Nintendo Switch 2 launched with considerable anticipation, quickly establishing itself as a formidable successor in Nintendo’s storied hardware lineup.
In the six months since release, Switch 2 has secured a robust foothold in the gaming market.
While acclaimed franchises like Animal Crossing and Super Smash Bros.
have yet to make their debut on the new system, a slate of high-profile exclusives has helped define the platform’s early identity.
Here, we rank every major Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive so far, focusing only on titles developed specifically for the new hardware — thus, cross-generation hits like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are not included.
6.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour More of a tech showcase than a traditional game, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour offers a curated collection of mini-experiences designed to highlight the unique capabilities of the Switch 2 hardware and controllers.
While certain challenges are inventive, the overall package has limited replay value.
Its primary merit lies in offering players a behind-the-scenes perspective on what went into the system’s development.
Priced accessibly, Switch 2 Welcome Tour nonetheless may leave seasoned gamers wanting deeper engagement from the experience. 5.
Drag x Drive Released in August, Drag x Drive is one of the more understated exclusives in Switch 2’s library.
The title introduces experimental controls that require players to use both Joy-Cons in tandem, which has proven divisive among fans accustomed to handheld play.
While it offers promising concepts, critics have noted the game’s muted color palette and lack of a strong visual identity.
Despite its innovative ideas, Drag x Drive is held back by execution issues and lacks the charm typically associated with Nintendo’s new intellectual properties. 4.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Marking a high point for the Warriors spin-off series, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment delivers expansive content and improved technical performance over its predecessor, Age of Calamity.
For the first time, the game recounts the storied Imprisoning War without relying on narrative contrivances like time travel.
Players can enjoy straightforward action or rise to the game’s higher difficulties to truly master its mechanics.
The title boasts a wide roster, an engaging story, and a consistent 60 frames per second during gameplay—a significant advancement compared to past entries.
However, cutscenes remain capped at 30 fps in handheld mode, resulting in a minor disconnect from the main experience.
Age of Imprisonment is a must-play for fans of the genre. 3.
Mario Kart World Mario Kart World embraces a bold new direction for the iconic franchise by introducing open-world elements and innovative mechanics like wall-riding and charge-jumping.
While the game initially drew mixed reactions due to certain design decisions—such as the introduction of the Kamek Orb unlocking system and the separation of character outfits—Nintendo has been proactive in releasing updates to address community feedback.
Notably, new collectibles tracking and gameplay adjustments have already improved the experience.
Mario Kart World offers some of the best gameplay in series history, with standout new courses like Wario Stadium and Bowser’s Castle.
While not perfect, continual support and updates point to a bright future for this flagship racer. 2.
Kirby Air Riders Directed by Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby Air Riders has been lauded as one of Nintendo’s finest racing games to date.
The title ships as a complete package, eschewing post-launch DLC in favor of a content-rich launch day experience.
In addition to its racing modes, the robust City Trial mode—familiar to fans of Smash Run from previous games—adds strategic variety.
Each character and vehicle combination offers unique abilities, encouraging experimentation and diverse play styles.
Kirby Air Riders features a strong narrative, polished cutscenes, and comprehensive online features.
While some fans would welcome additional content, the title stands out as a must-have for both Kirby devotees and racing fans alike. 1.
Donkey Kong Bananza Topping our list is Donkey Kong Bananza, a standout 3D platformer that captures the creativity and challenge of Nintendo’s best.
Resonating with fans of the Mario series, the game offers a rewarding gameplay loop, extensive collectibles, and numerous homages to Donkey Kong’s heritage.
The inclusion of the Emerald Rush DLC provides substantial post-game content, adding tens of hours to the overall experience.
Donkey Kong Bananza is praised for its compelling story and memorable new villains, even rivaling iconic titles like Super Mario Odyssey in terms of innovation and replayability.
Despite some marketing challenges surrounding its DLC content, the game is widely regarded as a must-play for platformer enthusiasts. While this ranking reflects the strengths and nuances of Nintendo Switch 2’s growing exclusive library, it’s important to recognize that opinions may vary.
With more anticipated releases such as Mario Tennis Fever and Yoshi and the Mysterious Book on the horizon, Switch 2’s catalogue is poised for even greater success.
