The Nintendo Switch has seen incredible success since its 2017 release, bringing with it a variety of beloved franchises and new titles. This list counts down the top 10 best-selling games on the platform, featuring some of the most popular and well-reviewed titles in the gaming industry.
10. Splatoon 2
Genre: Third-person shooter
Metacritic Score: 83
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: July 21, 2017
Splatoon 2 brought back the colorful, ink-splattering fun of its predecessor while expanding on its online multiplayer and adding new modes like Salmon Run. With a unique style and gameplay, it was an instant hit, appealing to casual and competitive players alike. The game’s focus on team-based tactics combined with vibrant graphics helped push it past the 10 million units sold mark, securing its place on this list.
9. Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! / Let’s Go, Eevee!
Genre: RPG
Metacritic Score: 79
Developer: Game Freak
Release Date: November 16, 2018
As a reimagining of Pokémon Yellow, Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! brought the beloved Kanto region to life on the Nintendo Switch, utilizing the mechanics of Pokémon GO to appeal to a wider audience. The nostalgia factor combined with the updated mechanics helped the game sell over 13 million units globally.
8. Super Mario Party
Genre: Party
Metacritic Score: 76
Developer: NDcube
Release Date: October 5, 2018
Super Mario Party revived the classic board game-style minigames that fans of the series have loved for years. With over 80 new mini-games and the introduction of online multiplayer, it became a go-to title for family gatherings and social gaming, amassing over 18 million copies sold. Its accessible yet competitive nature has made it a staple in the Switch’s library. I thought it was a bit crap to be honest with you.
7. Pokémon Sword / Shield
Genre: RPG
Metacritic Score: 80
Developer: Game Freak
Release Date: November 15, 2019
With the introduction of the Galar region and several new mechanics like Dynamaxing and the Wild Area, Pokémon Sword and Shield were highly anticipated. While initially met with some controversy over the "National Dex" cuts, the games sold over 25 million copies, making them one of the most successful titles in the franchise’s long history.
6. Super Mario Odyssey
Genre: Platformer
Metacritic Score: 97
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: October 27, 2017
Super Mario Odyssey took Mario to new heights—literally and figuratively—with its open-world level design and new mechanics, such as controlling enemies with Mario’s sentient hat, Cappy. Lauded for its creativity and innovative gameplay, the game has sold over 26 million units, cementing its legacy as one of the Switch’s defining titles.
5. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Genre: Action-Adventure
Metacritic Score: 97
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: March 3, 2017
Breath of the Wild redefined open-world gaming with its sprawling landscapes, intricate puzzle design, and emergent gameplay. It broke from many traditional Zelda conventions, offering a non-linear experience where players could explore freely. With over 30 million units sold, it remains one of the most critically acclaimed games in history.
4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Genre: Fighting
Metacritic Score: 93
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios, Sora Ltd.
Release Date: December 7, 2018
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate brought together an enormous roster of characters from across gaming history, featuring everyone from Mario to Street Fighter’s Ryu. The game’s excellent mechanics, online play, and wealth of content made it a must-have for any Switch owner. With over 32 million units sold, it’s the best-selling fighting game of all time.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Genre: Action-Adventure
Metacritic Score: 96
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: May 12, 2023
A direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom expanded upon the mechanics of its predecessor while introducing new elements like sky islands and an upgraded crafting system. Its story and design further pushed the boundaries of open-world gaming, leading it to sell over 35 million copies in its first year alone.
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Genre: Simulation
Metacritic Score: 90
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: March 20, 2020
Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a cultural phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its relaxing gameplay, where players could build and customize their island, made it a hit for people seeking comfort during lockdowns. Selling over 42 million copies, it’s the second best-selling game on the Switch and continues to have an active player base even years after release.
Genre: Racing
Metacritic Score: 92
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: April 28, 2017
At the top of the list is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the definitive edition of the Wii U original, packed with all DLC content and new features. The game's tight controls, variety of tracks, and chaotic multiplayer have made it the go-to racing game on the platform. With a staggering 55 million units sold, it’s the best-selling game in Mario Kart history and the number one best-seller on the Nintendo Switch.
WHAT HAVE THEY DONE TO BISHOCK?