The Nintendo Switch is a remarkable and versatile gaming system, allowing players the freedom to enjoy their favorite games wherever they are. In light of this portability, numerous titles for the Switch have been crafted specifically to be engaging without the need for an internet connection.
Despite the industry’s growing emphasis on online gaming in recent years, offline, single-player experiences remain a crucial aspect of any console’s library. Not everyone has reliable access to high-speed internet, making it vital for the best offline Switch games to exist and thrive in this ecosystem.
Updated January 5, 2025 by Mark Sammut: As we move into the new year, several notable offline Nintendo Switch games are set to be released soon, prompting the inclusion of a new section dedicated to these upcoming titles. Navigate to the relevant section below for insights.
1 The Legend Of Zelda: Echoes Of Wisdom
Some Formulas Never Grow Old
While the modern entries, such as Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, have reinvigorated the Zelda legacy, Echoes of Wisdom delivers a nostalgic return to the franchise’s classic roots, albeit with fresh narrative twists. Notably, Princess Zelda herself takes the spotlight for the first time in years, embarking on a quest to safeguard Hyrule in Link’s absence, summoned to action by a mysterious portal.
This game showcases Zelda’s unique abilities, largely drawing on her mage-style skills. Empowered by a fairy companion, she wields the Tri Rod to create echoes of various items and creatures, centralizing gameplay around this innovative mechanic. Combat challenges and exploration seamlessly blend as Zelda leverages her powers to summon allies, making each dungeon a harmonious mix of action and puzzles, capped off by engaging boss fights.
2 The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom
Building On Perfection
Although 2023 saw the Switch experience periods of relative quiet, standout titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom emerged to captivate players. This sequel to Breath of the Wild defies expectations, enhancing the already celebrated gameplay while exploring new territories like floating islands and extensive subterranean realms. Link’s mission revolves around locating the missing Zelda while utilizing innovative mechanics such as the fuse system, which encourages player creativity.
Despite being sequels, both BOTW and TOTK are often viewed as equally standout offline Switch games in their own right, creating a thriving ecosystem for solo adventurers.
3 Metroid Dread
The Classic 2D Metroidvania Formula Is Timeless
The Metroid series, after lengthy intervals between releases, continues to impress fans with titles like Metroid Dread. Regarded as a pinnacle of 2D gaming, Dread captures the essence of its predecessors while delivering a fresh experience. Exclusively single-player, this game beautifully embodies themes of isolation that resonate deeply through its narrative and atmosphere.
4 Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Ambitious Open-World JRPG With So Much Content
The entire Xenoblade Chronicles series has secured its status among the best offline Switch games, but the latest installment stands out for its accessibility. Set against a backdrop of perpetual war between two nations, the narrative follows two formerly opposing squads forced to align against a common threat, promising players over a hundred hours of engrossing gameplay revolving around an expansive main storyline.
5 Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Beautiful & Plays Beautifully
Amidst a landscape that craves more traditional Mario experiences, Super Mario Bros. Wonder delivers a delightful side-scrolling platformer. This visually stunning game is littered with innovative power-ups, making it a refreshing departure from the norm and arguably the best 2D Mario release in recent times. While the multiplayer experience adds excitement, it excels equally as a solo adventure, perfect for players seeking a captivating single-player journey.
6 Super Mario Odyssey
3D Mario At His Best
Even with some online functionalities, Super Mario Odyssey remains fundamentally a solo experience fit for anyone seeking a robust single-player journey. Players traverse vibrant sandbox realms, employing Mario’s remarkable capture ability to control enemies and engaging with diverse challenges across stunning environments, further extending gameplay that can easily surpass 100 hours.
7 Pikmin 4
Worth The Wait
After a careful development process, Pikmin 4 proves to be a masterful addition to the series, offering gameplay that refines the original mechanics while incorporating fresh elements. Set on an alien planet, players lead adorable Pikmin through various challenges, experiencing stunning visuals that highlight the game as one of the best-looking titles on the Nintendo Switch.
