The Best Nintendo Switch And Switch 2 Exclusives Of 2025 - GameSpot

The Best Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 Exclusives of 2025

2025 was a milestone year for Nintendo, ushering in the Nintendo Switch 2 alongside a slate of standout exclusives. For this list, “exclusive” means not available on any other console (PC releases are fine). Whether you’re on the original Switch or the new Switch 2, these five titles defined the year.

• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (Switch, Switch 2)
  Samus Aran’s long-awaited return delivers moody, masterful exploration and the sharpest combat the Prime series has seen. Stranded on the dead world of Viewros—haunted by echoes of the psychic Lamorn—Samus searches for artifacts, rescues stranded Federation officers, and contends with the ominous Sylux. Multiple control options and atmospheric level design make it a triumphant comeback and well worth the wait.

• Mario Kart World (Switch 2)
  Mario Kart goes open world, stitching Mushroom Kingdom locales into a seamless map you can freely roam—or race across as cups flow from track to track. The tense Knockout Tour mode eliminates players at milestones, while a refreshed roster (yes, even Cow) and a dazzling Rainbow Road keep the series’ signature spectacle. It won’t replace the encyclopedic polish of MK8 Deluxe, but it’s a bold, irresistible evolution.

• The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy (Switch, Switch 2)
  A gripping hybrid of visual novel and tactics, this 30–40 hour story about kids forced to defend a secret academy against monstrous waves feels tailor-made for handheld sessions. Reach the “end,” though, and you’ll discover the real hook—a daring twist that reframes everything and opens into a far more ambitious experience. It’s the kind of narrative swing you won’t soon forget.

• Hades II (PC, Switch, Switch 2)
  Supergiant’s mythic roguelike thrives on Switch’s pick-up-and-play rhythm. Starring Melinoe—witch, daughter of Persephone, and sister to Zagreus—this sequel pits you against Chronos with slick combat, sumptuous art, and an unforgettable soundtrack. Godly boons, memorable characters, and endlessly replayable runs make this a must-play wherever you are.

• Donkey Kong Bananza (Switch 2)
  DK trades 2D precision for a massive, destructive 3D adventure where smashing through terrain is the solution to nearly everything. Joyful musical set pieces, the ever-charming Pauline, and a supersized Donkey Kong power a game that’s equal parts chaos and creativity—an early Switch 2 essential that feels destined to endure.

Bottom line: From reinventions to long-awaited returns, these exclusives make 2025 a banner year for both Switch generations—and a great time to be a Nintendo fan.

Source: https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/the-best-nintendo-switch-and-switch-2-exclusives-of-2025/2900-7323/