Nintendo Switch
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History Behind Switch Purchase
What lies below is a listing of my Switch collection along with some history behind the system's purchase. Please note that all of the games listed below are physical game cards or digital downloads that I actually purchased.
Nintendo Switch released worldwide on March 3, 2017, but I did not purchase a Switch until December 2020. Yes, you read that right—nearly four (4) years later. As a lifelong Nintendo gamer, I always purchased the newest Nintendo home console as close to launch as humanly possible, including the Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Wii, and Wii U. But NOT the Switch. I did not believe that I had time for Switch in my life when it was released, and in retrospect, that was the correct decision.
Ironically, I received an invitation to the Nintendo Switch Preview Tour in Washington, DC (Union Market) on February 11, 2017, which allowed my friend and I to try the Switch and its games weeks before it launched. Although the event did not cause me to change my mind and get one, it certainly impacted my friend's decision to go ahead and buy one. In the early days, we played Snipperclips, Overcooked, Puyo Puyo Tetris, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. We even had the opportunity to play Switch in Tabletop Mode on our flight to Vegas in March 2018. But, in spite of Switch's increasing popularity, we actually did not play it much together over the next 2-3 years.
With the emergence of COVID-19 and stay-at-home orders in March/April 2020, I re-considered if I should get a Switch. Yeah, so did everyone else, as it was sold out everywhere for months and months on end (also due to Animal Crossing: New Horizons). While I waited for the supply chain catch up, I ended up deciding to purchase a...Switch Lite for $199.99 from GameStop.com. From prior birthdays, I had $100 in gift cards, and I was reluctant to buy a docked version with rumors of a "Switch Pro" on the horizon. Oh, and I went with yellow to complement my yellow Game Boy Pocket. It arrived on December 24, 2020.
Then, on January 12, 2021, Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch - Mario Red & Blue Edition for $299.99. I knew that I had to get it. With the two-tone color scheme, red Switch dock, and themed case, it made sense for my Switch home console to be a special edition inspired by the iconic outfit worn by Mario. I was able to preorder one on GameStop.com at 12:15am. Somewhat surprisingly, however, I also was able to DriveUp to my local Target the next morning and pick it up from the store when it was released on February 12, 2021. In two months time, I went from zero (0) Switches to two (2) Switches.
With regard to my Switch game collection, I compressed several years' worth of purchases into several months. This is also because I spent a lot of time researching the games by reading numerous reviews, reviewing message boards on Reddit, and tracking prices on Deku Deals. My eclectic Switch game collection is curated based on these ideals:
Ironically, I received an invitation to the Nintendo Switch Preview Tour in Washington, DC (Union Market) on February 11, 2017, which allowed my friend and I to try the Switch and its games weeks before it launched. Although the event did not cause me to change my mind and get one, it certainly impacted my friend's decision to go ahead and buy one. In the early days, we played Snipperclips, Overcooked, Puyo Puyo Tetris, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. We even had the opportunity to play Switch in Tabletop Mode on our flight to Vegas in March 2018. But, in spite of Switch's increasing popularity, we actually did not play it much together over the next 2-3 years.
With the emergence of COVID-19 and stay-at-home orders in March/April 2020, I re-considered if I should get a Switch. Yeah, so did everyone else, as it was sold out everywhere for months and months on end (also due to Animal Crossing: New Horizons). While I waited for the supply chain catch up, I ended up deciding to purchase a...Switch Lite for $199.99 from GameStop.com. From prior birthdays, I had $100 in gift cards, and I was reluctant to buy a docked version with rumors of a "Switch Pro" on the horizon. Oh, and I went with yellow to complement my yellow Game Boy Pocket. It arrived on December 24, 2020.
Then, on January 12, 2021, Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch - Mario Red & Blue Edition for $299.99. I knew that I had to get it. With the two-tone color scheme, red Switch dock, and themed case, it made sense for my Switch home console to be a special edition inspired by the iconic outfit worn by Mario. I was able to preorder one on GameStop.com at 12:15am. Somewhat surprisingly, however, I also was able to DriveUp to my local Target the next morning and pick it up from the store when it was released on February 12, 2021. In two months time, I went from zero (0) Switches to two (2) Switches.
With regard to my Switch game collection, I compressed several years' worth of purchases into several months. This is also because I spent a lot of time researching the games by reading numerous reviews, reviewing message boards on Reddit, and tracking prices on Deku Deals. My eclectic Switch game collection is curated based on these ideals:
- Retro Gaming
- Indie World
- Switch Era Games
- Games I Previously Missed
- Old PC Games I Used to Enjoy
- Good for Young(er) Kids
- Local Wireless & Online
- Physical (vs. Digital)
1. Super Mario Odyssey
When it was announced in January 2017, it seemed to deviate from the Mario formula with worlds that were too realistic or crazy looking. After completing the game, it became apparent to me that Super Mario Odyssey was the sequel to Super Mario 64 that I always wanted. By bringing back the "sandbox" concept and introducing Cappy, Nintendo really delivered an all-time great. On the quest to collect Power Moons, you are treated with a fantastic presentation, creative world design, smooth play control, tons of secrets, nods to Mario's past, and so much more. The Assist Mode for kids is great, too!
2. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Onward and upward! Astonishingly, it took six (6) years into the Switch 1's lifespan and a decade after the last 2D Mario game on Wii U to gain a new entry. And it was well worth the wait! The move to the Flower Kingdom in Super Mario Bros. Wonder was clearly liberating, as the game exudes unique ideas, interesting gameplay, fun secrets, and an amusing personality. Equally great as a single- or multi-player adventure, the game delights with its exciting Wonder Flower effects, fun Elephant power-up, useful Badges, online Live Player Shadows, and, of course, Talking Flowers. I wonder what Goombas taste like?
