulless-army\">RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army<\/a> is a wonderful retread of a forgotten classic, smartly polishing up its best parts and modifying its worst parts to make for an overall more enjoyable experience. Though the visuals are just &#8216;okay&#8217; and the detective gameplay can be a bit plain, the action-packed combat, reworked demon fusion, and interesting story all come together to make for a gripping adventure.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019d recommend you pick this one up if you\u2019re curious and you think it may be up your alley. We\u2019ve never played anything quite like Raidou, and it offers a very unique take not just on the standard SMT formula, but action RPGs on the whole.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/divinity-original-sin-2-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/fc2cc1dba700a\/divinity-original-sin-2-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Divinity: Original Sin 2 - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/divinity-original-sin-2-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/ea1301842cce5\/divinity-original-sin-2-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Divinity: Original Sin 2 - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Larian Studios<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Larian Studios<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>15th Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>15th Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>30fps in portable mode is a disappointment, and with no mouse mode or touchscreen support, this is a fairly bare-bones upgrade.<\/p>\n<p>However, the handheld 30fps here <em>is<\/em> the smooth-feeling sort, and it&#8217;s also not the type of game that critically <em>needs<\/em> to be at 60fps. In docked mode, it does now hit 60, and thanks to a resolution bump to 1080p, it looks way clearer on-screen whilst benefitting from some lighting and shadow touch-ups. With far shorter load times, as well, these are meaningful quality-of-life upgrades for players who&#8217;ve grown accustomed to long waits and blurry visuals on Switch 1.<\/p>\n<p>Minor gripes aside, then, this is a prettier, crisper, and better way to play an all-timer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/switch-eshop\/ufo_50\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/4da88eae642a3\/ufo-50-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"UFO 50 (Switch eShop)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ufo_50\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/d655ede0e0dc0\/ufo-50-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"UFO 50 (Switch eShop)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Mossmouth<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Mossmouth<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>7th Aug 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>7th Aug 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>What stands out about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ufo_50\">UFO 50<\/a>, Mossmouth\u2019s delightful collection of retro-styled games, is not that so many of them are absolute bangers \u2013 although they are \u2013 rather, it\u2019s the fact that it genuinely all comes together as a single experience.<\/p>\n<p>In this game, you are a visitor in some wonderful exhibition, and UFO 50 is your 8-bit time machine. It&#8217;s magnificent, and a perfect fit for Switch.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/star-wars-outlaws\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/57511cd3fbf5e\/star-wars-outlaws-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Star Wars Outlaws (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/star-wars-outlaws\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/c51cd2899a8d9\/star-wars-outlaws-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Star Wars Outlaws (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Ubisoft<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Massive Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>4th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>4th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/star-wars-outlaws\">Star Wars Outlaws<\/a> on Switch 2 is a very fine port of a solid Star Wars game. Kay Vess&#8217;s story may over-utilise tried and tested gameplay mechanics, it may not bring anything new or hugely exciting to the table, but what it <em>does<\/em> do is give you a well-crafted world stuffed full of lore through which to explore, sneak, and forge your own path.<\/p>\n<p>With solid performance and good looks in both docked and handheld, and motion controls and cross-saves thrown in for good measure, Ubisoft Redlynx&#8217;s impressive port is an easy recommendation for Switch 2 fans of Star Wars.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kirby-air-riders\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/3779fa8bd4b99\/kirby-air-riders-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Kirby Air Riders (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kirby-air-riders\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/45ecffec11ed0\/kirby-air-riders-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"245\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Kirby Air Riders (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>HAL Laboratory<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>20th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>20th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kirby-air-riders\">Kirby Air Riders<\/a> is a cracking sequel that gives solo players much more to dig into with its story campaign, whilst also bringing all-new levels of shiny graphics, bells and whistles to its returning City Trial, Air Ride, and Top Down Racing modes.<\/p>\n<p>This is a chaotic and frenzied racer, there&#8217;s no doubt, but it&#8217;s got depth for those who wish to learn and plenty of competition to be had both online and at harder difficulties for diehards.<\/p>\n<p>With lots of excellent tracks, riders and machines to unlock, sat alongside some surprisingly deep machine customisation, Kirby&#8217;s latest air riding adventure is off to a strong start. Oh, and that soundtrack!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/switch-eshop\/ball_x_pit\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/152dc299ac423\/ball-x-pit-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"BALL x PIT (Switch eShop)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ball_x_pit\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/98ca86147e3f0\/ball-x-pit-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"BALL x PIT (Switch eShop)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Devolver Digital<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Kenny Sun<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>15th Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>15th Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/ball_x_pit\">BALL x PIT<\/a> is a tremendous brew of so many ideas it ought to collapse under the confusion. However, it operates in such perfect balance that it appeals both to the one-more-go instinct and to more cerebral planning and creativity. Kenny Sun Studios set itself a heck of a challenge but, fortunately, hasn\u2019t dropped the ball.