I’ve Played All 9 Switch 2 Exclusives Released So Far and Here’s My Official Ranking

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Even though the Nintendo Switch 2 has only been available for about six months, it’s already become known for its great selection of games. Since its release, the console has offered a diverse range of titles, including at least nine games you can’t play anywhere else, with more on the way.

Unless something unexpected happens, no new games will be released specifically for the Switch 2 in 2025. Now’s a good time to review the first six months of the console and its games – some have been fantastic, while others haven’t done so well.

The Switch 2 is getting off to a great start with a growing number of exclusive games, and even more are planned for the future. I’ve played all the Switch 2 exclusives released so far and put together a ranking to help you decide which games to play first, whether you’re building your collection or are new to the console.

I left out remasters such as Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD and Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S because I wanted to focus only on games made specifically for the Switch 2. I also didn’t include Switch 2 editions of existing games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A, as those are also playable on the original Switch.

9. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

Even if Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour was included for free with the console, it’s still a dull and uninteresting experience I wouldn’t recommend. It’s basically a collection of mini-games that feels more like an interactive museum, where you just walk around and read facts about the Switch 2. It completely misses the point of making games fun – as Reggie Fils-Aime famously said, “If it’s not fun, why bother?” I played it all the way through when it launched and have no intention of ever playing it again.

8. Survival Kids

Survival Kids is a bit of an odd choice among the games launching with the Switch 2. This new installment, a revival of the Survival Kids/Lost in Blue series, unfortunately isn’t very enjoyable. It combines puzzle-solving with survival mechanics, requiring players to gather materials and create tools to navigate challenges. However, unlike most survival games where you steadily improve, Survival Kids resets your progress with each level. This means you’re constantly stuck with limited resources and repeating the most tedious parts of the genre, making the experience frustrating rather than fun.

One good thing about Survival Kids is that it lets up to four players team up, and you only need one game copy for local wireless play. However, considering it costs $49.99, its flaws are hard to overlook – the price feels excessive for what you get.

7. Drag x Drive

Drag x Drive is a wheelchair basketball game played using the Joy-Con 2 as a mouse. While the controls take some getting used to, they become intuitive with practice. The game itself is enjoyable, and I had a good time playing, but it’s held back by two major flaws. First, it doesn’t offer local multiplayer, meaning it relies on players staying engaged for a long time – which feels unlikely. Second, there simply isn’t enough content to keep you playing beyond a few short bursts. It lacks the depth needed to justify extended playtime.

6. Chillin’ by the Fire

As the name, Chillin’ by the Fire, suggests, this game is all about relaxing around a campfire. Players roast marshmallows, gather wood, and try to keep the fire burning. While there’s a strategy to stacking wood, the game mainly focuses on socializing. It’s a multiplayer experience where players can hang out together, and with the Switch 2 Camera, you can even see everyone’s faces. It’s not a fast-paced or essential game, but it’s a fun and unique way to unwind.

5. Fast Fusion

Alongside Mario Kart World, Fast Fusion was another exciting racing game available when the Switch 2 launched. Fast Fusion featured stunning tracks and a clever feature allowing players to combine their cars to build completely new vehicles. The racing itself was incredibly fun, and the game could have been even more popular if it included online multiplayer. While local multiplayer is available, the missing online mode significantly limits the game’s replay value.

4. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment

I have mixed feelings about the Hyrule Warriors games. I really enjoyed the first one – it was fun unlocking characters from across the Legend of Zelda series and battling with them. However, I was disappointed with Age of Calamity. The original Hyrule Warriors was a vibrant and lighthearted action game, but Age of Calamity felt dull and uninspired, and its story wasn’t even considered official Zelda lore.

I think Age of Imprisonment is just okay. While it’s great that the story connects to Tears of the Kingdom, the cutscenes drag on, and the game often prevents you from playing with friends in the early parts – which is a shame, since co-op is the biggest reason to play. It’s frustrating to start a mission and find out you have to play it alone.

Despite its flaws, Age of Imprisonment is a clear improvement over the last game. It offers the fast-paced, action-packed gameplay Warriors fans love, but with better graphics and a smoother experience. Unlike previous Warriors games on the Switch, this one runs without the frustrating lag and stuttering, even in split-screen multiplayer.

3. Mario Kart World

Launching alongside the Switch 2, Mario Kart World is the system’s biggest title so far. It’s an expansive open-world racing game with the best graphics and smoothest performance the series has ever seen. Players can enjoy stunning courses and exciting new ways to move, plus a variety of multiplayer modes that offer lasting fun. While exploring the open world alone can feel a bit directionless at times, Mario Kart World is an essential game for anyone with a Switch 2.

2. Kirby Air Riders

I was surprised by how much I enjoy Kirby Air Riders. Since I never played the original Kirby Air Ride on GameCube, this game felt completely fresh, and I was really impressed. It’s a fast-paced racing game with a fun cast of characters and crazy vehicles – it’s chaotic, but in a good way! Like other games from creator Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby Air Riders is packed with content, featuring achievements and lots of unlockables that keep you playing. The online multiplayer is a blast, there’s plenty to do offline, and it’s hard to put down. Even if you’re not sure you’ll like it, I definitely recommend giving Kirby Air Riders a try.

1. Donkey Kong Bananza

Nominated for Game of the Year, Donkey Kong Bananza is currently the best game you can play exclusively on the Switch 2. This massive 3D platformer lets you smash and destroy almost everything in sight, making it incredibly fun from beginning to end. I was hooked until I unlocked everything, and I still want to play it again! If you don’t want the adventure to end, the Emerald Rush DLC adds new challenges and lets you explore DK Island, giving you even more reason to keep playing.

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2025-11-26 12:05