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Are you ready to take your gaming experience to the next level on your Nintendo Switch? Well, this ultimate guide brings you the most exhilarating and action-packed games that are available for your Switch. From epic adventures to intense battles, these titles will keep you on the edge of your seat. So, gear up and get ready to enjoy the ultimate gaming experience with these absolute best action games the Nintendo Switch has to offer.

What Are Action Games?

Action games are a genre of video games that typically feature fast-paced gameplay and require quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination. These games often include elements of combat, platforming, and puzzle-solving. Action games can take on many forms, such as first-person shooters, third-person shooters, fighting, and action-adventure games. Notable examples of popular action games include Super Mario Odyssey, God of War, Hollow Knight, and Marvel’s Spider-Man.

Was Nintendo Switch Known for Its Action Games?

Yes. The Nintendo Switch has always been known for its action games. Since its release in 2017, the Switch has been praised for its strong lineup of original action games such as Super Mario Odyssey. The Nintendo Switch has also seen several popular third-party action games ported to the platform, such as Ori and the Will of the Wisps. Furthermore, the console’s portability has also enabled players to take their favorite action games on the go, making it a popular choice among gamers. With that in mind, let’s now look into the absolute best Nintendo Switch action games ever released.

9. Neon White 

Neon White is an action-adventure game that seamlessly combines the excitement of first-person shooter gameplay with the strategic depth of weaponry-building mechanics. The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where you take on the role of an assassin named Neon and venture into heaven to eradicate demons. Neon White is a game for players who enjoy a challenging and rewarding experience in terms of action and strategy.

In gameplay, you are tasked with defeating demons as quickly and efficiently as possible. Neon White features a speedrunning gameplay style, with various missions that offer different levels of difficulty and rewards. You must navigate these levels by running and jumping over obstacles while collecting Soul Cards. These cards are used as weapons and come with different firing powers and special abilities. However, if you take too much damage from the demons, you will die and have to restart the level.

The game also features a Neon Rank system, where you must achieve a certain rank and upgrade your equipment to progress to higher levels. However, you can replay completed levels to improve your scores. The game also limits you to carrying only one weapon at a time, so you must always choose strategically to defeat demons effectively while taking minimal damage yourself. 

Neon White - Standard - Nintendo Switch [Digital Code]
$24.99
  • Uncover Heaven’s mysteries by getting to know the other assassins… did you know them in a past life? A Nintendo Switch Online membership may be required for online play. Please check the game...
  • 2020-21 Little Flag Software, LLC. Developed by Ben Esposito. Under Exclusive License by Annapurna Interactive. All rights reserved.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/03/2023 09:09 am GMT

8. TowerFall

TowerFall is an incredibly engaging and competitive archery platformer game that can be enjoyed by up to 4 players in local multiplayer mode. With its fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, this game is perfect for players who enjoy arcade-style gaming experiences and the thrill of competing against other gamers.

This game offers a unique and exciting gameplay experience. Players engage in intense battles using arrows to take each other down. The gameplay continues until only one person remains and is declared the victor. TowerFall also includes the ability to catch other players’ arrows. Additionally, players must hit targets within the arena before a timer runs out or risk having to replay the level.

TowerFall offers customization options for game rules, allowing you to tailor the game to your preferences. In Quest mode, you can team up and attempt to survive against enemy waves of increasing difficulty. The game also features four different modes to keep you entertained for hours. Moreover, the game has powerups such as increased arrow power and better shields that can assist you in finishing levels quickly. 

7. Hollow Knight

PlayStation 4 Platformers
In Hollow Knight, players go on a quest to solve the mysteries of the abandoned kingdom of Hallownest.

©History-Computer.com

Hollow Knight is a challenging, atmospheric, and rewarding action-adventure video game. The game is set in a vast interconnected world of tunnels and caverns, where you take on the role of a small, silent knight on a journey to uncover the mysteries of the abandoned insect kingdom of Hallownest. The game is perfect for people who enjoy open-world exploration, tight control mechanics, and a deep and mysterious story.