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s out on Switch 2, too &#8211; and the upgrade is free.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/329a0c090ff01\/legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/13d8d01d15d53\/legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom &#8211; NS2 Edition<\/a> is a fantastic revamp of perhaps Nintendo&#8217;s most sublime sequel. What was once a technical marvel on aged hardware now has a chance to truly shine, with visual and performance boosts undoubtedly making it the definitive way to play.<\/p>\n<p>Nothing will ever match the feeling of playing it for the first time, of course, and some bonus content would have been welcome, but armed with Zelda Notes and the promise of buttery smooth upgrades, we&#8217;d challenge anyone to dip back in without losing <em>hours<\/em> to its unrivalled wonder.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hogwarts-legacy\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/a4cf67e9d929a\/hogwarts-legacy-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hogwarts Legacy (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hogwarts-legacy\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/cc5bc6939a485\/hogwarts-legacy-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"246\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hogwarts Legacy (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Warner Bros Games<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Avalanche Software<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>An updated version of Switch&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/hogwarts_legacy\">Hogwarts Legacy<\/a>, the NS2 version bumps the resolution up to 1080p in handheld and 1440p docked, thanks to the console&#8217;s DLSS upscaling.<\/p>\n<p>Co-developers Krome Studios also added Mouse Mode compatibility, improved load times, and a stabilised 30fps while polishing various other things to bump up the overall quality on the more powerful hardware.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/no-mans-sky-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/56718b5fb5db4\/no-mans-sky-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"No Man's Sky - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/no-mans-sky-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/7a88d96dc90e7\/no-mans-sky-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"No Man's Sky - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Hello Games<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Hello Games<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/no-mans-sky-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">No Man&#8217;s Sky &#8211; Nintendo Switch 2 Edition<\/a> brings this excellent, constantly evolving space survival adventure to your new Nintendo console in fine style.<\/p>\n<p>Feature-wise, this is an almost-perfect match for other versions of the game, and barring some very minor hiccups here and there, the 1080p\/40fps option looks and feels fantastic &#8211; doubly so if you&#8217;re coming via free upgrade from the Switch 1 version.<\/p>\n<p>Combat is still a bit naff, especially in space, and hardcore pirates might not get all they need from the systems in place here, but this is an almost perfect handheld-hybrid port of an almighty behemoth of a game. The sky, it seems, really has no limits.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/switch-eshop\/shinobi_art_of_vengeance\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/aee6ae15f9cfa\/shinobi-art-of-vengeance-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance (Switch eShop)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/shinobi_art_of_vengeance\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/2ff9752473e51\/shinobi-art-of-vengeance-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance (Switch eShop)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>29th Aug 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>29th Aug 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>In reinventing the retro wheel, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/shinobi_art_of_vengeance\">SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance<\/a> leads the way: a demonstration of how modern tools, accompanied by thought and talent, can be expanded upon to not just reboot franchises, but actually rebuild them in new and incredible ways. It\u2019s one thing to revisit an arcade action game with new graphics, moves, and weapons, cherry picking familiar set-pieces and nostalgic visuals; it\u2019s another entirely to create a new experience, utilising craftsmanship and a belief that the hardware can offer more.<\/p>\n<p>Art of Vengeance, its cadence and flow, its violence and exhilaration \u2014 and the fact it makes you feel like an absolute badass from one slain enemy to the next \u2014 is a trendsetter. Fix that frame rate, and it\u2019s pure ninja gold.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/rune-factory-guardians-of-azuma-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/b9c3002332670\/rune-factory-guardians-of-azuma-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/rune-factory-guardians-of-azuma-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/83f074762c64f\/rune-factory-guardians-of-azuma-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"248\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Marvelous!<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Marvelous Inc.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/rune-factory-guardians-of-azuma-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma<\/a> manages to reinvent itself while still maintaining the bones that make the Rune Factory series feel like itself. It takes bold new strides in unexpected directions that thankfully pay off.<\/p>\n<p>The Switch 2 version offers the requisite boosts to frame rate and resolution, but also adds Mouse Mode compatibility. Wherever you can get it, Guardians of Azuma is a must-play for Rune Factory fans and would be well-enjoyed by newcomers to the series as well.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/mario-kart-world\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/45414cb3b5e5f\/mario-kart-world-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Mario Kart World (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/mario-kart-world\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/179b5a8ddb955\/mario-kart-world-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Mario Kart World (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>At first, this doesn&#8217;t quite feel like the reinvention of Mario Kart that people wanted or expected, but the more time you spend in the open world and racing with friends, you\u2019ll uncover a mechanically rich kart racer full of secrets and joy. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/mario-kart-world\">Mario Kart World<\/a> refines and expands the formula in meaningful ways while upping the charm in many others.<\/p>\n<p>Few games have brought as much laughter as this one since launch. If you need a pick-me-up, Mario Kart World is sure to bring a smile, and it feels like a perfect start to Switch 2&#8217;s life.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-kiwami\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/7e51bbeaf8f36\/yakuza-kiwami-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Yakuza Kiwami (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-kiwami\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/18694d4b3d638\/yakuza-kiwami-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"245\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Yakuza Kiwami (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>13th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>13th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-kiwami\">This beefed-up version<\/a> of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/yakuza_kiwami\">Yakuza Kiwami<\/a> is effectively the same game, but Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio took advantage of the newer console\u2019s specs for a much smoother, crisper experience that now hits 60fps.<\/p>\n<p>Some aspects can be a little grating, for sure. Boss fights go on for a little too long at times, while the overall pacing isn\u2019t quite as satisfying as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-0-directors-cut\">Yakuza 0<\/a>; this is fundamentally a 2016 remake of a 2005 game, and the developers have polished the series since then, ditching features and mechanics that don\u2019t <em>quite<\/em> work here.<\/p>\n<p>Still, it doesn\u2019t feel quite so bloated as some of the later entries, and it still flexes a peerless sense of style at every opportunity. Playing Kiwami portably on Switch 2 is a joy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/inazuma-eleven-victory-road-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/39f5f43fe5cc7\/inazuma-eleven-victory-road-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/inazuma-eleven-victory-road-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/a33b832a961d2\/inazuma-eleven-victory-road-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Level-5<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Level-5<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>13th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>13th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>Having more content does not necessarily equal a better game, but there\u2019s no denying that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/inazuma-eleven-victory-road-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road<\/a>\u2019s massive wealth of modes, options, and gameplay variety make it feel like the franchise\u2019s most premium experience yet. Between a fun and heartfelt story mode, a second story mode that includes the highlights of all previous games, <em>and<\/em> a bunch of additional side content along with robust PvP systems for longevity, it really does feel like you could play Victory Road forever.<\/p>\n<p>At the end of the day, though, it all comes down to that core loop of teambuilding and playing football matches, and Victory Road\u2019s take on the series\u2019 trademark RPG-esque customisability and intuitive action on the pitch feels just as fresh and stylish as ever. Perhaps all those delays really were worth it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/street-fighter-6-years-1-2-fighters-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/14672cbe0a5dd\/street-fighter-6-years-1-2-fighters-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/street-fighter-6-years-1-2-fighters-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/8c790e09b57fe\/street-fighter-6-years-1-2-fighters-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Capcom<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Capcom<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/street-fighter-6-years-1-2-fighters-edition\">Street Fighter 6<\/a> on Switch 2 is a cracker, and in portable mode, it may be our preferred way to play this fantastic entry in Capcom&#8217;s storied franchise. The only fly in the ointment with this port is 30fps fights in World Tour. It&#8217;s a shame, and it&#8217;s 100% gonna be a dealbreaker for some.<\/p>\n<p>But if you can overlook that, the rest of what&#8217;s here is crisp, clean, and as slick as we could have ever hoped. All other modes are fully featured and running at 60fps, and online works a treat, making this an early, flagship port for the console that showed on launch day that \u2014 like its predecessor \u2014 this little system can punch well above its weight.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/split-fiction\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/cfc215d9d8316\/split-fiction-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Split Fiction (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/split-fiction\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/d8c40500b349d\/split-fiction-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Split Fiction (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>EA<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Hazelight<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/split-fiction\">Split Fiction<\/a> feels like a gift. Its sole aim is to entertain and bring players together by testing them at every turn. Hazelight gives us two distinct worlds, each filled with a huge array of activities for co-op partners to enjoy and argue over.<\/p>\n<p>It serves as a surprising visual showcase for the Switch 2 and enhances the Friend&#8217;s Pass feature, allowing our original Switch buddies to join in the fun.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch\/absolum\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/3ffcac0ba53b7\/absolum-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Absolum (Switch)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/absolum\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/e3c751f33bdb0\/absolum-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"249\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Absolum (Switch)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Dotemu<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Guard Crush Games<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>9th Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>9th Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/absolum\">Absolum<\/a> is an on-par experience to Vanillaware&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pushsquare.com\/games\/psvita\/dragons_crown\" class=\"external\">Dragon\u2019s Crown<\/a>, but a superior game in terms of its key metrics. Its combat, collectible augmentations, and planning are exceptionally well-formulated, ensuring no run is ever quite the same, and its strategic options and play-styles are ever-deepening. It\u2019s incredibly impressive in its reconstitution of arcade, role-playing, and roguelike formats, evolving them into something fresh and exciting.