3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
With the 2022-23 Booster Course Pass, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is truly the pinnacle of the series. How will this game ever be topped? It has nearly 100 new, retro, and mobile (MK Tour) tracks. Compared to past entries, all of the characters, vehicles, and items are well-balanced; the computer AI is reasonable; and the speed feels right for each CC. MK8's Grand Prix mode, with CPU racers, allows up to 4 players locally. Online matches are quick and plentiful, and Online Play w/ Friends is more than 1-on-1. With MK8D, Battle Mode is good, double items are back, and kids can use Steering Assist. Perfection?
4. Boomerang Fu
On each of my Nintendo systems, I found an initially obscure, completely original local multiplayer game that provided tons of replayability and many, many hours of enjoyment. Without a doubt, Boomerang Fu is this hidden gem on Switch. The game was enjoyed by 6-year-olds and 50-year-olds alike. One of the fun things about the 6-player game is that matches can be over in a mere 5 seconds, but they generally average 30-60 seconds. The frantic nature of slashing, throwing, and power-ups also can be offset by strategy in many arenas, especially if you choose teams. Plus, it has some good bots. Simple fun!
5. Tetris Effect: Connected
Imagine modern Tetris (e.g., 1-piece hold, T-spins, hard drop, multi-piece preview) synchronized with how you are playing. Everything—music, backgrounds, sounds, special effects, and even the Tetris pieces themselves—pulse, dance, shimmer, and explode in perfect harmony. This is what makes Tetris Effect: Connected such an exhilarating experience; it keeps you "in the zone," especially with the original and innovative soundtrack. The new Zone mechanic and Connected co-op mode are both interesting, and purists may love the Classic Score Attack mode that uses classic Tetris rules. I played this a ton.
6. Borderlands Legendary Collection
During the COVID-19 pandemic, my couch co-op gaming buddy and I had to get together virtually. Since I finally got around to buying a Switch in 2020/21, we spent most of our online gaming sessions playing Borderlands 1 and 2. Although he last played the series 10 years earlier on PS3/PC, I had zero experience with "loot shooters." Undeniably, it is still a 3D open-world first-person shooter, but I see how there are some light RPG elements with buying/selling and equipping weapons, shields, abilities, etc. Aside from being less desolate, Borderlands 2 has better looks, more polish, and added challenge. Fun co-op.
7. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2
I love Tony Hawk. I played a ton of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater (N64) back in 2000, including two-player, in college. Then my passion continued with Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 (GCN) in 2002. So, 20 years later, you can imagine my excitement about the HD remake of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2—complete with re-licensed music. Although the Switch version arrived 9 months late, and does not look as good as my friend's PS4/PS5 version, it is a great port. Nothing got cut, and everything runs smoothly at 30fps. A great example of a game that begs to be played in Switch's handheld mode. Addictive and fun.
7. Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus
Although I enjoy the "push-forward" combat of 3D first-person shooters, my favorite games in the genre incorporate elements of stealth. Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus not only does a great job of mixing up the action but it also includes a crazy-yet-fascinating story of what could have happened to America if the Nazis had won World War II. As a Switch port, I think it is fantastic. You can see the downgrade in the graphics from the cutscenes to the gameplay, but I found that the game was smooth, clear, and utterly satisfying. Exhibit A of a game that I previously missed—and could now enjoy thanks to Switch.
9. Atari 50: The Anniversary Collection
The gold standard for retro video game compilations. For Atari's 50th anniversary, Digital Eclipse went above and beyond. Atari 50: The Anniversary Collection includes a curated list of 150+ Atari games (incl. DLC) from the arcade, Atari 2600, 8-bit computers, 7800 system, Lynx handheld, and Jaguar console. All of the games are emulated perfectly, including 2600 game switches, touch support for paddle games, and first-ever Jaguar and Lynx emulation. On top of that, the collection can be viewed as an interactive timeline that is loaded with high-quality screenshots, interviews, and trivia. Awe-inspiring.
10. Final Fantasy I-VI Pixel Remaster
Back in the early 1990s, I absolutely loved the Final Fantasy games that were released on the Super NES. After Square jumped from Nintendo to Sony with the PlayStation, I was angry and ignored the series as a Nintendo fanboy. Of course, time heals, and things have come full circle with Switch. For me, though, those SNES classics represent my sweet spot, and the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster (FFI-VI Collection) is simply awesome. With touched up graphics, fully orchestrated soundtracks, and quality-of-life settings, these uncomplicated classics feel like the best versions of their former selves.
11. Super Mario 3D All-Stars
Initially, fans thought this was a lazy port, but Super Mario 3D All-Stars will end up being a great Switch story. Super Mario 64's seemingly subtle port actually makes it look clear and good on your modern TV, especially compared to the Virtual Console, allowing me to revisit my N64 past. Super Mario Sunshine's hybrid remaster/upscale into HD widescreen was a feat unto itself. But, yeah, I am still not a fan of the GCN entry. For me, Super Mario Galaxy was the star and worth the price of admission. This unique Mario entry was no longer stuck on the Wii, featuring better graphics and control options.
12. TMNT: Splintered Fate
This isometric roguelike brawler (2024) feels like a modern reinvention of the multiplayer arcade classics from yesteryear. In fact, over time, TMNT: Splintered Fate has gone on to become my favorite Ninja Turtles game of all time, just as the game continued to evolve over several years through additions, improvements, and changes. With a quick nod to Hades, the combination of fast-paced action, temporary Turtle Powers, permanent upgrades, well-balanced gameplay, randomized room layouts, and a fulfilling difficulty curve make for a game that is truly satisfying to make runs on Switch (or Switch 2).