In gameplay, you wield a special type of sword called Nail. This weapon is used for defeating hostile bugs and other environmental creatures. It can also be utilized in solving puzzles in the game’s various locations. As you progress through the levels, you can learn spells and gain the ability to make long-range attacks. When you defeat some bosses, you gain access to new skills, such as the Monarch Wings, Mantis Claw, and Mothwing Cloak. These attributes provide you with new movement abilities and enable you to explore previously inaccessible areas.

Hollow Knight allows you to travel fast through the game’s world using Stag Stations. However, you can only travel to previously visited and unlocked game areas. When you enter a new location, you must buy a draft map from Cornifer to know what the site entails. When you finally defeat the game’s final boss, you are given access to the prestigious Steel Soul mode.

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Hollow Knight (Nintendo Switch)
  • Classic side-scrolling action, with all the modern trimmings.
  • Tightly tuned 2D controls. Dodge, dash and slash your way through even the most deadly adversaries.
  • Explore a vast interconnected world of forgotten highways, overgrown wilds and ruined cities.
  • Forge your own path! The world of Hallownest is expansive and open. Choose which paths you take, which enemies you face and find your own way forward.
  • Evolve with powerful new skills and abilities! Gain spells, strength and speed. Leap to new heights on ethereal wings. Dash forward in a blazing flash. Blast foes with fiery Soul!.Equip Charms! Ancient relics that offer bizarre new powers and abilities. Choose your favourites and make your journey unique!.An enormous cast of cute and creepy characters all brought to life with traditional 2D frame-by-frame animation..

6. Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition

Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition is an action-adventure platformer game. The game is an enhanced version of the critically acclaimed Ori and the Blind Forest. It features new content and gameplay improvements that make it even more engaging. This game is best played by people who enjoy a good challenge with a nice balance of platforming, exploration, and an emotional storyline.

In this game, you assume control of Ori, a small white spirit, and Sein. They both have different attributes, which are helpful as they journey through a beautiful but dangerous forest. Sein acts as the guardian angel for Ori and shoots flames to combat enemies while Ori moves forward by jumping and climbing. As you progress and move between platforms, you must solve puzzles and mysteries.

Throughout the game, your primary mission is to help Ori collect health cells, energy cells, new abilities, and upgrades. These abilities are necessary and can increase your chances of survival. You can also create Soul Links whenever you choose to serve as checkpoints. This point allows you to return to that location quickly if you die or need to backtrack. However, you must have sufficient ability points to establish these checkpoints and acquire other upgrades and benefits. These ability points are gained when Ori collects enough experience by defeating enemies, destroying various plants, and finding ability cells.

Ori and The Blind Forest Defintive Edition (Nintendo Switch)
  • Play the critically acclaimed masterpiece
  • Code for the digital soundtrack of the game
  • On a visually stunning action platform developed by the Moon Studios

5.  Sonic Mania Plus

Sonic Mania Plus is a must-play side-scrolling platformer game for fans of the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. This game offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, revisiting the classic Sonic gameplay of the past while incorporating updated graphics and new levels. Sonic Mania Plus appeals to players who appreciate a retro-style gaming experience. 

In this game, you have the choice of three playable characters, each with unique abilities. These characters include Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. Sonic has the ability to run, jump and roll. Tails is proficient in flying and swimming, and Knuckles can mount and glide on walls. Throughout the game, you can collect golden rings, which you can use to survive enemy hits.  Additionally, players must dodge obstacles and collect colored spheres to improve their speed.

Sonic Mania Plus features thirteen levels that offer several redesigned storylines and improved graphics from previous versions of the Sonic Mania series. Each level has two acts. In the first act, you must overcome different monsters and obstacles in order to reach the finale. In the second act, you take part in a boss battle against Dr. Robotnik. When you complete bonus stages, you earn a silver or gold medal. These medals can help you unlock more advanced features, such as the debug mode.