<\/p>\n<p>To that end, it\u2019s one of the best of its kind, whatever that kind may be. If you don\u2019t enjoy the idea of repetition and grind, you may not fall in love with its initial five hours, but the momentum for one-more-go becomes so compelling after a while that it\u2019s impossible to relinquish the pad.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hitman-world-of-assassination-signature-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/637ad9a6e8f32\/hitman-world-of-assassination-signature-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hitman World of Assassination - Signature Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hitman-world-of-assassination-signature-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/f591a2dd8fc3f\/hitman-world-of-assassination-signature-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"245\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hitman World of Assassination - Signature Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>IO Interactive<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>IO Interactive<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hitman-world-of-assassination-signature-edition\">Hitman World of Assassination &#8211; Signature Edition<\/a> is a stunning collection of games that sees Agent 47 at his absolute best. With multiplayer aspects woven seamlessly and smartly into the mix, tons of ways to approach every mission, and some of the best level design in the biz, this is a bona fide belter, no questions asked.<\/p>\n<p>However, at launch, this Switch 2 port needed some work to fix its stuttering issues, especially in docked mode. A promised patch eventually arrived, which included <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/news\/2025\/08\/hitman-world-of-assassination-updated-on-switch-2-here-are-the-patch-notes\">various improvements<\/a> and an option to cap the frame rate at 30fps to keep things consistent, at least &#8211; a workable compromise, though it would still be nice to see 47 hit that 60fps target eventually.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/deltarune\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/471ead5e59190\/deltarune-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Deltarune (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/deltarune\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/100b5e8017853\/deltarune-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Deltarune (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>8-4<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>tobyfox<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/deltarune\">Deltarune<\/a> is a game that can feel odd to recommend, as it\u2019s both difficult to convey in words what makes this game feel special and\u2026 well, with further chapters yet to join the present four, it still isn\u2019t finished yet.<\/p>\n<p>Its goofy and subversive narrative, innovative battle mechanics, and killer soundtrack all combine to make this follow-up to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/undertale\">Undertale<\/a> from Toby Fox worth the purchase in its current state, even if it is incomplete and the visuals feel a tad underwhelming.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/metroid-prime-4-beyond-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/e99668d217d4d\/metroid-prime-4-beyond-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Metroid Prime 4: Beyond - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/metroid-prime-4-beyond-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/34c69f1e4175a\/metroid-prime-4-beyond-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Metroid Prime 4: Beyond - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Retro Studios<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>4th Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>4th Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>After 18 years of waiting, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/metroid-prime-4-beyond-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Metroid Prime 4: Beyond<\/a> manages to replicate that magical sense of discovery from the GameCube original while pushing the series in some incredible new directions. Separating the main biomes with a vast open world sounds ridiculous on paper, but the slick traversal provided by Vi-O-La makes exploration more satisfying than ever.<\/p>\n<p>Combine this with the stunning art direction, ferocious new boss characters, and a surprisingly endearing squad of Federation troopers, and to our mind Beyond is quite possibly the boldest, most well-realised Metroid game to date. The long wait was more than worth it. Welcome back, Samus.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/dragon-quest-i-and-ii-hd-2d-remake\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/9b3eda5b3c62c\/dragon-quest-i-and-ii-hd-2d-remake-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Dragon Quest I &amp; II HD-2D Remake (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/dragon-quest-i-and-ii-hd-2d-remake\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/55b5141b05944\/dragon-quest-i-and-ii-hd-2d-remake-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Dragon Quest I &amp; II HD-2D Remake (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Square Enix<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Artdink<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>30th Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>30th Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/dragon-quest-i-and-ii-hd-2d-remake\">Dragon Quest I &amp; II HD-2D Remake<\/a> is a deeply satisfying follow-up to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/dragon_quest_iii_hd-2d_remake\">2024&#8217;s DQ III remake project<\/a>, closing out the Erdrick trilogy on a fittingly high note. A gorgeous art style, tons of new content and quality-of-life updates, and a wonderful soundtrack all combine to make this one an easy recommendation for any retro JRPG fans.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re interested in RPGs, pick this up at your earliest opportunity. These games stand as excellent reminders of why Dragon Quest is so highly respected today.