The Best Action Games on Nintendo Switch You Can’t Miss
The Nintendo Switch is home to an incredibly diverse selection of video games, but few genres bring as much excitement, adrenaline, and replay value as action games. Whether you’re slicing through enemies with a blade, engaging in high-speed platforming, or exploring vast open worlds, the Switch offers a portable powerhouse of thrilling experiences. With the console’s flexible handheld and docked modes, players can dive into heart-pounding gameplay anywhere, anytime. From iconic franchises like The Legend of Zelda to critically acclaimed indie hits like Hades, this guide explores the best action games currently available on the Nintendo Switch, along with some hidden gems and upcoming titles to watch. Join games4nintendo.com to dive deep into the details.
What Makes a Great Action Game on Nintendo Switch?
Gameplay Mechanics
At the core of any great action game is satisfying gameplay. Whether it’s precise platforming, combo-based combat, or fast-paced shooting, Nintendo Switch titles shine when they offer tight, responsive controls. Motion controls and HD rumble also enhance the experience, making each hit or movement feel impactful.
Visual and Audio Design
A compelling action game needs more than just good mechanics—it also has to look and sound great. From pixel art to fully 3D worlds, dynamic visuals and immersive soundtracks can elevate the intensity of every encounter and deepen the overall atmosphere.
Replay Value and Difficulty Options
Strong action titles keep players coming back. Games that offer various difficulty levels, unlockable content, time trials, or multiple endings tend to have higher replayability. Some also offer co-op or competitive modes that add layers to the core gameplay.
Top 10 Action Games on Nintendo Switch (2025 Edition)
If you’re looking for pulse-pounding excitement, the Nintendo Switch delivers some of the best action games across all genres. From stylish combat and epic boss fights to fast-paced platforming and open-world exploration, these top 10 picks for 2025 represent the finest action-packed experiences the console has to offer.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Genre: Open-World Action-Adventure
The sequel to Breath of the Wild refines everything that made its predecessor a masterpiece. With new sky islands, powers, and building mechanics, Tears of the Kingdom offers unparalleled freedom and creativity in combat and exploration. It’s a must-play for fans of immersive worlds and strategic action.
Bayonetta 3
Genre: Hack-and-Slash
The Umbra Witch is back, bringing cinematic flair and jaw-dropping combat combos. Bayonetta 3 is pure spectacle with deep mechanics that reward skill and timing. A standout in stylish action, it’s perfect for players who crave fast-paced, over-the-top battles.
Metroid Dread
Genre: Sci-Fi Action Platformer
Samus Aran’s return in Metroid Dread is sleek, tense, and full of atmosphere. The game blends tight exploration with intense encounters against robotic E.M.M.I. enemies. Its 2D perspective, precision gameplay, and haunting environments make it one of the most polished action platformers on Switch.
Hades
Genre: Rogue-like Action
This Greek mythology-inspired indie hit offers fast, fluid combat and a wealth of customization. Every run feels different thanks to randomized upgrades and a rich story that unfolds between battles. It’s addictive, beautiful, and brimming with content.
Monster Hunter Rise
Genre: Action RPG / Hunting
If you love epic boss fights and gear crafting, Monster Hunter Rise delivers. Its dynamic combat, vertical traversal with wirebugs, and variety of weapon classes make each hunt feel epic. The online co-op is a major draw, adding endless replayability.
Astral Chain
Genre: Cyberpunk Action-Adventure
From PlatinumGames, Astral Chain lets you control both a protagonist and a living weapon called a Legion. The dual-character combat system is unique and rewarding, supported by a vibrant cyberpunk world and stylish visuals.
Splatoon 3
Genre: Multiplayer Shooter
While it’s technically a shooter, Splatoon 3’s chaotic ink battles and quirky design make it one of the most unique action games on the market. With fast matches, deep customization, and frequent updates, it remains one of the most energetic and family-friendly online games.
Dead Cells
Genre: Roguevania Action
Dead Cells blends rogue-like randomness with Metroidvania structure. Its combat is snappy, and each run encourages experimentation with weapons and builds. With regular updates and DLCs, it’s an indie darling that keeps getting better.
Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection
Genre: Classic Hack-and-Slash
The Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection is a must-play for fans of intense, skill-based combat and classic action gameplay. This bundle includes three of the most iconic entries in the series—Ninja Gaiden Sigma, Sigma 2, and Razor’s Edge—all remastered for the Nintendo Switch. Known for their brutal difficulty and fast-paced, fluid combat, these games challenge players to master timing, precision, and strategy. You’ll step into the role of Ryu Hayabusa, a deadly ninja fighting hordes of enemies with a wide array of weapons, magic abilities, and acrobatic maneuvers. While not for the faint of heart, the collection offers a deeply rewarding experience for action veterans who enjoy a serious challenge and nostalgic flair.
