The Nintendo Switch 2 has already built a strong library filled with blockbuster releases and major exclusives. But while everyone is talking about the biggest names, plenty of excellent games have quietly slipped under the radar. We think these underrated gems deserve a second look. So, that's why we've compiled 15 of the most underrated games you can currently play on the platform. We guarantee you won't regret trying them out.
15. Fast Fusion
Fans who want a more futuristic take on the racing genre will find a lot to love in Fast Fusion. The game combines high-octane racing, vibrant sci-fi-inspired tracks, and unique anti-gravity mechanics that add more depth than its arcade-like presentation suggests. We love the smooth performance and the intense speed that make every race feel exciting. Call it a bit of a niche reference, but the gameplay genuinely looks and feels similar to podracing from Star Wars.
(Image Credit: Shin'en Multimedia)
14. Nikoderiko: The Magical World
Those who enjoy classic platformers will feel right at home in Nikoderiko: The Magical World. The game features a bunch of colorful environments, charming characters, and inventive level design. Interestingly, the game's visuals won it an award at an indie game awards event. There's also a co-op feature, which allows you to play with friends or family. Quite frankly, the game is pretty easy to understand and somewhat basic, but it's capable of delivering hours of entertaining platforming action.
(Image Credit: Vea Games)
13. The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy
The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy is a tactical RPG that mixes fantastic visual novel storytelling with strategic combat to create a surprisingly complete experience. You control Takumi Sumino, a student in the Last Defense Academy, who must build relationships, uncover mysteries, and defend their academy from dangerous threats for the next 100 days. The story introduces twists that keep you engaged — with choices that can impact the future — throughout the lengthy campaign. Despite receiving critical praise, the game continues to be one of the Switch 2's most overlooked story-driven games.
(Image Credit: Too Kyo Games / Media.Vision)
12. Rift of the NecroDancer
We know rhythm games aren't as celebrated as they were before, but Rift of the NecroDancer takes an inventive combat-based approach to the genre that we think is quite refreshing. You play as Cadence, someone who battles it out with monsters and big bosses alike through a series of musical challenges. Hitting the right enemy patterns will defeat them. The energetic soundtrack keeps every battle entertaining, while the different difficulty levels make it easier for you to challenge yourself. It's one of the most creative and endlessly replayable games that you can currently find on the Nintendo Switch 2.
(Image Credit: Brace Yourself Games / Tic Toc Games)
11. Unicorn Overlord
Unicorn Overlord offers, arguably, one of the best tactical RPG experiences available on the Nintendo Switch 2. In the game, you play as the exiled prince known as Alain, who must recruit allies to his cause across a sprawling fantasy world, assemble a strong Liberation Army, and engage in large-scale battles that reward smart planning and positioning. The gorgeous visuals and deep army management systems give the game a classic feel that's hard to find. It's an outstanding adventure game that deserves far more recognition among strategy fans.
(Image Credit: Vanillaware)
10. Ball x Pit
Ball x Pit is a surprisingly addictive roguelike where you dive into a bottomless pit of monsters in pursuit of hidden treasure and new allies. Set in the fallen world of Ballbylon, every run has you launching magic-infused balls into swarms of enemies. This basic concept is quite addictive, especially once you start using the Ball Fusion system. You can also rebuild Ballbylon by constructing over 70 unique buildings. We think the game is quite a unique combination of different genres, which can make for a fun time if you're looking to experiment with new concepts.
(Image Credit: Kenny Sun)
9. 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is often praised by those who play it, yet it still feels underrated compared to many of the Nintendo Switch 2's bigger titles. The sidescrolling adventure game weaves together the stories of thirteen characters across multiple timelines, which ultimately creates a sci-fi mystery that's packed with all sorts of twists and surprises. Between story segments, you can command giant mechs in strategic real-time battles against invading forces. All in all, it's an incredible game filled with a phenomenal narrative, stunning art direction, and an unforgettable cast.