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/fantasy-life-i-the-girl-who-steals-time-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/eaf32b3ffcfa9\/fantasy-life-i-the-girl-who-steals-time-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/fantasy-life-i-the-girl-who-steals-time-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/9da742659c428\/fantasy-life-i-the-girl-who-steals-time-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Level-5<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Level-5<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>Given how cheap the upgrade is for Switch 1 owners, the performance improvements for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/fantasy-life-i-the-girl-who-steals-time-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Fantasy Life i &#8211; Nintendo Switch 2 Edition<\/a> are more than worth the price of admission if you already have the original. And if you <em>don&#8217;t<\/em> and you\u2019re keen on trying out Level-5\u2019s long-awaited sequel, this is absolutely the best way to play on Nintendo systems.<\/p>\n<p><!-- cache: html:nintendolife.com\/ssl\/nintendo-switch\/related-articles:182726 @ 1766632211 --><\/p>\n<aside class=\"block object-related\"> <\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/red-dead-redemption-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/744e60f62a104\/red-dead-redemption-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Red Dead Redemption: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/red-dead-redemption-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/9d8aa560b2a39\/red-dead-redemption-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Red Dead Redemption: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Rockstar Games<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Rockstar San Diego<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>2nd Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>2nd Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>This Switch 2 update, on paper, gives us the basics and no more. You&#8217;ve now got mouse controls for fine-aiming, and the expected resolution and frame rate increases look and feel very nice indeed. Remember the journey into Mexico, that magical bit with the music, the showstopping part? It&#8217;s all the more magical when you can see the very dust in the air, the shimmering heat haze in the distance, now as clear as day thanks to pristine visuals. HDR helps things pop in comparison to the older port, that&#8217;s for sure.<\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;s still no multiplayer, but it now feels as though the game is being presented on a Nintendo console in a manner befitting such an epic slice of gaming history. With slick controls, DLSS, HDR, volumetric effects, options to personalise mouse mode, 60fps that felt flawless, and a resolution bump that&#8217;s got it looking super sharp, this is a gem that <em>still<\/em> feels modern, immediate, and relentlessly replayable on Switch 2.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/051df8e196364\/legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/86f9b03490119\/legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Zelda: Breath of the Wild &#8211; Nintendo Switch 2 Edition<\/a> is undoubtedly the best way to play one of the greatest games of all time. The visual and performance enhancements remove any issues that you may have had to endure with the original game. It&#8217;s practically flawless from that perspective.<\/p>\n<p>Sadly, the Zelda Notes app really brings the whole thing down. Useful features that should have been implemented in-game have been relegated to your smartphone, and using it completely breaks immersion in this incredible world. I&#8217;m only thankful that it&#8217;s not even remotely mandatory.<\/p>\n<p>Leave Zelda Notes to one side, though, and you&#8217;ve got the definitive presentation of a modern classic.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kirby-and-the-forgotten-land-nintendo-switch-2-edition-plus-star-crossed-world\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/9d71a7d32fa88\/kirby-and-the-forgotten-land-nintendo-switch-2-edition-plus-star-crossed-world-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Kirby and the Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kirby-and-the-forgotten-land-nintendo-switch-2-edition-plus-star-crossed-world\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/5f5e42a043135\/kirby-and-the-forgotten-land-nintendo-switch-2-edition-plus-star-crossed-world-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Kirby and the Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>HAL Laboratory<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>28th Aug 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>28th Aug 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/kirby-and-the-forgotten-land-nintendo-switch-2-edition-plus-star-crossed-world\">Kirby and the Forgotten Land &#8211; Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World<\/a> (say that five times, etc.) gives you the base game at a delicious 60fps with a whole big bunch of new content thrown in for good measure.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;ve had your fill of Forgotten Land on Switch 1, there&#8217;s nothing here to warrant replaying the entire game again, but the 12 remixed areas that make up the DLC are uniformly delightful, the new transformations are excellent, and there&#8217;s even new challenges for hardcore Kirby fans to get stuck into.<\/p>\n<p>One of the best games on Switch and one of our favourite 3D platformers in years, polished to a sparkly sheen and packing some meaningful new content? That&#8217;s a very easy recommendation and a truly excellent addition to the Switch 2&#8217;s early lineup.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-kiwami-2\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/c6edf7c21df79\/yakuza-kiwami-2-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Yakuza Kiwami 2 (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-kiwami-2\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/7c8d3b3045441\/yakuza-kiwami-2-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Yakuza Kiwami 2 (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>13th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>13th Nov 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-kiwami-2\">Yakuza Kiwami 2<\/a> is a wonderful experience on Switch 2. The improved visuals and streamlined mechanics make for a delightful gameplay experience bolstered by a compelling narrative at its core.<\/p>\n<p>There are so many ridiculous minigames to keep you entertained, and exploring Kamurocho and Sotenbori remains enjoyable five or even fifty hours into the game. It stands alongside <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-0-directors-cut\">Yakuza 0: Director&#8217;s Cut<\/a> as one of the finest entries in the series.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/persona-3-reload\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/f37fe888befbb\/persona-3-reload-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Persona 3 Reload (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/persona-3-reload\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/19720c4b165be\/persona-3-reload-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"247\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Persona 3 Reload (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Atlus<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>23rd Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>23rd Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/persona-3-reload\">Persona 3 Reload<\/a> is an extensive and thoughtful remake of the original and unquestionably the best way to experience this modern RPG classic. Switching between daytime and nighttime activities is a blast, and the streamlined gameplay and slick presentation make even the smallest actions feel satisfying.