15 Best Shoot ’em Up Games on Nintendo Switch: Top Picks for Shmup Fans

Shoot ’em up games, also known as shmups, have experienced a remarkable resurgence on the Nintendo Switch, a platform that has quickly become a haven for both classic and modern entries within this iconic genre.

With a vast line-up spanning legacy arcade releases, beloved imports, and innovative indie creations, the eShop offers a wealth of options for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Whether you’re seeking meticulously remastered treasures or bold new experiments, the Nintendo Switch provides access to some of the best shooting action in gaming history.

Below are 15 of the finest shoot ’em up games currently available on the platform. Radiant Silvergun Originally a prized title in the SEGA Saturn import scene, Radiant Silvergun by Treasure is now readily available on the Nintendo Switch.

This acclaimed game stands out by allowing players full access to a variety of weapons, each assigned to a dedicated button, making for strategic and rewarding gameplay.

The soundtrack, composed by Hitoshi Sakimoto (noted for Final Fantasy Tactics), enhances the experience, and mastering the weapon system is key to progression. Ikaruga Another legendary entry from Treasure, Ikaruga is often hailed as a must-play in the shmup genre.

Drawing inspiration from the studio’s earlier Silhouette Mirage, Ikaruga introduces an innovative polarity mechanic, requiring players to switch between black and white to absorb or deal damage.

Its unique approach and accessible challenge have made it a gateway title for players new to shoot ’em ups. Rolling Gunner Developed with input from former Cave staff, Rolling Gunner is a thrilling and challenging bullet-hell shooter.

The game features a rotating gun mechanic, allowing for multi-directional firing and complex dodging.

The Overpower DLC expands the experience for those seeking an even greater challenge, but both newcomers and veterans will find depth and satisfaction in its design. Crimzon Clover – World EXplosion Crimzon Clover delivers an intense vertical shooting experience, tailored for all skill levels on Nintendo Switch.

The World EXplosion edition offers expanded options and modes, enabling gradual mastery.

Its Break system rewards risk-taking with high scores, and the boss battles provide visually impressive, action-packed encounters. Deathsmiles I – II Although some Cave titles have left the Switch in recent years due to delistings, Deathsmiles I – II remains a standout collection.

Bundling Deathsmiles, Deathsmiles Black Label, and Deathsmiles II, this gothic-themed series delivers the studio’s signature bullet hell gameplay in three distinct variations.

Tight controls and atmospheric visuals ensure an engaging experience with high replay value. G-Darius HD The Darius franchise has a rich history, and G-Darius HD brings both a modern remaster and a faithful recreation of the original arcade hit to Switch fans.

The capture system, which allows players to recruit enemies as allies, keeps the gameplay engaging, while the game’s distinctive visuals and audio further add to its appeal. Ray’z Arcade Chronology Taito’s Ray series offers a different approach, incorporating three-dimensional elements across its trilogy—RayForce, RayStorm, and RayCrisis—now collected in Ray’z Arcade Chronology.

Each game introduces unique mechanics, with RayForce lauded for its refined gameplay and the sequels for ambitious experimentation. Drainus This recent indie standout focuses on a journey-oriented structure, enabling players to absorb enemy fire and retaliate, resulting in a more forgiving but still challenging experience.

With options that accommodate a range of skill levels, Drainus serves as an excellent entry point to the genre. Raiden IV x Mikado Remix The acclaimed Raiden series is well represented on Switch, but Raiden IV x Mikado Remix stands apart for its range of play modes and remixed soundtracks.

Notably, the Overkill mode rewards players for maximizing damage on defeated foes, while multiple ships provide variety. Terra Flame Indie developer Terarin channels the spirit of PC Engine shooters in Terra Flame.

The accessible Caravan modes and distinctive throwback graphics cater to genre traditionalists, offering an alternative to more intense bullet hell titles. NeverAwake Departing from classic genre conventions, NeverAwake surprises with its unique visual style and narrative approach.

The game’s short, inventive levels and story-driven structure offer a refreshing change of pace while maintaining engaging gameplay and online leaderboards for added competition. Cotton Fantasy The Cotton series, once rare and expensive, enjoys a vibrant revival on Switch.

Cotton Fantasy brings all-new adventures with its trademark whimsical style and intense action, backed by the success of recent rereleases.

Genre fans are encouraged to also try Cotton Reboot for more classic action. Kyukyoku Tiger-Heli -Toaplan Arcade Garage- This collection from M2 shines a spotlight on Toaplan’s influential arcade shooters, including Tiger-Heli and Twin Cobra.

Enhanced modes and thoughtful features make these classics accessible without compromising their retro challenge. Devil Engine: Complete Edition Fans of arcade shooters such as Thunder Force will appreciate Devil Engine’s striking graphics, quality soundtrack, and challenging gameplay.

The Complete Edition offers an expanded package with unlockables and extra content, ensuring long-term engagement. R-Type Dimensions EX Rounding out the list is R-Type Dimensions EX, compiling the first two R-Type games with both modernized and classic visuals.

The series' atmospheric level design and methodical pacing remain as compelling as ever, making this collection a perfect way for both newcomers and veterans to experience a legendary franchise. From legendary developers like Treasure and Cave to acclaimed indie studios, the Nintendo Switch continues to be a premier platform for shoot ’em up fans.

With a library boasting deep mechanics, inventive twists, and a celebration of genre history, Switch owners have unparalleled access to the very best in shooting games.

Share your own favorites and discoveries to keep the community thriving.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Treasure