13. Bulletstorm: Duke of Switch Edition
From the mid-1990s and into the early 2000s, in my college years, the American culture accepted raunchiness by permitting vulgarity, objectifying women, and glorifying violence. This epitomizes Duke Nukem. Bulletstorm: Duke of Switch Edition (2019) allows you to play through the entire remastered game as Duke Nukem and even has the original voice actor. As a 3D FPS, Bulletstorm was refreshing in 2011 and still is today. With a more linear level design, the game features an AI-controlled teammates, over-the-top sequences, and a whip-like Leash for ridiculous, slow-mo, combo-based kills.
14. TMNT: Shredder's Revenge
Talk about a love letter to the 1980s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon and arcade games. TMNT: Shredder's Revenge is delightful; it does everything right. The story and cutscenes are well done and succinct. It nails the multi-player arcade-style gameplay perfectly, with offline and online play, while adding some finesse and even 6-player support. The graphics are retro-styled yet extremely fluid and detailed. It captures the essence of the era perfectly with its music and sound effects. The game is much longer and has more depth compared to the past, but it is not filled with fluff. Everything that I hoped for!
15. Prodeus
Many games have replicated the look and feel of retro-style 3D first-person shooters, but Prodeus aims to blur that line between retro and modern—and, frankly, I believe it succeeds. With my playtime hours being similar to the 3D FPS games above, I think it is underappreciated. You have retro-style gameplay, with labyrinth-like levels, but it has modern level design, automap, weapon upgrades, and an overworld map. You have retro-style visuals, but they have been modernized with dynamic lighting, particle effects, and lots of gore. Finally, you could download community levels. Satisfying gunplay.
16. Cruis'n Blast
As someone who had fond memories—both in the arcade and on the N64—of Cruis'n USA and Cruis'n World from the mid-1990s, I thought I would enjoy the 2021 Switch port of the 2017 arcade successor: Cruis'n Blast. Wow, what an awesome surprise. Eugene Jarvis' Raw Thrills not only ported the arcade's five (5) bright, colorful, crazy, high-flying, and death-defying levels but also reworked them into 24 new Cruis'n Tour levels for the Switch. The "straight-ahead" racing style, along with simple controls, crazy speeds, rubber band AI, and forgiving crash physics, means nearly anyone can play and have a blast!
17. Trials of Mana
Back in the Super NES era, I loved the Secret of Mana and all of its multiplayer 2D action RPG glory. That nostalgia caused me to be intrigued by the full-on 3D remake of the largely unknown 1995 sequel: Trials of Mana (Seiken Densetsu 3). Happily, this feels like a Mana game and checks all those same action JRPG boxes: whimsical worlds, linear-but-enjoyable exploration, fantastic music, suitable storytelling, fast-paced combat, and some quality-of-life improvements. Just a fun, modern single-player adventure (Riesz, Angela, Duran) for those of us who do not want a game that is too long or complex.
18. Minecraft Dungeons
Minecraft Dungeons surprised me—in a good way. With up to 4 players, the dungeon crawler set in Minecraft's voxel world seemed like something I could play with the kids, and I could learn more about the world of Minecraft. I was right. After taking advantage of a rare sale and embarking on some missions together with my 9- and 6-year-olds, I realized that the game very much reminded me of Gauntlet. Due to the Minecraft license, along with a gratifying gameplay loop, reasonable difficulty levels, and tons of content, we spent many hours playing this cooperative adventure together.
19. TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection
Honestly, I never thought that I would see this day. I figured the combination of a dying Konami brand and licensing challenges meant that I never would be able to play the original TMNT arcade game (an all-time favorite) at home. Although one could argue that TMNT: Shredder's Revenge was the better of the two (!) Ninja Turtle releases in 2022, I am a sucker for nostalgia and retro video games. These arcade, Super NES, Genesis, Game Boy, and NES games in the TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection are still great on the TV and perfect for Switch's handheld. Plus, it is loaded up with bonus content. Cowabunga!
20. Balatro
Now this is a genius idea. If you asked me if I ever wanted to play a deck-building roguelike video game, I would tell you...NO. But what if you were told that you were playing from a standard 52-card deck and had to use valid poker hands, with a limited number of hands and discards each round? Now add in swappable Joker multiplier cards, consumable Tarot and Spectral cards, and other easy-to-understand modifiers. Suddenly, you are addicted to chasing and trying to beat those high scores on each successive run in Balatro. A rare instance where the Switch's touchscreen results in an even better experience.
21. Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu!
When Pokémon hit American shores in 1998, I was 20-years-old and worked in a toy store—and was mesmerized by the hype. I bought a Game Boy Pocket just to play Pokémon Red, and I purchased an assortment of licensed products (toys, stuffed animals, sheets, trading cards, books). Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! represented how I would introduce my 7- and 4-year-old boys to the world of Pokémon during COVID and my knowledge of Generation I (151 species). Since this remake focused on accessibility to newcomers and cooperative play, I enjoyed watching them play 40+ hours together.
22. OBAKEIDORO!
With 10,000+ games available on Switch, I view OBAKEIDORO! (a.k.a Boogeyrun! OR Bail or Jail) as a diamond in the rough. This asymmetric action game—which is analogous to a kids version "Dead by Daylight" or similar to the Cops and Robbers childhood game—has 3 humans trying to get away from 1 monster during each 3-minute match. You can play any combination of human and computer opponents among the couch split-screen, Local Wireless, and online play modes. Obakeidoro hearkens back to games that are easy to learn, yet have some depth for continued fun. Japanese players love it!