(Image Credit: Vanillaware)
8. Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is an action-adventure game that mixes combat with real-time strategy and tower defense mechanics to create one of the most unique gameplay experiences on the Nintendo Switch 2. You play as a warrior known as Soh, who, during the day, must prepare your defenses and assign villagers to different roles. Once nighttime hits, supernatural enemies known as the "Seethe" will attack. The graphics are crisp, the Japanese-inspired art is stunning, and the Switch's mouse mode works wonderfully with it. The game flew under the radar after its release in 2024, but we think it's a fresh concept that deserves a shot.
(Image Credit: Capcom)
7. The Touryst DELUXE
The Touryst DELUXE may look rather simple, but it hides a wonderfully crafted adventure that's filled with exploration, puzzles, and — most importantly — secrets. Taking place in the vibrant Monument Islands, you play as a tourist who must uncover the mysteries of the islands. The game has a charming voxel-style world, and its relaxed atmosphere makes the experience quite immersive. This is further complemented by its many clever puzzles. The game's DELUXE version on the Nintendo Switch 2 includes the original 2019 game, a brand new island, improved controls, fresh quests, and visual upgrades.
(Image Credit: Shin'en Multimedia)
6. Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist has some of the most beautiful visuals, emotional storytelling, and satisfying exploration we've seen in a minute. We also like the haunting soundtrack, which perfectly complements the game's somewhat melancholic atmosphere. It may look like a simple 2D side-scrolling RPG at first, but it's actually more than that. The storyline is quite deep, as it sees you venture out into the post-apocalyptic world of the Land of Fumes. You can save friends and unlock lost memories along the way. Altogether, we think it's quite the memorable metroidvania experience.
(Image Credit: Adglobe / Live Wire)
5. Wild Hearts S
Wild Hearts S has carved out its own identity remarkably well in a pretty crowded monster-hunting genre. Go solo or team up with up to three allies as you take on various beasts across different environments in the world of Azuma, like lava-filled terrains and blizzard-filled worlds. The game's Karakuri tech system is quite impressive, as it allows you to create unique structures and traps during battles, which adds a decent layer of strategy. Overall, it's quite a thrilling experience from start to finish. It's a great choice if you're someone looking for an alternative to more established monster-hunting games.
(Image Credit: Omega Force)
4. Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus
Inspired by Japanese folklore, Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus features gorgeous hand-drawn visuals and precise platform mechanics. The movement genuinely feels smooth and responsive. On top of all that, the beautifully designed environments make each stage of your journey to fulfilling an ancient prophecy feel like a cinematic experience. The most impressive thing about this game is that it was developed by an indie studio, which is something to behold considering how detailed everything is.
(Image Credit: Squid Shock Studios)
3. Star Overdrive
Star Overdrive is an action-adventure game that combines high-speed traversal with open-world exploration. The protagonist, simply known as Bios, is stranded on a mysterious planet known as Cebete. You'll explore massive landscapes on a futuristic hoverboard, go face-to-face with aliens, and solve challenging puzzles. The game's physics-based systems add plenty of room for creative problem-solving, and the vibrant environments make every biome worth discovering. It's easily a game you sink hours into.
(Image Credit: Caracal Games)
2. Neva
Neva delivers an emotional journey through a beautifully crafted world filled with some of the most breathtaking environments we've seen in a game. The story follows the relationship between a woman named Alba and her wolf companion called Neva. Their bond evolves as they explore a corrupted world. It's, quite honestly, a stunning experience that deserves far more recognition. We found ourselves reflecting on the entire game after we finished it, which maybe helps explain how impactful it is.
(Image Credit: Nomada Studio)
1. Core Keeper
Core Keeper is a sandbox survival game that blends crafting, mining, farming, and a whole lot of exploration — it's basically a combination of Minecraft and Terraria. You can jump into an adventure by yourself or with friends. From there, you can uncover the mysteries of the ancient Core and make the world your very own. The progression system is quite easy to understand, and this helps make every session feel both strategic and rewarding. The retro-inspired pixel art is also done wonderfully well.
(Image Credit: Pugstorm)
The Nintendo Switch 2 has already built a strong library filled with blockbuster releases and major exclusives. But while everyone is talking about the biggest names, plenty of excellent games have quietly slipped under the radar. We think these underrated gems deserve a second look. So, that's why we've compiled 15 of the most underrated games you can currently play on the platform. We guarantee you won't regret trying them out.