8 Persona 5 Royal
Arguably The Best Turn-Based JRPG & Social Sim On The Switch
Since its transition from PlayStation exclusivity, Persona 5 Royal has captivated audiences on the Switch as both a turn-based RPG and social simulation. With a rich narrative and dynamic gameplay mechanics, players interact with a diverse cast while navigating the intricacies of dual life as a Phantom Thief.
9 Metroid Prime Remastered
A Masterpiece On Any Console
The acclaimed original Metroid Prime returns in a remastered version that captures the magic of its predecessor while enhancing visuals and controls for modern audiences. The Switch adaptation offers refined gameplay without sacrificing the captivating essence that made it a classic.
10 Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Tactical Combat With Social Elements
With a focus on captivating single-player gameplay, Fire Emblem: Three Houses allows players to immerse themselves fully in tactical battles without needing an internet connection. Exploring the monastery and engaging in meaningful interactions with characters offer an engrossing experience, with multiple narrative paths ensuring an extended adventure.
11 Undertale
The Modern Indie RPG
As a genuine must-play title, Undertale provides a unique single-player experience filled with humor and emotional twists. This indie RPG challenges norms through its narrative choices while offering a compact 10-15 hour playtime that leaves a lasting impact without the need for extensive gameplay hours.
12 Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age – Definitive Edition
For Those Who Want A Traditional JRPG
Considered a benchmark in the JRPG landscape, Dragon Quest 11 S blends a captivating story with engaging gameplay mechanics. The Switch version introduces several enhancements that enrich the core experience, ensuring numerous hours of fun, with comprehensive endgame content extending playtime significantly.
13 Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door
Mario’s Best RPG
Modern remakes have reinvigorated interest in Mario’s RPG ventures, with Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door leading the charge. This beloved classic retains its charm with quality-of-life improvements, ensuring that its engaging narrative and turn-based combat remain as captivating today as at launch.
14 Dave The Diver
Relentlessly Charming & Impressive Blend Of Genres
Making a splash on the Switch after a successful PC launch, Dave the Diver uniquely blends adventure and management simulation. Players explore the undersea world by day and manage a sushi restaurant by night, providing a rich tapestry of gameplay experiences filled with memorable characters and strategic challenges.
15 Kirby And The Forgotten Land
The Kirby Formula Translated Into A Full Blown 3D Adventure
With Kirby and the Forgotten Land, HAL Laboratories delivers Kirby’s inaugural 3D title, presenting a charming narrative that aligns with its platforming roots while offering refreshing challenges to both returning fans and newcomers.
16 Hollow Knight
As Good As Modern Metroidvanias Get
Those who appreciate gripping platformers should not miss Hollow Knight, a beautifully crafted title that pairs striking aesthetics with challenging gameplay. Its intricate lore and diverse character interactions offer depth that can be savored throughout a portable adventure.
17 Hades
As Good As Roguelites Get
Regarded as a pinnacle within the roguelike genre, Hades offers dynamic gameplay and deeply engaging storytelling that keeps players returning for more, enhanced by a rich narrative filled with compelling characters that evolve across multiple playthroughs.
18 Divinity: Original Sin 2 – Definitive Edition
Dense Systems, Dense World, & Dense Combat
While titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 have recently gained fame, Divinity: Original Sin 2 continues to impress RPG fans with its intricate systems and expansive storytelling. Despite the Switch’s limitations, the game translates surprisingly well to the console, offering a tactically rich experience brimming with player agency.
19 Stardew Valley
The Definitive Indie Farming Sim
For those seeking a relaxing and therapeutic gaming experience, Stardew Valley stands out as an ideal choice. This farming simulator offers a vast world of opportunities, encouraging players to engage in various activities like crop cultivation, monster fighting, crafting, and building relationships with NPCs.
20 Ori And The Blind Forest
Gorgeous & Moving
Players enamored with Metroidvania titles should explore Ori and the Blind Forest, renowned for its breathtaking visuals and emotive storytelling. The game’s finely crafted challenges and stunning soundtrack complement deep exploration and platforming undertakings, solidifying it as a treasured offline experience.
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