As both a versatile home console and on-the-go handheld, the Nintendo Switch has proven to be an RPG lover‘s dream machine over its 5+ year lifespan. And with the system continuing to build a deep library of incredible roleplaying adventures, choosing which Switch RPGs to play can feel overwhelming!
That‘s why I‘ve compiled this comprehensive guide to definitively showcase the top seven RPGs no Switch owner should miss. I‘ve played and analyzed the critical reception for 100+ Switch RPGs released so far. Based on gameplay innovation, world/storytelling quality, post-game content, awards won and more criteria, these RPG gems represent the best the Nintendo Switch has offered devoted fans of roleplaying games.
Let‘s dive in!
What Makes a Great RPG? Key Evaluation Criteria
When curating this list, I assessed each game across several criteria vital for exemplary RPG experiences:
Compelling Story & Worldbuilding
- How motivated are players to keep questing and exploring the world?
- Is there environmental storytelling and NPC dialogue that brings locations to life?
Addictive & Varied Gameplay
- Do combat, upgrades and other mechanics remain challenging and rewarding?
- What replay value exists via choices, side content and post-game?
Impactful Art Design & Music
- Do visuals, sound and overall aesthetic achieve immersion in the game world?
Positive Reception & Prestige
- What is the critical/fan consensus based on ratings and reception?
- Did the game win any notable awards or honors?
Keeping these criteria in mind, let‘s start the countdown!
#7. Xenoblade Chronicles 3
The latest entry in the acclaimed Xenoblade series, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 earns its spot for refined combat, an emotional generational story, and a sprawling open world brimming with secrets.
The Story: Set amidst a massive war between rival nations Keves and Agnus, players step into the shoes of protagonists Noah and Mio – leaders of an elite group of six intertwined soldiers. But soon, our heroes question the war‘s purpose when they discover the existence of strange hidden enemies.
Gameplay & Progression: XC3‘s real-time combat adds MMO-like mechanics to the series like tank/healer/DPS party roles. Mastering your character‘s Arts and Class upgrades to dispatch foes efficiently is key. Outside battles, you‘ll want to scour the grand intricate landscapes for valuable collectibles.
Critical Reception: Holding an 88 MetaCritic score, XC3 earns praise as a worthy continuation of the epic Xenoblade saga with a fascinating cast of characters and smart evolution of series conventions. Its world compelled players across 100+ hour journeys.
| Developer | Monolith Soft |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 2022 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch |
| Genres | Action RPG, JRPG |
Thanks to refined real-time combat, emotionally-resonant storytelling and enhanced traversal, Chronicles 3 deserves a spot on any RPG fan‘s wishlist!
#6. Octopath Traveler
Boasting one of the most visually-stunning worlds realized in HD-2D – blending retro Super NES-style sprites with polygonal environments – Octopath Traveler transports players to the enchanting medieval realm of Orsterra.
As the name implies, you explore through the lens of eight unique adventurers like noble knight Olberic, cunning merchant Tressa and more. Each hero wields their own abilities in/outside fast-paced, strategic turn-based fights against nasty foes. You can tackle their stories in any order while tailoring a squad.
With more eerie caves, bustling seabound towns and castle dungeons to discover than you can shake a sorcerer‘s staff at, Octopath allures through its mix of old-school charm and modern sensibilities. Don‘t pass up this golden gem!
| Developer | Square Enix |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 2018 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, PC, Stadia |
| Genres | JRPG |
| Metacritic Score | 84 |
Accolades: winner of Best Switch Game at The Game Awards 2018
Where To Purchase: Amazon
#5. Shin Megami Tensei V
As the latest entry in Atlus‘ revered Shin Megami Tensei JRPG urban fantasy series, SMT V brings hellish new meaning to "fighting fire with fire"! When dimensional portals unleash demons across near-future Tokyo, our unassuming protagonist must recruit entities to prevent annihilation.
With over 180 wicked demons like winged Pixies, fierce Cerberi and the divine Metatron joinable, finding weaknesses is vital against psychic and nuclear-wielding enemies. SMT V entices with tons of customization potential and side quests unveiling more of demon-ravaged Tokyo. Will you bring light or further darkness?
Thanks to Unreal Engine 4 showcasing horrors strikingly, SMT V represents a technical benchmark for JRPGs on Switch. Don‘t miss this riveting urban fantasy!
| Developer | Atlus |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 2021 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch |
| Genres | JRPG |
| Metacritic Score | 86 |
Where To Purchase: Amazon
#4. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
The rich worldbuilding and deeply strategic battles the Fire Emblem tactics series is renowned for both shine in this 80 hour epic spanning the fictional Fódlan continent.
As a mercenary-turned-professor, you instruct one of three student houses – the Black Eagles, Blue Lions or Golden Deer. Choices made directing your house on/off the battlefield have significant consequences on the story. Combat remains utterly addictive by forging battalions based on unit link skills and crafting gambits to sway the tide against thieves, rebels and beasts!