<\/p>\n<p>Minor frustrations remain, chiefly the repetitious nature of Tartarus, while the lack of FES and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/persona_3_portable\">Portable<\/a> content prevents Reload from being the definitive version of Persona 3. If this doesn&#8217;t bother you, though, consider it a must-play on the Switch 2.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/octopath-traveler-0\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/5a5e03be9e2a5\/octopath-traveler-0-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Octopath Traveler 0 (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/octopath-traveler-0\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/ee92fb0ffd44e\/octopath-traveler-0-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"244\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Octopath Traveler 0 (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Square Enix<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Square Enix<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>4th Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>4th Dec 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>In many ways, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/octopath-traveler-0\">Octopath Traveler 0<\/a> feels like a \u2018victory lap\u2019 for the beloved series, remixing various elements that you\u2019re familiar with from the past games while introducing some interesting new ones to spice things up a bit. Importantly, this prequel does <em>not<\/em> feel like a proper Octopath Traveler 3, but that doesn\u2019t mean that it isn&#8217;t still an incredibly good time and a much better JRPG than most genre peers.<\/p>\n<p>Even if it&#8217;s a retread in some ways, though, an absolutely monstrous amount of content, interesting new gameplay elements, gorgeous visuals, and compelling storytelling all come together to make Octopath Traveler 0 a must-buy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-0-directors-cut\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/42d8216097210\/yakuza-0-directors-cut-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Yakuza 0: Director's Cut (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-0-directors-cut\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/a3217b8f91658\/yakuza-0-directors-cut-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"249\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Yakuza 0: Director's Cut (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>SEGA<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>RGG Studio<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/yakuza-0-directors-cut\">Yakuza 0<\/a> is the best of the traditional-styled Yakuza games, with the most complex story and interesting characters of the lot. It&#8217;s also the ideal place for newcomers to get started with this weird and wonderful series.<\/p>\n<p>The new multiplayer mode in this remastered Director&#8217;s Cut is a little throwaway, for sure, and the fights do get repetitive (turn-based Yakuza FTW), but otherwise, this is a phenomenal 4K\/60 port of an epic adventure that&#8217;s now probably our favourite way to get down on the mean streets of 1980s Tokyo and Osaka.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/final-fantasy-tactics-the-ivalice-chronicles-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/26f9dce87cbbb\/final-fantasy-tactics-the-ivalice-chronicles-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/final-fantasy-tactics-the-ivalice-chronicles-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/5f92f9890f203\/final-fantasy-tactics-the-ivalice-chronicles-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Square Enix<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Square Enix<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>30th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>30th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/final-fantasy-tactics-the-ivalice-chronicles-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles<\/a> cuts content from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pushsquare.com\/games\/psp\/final_fantasy_tactics_the_war_of_the_lions\" class=\"external\">War of the Lions<\/a> PSP version, and it&#8217;s a shame. However, put this one issue aside, if you can, and you&#8217;ve got a fantastic \u2014 and fantastically thoughtful \u2014 revamp otherwise. Meaningful quality-of-life changes meld with delicate gameplay nips and tucks, CPU enemy tune-ups, and a smoother-flowing experience overall to deliver a game that&#8217;s pretty much impossible to knock.<\/p>\n<p>Fans will be fully absorbed into the story all over again, enjoying the new flow of the narrative and experiencing the whole thing so wonderfully well-acted. Newcomers, who&#8217;re less likely to be bothered by the missing content, well, they can just get busy lapping up one of the all-time great tactical RPGs looking and playing better than ever.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch\/super_mario_galaxy_plus_super_mario_galaxy_2\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/ef7979f9d4293\/super-mario-galaxy-plus-super-mario-galaxy-2-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Switch)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/super_mario_galaxy_plus_super_mario_galaxy_2\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/4d5cd28bfdc7c\/super-mario-galaxy-plus-super-mario-galaxy-2-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"247\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Switch)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>2nd Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>2nd Oct 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>There\u2019s no question about it: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/super_mario_galaxy_plus_super_mario_galaxy_2\">Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2<\/a> are two of the most sublime games ever created. With gameplay that subverts expectations and scenarios that wouldn\u2019t be possible if not for the creative freedom of the cosmos, they represent the Mario series at its absolute best. They look better than ever, boast small yet welcome additions, and expand upon the narrative with new storybook pages.<\/p>\n<p>Gyro aiming simply isn\u2019t as effective as the Wii pointer, however, and you\u2019ll be recentring the onscreen cursor a lot. Very minor issues with the camera are also a bit more noticeable now than they were 15 years ago, but the fact that Nintendo managed to pull off some utterly ridiculous sequences without the camera going haywire remains a remarkable feat. These games command a high price on Switch, to be sure, but you\u2019ll be playing them for the rest of your life.