15 Underrated Nintendo Switch Games That Are Worth A Second Look
  • Photo:
    • SIGONO INC.

15 Underrated Nintendo Switch Games That Are Worth A Second Look

Kyle Townsend
Updated August 16, 2025 15 items
Ranked By
113voters409votes
Voting Rules
Vote up the underrated and overlooked Switch titles you think other gamers should know about.

The Nintendo Switch is celebrated for its lineup of iconic first-party titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Super Smash Brothers Ultimate. However, beyond these blockbuster hits lies some of the most underrated Switch games of all time — stellar titles that, despite their quality, are often overshadowed and deserve a moment in the spotlight.

From underrated 2018 switch games to 2019 titles and even brand-new releases, there are plenty of hidden gems to explore on the Switch. Some games, like Hollow Night and Dead Cells, have become pretty popular in recent years, but titles like Wandersong and Moonlighter also deserve some praise. 

Some of these games you may have heard of, while others may be brand-spanking new to you. Whatever the case, vote up your picks for the most overlooked and underrated Switch games, and add your own picks if they’re missing from the list. That way other gamers can take the road less traveled when perusing the eShop for their next big Switch fix.

Over 100 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of 15 Underrated Nintendo Switch Games That Are Worth A Second Look
This list is dynamically ranked based on user voting. The order reflects the consensus of our voters and is not influenced by paid placements or editorial bias.

  • Moonlighter
    • Photo:
      • Digital Sun

    Moonlighter on the Switch flawlessly blends action RPG mechanics with deep shopkeeping simulation. Players step into the shoes of Will, a shopkeeper with dreams of becoming a hero, exploring procedurally generated dungeons by night and managing his store by day. It's a clever twist on traditional RPG tropes, offering both dungeon-crawling thrills and a nuanced economic strategy, wrapped up in charming pixel art.

    • Released: 2018
    • Developer: Digital Sun Games
    • Genres (Video game): Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure, Indie
    46 votes
    Underrated?
  • West of Loathing
    • Photo:
      • Asymmetric

    West of Loathing stands out as a comedic gem on the Switch, delivering an absurdly hilarious take on the Wild West with its stick-figure aesthetic. This RPG is chock-full of clever writing, puzzles, and turn-based combat, ensuring that every moment is as entertaining as it is engaging. It’s a game that proves a minimalist design can still pack a punch, offering endless laughs and quirky adventures.

    • Released: 2017
    • Developer: Asymmetric
    • Genres (Video game): Role-playing video game
    42 votes
    Underrated?
  • Shantae & the Pirate's Curse
    • Photo:
      • WayForward

    Shantae & the Pirate's Curse on the Switch is a vibrant, action-packed platformer that blends exploration, puzzles, and combat seamlessly. Players join Shantae, the half-genie hero, on her quest to lift a curse by battling foes and traversing diverse islands. With its charming pixel art, catchy soundtrack, and engaging mechanics, it's a must-play for fans of the genre looking for a robust adventure.

    • Released: 2014
    • Developer: WayForward
    • Genres (Video game): Metroidvania
    39 votes
    Underrated?
  • Daemon X Machina
    • Photo:
      • Marvelous Inc.
    • Released: 2019
    • Developer: Marvelous First Studio
    • Genres (Video game): Shooter, Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
    33 votes
    Underrated?
  • Slay the Spire
    • Photo:
      • Mega Crit Games

    Slay the Spire combines card game strategy with roguelike elements to create a uniquely addictive experience on the Switch. Players build a deck, confront bizarre creatures, and discover relics of immense power in an ever-changing spire filled with challenges. Its deep strategic gameplay, coupled with endless replayability, makes it an engrossing journey that’s hard to put down, appealing to both card game enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

    • Released: 2019
    • Developer: Mega Crit Games
    • Genres (Video game): Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Adventure, Indie
    43 votes
    Underrated?
  • Golf Story
    • Photo:
      • Sidebar Games

    Golf Story on the Switch merges the precision and challenge of golf with the depth of an RPG story, set against beautifully crafted 8-bit landscapes. It's not just about hitting the links; players engage in a heartfelt narrative, solve puzzles, and interact with quirky characters across various golf courses. This unique blend ensures every swing and story beat is filled with charm and engaging gameplay.

    • Released: 2017
    • Developer: Sidebar Games
    • Genres (Video game): Role-playing video game, Adventure game, Sports game
    32 votes
    Underrated?