23. Tetris 99
I would bet that neither you nor the creators of Tetris ever envisioned a massively multiplayer online version of the iconic game. Head-to-head Tetris is usually about speed, skill, and burying your opponent in lines of garbage. That concept continues in Tetris 99, except that you are simultaneously battling 98 other opponents (human or computer) with some additional light strategy through targeting choices and earning K.O. badges. Furthermore, the online scene was relevant for many years by allowing you to earn Nintendo-related themes (with game-specific backgrounds and music) through Maximus Cup events.
24. Life is Strange: True Colors/Double Exposure
I confess to loving teen and young adult shows in the 2000s and 2010s. Along with Twilight, I binged One Tree Hill, Gossip Girl, Vampire Diaries, Pretty Little Liars, and You. I think this is why Life is Strange: True Colors and Life is Strange: Double Exposure speak to me. I thought 2021's True Colors was a very impressive-looking Switch port and had a western U.S. setting to which I can relate. I liked the story with Alex, Steph, Ryan; the empathy power was alright. Although 2024's Double Exposure did not look as great on Switch, I loved Max, Safi, Moses, the story, choices, and music. Both have a special place in my video gaming heart.
25. Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4
I anxiously awaited and loved the 2021 release of Tony Hawk 1 + 2 on Switch, and I was disheartened to hear that this sequel was cancelled in 2022. Yet, by some miracle, the project was quietly restarted, albeit with changes, and Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 was released in 2025. Although I did not care how Tony Hawk 4's career mode was changed, I did notice that the sequel was not as smooth or optimized for Switch 1. Fortunately, there was a free, separate version for Switch 2. Enjoyable video game during an otherwise unenjoyable period of my life, which also had a nifty Taco Bell promotion.
26. Vampire Survivors
Yet another unique indie concept and yet another roguelike! But like all other renowned indie titles from the early 2020s, the game is fantastic: Vampire Survivors is addictive and fun. The lack of control is not concerning here. With your automatically attacking character, you battle continuous waves of hundreds of monsters, aiming to survive the onslaught for as long as possible—or for 30 minutes until the Reaper appears—and then unlock additional characters, weapons, and relics for future sessions. Was great for some couch co-op on the Switch. Love the Castlevania tie-in, too.
27. Capcom Arcade Stadium/2nd Stadium
As someone who grew up in the 1980s, I have a massive amount of nostalgia for Nintendo games. Those rose-tinted glasses extend to the arcade, too, because there were so many games that I played in the arcades, which never made it to home consoles -- or maybe were not great ports. This is why Capcom Arcade Stadium and Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium are such awesome collections for me. This is the first time that I am able to play many of these classics on Nintendo-based hardware. Some long-time personal favorites include Black Tiger, Forgotten Worlds, Ghosts 'n Goblins, Magic Sword, and Strider.
28. Dispatch
During the Switch generation, I leaned into another video game genre that was new (to me): choice-driven stories that literally felt like interactive movies and TV shows. From Dark Pictures Anthology to Life is Strange, I loved how these games only required 5-10 hours to complete—but became etched in my mind due to great storytelling, relatable characters, and memorable sound. Dispatch excels as a believable workplace comedy story, broken into episodes, about a former superhero who has to take a job as a dispatcher for villains-turned-superheroes. Fantastic adult fun on Switch (1 and 2).
29. Easy Come Easy Golf
In the 1990s, I had a love affair with golf and video game iterations (Links 386 Pro on PC, Hal's Hole in One Golf on SNES, Mario Golf on N64) that was somewhat rekindled by Easy Come Easy Golf. Before traveling to Hawaii in fall 2022, I sampled the game on Apple Arcade, and I decided that I should just buy the game on Switch. Ian and I spent a lot of time on these virtual links, and that can be attributed to a game that nails the pick-up-and-play aspect while staying true to a realistic game of golf (no gimmicks). With 11 courses, 30 characters, and many modes, I knew there could be a lot to unpack.
30. Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection
I was a teenager when Mortal Kombat was first released, and although I never loved the game (or was very good at it), the series left an indelible mark in my gaming memories. From its arcade lore, through its censored SNES release, to the creation of the ESRB video game rating system, the series was one that I always wanted to be able to play on a modern system. Fortunately, with Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, Digital Eclipse returns with its interactive documentary and timeline format that allows you to not only play the classic MK games, but to learn MK's history directly from Ed Boon & John Tobias.
Honorable Mention: Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, Terminator 2D: No Fate, Puyo Puyo Tetris, GigaBash, Double Dragon Neon, SongPop Party, Hungry Shark World, Cake Bash, Suika Game
Mobile View | Key/Legend * = Digital version NOT downloaded
- Ace Angler: Switch Version ∏ - Reg. (Asian only)
- Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown (Asian)
+ Top Gun: Maverick Set - Reg. - Addams Family: Mansion Mayhem
- Agatha Christie: Murder on the Orient Express (European)
- Air Conflicts Collection LW (x2)
- Air Twister† (European)
- Alien: Isolation *
- American Hero
- Angry Video Game Nerd 1 (Wii U) & 2 Deluxe
- Assassin's Creed: The Ezio Collection
- Atari 50: The Annv. Celebration - Expanded Ed.† + DLC (DS)
- Ayo the Clown
- Bakeru
- Bang-On Balls: Chronicles * LW (Asian - x3)
- Batman: Arkham Trilogy
- Bayonetta
- Beyond Good & Evil 20th Anniversary Edition
- Big Rumble Boxing: Creed Champions
- Bomb Rush Cyberfunk * + DLC
- Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition LW
- Bubble Bobble 4 Friends: The Baron is Back!
