Rolling Stone’s 'Best Games of 2025' list is out, and Nintendo Switch titles have made a remarkable impression, securing 11 spots out of 25—a testament to the platform's enduring popularity and Nintendo’s strong game library through the year.
Highlighting top-tier releases and fan-favorite franchises, the selection reflects both critical acclaim and community enthusiasm, with notable games like Donkey Kong: Bananza, Hades II, and Mario Kart World capturing the spotlight. This year’s list sees "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" clinch the coveted number one position, earning praise for its immersive gameplay and artistry.
However, it’s the number three spot that has delighted long-time Nintendo fans: Donkey Kong’s triumphant return in "Donkey Kong: Bananza," developed by Sandfall Interactive, has bestowed the beloved character a prestigious podium finish.
The game’s mix of classic platforming and fresh mechanics evidently resonated with Rolling Stone’s editors, solidifying Donkey Kong’s place as a force within Nintendo’s 2025 lineup. Elsewhere, Hades II—developed by Supergiant Games—grabbed the impressive number two rank, reinforcing its status as one of the year’s most celebrated releases across all platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.
"The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy" also earned a top-ten finish at seventh place, while "Mario Kart World," with its new tracks and competitive racing, landed at number thirteen, underscoring the Switch’s broad appeal.
Highly anticipated games like "Hollow Knight: Silksong" find themselves at number twelve, demonstrating the diversity and depth present on the Nintendo Switch and its successor, the Switch 2. A Rolling Stone representative noted that the annual list draws from a broad range of gaming experiences, highlighting titles that stood out both for innovation and engagement.
They acknowledged Donkey Kong: Bananza’s high ranking, stating it was well-earned due to its blend of nostalgia and fresh energy, and praised Hades II for elevating the roguelike genre to new heights. Nintendo Switch fans have much to celebrate: From dynamic newcomers like "Absolum" and "BALL x PIT" to enduring favorites like Donkey Kong, there is something for every gamer.
As the games industry closes out another year, the platform’s strong presence on this major list illustrates Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to delivering quality content both on the original Nintendo Switch and as anticipation builds for the Switch 2.
With titles available through the Nintendo eShop, the Switch ecosystem looks set to remain a vibrant destination for gamers well into the new year. Rolling Stone’s complete Best of 2025 selection, featuring hits across all major hardware platforms, further cements the significance of Nintendo’s contributions to modern gaming.
For those seeking standout experiences, the Nintendo Switch continues to deliver, reassuring loyal players and newcomers alike that the innovation and fun at the heart of the brand endures.
Highlighting top-tier releases and fan-favorite franchises, the selection reflects both critical acclaim and community enthusiasm, with notable games like Donkey Kong: Bananza, Hades II, and Mario Kart World capturing the spotlight. This year’s list sees "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" clinch the coveted number one position, earning praise for its immersive gameplay and artistry.
However, it’s the number three spot that has delighted long-time Nintendo fans: Donkey Kong’s triumphant return in "Donkey Kong: Bananza," developed by Sandfall Interactive, has bestowed the beloved character a prestigious podium finish.
The game’s mix of classic platforming and fresh mechanics evidently resonated with Rolling Stone’s editors, solidifying Donkey Kong’s place as a force within Nintendo’s 2025 lineup. Elsewhere, Hades II—developed by Supergiant Games—grabbed the impressive number two rank, reinforcing its status as one of the year’s most celebrated releases across all platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.
"The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy" also earned a top-ten finish at seventh place, while "Mario Kart World," with its new tracks and competitive racing, landed at number thirteen, underscoring the Switch’s broad appeal.
Highly anticipated games like "Hollow Knight: Silksong" find themselves at number twelve, demonstrating the diversity and depth present on the Nintendo Switch and its successor, the Switch 2. A Rolling Stone representative noted that the annual list draws from a broad range of gaming experiences, highlighting titles that stood out both for innovation and engagement.
They acknowledged Donkey Kong: Bananza’s high ranking, stating it was well-earned due to its blend of nostalgia and fresh energy, and praised Hades II for elevating the roguelike genre to new heights. Nintendo Switch fans have much to celebrate: From dynamic newcomers like "Absolum" and "BALL x PIT" to enduring favorites like Donkey Kong, there is something for every gamer.
As the games industry closes out another year, the platform’s strong presence on this major list illustrates Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to delivering quality content both on the original Nintendo Switch and as anticipation builds for the Switch 2.
With titles available through the Nintendo eShop, the Switch ecosystem looks set to remain a vibrant destination for gamers well into the new year. Rolling Stone’s complete Best of 2025 selection, featuring hits across all major hardware platforms, further cements the significance of Nintendo’s contributions to modern gaming.
For those seeking standout experiences, the Nintendo Switch continues to deliver, reassuring loyal players and newcomers alike that the innovation and fun at the heart of the brand endures.
