The Nintendo Switch Lite is a 100 % handheld console: no dock, no TV mode. The best games Here are the ones who shine on the small screen, whether in short-run series or long-running shows.
Here are the The 25 Best Switch Games Must-haves for your Switch Lite, sorted by Metacritic score. There you'll find epic solos, RPG massive games and cult-favorite multiplayer titles.
| Games | Release date on Switch | Metacritic Score (Nintendo Switch) | PEGI |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | March 3, 2017 | 97/100 | 12 |
| The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom | May 12, 2023 | 96/100 | 12 |
| Persona 5 Royal | October 21, 2022 | 94/100 | 16 |
| Metroid Prime Remastered | February 8, 2023 | 94/100 | 12 |
| Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | December 7, 2018 | 93/100 | 12 |
| Hades | September 17, 2020 | 93/100 | 12 |
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | April 28, 2018 | 92/100 | 3 |
| Celeste | January 25, 2018 | 92/100 | 7 |
| Hollow Knight | June 12, 2018 | 90/100 | 7 |
| Animal Crossing: New Horizons | March 20, 2020 | 90/100 | 3 |
| NieR: Automata – The End of YoRHa Edition | October 6, 2022 | 89/100 | 18 |
| Dead Cells | August 7, 2018 | 89/100 | 16 |
| Xenoblade Chronicles 3 | July 29, 2022 | 89/100 | 12 |
| Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown | January 18, 2024 | 88/100 | 16 |
| Monster Hunter Rise | March 26, 2021 | 88/100 | 12 |
| Stardew Valley | October 5, 2017 | 87/100 | 7 |
| Sonic Mania | August 15, 2017 | 86/100 | 3 |
| Kirby and the Forgotten Land | March 25, 2022 | 85/100 | 7 |
| Octopath Traveler II | February 24, 2023 | 85/100 | 12 |
| Dredge | March 30, 2023 | 84/100 | 12 |
| Spiritfarer | August 18, 2020 | 84/100 | 7 |
| Baba Is You | March 13, 2019 | 84/100 | 3 |
| Splatoon 3 | September 9, 2022 | 83/100 | 7 |
| Octopath Traveler | July 13, 2018 | 83/100 | 12 |
| Outer Wilds | December 7, 2023 | 82/100 | 12 |
Something to know before buying: The Switch Lite doesn't have No detachable Joy-Cons.
For multiplayer games such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Where Splatoon 3, you'll need to play online or connect an external controller.
On the bright side, though: the gyroscope is definitely there in the console, so aiming with the controller Splatoon or of Zelda: Breath of the Wild work perfectly. Only the HD vibration is missing from this model.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
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The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild remains, for many, the best adventure game of the nintendo-switch. Its open world is based on a simple idea: total freedom. Whether you're climbing a mountain, sidestepping an enemy, or trying out a little physics experiment, the game lets you do it.
The real magic comes from everything you experience as you explore Hyrule. Every hill hides a secret, every sanctuary an enigma. No two levels are alike.
Since it's a solo adventure, Breath of the Wild is perfect on the Switch Lite. The built-in gyroscope It handles the sanctuary puzzles very well, and the 100 % portable format is ideal for long exploration sessions.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
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Do you want even more freedom than in Breath of the Wild ? The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom takes the concept a step further with its mechanics of impressive construction and assembly.
Here, you don't just explore Hyrule. You build your own vehicles, come up with your own solutions, and overcome obstacles your own way. It's enough to really get your brain working on a a massive adventure full of challenges.
As it unfolds entirely solo, this game is perfect on the Switch Lite: just you, the screen, and dozens of’hours an adventure. Best suited for players who enjoy Test and create without limits.
3. Persona 5 Royal
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In Persona 5 Royal, you play a high school student who discovers a parallel world. There, people's deepest, hidden desires take shape in palaces that you must explore.
the Game mixture everyday life and supernatural adventures in a stylish, one-of-a-kind atmosphere. You juggle classes, your relationships, and undercover missions in the palace. Every day counts, and this pace makes the’adventure Diverse and quickly addictive.
This RPG is an excellent choice on the Switch Lite. Its gameplay Turn-based gameplay works really well on the small screen screen in handheld mode, without an external controller. You can play in short sessions while commuting, or lose yourself in it for hours in the evening.
This is the perfect title if you're looking for a A long, rich, and memorable game, which fits in your pocket.
4. Metroid Prime Remastered
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Metroid Prime Remastered brings a cult classic from the franchise back into the spotlight. You play as the bounty hunter Samus Aran, alone on a hostile planet. It is a first-person exploration adventure, accompanied by a score Metacritic of 94/100.
The game never holds your hand. Each area hides passages, power-ups, and secrets. You make your way through at your own at one's own pace, gradually unlocking new abilities to reach places that were initially inaccessible.
The aim of gyroscope, which is very much present on the Switch Lite, makes battles precise and immersive. A A game designed for long adventure sessions, perfect if you like mysterious worlds and the joy of exploring everything on your own.
5. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
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Want to bring together the iconic characters from the entire universe Nintendo in a single game? Super Smash Bros. Ultimate brings together more than 80 playable fighters, of Mario at Link via Pikachu and Kirby. The idea is simple: you have to knock your opponents out of the arena, and anything goes.
This is the perfect song if you want to mix it up fun and controlled chaos. The single-player adventure mode, « La Lueur du monde«, will keep you on the edge of your seat for hours on end. The local multiplayer requires an internet connection or an additional controller, since there are no detachable Joy-Cons.
6. Hades
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Hades is a an ultra-dynamic action roguelike. You play the role of Zagreus, the son of the god of the Underworld, and you keep trying, time and time again, to escape from the realm of the dead.
Every death sends you back to the beginning, but you start over stronger with each attempt. You earn new weapons, gifts from the gods of Olympus, and permanent upgrades. With each part, you also discover a new piece of the story, which makes the loop incredibly addictive.
The runs are short—perfect for a quick session on your Switch Lite. The action is easy to follow, and gameplay remains smooth in handheld mode. Perfect if you like challenging, fast-paced, and intense games, with a real sense of progress with every attempt.
7. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
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Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the fun racing game the ultimate in nintendo-switch. On the agenda: fast-paced races, zany obstacles, and memorable tours. Every race is as unpredictable as it is chaotic, with its share of blue shells and spins in the final turn.
The game runs perfectly on the’Switch Lite screen. You can sabotage other players to clinch the victory, and the many tracks make you want to play one game after another. It's a game for everyone, from beginners to veterans of Mario.
8. Celeste
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Celeste is a challenging platform game which tells a touching story about pushing your limits. You play the role of Madeline, a young woman who is climbing the Celeste Mountain and, along the way, confronts his own fears. Each screen is a specific challenge, with a precise gameplay where every jump counts.
The difficulty ramps up quickly, but death is never punitive. You respawn instantly, which creates the perfect pace for play in short sessions. About 8 to 10 a.m. to complete the main adventure—and much longer if you hunt for hidden strawberries and bonus levels.
A standout title for those who love challenges and the game's powerful experiences, definitely worth checking out.
9. Hollow Knight
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Hollow Knight is a a dark and challenging Metroidvania. You play as a quiet little knight who explores Hallownest, a vast underground kingdom populated by strange insects and now in ruins.
You progress by gaining new abilities that unlock previously inaccessible areas. Every boss battle requires good timing and patience. The world is vast and interconnected, with dozens of hours of content for a game sold at a low price price.
The game is just as enjoyable in short sessions as it is during long exploration sessions. The action is controlled entirely by the joystick and buttons. For players who enjoy a challenge, the melancholic atmosphere, and the discoveries made along the way.
10. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
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Animal Crossing: New Horizons invites you to Build Your Own Little Haven of Peace on a deserted island. You decorate, you fish, you meet the locals, and you establish your routines—all of that at your own pace, with no pressure. The world is cute and soothing, and it plays just as well on short sessions only on long evenings.
The real-time simulation (The game follows the clock and the seasons) fits perfectly into a portable 100 % format. You have five minutes to spare in the morning, so you turn on your console, check your shop and your flowers, and then put it away.
If you're looking for a game to get away from it all and relax, New Horizons is a must-see in the Nintendo Switch.
11. NieR: Automata, The End of YoRHa Edition
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In NieR: Automata, you play the role of the android 2B in a world ravaged by machines. The gameplay It combines intense combat, shooting sequences, and exploration in an adventure with a cult classic storyline.
This Action RPG stands out above all for its history. One must complete the game multiple times to fully grasp its meaning, and each playthrough reveals a new facet of the plot.
This Switch Edition makes the game perfectly playable on the Switch Lite, with the screen on for hours. If you like stories thought-provoking quotes, go for it.
12. Dead Cells
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Dead Cells is a Nervous 2D roguelike produced by the French studio Motion Twin. You explore a cursed island, fight monsters, and, inevitably, die. A lot.
But every death takes you back to the beginning—more armed and stronger. You unlock new weapons, new powers, and you try your luck again. This cycle makes the gameplay incredibly addictive.
The levels are broken down into short runs, perfect for playing on the go or for a long evening session. The action is easy to follow on the small screen, and the game runs smoothly in handheld mode. One of the best games independent of the selection.
13. Xenoblade Chronicles 3
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Xenoblade Chronicles 3 takes you on a huge open world for a epic adventure. Two rival nations, Keves and Agnus, clash, and six characters find themselves caught in the middle of this conflict.
The heart of the gameplay, that's the’immersive exploration and the game's real-time strategic battles. You chain together your characters' skills while managing their positions on the field—a real treat for fans of RPG.
This long single-player game really comes into its own in portable mode: you work in sessions, without ever needing a dock. An ideal choice if you're looking for a an epic narrative adventure in a vast and bountiful universe.
14. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
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Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a action-platform game that puts you in the shoes of Sargon, a young warrior sent to rescue a kidnapped prince. He is a Metroidvania In 2D: You explore a vast, cursed kingdom, unlock new powers, and return to open up previously inaccessible paths.
the gameplay It’s fast-paced and precise. Smooth combat, well-designed puzzles, and challenging platforming sections: you’ll never have a chance to get bored. The battles in boss are a real treat for anyone who loves a challenge.
The action is easy to follow on the small screen screen On the Switch Lite, the display remains crisp, and the game runs smoothly in handheld mode. An excellent choice if you like exploration and the game's dynamic battles.
15. Monster Hunter Rise
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The title says it all! Monster Hunter Rise is a action-RPG game in which you play as a hunter tasked with tracking down and killing numerous monsters. The game features 14 types of weapons, as well as Filopters for getting around and fighting, and Palamutes that you can ride. Hunts can be undertaken solo or in multiplayer mode.
Monster Hunter Rise is for you if you want some’intense action, but also if you like cooperative games.
16. Stardew Valley
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Stardew Valley is a life simulation game beloved for its A warm and incredibly relaxing atmosphere. The goal of the game is simple: take over an old farm and tend the fields, raise animals, build relationships with the villagers, and explore mines. You can do it all at your own pace, with no pressure!
It's a great game for anyone who likes to take their time, relax, and to immerse yourself in a caring world.
17. Sonic Mania
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Notice to Sonic fans ! Sonic Mania brings back the famous blue hedgehog in new adventures inspired by the classic Sonic games. Get ready to to run at full speed through various levels, collect rings and take on Dr. Eggman's robots !
With its retro style and fast-paced gameplay, this game is perfect for fans of Speed and a retro feel.
18. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
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Are you looking for a a charming 3D adventure ? "Kirby and the Forgotten Land" invites you to explore a variety of creative environments. The game notably features Kirby’s famous ability to copy his opponents' powers. Get ready for colorful and really fun adventures!
Fun and accessible, *Kirby and the Forgotten Land* is for everyone! In fact, you can do some two-player games with local co-op.
19. Octopath Traveler II
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In Octopath Traveler II, you follow eight different destinies in a retro and immersive style. What's in store: captivating characters, each with their own story and unique abilities. The many storylines will keep you on the edge of your seat for hours—you've been warned!
Octopath Traveler II is made for fans of Japanese RPGs and the stories that unfold. Its 2D-HD Art Direction gives it a distinctive style.
20. Dredge
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Do you like fishing? Dredge puts you in the shoes of a fisherman who explores various maritime areas in search of fish and treasure. But behind its appearance as a fishing game lies a more unsettling atmosphere, with mysterious discoveries to be made.
In addition to catching fish, Dredge invites you to explore the sea and its secrets. All of this takes place in a unique and original atmosphere, somewhere between calm and horror. This game is for you if you like original experiences.
21. Spiritfarer
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Spiritfarer is a adventure and management game in which you play Stella, a smuggler tasked with’to guide spirits to the afterlife. In particular, you can explore the world, upgrade your boat, and take care of the characters you meet.
Spiritfarer is a a deeply moving play with pure emotion and endearing characters. It's perfect if you're looking for a calm yet memorable experience in a dreamlike universe.
22. Baba Is You
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Looking for something unique? Baba Is You is a puzzle game based on a particularly original concept: you can change the level rules by moving words around. You'll need to understand the different rules and combine them to find a solution. Each level is a surprise that will really get your brain working!
It's the perfect game if you like clever puzzles.
23. Splatoon 3
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Splatoon 3 is a colorful shooting game The concept is simple and fun: the goal is to cover the ground with ink rather than eliminating opponents. The gameplay revolves around your ability to move around and use the environment to your advantage. The game offers several multiplayer modes to add variety to the battles.
Splatoon 3 is for you if you're looking for a A fun and original game. Get ready for fast-paced, dynamic games!
24. Octopath Traveler
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Octopath Traveler follows the intertwined destinies of eight characters, each with their own story and special abilities. The game is beloved for its retro-modern style Truly superb. The turn-based combat relies heavily on exploiting the enemies’ weaknesses.
With his a visual style that blends 2D characters With its 3D characters and environments, the game has a very distinctive visual style. It is perfect if you love Japanese RPG with striking artistic direction.
25. Outer Wilds
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A mysterious space exploration, interested? *Outer Wilds* is a space adventure and exploration game in which you explore a solar system trapped in a mysterious time loop. The goal is to investigate this mystery: you must explore the different planets, observe your surroundings and gradually figure out what's going on.
The game is intended for all curious minds and explorers who enjoy thinking and having a unique experience!
So? Which of these games are you looking forward to trying out on your Switch Lite? Do you know of any other Switch games that are worth checking out? Tell us all about it in the comments!
And for even more Nintendo Switch games:































