The Nintendo Switch continues to reign supreme in the gaming world, seamlessly blending portability with the ability to enjoy games on a TV. A key factor in its success is its impressive library of games, catering to diverse tastes from party experiences to solo adventures. While multiplayer and online titles attract large audiences, single-player games remain a cornerstone of the gaming experience, offering unforgettable journeys. This curated list highlights the best single-player games available on the Nintendo Switch, focusing on offline experiences, even if some titles include multiplayer options. From AAA blockbusters to indie gems, there’s something here for every gamer seeking immersive solo adventures.
Epic Adventures and RPGs
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition is a remarkable port of the acclaimed RPG, originally released on other platforms. This Switch version bundles all DLC and expansions, including Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, offering over 150 hours of captivating gameplay on the go or on your TV. While visually less impressive than other versions, the ability to experience this sprawling open-world RPG on a handheld device is a technical marvel.
alt text: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition gameplay on Nintendo Switch
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a timeless RPG that has graced nearly every modern platform, including the Switch. This version includes all Special Edition content, along with Zelda-themed gear and motion controls. With diverse playstyles from stealth to magic and combat, Skyrim offers endless possibilities for exploration and character customization.
alt text: The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showing Link's Master Sword
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is an expansive RPG that builds upon its predecessors, culminating in an epic storyline. With an impressive open world, engaging characters, and refined combat, this title offers over 100 hours of gameplay. New combat features, including combining Combat Arts, add depth and strategy to battles.
alt text: Xenoblade Chronicles 3 gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showcasing the combat system
Immersive Simulations and Strategy
Animal Crossing: New Horizons provided solace and connection during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. This charming life simulator offers accessible gameplay for all skill levels, allowing players to create their own island paradise and interact with adorable villagers.
alt text: Animal Crossing: New Horizons gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showing island customization
Fire Emblem: Three Houses blends tactical RPG gameplay with a social sim aspect reminiscent of the Persona series. Players choose from three distinct houses within a school, each with unique characters and storylines. The grid-based combat is approachable for varying skill levels, and building relationships with characters enhances their effectiveness in battle.
alt text: Fire Emblem: Three Houses gameplay on Nintendo Switch, highlighting character interactions
Pikmin 4 offers a refreshing real-time strategy experience, tasking players with commanding an army of Pikmin, plant-like creatures with diverse abilities. The game’s charm and exploration-focused gameplay, combined with Metroidvania elements, encourage revisiting areas to uncover new secrets.
alt text: Pikmin 4 gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showing Pikmin following the player
Action, Platforming, and Roguelikes
Super Mario Odyssey revitalizes the classic Mario formula with expansive, themed levels and the innovative Cappy mechanic. Throwing Cappy allows Mario to possess creatures, adding a unique dimension to gameplay and exploration.
alt text: Super Mario Odyssey gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showing Mario using Cappy
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle surprised players with its high-quality turn-based tactics gameplay, blending Mario characters with Rabbids in a unique XCOM-inspired experience. Each character possesses unique abilities, adding strategic depth to combat.
alt text: Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showcasing turn-based combat
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019) is a charming remake of the Game Boy classic. The chibi art style and faithful recreation of the original, combined with modern enhancements, make this a delightful Zelda adventure.
alt text: The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening gameplay on Nintendo Switch, featuring the chibi art style
Challenging Experiences and Unique Titles
Dark Souls: Remastered brings the challenging and influential action RPG to the Switch, allowing players to experience its atmospheric world and tight gameplay on the go.
alt text: Dark Souls: Remastered gameplay on Nintendo Switch
Hollow Knight is a masterclass in 2D Metroidvania design, with challenging combat, atmospheric exploration, and a deep, unsettling world.
alt text: Hollow Knight gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showcasing the 2D art style
Celeste is a poignant and challenging 2D platformer that uses mountain climbing as a metaphor for overcoming personal obstacles. Its tight controls and meaningful story have earned it widespread acclaim.
alt text: Celeste gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showing the challenging platforming
Japanese RPGs and Other Gems
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introduce a fully open world to the Pokémon franchise, offering non-linear progression and the classic turn-based combat that defines the series.
Luigi’s Mansion 3 sees Luigi exploring a haunted hotel, using his flashlight and Poltergust vacuum to capture ghosts. Its charming humor, clever puzzles, and atmospheric environments make it a delightful adventure.
alt text: Luigi's Mansion 3 gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showing Luigi using the Poltergust
Octopath Traveler is a visually stunning turn-based RPG with eight playable characters, each with their own unique abilities and stories. The innovative boost point system adds a layer of strategy to combat.
alt text: Octopath Traveler gameplay on Nintendo Switch, showcasing the unique art style
Conclusion: A Wealth of Single-Player Experiences
The Nintendo Switch offers a diverse and impressive selection of single-player games, catering to a wide range of preferences. Whether you’re seeking epic adventures, challenging platforming, immersive simulations, or innovative roguelikes, the Switch library has something to offer every gamer seeking a compelling solo experience. From critically acclaimed titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its sequel Tears of the Kingdom to indie gems like Hades and Celeste, the Switch continues to deliver unforgettable gaming moments for players who prefer to embark on their own unique journeys.