- Bubsy in: The Purrfect Collection
- Burnout Paradise Remastered *
- Capcom Fighting Collection 2 ➅
- Catherine: Full Body
- Contra: Operation Galuga
- Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion
- Cruis'n Blast
- Crysis Remastered
- Cuphead
- Darksiders: Warmastered Edition (black spine)
- Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition
- Dead Cells: Return to Castlevania (European)
- Dead or Alive Xtreme 3: Scarlet (Asian only)
- Disney Classic Games Collection
- Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed
- Disney Illusion Island
- Disney Music Parade -Encore-∏ (Asian only)
- Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
- DOOM (2016) *
- Doom: The Classics Collection * (incl. Doom 3)
- Doom + Doom II LW
- Double Dragon Neon
- Double Kick Heroes ∏ (European)
- Dragon Quest 1+2+3 Collection (Asian)
- Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
- Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
- Dragon Quest VII Reimagined
- Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Ed.
- DUSK (incl. Dusk '82)
- Dying Light: Platinum Edition LW (x2)
- Earth Defense Force: World Brothers * LW
(Asian - x3) - Fantasian Neo Dimension
- Fight Crab LW (Japanese)
- Final Fantasy I-VI Pixel Remaster
Collection (Asian) - Final Fantasy VII * / VIII Remastered Twin Pack (European)
- Final Fantasy IX (Asian)
- Final Fantasy X | X-2 HD Remaster (Japanese)
- Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes
- Forgotton Anne
- Ghostbusters: The Video Game Remastered (Wii)
- Gigantosaurus: Dino Kart - upstairs
- G.I. Joe: Operation Blackout (Gold Edition)
- Go Vacation ∏
- Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - Definitive Ed.†
- Guilty Gear -Strive- ➅
- Gungrave G.O.R.E Ultimate Enhanced (Asian)
- Hades
- Hollow Knight
- It Takes Two + Friend's Pass (free)
- Just Dance 2022 ∏ - Reg.
- Kao the Kangaroo
- Kingdom Come: Deliverance - Royal Edition
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land
- Kirby Star Allies
- Klonoa Phantasie Reverie Series (European)
- Kukoos: Lost Pets
- Lara Croft Collection *
- Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered
- Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild α (Wii U)
+ Expansion Pass ¦ NS2✶ - Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom α
- Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening α
- Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom α ¦ NS2✶
- LEGO Harry Potter Collection
- LEGO Horizon Adventures
- Let's Sing Queen * - Reg. (European)
- Life is Strange: Double Exposure (4th)
- Life is Strange: True Colors (Japanese) (3rd)
- Live A Live
- Lollipop Chainsaw RePOP
- Luigi's Mansion 3
- Lunar Remastered Collection
- Mantis Burn Racing LW (Japanese)
- Mario & Luigi: Brothership
- Mario Party Superstars
- Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics ➅
- Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 ¦ NS2✶
- Metroid Dread α
- Metroid Prime Remastered (GCN)
- Midnight Fight Express
- Minecraft (x2)
- Monster Hunter Stories α (Japanese)
- Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin α
- Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection ➅
- Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered *
- NEO: The World Ends With You
- Neon White
- New Pokémon Snap
- NieR:Automata The End of YoRHa Edition
- Night Trap: 25th Anniversary Edition
- Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection (Asian)
- Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening (Asian)
- OBAKEIDORO! LW (Asian)
- Old School Musical (European)
- Omen of Sorrow (Asian)
- Onimusha: Warlords (Japanese)
- Operation Wolf Returns: First Mission (European)
- Ori: The Collection
- Pac-Man World: Re-PAC
- Pac-Man World 2: Re-PAC + Sonic Collaboration DLC
- Panzer Dragoon: Remake *
- Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
- PAW Patrol: On a Roll!
- Payday 2 LW (x2)
- Pentiment
- Perky Little Things† (Handheld) - upstairs
(European only) - Lite - Persona 4 Golden
- Persona 5 Royal
- Persona 5 Strikers
- Plumbers Don't Wear Ties: Definitive Edition
- Pokémon Sword (F) + Isle of Armor/Crown Tundra DLC
- Pokémon Violet (M) + Teal Mask/Indigo Disk DLC ¦ NS2✶
- Pokémon: Let's Go, Pikachu! ∏
- Pretty Girls Game Collection 2† - upstairs
(European) - Lite - Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
- Princess Peach Showtime!
