Hidden Nintendo Switch Gems You Need to Play in 2025

The Nintendo Switch continues to dominate the gaming scene in 2025, with blockbuster hits like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Super Mario Bros. Wonder grabbing the spotlight. But beyond the AAA titles lies a treasure trove of underrated Switch games that deserve your attention. These hidden gems offer unique gameplay, creative storytelling, and endless replayability — all perfect for gamers looking to explore something new this year.

1. Eastward

Eastward is a charming, pixel-art adventure that blends emotional storytelling with engaging puzzle-solving and exploration. Set in a post-apocalyptic world filled with quirky characters, it’s reminiscent of classic SNES-era RPGs but with modern polish.

Players guide Sam and John through beautifully detailed towns and dungeons while uncovering a heartfelt narrative that’s both melancholic and hopeful. If you enjoy games like EarthBound or The Legend of Zelda, this is a must-play.

2. A Short Hike

As the name suggests, A Short Hike offers a brief but deeply rewarding experience. You play as a bird named Claire exploring Hawk Peak Provincial Park, where you can climb, glide, and discover secrets at your own pace.

This relaxing indie hit is perfect for players who enjoy exploration without pressure. The soothing soundtrack and charming visuals make it a great choice for winding down after a long day.

3. Spiritfarer

Spiritfarer combines cozy management gameplay with an emotional story about life, loss, and letting go. You play as Stella, a ferrymaster who helps spirits pass on to the afterlife by fulfilling their final wishes.

With its gorgeous hand-drawn art, heartwarming characters, and deep themes, this game will tug at your heartstrings while keeping you entertained with crafting, building, and exploration elements.

4. Monster Sanctuary

If you’ve ever wanted a mix between Pokémon and Metroidvania, Monster Sanctuary delivers exactly that. Players collect and train monsters while exploring a vast, interconnected world full of secrets and strategic battles.

• Over 100 unique monsters to collect and evolve
• Turn-based combat with combo mechanics
• Platforming and exploration similar to classic Metroid games

This hybrid gameplay loop keeps you hooked for hours, especially if you enjoy tactical depth and progression.

5. Tunic

Tunic is a visually stunning action-adventure starring a cute fox exploring a mysterious world. Inspired by The Legend of Zelda, it combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat with cryptic storytelling and hidden lore.

Its clever use of an in-game “manual” that players must piece together adds a nostalgic touch that makes discovery feel magical.

6. Dicey Dungeons

In Dicey Dungeons, you play as a walking dice competing in a game show run by Lady Luck. This roguelike deck-builder is packed with charm, humor, and addictive strategy.

Each run feels different, offering a fresh mix of risk, reward, and creative builds. If you enjoy quick sessions with plenty of replayability, this one’s a winner.

7. Hollow Knight

While Hollow Knight has gained cult status over the years, many new Switch owners still overlook it. This hand-drawn masterpiece blends challenging combat, tight platforming, and atmospheric storytelling in one unforgettable adventure.

With its vast interconnected world and haunting soundtrack, Hollow Knight is a must-play for anyone who enjoys games like Dark Souls or Metroid Dread.

8. Moonlighter

Moonlighter is a creative blend of dungeon-crawling and shopkeeping. By night, you explore procedurally generated dungeons; by day, you manage your shop, sell loot, and upgrade your town.

This dual gameplay loop makes every run meaningful and satisfying. It’s perfect for players who enjoy RPGs but want something with a business twist.

9. Slay the Spire

Before deck-building roguelikes became a trend, Slay the Spire set the standard. This strategic card battler challenges players to climb a procedurally generated tower filled with enemies, treasures, and powerful relics.

With endless replayability, smart design, and deep strategy, it’s one of the best indie games you can play on the Nintendo Switch in 2025.

10. Oxenfree II: Lost Signals

Oxenfree II is a narrative-driven adventure that continues the mysterious supernatural themes of its predecessor. You play as Riley, investigating strange radio frequencies in a small coastal town.

With branching dialogue, eerie sound design, and a gripping story, this sequel cements Oxenfree as one of the most atmospheric indie franchises on the Switch.

Bonus Picks Worth Trying

• Celeste – A platforming masterpiece with emotional storytelling.
• Hades – Fast-paced roguelike action with deep characters and narrative.
• Dead Cells – A stylish, fluid action-platformer that rewards skillful play.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch library in 2025 is overflowing with incredible games — and many of its best titles aren’t the ones headlining major showcases. These ten underrated gems prove that creativity, storytelling, and gameplay innovation thrive in unexpected places. Whether you’re into heartfelt adventures, tactical challenges, or relaxing exploration, there’s something here to rediscover your love for gaming.

So before you pick up the next big release, give these hidden Nintendo Switch treasures a try — you might just find your new favorite game.