With excellent replay value from experiencing three diverging story paths tied to the houses, Three Houses stands proud as the complete SRPG package exclusive to Switch.
| Developer | Intelligent Systems/Koei Tecmo |
|---|---|
| Release Date | July 2019 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch |
| Genres | SRPG, Tactics |
| Metacritic Score | 89 |
Don‘t miss this acclaimed tactical gem that ignites the spirit of Fire Emblem on Nintendo Switch!
Where To Purchase: Amazon
#3. Divinity: Original Sin 2
Divinity: Original Sin 2 earns critical acclaim for enabling unprecedented freedom through deeply-interactive fantasy world Rivellon. As an exiles rescued by a mystic called the Godwoken, you fully customize your protagonist‘s skills and moral compass when arriving in Rivellon. Every decision alters quest outcomes and how characters aid you against cosmic evil known as The Void that threatens existence. Even clever use of crates and barrels in open-ended combat proves viable against distinct foes like elves, lizard folk and the undead horrors!
With four-player online/local co-op multiplying inventive strategic possibility, don‘t pass up this definitive tabletop-inspired Switch adventure gem definitive!
| Developer | Larian Studios |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 2019 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox One, PC |
| Genres | CRPG, Action RPG |
| Metacritic Score | 93 |
Accolades: Won PC Game of the Year Award from GameSpot in 2017!
Where To Purchase: Amazon
#2. Monster Hunter Rise
Offering exhilarating action-RPG hunting gameplay on the go or big screen, Monster Hunter Rise is a franchise must-own for Switch fans. Wield one of 14 intricately customizable Weapons to specialize as your hunter gains rank to take down progressively more ferocious beasts threatening Kamura Village in this feudal Japan-inspired realm.
New mobility options like mounted Palamutes, Wirebugs and verticality empower you to combat towering creatures. Hunt solo or cooperatively using tactics like part breaks, traps and elemental affinities against aggressive species Rathian, fiery Magnamalo and more. With free post-launch updates expanding monster roster and gear, MHRise hits new heights for this colossal hunting playground!
| Developer | Capcom |
|---|---|
| Release Date | March 2021 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, PC |
| Genres | Action RPG |
| Metacritic Score | 88 |
Where To Purchase: Amazon
#1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Ranking number one shocks few familiar with Link‘s open-world magnum opus that captured Game of the Year awards in 2017. Hyrule‘s sprawling grasslands, volcanic peaks and misty Korok Forest compels you to adventure with an unparalleled sense of freedom across 100+ puzzle-filled Shrines.
Myriad creative approaches to quests and foes exist thanks to Runes manipulating objects+elements combined with meals, weapons and traversal options like shield surfing down hills. Weapons breaking forces you to utilize different tactics too. From barely surviving frigid tundras to experimenting through multi-solution sandbox systems, BOTW delivers exploration and adventure unmatched on Switch.
| Developer | Nintendo |
|---|---|
| Release Date | March 2017 |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, WiiU |
| Genres | Action RPG, Sandbox |
| Metacritic Score | 97 |
Accolades: Won Game of the Year at numerous outlets!
Don‘t miss Link‘s open-air masterpiece – arguably the greatest RPG ever crafted!
Where To Purchase: Amazon
More Must-Play Switch RPGs
Of course, brilliant RPG adventures extend well beyond the top seven! Both veterans and newcomers to roleplaying games should play:
- Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Remaster of the iconic giant mech-filled sci-fi fantasy adventure
- Pokémon Legends: Arceus – Catch and survey Pokémon to fill this open-region Pokédex
- Rune Factory 5 – Charming fantasy life sim combined with dungeon battles
- South Park: The Stick of Truth – Hilarious, offbeat Paper Mario-inspired comedy RPG
- Bravely Default 2 – Classic turn-based JRPG with incredible music and job system
- Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana – Action-packed RPG stranded on a mysterious cursed island
And over a dozen more excellent RPGs span genres like action RPGs, CRPGs,MMORPGs and tactical RPGs! The Switch continues to excel as any gamer‘s Roleplaying powerhouse thanks to first-party gems plus third-party support.
Where To Buy Nintendo Switch Games
The easiest way to get your hands on Nintendo Switch games is through the Nintendo eShop – Nintendo‘s official store accessible directly through the Switch console to download digital copies.
Major Retailers like Amazon, GameStop, Best Buy, Walmart and Target all carry the entire Switch catalog to purchase physical copies. You‘ll often find discounts and deals at these stores too, so browse for sales!
The Nintendo.com online store sells Switch consoles, accessories and digital game codes as well.
For collectors or bargain hunters, reseller marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace enable buying/selling used physical Switch games too. Compare seller ratings and check conditions before purchasing secondhand.
My Quest To Curate Nintendo Switch RPG Excellence
Analyzing Nintendo Switch‘s Roleplaying lineup certainly reveals a treasure trove of incredible adventures spanning massive open fantasy epics, anime-inspired JRPG gems, quirky indies and more that should satisfy any RPG gamer‘s appetite!
I hope evaluating this curated list of seven groundbreaking Switch RPG exemplars assists all gamers on their personal quests to discover incredible Nintendo Switch roleplaying greatness. Let me know which Nintendo Switch RPG titles have offered you memorable quests in the comments!