Stay tuned for future updates as more exclusives join the ranks of Nintendo’s flagship console.
In the six months since release, Switch 2 has secured a robust foothold in the gaming market.
While acclaimed franchises like Animal Crossing and Super Smash Bros.
have yet to make their debut on the new system, a slate of high-profile exclusives has helped define the platform’s early identity.
Here, we rank every major Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive so far, focusing only on titles developed specifically for the new hardware — thus, cross-generation hits like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are not included.
6.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour More of a tech showcase than a traditional game, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour offers a curated collection of mini-experiences designed to highlight the unique capabilities of the Switch 2 hardware and controllers.
While certain challenges are inventive, the overall package has limited replay value.
Its primary merit lies in offering players a behind-the-scenes perspective on what went into the system’s development.
Priced accessibly, Switch 2 Welcome Tour nonetheless may leave seasoned gamers wanting deeper engagement from the experience. 5.
Drag x Drive Released in August, Drag x Drive is one of the more understated exclusives in Switch 2’s library.
The title introduces experimental controls that require players to use both Joy-Cons in tandem, which has proven divisive among fans accustomed to handheld play.
While it offers promising concepts, critics have noted the game’s muted color palette and lack of a strong visual identity.
Despite its innovative ideas, Drag x Drive is held back by execution issues and lacks the charm typically associated with Nintendo’s new intellectual properties. 4.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Marking a high point for the Warriors spin-off series, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment delivers expansive content and improved technical performance over its predecessor, Age of Calamity.
For the first time, the game recounts the storied Imprisoning War without relying on narrative contrivances like time travel.
Players can enjoy straightforward action or rise to the game’s higher difficulties to truly master its mechanics.
The title boasts a wide roster, an engaging story, and a consistent 60 frames per second during gameplay—a significant advancement compared to past entries.
However, cutscenes remain capped at 30 fps in handheld mode, resulting in a minor disconnect from the main experience.
Age of Imprisonment is a must-play for fans of the genre. 3.
Mario Kart World Mario Kart World embraces a bold new direction for the iconic franchise by introducing open-world elements and innovative mechanics like wall-riding and charge-jumping.
While the game initially drew mixed reactions due to certain design decisions—such as the introduction of the Kamek Orb unlocking system and the separation of character outfits—Nintendo has been proactive in releasing updates to address community feedback.
Notably, new collectibles tracking and gameplay adjustments have already improved the experience.
Mario Kart World offers some of the best gameplay in series history, with standout new courses like Wario Stadium and Bowser’s Castle.
While not perfect, continual support and updates point to a bright future for this flagship racer. 2.
Kirby Air Riders Directed by Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby Air Riders has been lauded as one of Nintendo’s finest racing games to date.
The title ships as a complete package, eschewing post-launch DLC in favor of a content-rich launch day experience.
In addition to its racing modes, the robust City Trial mode—familiar to fans of Smash Run from previous games—adds strategic variety.
Each character and vehicle combination offers unique abilities, encouraging experimentation and diverse play styles.
Kirby Air Riders features a strong narrative, polished cutscenes, and comprehensive online features.
While some fans would welcome additional content, the title stands out as a must-have for both Kirby devotees and racing fans alike. 1.
Donkey Kong Bananza Topping our list is Donkey Kong Bananza, a standout 3D platformer that captures the creativity and challenge of Nintendo’s best.
Resonating with fans of the Mario series, the game offers a rewarding gameplay loop, extensive collectibles, and numerous homages to Donkey Kong’s heritage.
The inclusion of the Emerald Rush DLC provides substantial post-game content, adding tens of hours to the overall experience.
Donkey Kong Bananza is praised for its compelling story and memorable new villains, even rivaling iconic titles like Super Mario Odyssey in terms of innovation and replayability.
Despite some marketing challenges surrounding its DLC content, the game is widely regarded as a must-play for platformer enthusiasts. While this ranking reflects the strengths and nuances of Nintendo Switch 2’s growing exclusive library, it’s important to recognize that opinions may vary.
With more anticipated releases such as Mario Tennis Fever and Yoshi and the Mysterious Book on the horizon, Switch 2’s catalogue is poised for even greater success.
Stay tuned for future updates as more exclusives join the ranks of Nintendo’s flagship console.