- Prodeus
- Puyo Puyo Tetris LW
- Quake II LW
- Red Dead Redemption ¦ NS2✶
- Redeemer: Enhanced Edition (European)
- Return to Monkey Island†
- Rogue Heroes: Ruins of Tasos (European)
- Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven
- Saints Row: The Third - The Full Package
- Samurai Warriors 5
- Sea of Stars
- Serious Sam Collection LW (x2)
- Shuttlecock-H * (European) - upstairs
- Sniper Elite V2 Remastered * LW (x2)
- Sniper Elite III Ultimate Edition * LW
(European - x2) - Sonic Colors: Ultimate (Wii)
- Sonic Frontiers
- Sonic Mania Plus
- Sonic Origins Plus
- Sonic Superstars
- Sonic x Shadow Generations + Sonic 3 Movie DLC
- Spooky Spirit Shooting Gallery ∏
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy (Japanese)
- Star Ocean The Second Story R
- Strange Brigade LW (European - x2)
- Streets of Rage 4: Anniversary Edition
- Super Mario 3D All-Stars N † ∏
- Super Mario 3D World (Wii U) + Bowser's Fury α
- Super Mario Bros. Wonder + Bellabel Park only ¦ NS2✶
- Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2† ∏ α
- Super Mario Maker 2†
- Super Mario Odyssey α
- Super Mario Party Jamboree ∏
- Super Mario RPG
- Super Mega Baseball 4
- Tempest 4000
- Tetris Effect: Connected
- The Grinch: Christmas Adventures - Merry & Mischievous Edition
- The King of Fighters XIII: Global Match (European)
- The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak
- The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II
- The Plucky Squire
- The Smurfs - Dreams
- Theatrhythm Final Bar Line + DLC songs
- TMNT: Shredder's Revenge (European) + DLC
- TMNT: Splintered Fate + DLC ¦ NS2✶
- TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection LW
- TMNT Arcade: Wrath of the Mutants
- Tomb Raider I-III Remastered
- Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 LW
- Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 LW ¦ NS2✶
- Trek to Yomi
- Trials of Mana 3D
- Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy
- Trinity Trigger + DLC
- TUNIC
- Waifu Uncovered * (European) - upstairs
- Waifu Discovered 2: Medieval Fantasy * (European) - upstairs
- Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus * (LR version)
- Wreckfest
- Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition ¦ NS2✶
- Yakuza Kiwami
- Yars Rising
- Yooka-Laylee *
- Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana (a.k.a. Ys III)
- Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana
- Ys vs. Trails in the Sky: Alternative Saga
- YU-NO: A girl who chants love at the bound of this world. - upstairs
- Zombie Army Trilogy LW (x2)
- Zombie Army 4: Dead War LW
Mobile View | Key/Legend Digital versions NOT downloaded are excluded (not DL'd = 20) + Arc = 12
- 198X
- 8-Bit Yu-No's Great Adventure
- A Highland Song
- ABZÛ
- Actraiser Renaissance
- After Wave: Downfall
- Agent A: A puzzle in disguise†
- Agent Intercept
- Air Combat 22
- Alba: A Wildlife Adventure
- Alpaca Ball: Allstars
- American Fugitive
- Among Pipes†
- Angry Video Game Nerd 1 (Wii U) & 2 Deluxe (Cart)
- Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit
- Another World (a.k.a. Out of this World)
- Antonblast
- Aragami: Shadow Edition
- ARK: Dinosaur Discovery Archived (cannot play)
- Arkanoid vs. Space Invaders† (Handheld)
- Arkanoid: Eternal Battle
- Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore
- Assault Android Cactus+
- Assault ChaingunS KM† ∏
- Asteroids: Recharged
- Atari 50: The Annv. Celebration† + DLC (Cart) (DS)
- Atari Mania
- Axis Football 2024
- Balatro† (x2)
- Battle Axe
- Bells & Whistles (a.k.a. Detana!! TwinBee)
- Berzerk: Recharged
- Big Tournament Golf (a.k.a. Neo Turf Masters)
- Blanc
- Blaster Master Zero
- Blazing Star
- Blizzard Arcade Collection
- Bloodshore† (☍)
- Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon
- Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
- Boomerang Fu (x2) + DLC
- Borderlands Legendary Collection LW (x2)
- Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition LW (Cart)
- Breakout Beyond
- Breakout: Recharged
- Bulletstorm: Duke of Switch Edition
- Cake Bash
- Cannon Dancer (a.k.a. Osman)
- Capcom Arcade Stadium
- Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium ➅
- Capcom Beat 'Em Up Bundle
- Care Bears: To The Rescue
- Castle Crashers Remastered LW (x2)
- Castlevania Anniversary Collection
- Charrua Soccer - Pro Edition
- Chip's Challenge
- Climbros Archived (cannot play)
- ClusterPuck 99
- Collection of Mana
- Columns II: A Voyage Through Time
- Commander Keen in Keen Dreams: Definitive
- Contra Anniversary Collection
- Corn Kidz 64 N
- Corpse Factory
- Corpse Killer - 25th Anniversary Edition
- Cotton 2 - S Tribute
- Cotton Fantasy
- Crossbow: Bloodnight
- Cyber Shadow α
- Danmaku Unlimited 3
- Darius
- DariusBurst CS Core + Taito/Sega Pack
- Dark Pictures Anthology: Little Hope (2nd)
- Dark Pictures Anthology: Man Of Medan (1st)
- Dark Souls: Remastered - Reg.
- de Blob (Wii)
- Dead Cells + Return to Castlevania (Cart)
- Deathwish Enforcers
- Demon's Tilt
- Disc Jam
- Disney Afternoon Collection
- Dispatch† ¦ NS2✶
- Donkey Kong
- Donkey Kong Jr.
- Doom + Doom II LW (x2) (Cart)
- Doom 64 N
- DOOM Eternal Archived (cannot play) ¦ NS2✶
- Double Dragon (Arcade)
- Double Dragon (NES)
- Double Dragon II: The Revenge (Arcade)
- Double Dragon II: The Revenge (NES)
- Double Dragon Advance
- Dragon Quest (a.k.a. Dragon Warrior NES)
- Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Annv. World Tour LW (x2)
- Easy Come Easy Golf † LW (x2)
- Elevator Action Returns - S Tribute
- Epyx Collection: Handheld
- Epyx Games - Sports Collection
- Fantasy Zone
- Feather
- Fight Crab LW (Cart)
- Figment
- Figment 2: Creed Valley
- Final Fantasy IV (a.k.a. FFII SNES)
- Final Fantasy VI (a.k.a. FFIII SNES)
- Fisti-Fluffs
- Five Nights at Freddy's†
- Flashback: Remastered Edition
- Fledgling Heroes†
- Flipon†
- Freakout: Calamity TV Archived (cannot play) ¦ NS2✶
- Frogger
- Fuser + DLC songs
- F-Zero 99
- G-Darius HD
- G-LOC: Air Battle
- Game Tengoku CruisinMix Special
- Ghosts 'n Goblins Resurrection
- GigaBash + Godzilla, Ultraman, & Gamera DLC
- Glaive: Brick Breaker
- Gradius III
- Guacamelee! Super Turbo Championship Ed.