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hollow-knight-silksong-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/71ba829dad829\/hollow-knight-silksong-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hollow Knight: Silksong - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hollow-knight-silksong-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/758a07245697e\/hollow-knight-silksong-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hollow Knight: Silksong - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Team Cherry<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Team Cherry<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>4th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>4th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hollow-knight-silksong-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Hollow Knight: Silksong<\/a>\u2019s beauty is beguiling, hiding an interior that\u2019s deliberately harsh but endlessly rewarding. Everything feels deliberate, pushing you to learn, improve, and perfect, or simply just explore a little more. And what a world it is to dig into.<\/p>\n<p>Somehow, Team Cherry surpassed our expectations tenfold and delivered a mesmeric blend of balletic combat and movement with persistence, joy, and an incredibly invigorating map at the centre. We\u2019ve never felt better surmounting the challenges put before us.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch\/hundred_line_-_last_defense_academy\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/a707be92beaf7\/hundred-line---last-defense-academy-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Hundred Line - Last Defense Academy (Switch)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/hundred_line_-_last_defense_academy\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/6462f193253ce\/hundred-line---last-defense-academy-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"246\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The Hundred Line - Last Defense Academy (Switch)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Marvelous (XSEED)<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Too Kyo Games<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>24th Apr 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>24th Apr 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/hundred_line_-_last_defense_academy\">The Hundred Line \u2013 Last Defense Academy<\/a> is an excellent tactical RPG that fully showcases the strengths of the creatives behind it. A well-written and compelling story, strong and strategic gameplay, attractive art style, and passionate VA work all come together to make for a comprehensive experience that you won\u2019t want to miss.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s an instant recommendation for fans of Uchikoshi and Kodaka\u2019s past work, but even if you\u2019re not so much into visual novels, consider adding this one to your library. The Switch has plenty of life in it yet, and Hundred Line stands as a strong reminder of why.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch\/xenoblade_chronicles_x_definitive_edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/d27be49560e82\/xenoblade-chronicles-x-definitive-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition (Switch)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/xenoblade_chronicles_x_definitive_edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/da1f8d0db4d53\/xenoblade-chronicles-x-definitive-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"249\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition (Switch)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Monolith Soft<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>20th Mar 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>20th Mar 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch\/xenoblade_chronicles_x_definitive_edition\">Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition<\/a> is an expertly crafted revamp that gives us all the bells and whistles we could wish for in terms of graphical upgrades. However, it&#8217;s actually Monolith Soft&#8217;s attention to clever gameplay revisions that impresses most here.<\/p>\n<p>This is X streamlined and modernised, carefully recast and reset in order to play better than ever. Additional characters, a new ending, and all that snazzy stuff is all well and good, and fans will be excited by the fresh revelations that occur, but it&#8217;s in how everything flows so much better now that we reckon the hardcore will find themselves most impressed.<\/p>\n<p>And for newcomers a recommendation is even easier; this is up there with the all-time great sci-fi RPGs and an absolute must-play.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hades-ii-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/56c34a5e33ce5\/hades-ii-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hades II - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hades-ii-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/8c2e25f03b993\/hades-ii-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"246\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Hades II - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Supergiant Games<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Supergiant Games<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>25th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>25th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><em>\u201cCan time not be stopped?\u201d<\/em> That\u2019s the question <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/hades-ii-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Hades II<\/a> asks you every time you clear a run.<\/p>\n<p>We&#8217;re not sure about time, but it&#8217;s clear that developer Supergiant Games is unstoppable; the studio is five-for-five with this huge, triumphant sequel that manages to diverge mechanically and offer more challenges and variety than its predecessor. It helps that it\u2019s nearly faultless on Switch 2 in particular.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes there\u2019s a bit <em>too<\/em> much going on, and in shooting for a bigger, more tragic story, it\u2019s lost a bit of heart. But, quite frankly, we don\u2019t want time to stop because if it does, we won\u2019t be able to play Hades II anymore.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/cyberpunk-2077-ultimate-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/64e1f89d09423\/cyberpunk-2077-ultimate-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/cyberpunk-2077-ultimate-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/21b62f15c8628\/cyberpunk-2077-ultimate-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"247\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>CD Projekt Red<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>CD Projekt Red<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>5th Jun 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/cyberpunk-2077-ultimate-edition\">Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition<\/a> was a remarkable launch-day port for Switch 2. CD Projekt Red&#8217;s deep, diverse, and tangible world is fully realised with impressive performance for such a low-powered device.