No More Heroes III
Genre: Brawler / Action
No More Heroes III marks the triumphant return of Travis Touchdown, the eccentric assassin with a beam katana and a flair for chaos. This installment elevates the series’ signature style with even more outrageous boss battles, slick hack-and-slash combat, and open-world segments packed with side activities. The game balances intense action with absurd humor and a self-aware narrative that breaks the fourth wall in clever ways. Whether you’re drawn in by the flashy combat, bizarre alien antagonists, or the surreal tone, this is an action game that stands out from the crowd—bold, weird, and undeniably entertaining.
Honorable Mentions
While the top 10 action games on Nintendo Switch highlight some of the most celebrated titles, several other games deserve recognition for their creativity, style, and engaging gameplay. These honorable mentions showcase the wide range of action experiences available on the platform—each offering something unique and memorable for fans of the genre:
- Katana ZERO — A sleek, fast-paced neo-noir platformer where every move counts. With time-slowing mechanics, one-hit kills, and a narrative that blurs reality, it’s a stylish blend of precision combat and psychological storytelling.
- Cuphead — Known for its hand-drawn 1930s cartoon aesthetic and intense boss battles, Cuphead is a beautifully animated action-platformer that combines tight controls with unforgiving difficulty. It’s both a visual treat and a serious test of reflexes.
- Daemon X Machina — Mech lovers will find their fix in this high-speed action game featuring massive armored suits, explosive battles, and deep customization. Team up with allies or tackle missions solo in a futuristic world filled with chaos and high-octane encounters.
- Warframe — This free-to-play sci-fi action MMO continues to evolve, offering space ninja combat, deep lore, and fast-paced cooperative gameplay. Players can choose from a wide range of Warframes (character classes), each with unique powers, and dive into missions across the galaxy.
- My Friend Pedro — A surreal and over-the-top action shooter where players perform slow-motion acrobatics, ricochet bullets, and take out enemies in the most stylish ways possible—all guided by a talking banana. It’s weird, it’s wild, and incredibly fun.
These titles may not have cracked the top 10, but they offer distinct action experiences that are well worth playing—especially for those looking to try something outside the mainstream.
Best Action Games for Local and Online Multiplayer
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
A massive crossover brawler that brings Nintendo and third-party characters together in frantic battles. Ideal for local couch play or competitive online matches.
Overcooked! All You Can Eat
Though more lighthearted, this chaotic kitchen simulator demands quick thinking and tight teamwork. Great for family fun or parties.
Fortnite
The battle royale titan thrives on the Switch, supporting cross-platform play and building mechanics. Its constant updates keep gameplay fresh.
Streets of Rage 4
A modern revival of the classic beat ’em up. Its hand-drawn art and rhythmic combat make it ideal for co-op sessions.
Tips for Choosing the Right Action Game
Know Your Play Style
Do you prefer shooting, platforming, or melee combat? Choose games that match your reflexes and interests.
Solo vs. Multiplayer Focus
Some games, like Metroid Dread, shine in solo play. Others, like Monster Hunter Rise, thrive in co-op environments.
Consider Age and Content
While Splatoon 3 is suitable for kids, titles like Bayonetta 3 and Ninja Gaiden cater to mature audiences. Always check the rating before purchasing.
What’s Coming Next? Upcoming Action Titles on Nintendo Switch
Nintendo fans can look forward to even more explosive action in 2025. Anticipated releases include:
- Hollow Knight: Silksong — The long-awaited sequel to the critically acclaimed action-platformer.
- Metal Slug Tactics — A tactical spin on a classic arcade shooter series.
- New entries in the Fire Emblem Warriors and Bayonetta series are rumored, promising more hack-and-slash chaos.
Nintendo is also continuing to enhance third-party support, meaning more big-name action franchises may make their way to Switch soon.
Action games remain one of the strongest and most varied genres on Nintendo Switch. Whether you’re into elegant swordplay, acrobatic platforming, or all-out mayhem, there’s something here for every kind of player. With a mix of Nintendo exclusives, indie brilliance, and AAA experiences, the Switch continues to prove it’s a console built not just for fun—but for action. So grab your Joy-Cons, jump in, and get ready to press those buttons like your life depends on it.