- Guns, Gore & Cannoli 2
- Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice
- Hello Kitty and Friends: Happiness Parade ∏
- Hello, Mario!† (app)
- Hentai: Make love not war - Lite
- Heretic + Hexen LW (x2)
- Hitman: Blood Money - Reprisal
- Hopping girl KOHANE Jumping Kingdom: Princess of the Black Rabbit
- Hoppy Hop
- Horizon Chase Turbo + DLC
- Hungry Shark World
- Huntdown
- Impossible Mission
- Into the Dead 2 + Ghostbusters & Living Dead DLC
- Jackal
- John Wick Hex
- Jumanji: The Video Game Archived (cannot play)
- Jump Rope Challenge ∏ (app) - Reg.
- Jurassic World Aftermath Collection
- Katamari Damacy REROLL ∏
- Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth (☍)
- Knight Squad 2
- Knights and Bikes LW (x2)
- Konami Arcade Classics Anniversary Collection
- Labyrinth City: Pierre the Maze Detective†
- Late Shift† (☍)
- Legend of Valkyrie - Jap
- Leisure Suit Larry: Wet Dreams Don't Dry†
- LOUD: My Road to Fame + DLC
- Lunistice
- Lust for Darkness Ø (☍) (PAL)
- Magical Maze (Handheld)
- MagMax
- Mantis Burn Racing LW (Cart)
- Mario Bros. (Wii VC)
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe LW (x2) (Wii U)
+ Booster Course Pass - Marsupilami: Hoobadventure (x2)
- Marvel Cosmic Invasion
- Marvel MaXimum Colllection
- Maze
- Mega Man Legacy Collection α (GCN)
- Mega Man Legacy Collection 2 α (GCN) + (Wii)
- Mega Man 11
- Mega Man X Legacy Collection
- Mega Man: Battle & Fighters
- Metal Slug X
- Metamorphic Force
- Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind
- Minecraft Dungeons: Ultimate Edition
- MineSweeper Classic
- Mission 1985
- MLB The Show 26 (F) ¦ NS2✶
- Monaco: Complete Edition LW (x2)
- Moon Patrol
- Mothmen 1966
- Moto Roader MC
- MouseBot: Escape from CatLab
- Namco Museum (GCN) (incl. Pac-Man Vs.)
- Neon Inferno
- New Joe & Mac: Caveman Ninja
- Nine Parchments
- Ninja Gaiden (ARC)
- Ninja Gaiden Ragebound
- Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition
- Nitro Ball
- Obakeidoro LW (x2) (Cart)
- OlliOlli: Switch Stance Archived (cannot play)
- Orbital Bullet
- Out Run
- Outlast: Bundle of Terror
- Outlast 2
- Override: Mech City Brawl Archived (cannot play)
- Pac-Man 99 + DLC
- Pac-Man Championship Edition 2 Plus
- Pac-Man Museum+
- Party Party Time + Royal Pack Set DLC (7 packs)
- Penny's Big Breakaway
- Phantasy Star (Wii VC)
- Picross S Genesis & Master System Edition†
- Pinball FX3† + DLC tables
- Pipe Push Paradise Archived (cannot play)
- Pizza Possum
- Pizza Tower
- Pokémon Champions (Online Only) - F & M
- Pokémon FireRed (GBA)
- Pokémon HOME† (app) - F & M
- Polyroll
- POPUCOM + DLC outfits
- Portal Companion Collection
- Prodeus (Cart)
- Pumped BMX Pro (Wii U) Archived (cannot play)
- Punch-Out!!
- Pure Crosswords†
- Push the Box†
- Puyo Puyo
- Puyo Puyo Tetris LW (x2) (Cart)
- Puzzle Bobble 2 (a.k.a. Bust-A-Move 2)
- Quake (x2)
- Quake II LW (x2) (Cart)
- Rad Rodgers Radical Edition
- Radiant Silvergun
- Raiden IV x Mikado Remix
- Rain on Your Parade
- Rainbow Cotton
- Rayman 30th Anniversary Edition
- realMyst: Masterpiece Edition†
- Resident Evil (GCN)
- Retro Bowl† (x2)
- Revenant Saga
- RICO + DLC
- Ridge Racer
- Riptide GP: Renegade
- Rise of the Triad: Ludicrous Edition LW (x2)
- River City Melee Mach!!
- Romancing SaGa 2 (SNES)
- R-Type Dimensions EX
- Rubber Bandits
- Samurai Shodown V Special
- Sayonara Wild Hearts
- Screencheat: Unplugged
- Sega Genesis Classics (Wii VC)
- Shadowgate (2014)†
- Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered
- Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Ultimate Edition
- Shinobi (Wii VC)
- Shinobi: Art of Vengeance + DLC
- Shock Troopers
- Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove α
- Silpheed (EGGConsole PC-8801)
- Skate City†
- Snake vs. Snake
- SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos
- SNK vs. Capcom: The Match of the Millennium
- Snowboarding The Next Phase
- SongPop Party† (Online Only)
- Sonic Mania (Cart)
- Sonic Origins (GCN) (Cart)
- South Park: The Stick of Truth
- Space Harrier (Wii VC)
- Space Invaders Invincible Collection
- Spidersaurs
- Stakes Winner 2
- Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster
- Steel Assault
- Stikbold! A Dodgeball Archived (cannot play)
- Strange Brigade LW (Cart x2)
- Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical + DLC
- Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection ➅
- Street Hoop
- Streets of Rogue + DLC
- Strikers 1945 III
- Sudoku Classic†
- Suika Game (x2) + DLC
- Sunset Riders (SNES)
- Super Bomberman Collection
- Super Bomberman R Archived (cannot play)
- Super Dodge Ball (Wii VC)
- Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania
- Super Volley Blast
- Taito Milestones 3
- Tales from the Borderlands
- Talking Tom Candy Run
- Terminator 2D: No Fate
- Tetris 99 + DLC
- Tetris Effect: Connected (x2) (Cart)
- Tetris Forever
- Tetris: The Grand Master
- Tetris The Absolute Grandmaster 2 Plus
- That's a cow
- The 7th Guest†
- The Adventure Pals
- THE CARD Perfect Collection † LW (x2)
- The Church in the Darkness
- The Complex† (☍)
- The First Tree
- The Jackbox Party Pack (Online Only) - Reg.