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;ve not taken your first steps into Night City already, or you&#8217;re a long-time player with a portable-play itch that needs scratching, you&#8217;re in for a serious treat, choom.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/trails-in-the-sky-1st-chapter-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/8f9bd1fb53748\/trails-in-the-sky-1st-chapter-nintendo-switch-2-edition-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/trails-in-the-sky-1st-chapter-nintendo-switch-2-edition\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/49c457a48cecd\/trails-in-the-sky-1st-chapter-nintendo-switch-2-edition-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>GungHo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Nihon Falcom<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>19th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>19th Sep 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p>A remake of the very first game in the series, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/trails-in-the-sky-1st-chapter-nintendo-switch-2-edition\">Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter<\/a> is maybe the most gorgeous game Falcom has ever created.<\/p>\n<p>Modernising things while also bringing newcomers up to speed with the origins of Zemuria&#8217;s current saga, this is a comprehensive audio-visual update of a classic series opener, with great characters (Estelle and Joshua are fantastic leads, but the entire cast gets their chance to shine), a world that you\u2019ll want to explore, and deep combat with a wealth of options.<\/p>\n<p>1st Chapter is on Switch 1 (30fps) and 2 (60fps), and as you&#8217;d expect, the updated style runs best on Switch 2, with only the odd stumble in docked performance. A joyously chill turn-based adventure.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"list-item\">\n<aside class=\"list-hero\" data-subject=\"games\/nintendo-switch-2\/donkey-kong-bananza\">\n<div class=\"scanlines-before\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/05ec2417f216e\/donkey-kong-bananza-artwork.900x250.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"250\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Donkey Kong Bananza (Switch 2)\"><\/div>\n<p><a class=\"cover scanlines\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/donkey-kong-bananza\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.nintendolife.com\/18683a61fdbe3\/donkey-kong-bananza-cover.cover_small.jpg\" width=\"150\" height=\"249\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Donkey Kong Bananza (Switch 2)\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"list-hero-info\">\n<p><span>Publisher: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong> \/ <span>Developer: <\/span><strong>Nintendo<\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"release\"><span>Release Date: <\/span><strong>17th Jul 2025 (<abbr title=\"United States \/ North America\">USA<\/abbr>)<\/strong> \/ <strong>17th Jul 2025 (<abbr title=\"UK \/ European\">UK\/EU<\/abbr>)<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"picture embed pictures\" id=\"screenshots\"><\/aside>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/nintendo-switch-2\/donkey-kong-bananza\">Donkey Kong Bananza<\/a> is an almighty re-introduction to the world of 3D platforming for DK, and arguably the Switch 2&#8217;s first absolute must-play. The punching and crashing is a passing novelty that, once you get your fill, quickly becomes just another way of exploring the wonderfully varied and beautifully presented layers.<\/p>\n<p>Whether it&#8217;s smashing through the scenery with a Bananza Transformation or carefully planning a route to a hidden Banandium Gem, you&#8217;ll have trouble finding more originality and, crucially, more enjoyment from a platformer in recent years. As the DK Rap so wisely said, &#8220;Donkey Kong is here.&#8221; Now let&#8217;s just hope he stays.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><em>And there you have it, the best Switch game(s) of 2025. Any surprises? How many have you played?<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Before we go, some housekeeping.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a round-up of all the previous Switch GOTY winners on Nintendo Life (click the year if you&#8217;d like to see the whole list):<\/p>\n<p>For any game with both a Switch 1 <em>and<\/em> a Switch 2 version which garnered enough high ratings to appear, we&#8217;ve excluded the lowest-ranking version.<\/p>\n<p>We also included the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/super_mario_galaxy\">Mario Galaxy 1<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nintendolife.com\/games\/switch-eshop\/super_mario_galaxy_2\">Galaxy 2<\/a> bundle release, rather than the separate eShop versions.<\/p>\n<p>Think something is missing? <strong>All Switch 1 and 2 games released in 2025 are eligible and available to rate in our database.<\/strong> These real-time lists, based on the User Ratings in our database, are a living ranking of each year&#8217;s finest video games, so any Switch or Switch 2 game launched in 2025 has a chance of showing up, even now.<\/p>\n<p>Use the search bar at the very top of the page (or the handy bar below) to find the game page on our database and rate away!<\/p>\n<p><em>Please note that <strong>a game must have a minimum of 30 User Ratings<\/strong> (and a sufficiently high rating, natch) to appear in the list above.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re curious about Nintendo Life staff&#8217;s personal GOTY picks, you can find them below:<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>2025 was filled with brilliant games, large and small, launching every single month. It&#8217;s the year that both Switch 2 and Silksong finally came out. Wowzers. The quality has been exceptionally high for both the original Switch and the newer console. Below we present the top 50 best games of the year for Switch 1 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[27],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-135395","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-nintendo-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/135395","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=135395"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/135395\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=135395"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=135395"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sickgaming.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=135395"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}