- The Jackbox Party Pack 3 Archived (cannot play)
- The King of Fighters '98
- The Oregon Trail + DLC
- The Pathless
- The TakeOver
- Thunder Force AC
- Tinykin
- TMNT: Shredder's Revenge + DLC (Cart)
- TMNT: Splintered Fate + DLC (Cart) ¦ NS2✶
- TMNT: The Cowabunga Collection LW (Cart)
- Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2 LW (Cart)
- Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 LW (Cart) ¦ NS2✶
- Total Arcade Racing
- Toy Stunt Bike: Tiptop's Trials
- Trombone Champ ∏
- Turok N (N64)
- Turrican Flashback
- Toziuha Night: Dracula's Revenge
- Ultimate Runner†
- UnMetal
- Valfaris
- Valis: The Fantasm Soldier (Remake)
- Valley
- Vampire: The Masquerade - Coteries of NY (1st)
- Vampire: The Masquerade - Shadows of NY (2nd)
- Vampire Survivors† (x2) + DLC
- Vendetta
- Venice Taxi Boats†
- Virtua Racing
- VS. Balloon Fight
- VS. Gradius
- VS. Ice Climber
- VS. Super Mario Bros.
- Windjammers
- Wonder Boy Returns Remix
- Xevious
- Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair
- Ys Origin
- Zanac (G-MODE Archives29)
- Zero Gunner 2-
- Zombie Army Trilogy LW (Cart x2)
- Zombie Army 4: Dead War LW (Cart)
The following bulleted points are some random notes and thoughts about the Nintendo Switch. In the list, you will find information about the system and games that I could not place anywhere else.
For starters, at one point, I also had the following 19 games on physical cartridges:
For LW purposes and playing together locally across multiple Switch systems, I note (***) a combo of 3 physical and/or digital copies of the following games:
Otherwise, please click one of the following links to read additional notes and thoughts:
Key/Legend for Physical & Digital games:
For starters, at one point, I also had the following 19 games on physical cartridges:
- Bee Simulator
- Big Buck Hunter: Ultimate Trophy
- Darksiders III
- DOOM Eternal (Limited Run #154)
- Figment 1 & 2 (European)
- Let's Sing Country
- Mega Man 11
- Mighty Fight Federation (Premium Edition #06)
- Override: Mech City Brawl (Japanese)
- Postal: Brain Damaged (Super Rare #123)
- RICO (European)
- Spintires: MudRunner - American Wilds
- Super Bomberman R
- The Pathless (iam8bit red)
- Tin Hearts (Japanese)
- Unravel Two
- Vampire: The Masquerade - New York Bundle
- Wild Card Football
- Windjammers
For LW purposes and playing together locally across multiple Switch systems, I note (***) a combo of 3 physical and/or digital copies of the following games:
- Bang-On Balls: Chronicles (Carts x3 - S, F, & M)
- Doom + Doom II (smccall742, gritty, + Cart)
- EDF: World Brothers (Carts x3 - S, F, & M)
- OBAKEIDORO! (smccall742, gritty, + Cart)
- Quake II (smccall742, gritty, + Cart)
- Strange Brigade (smccall742 + Carts x2)
- Zombie Army Trilogy (smccall742 + Carts x2)
Otherwise, please click one of the following links to read additional notes and thoughts:
- Switch Library Curation
- Mario Kart Tracks: SNES to Switch
- Borderlands 1, 2, Pre, 3 DLC (campaigns, packs)
- Couch Co-Op, Competitive Multiplayer, and Kids Party
- Kid-Friendly Local Wireless (2 Switches)
- mcgritty's Digital Purchases
- Hidden Gems
- Fuser DLC: List of downloaded songs
- Pinball FX3 tables
- Retro Fighters D6 controller for 6-button fighting games
- amiibo (α) compatibility (i.e., special unlocks)
- Switch-related Links
- ACA NEO GEO, Arcade Archives, and Sega Ages
- Nyko Wireless Core Controller
- Switch 2 Performance Boosts to "Uncapped" Switch 1
Key/Legend for Physical & Digital games:
- LW means 2 copies (digital and/or physical) to support Local Wireless (LAN) play
- (x2) indicates owning 2 physical carts in order to share for online gaming
- (x2) indicates having 2 digital licenses for online/LW—as well as mcgritty Ø
- (*) signifies that a digital copy is not downloaded to save space on Switch
- (†) advertises optional touch screen handheld gameplay controls
- (∏) designates available Joy-Con motion control support
- (α) showcases games with special amiibo compatibility
- (☍) tags game as being DL'd to alternate microSDXC card
- (➅) works well with the Retro Fighters D6 controller
- N notes support for the N64 (NSO) or GCN controllers
- ¦ NS2✶ indicates notable improvements (paid or free) when played on Switch 2
Copyright © Scott McCall. All Rights Reserved. ™ and © for all products, characters, and indicia related thereto which are contained herein are owned by the companies who market or license those products.