Sonic Mania Plus - Nintendo Switch
  • A true, classic Sonic experience: Gorgeous pixel graphics featuring a variety of new Zones with iconic favorites from Sonic 1, 2, 3, Sonic & Knuckles and Sonic The Hedgehog CD.
  • Definitive version: Pristine, high quality HD version to enjoy Sonic and his friends as they face off against Dr. Eggman and his new robo-henchmen the Hard Boiled Heavies!
  • New characters join the fun with Sonic.
  • All-new Encore mode.
  • New and improved features including Competition mode.

4. Dead Cells 

Dead Cells is an intense and challenging action-platformer game that features rogue-like elements. The game follows a compelling storyline where you take on the role of the Prisoner tasked with slaying the diseased Island King. Players who love games with high replayability and real difficulty will find this game appealing.

This game has exciting gameplay. You can move through your opponent, evade their strikes, and attack from behind. You can also drop from above to weaken your adversaries before finally defeating them. Attacks can be carried out with various weapons, including shields, bows, and swords. These weapons can be upgraded and combined to create even more powerful variants that allow you to adapt to different combat situations.

One of the game’s key features is the ability to collect an in-game currency called Cells from conquered opponents. These Cells can be used to buy permanent enhancements like weaponry. The game also allows you to find secret Power Scrolls, which raise your hit points and make you more resilient in battle. Additionally, you can find multiple permanent upgrades known as Runes which are scattered throughout the dungeons. These Runes can also be obtained by defeating powerful elite enemies. 

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Dead Cells - Nintendo Switch
  • Roguevania: the progressive exploration of an interconnected world, with the Replay ability of a rogue-little and the adrenaline pumping threat of permadeath
  • 2D souls-little action: tough but fair combat, the iconic dodge roll, more than 90 weapons and spells with unique gameplay
  • Nonlinear progression: sewers, ossuary or ramparts? once unlocked, special permanent abilities allow you to access new paths to reach your objective
  • Exploration: secret rooms, hidden passages, charming landscapes. Take a moment to stroll the towers and Breath in that fresh sea mist infused air
  • Dead Cells is a brutally challenging 2D action-platformer with No checkpoints. you'll get better. Eventually

3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

As the fifth installment in the Super Smash Bros. series, this game features various characters from iconic Nintendo franchises. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a popular fighting video game where you take on the role of one of the many fighters available and use a wide array of moves and abilities to weaken and defeat opponents. This game offers an unparalleled gaming experience for fighting game enthusiasts.

In the game, there are over seventy playable fighters to choose from. Each player has a percentage meter that raises as they take damage. When it comes to victory conditions, you can choose between Timed, Stock, and Stamina. In Timed Mode, you have to win the most points by defeating opponents in the shortest time possible. Stock Mode allows you to use the limited number of lives available and try to be the last player standing. The Stamina mode is the most interesting one, as you have to fight your opponent until you reduce their health to zero.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate allows you to customize the game’s rules to your liking. You can also obtain the powerful Final Smash attack by filling up a special meter or when you get the Smash Ball. This version features over one hundred different stages to battle on. Additionally, there is the popular tournament mode that allows up to thirty-two players to battle in playoff brackets.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - Nintendo Switch
$54.79
  • New stages and fighters are joined by the combined rosters of every past Super Smash Bros. Game
  • Challenge others anytime, anywhere, whether you're on the couch or on the go
  • Play any way you want—locally, online, in TV mode, Tabletop mode, Handheld mode, or even with GameCube Controllers
  • Fight faster and smarter with new and returning techniques, like the perfect shield and directional air dodge
  • Face off in 2-4 player battles, or play against the computer
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/03/2023 11:45 am GMT

2. Ori and the Will of the Wisps

Top 10 Games 2020
Progressing through the game unlocks new abilities that allow players to access areas that were previously off-limits.

©MobyGames.com

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a popular action-adventure platformer game that features a moving and emotional story. It comes with stunning hand-drawn artwork and a captivating soundtrack that creates a memorable experience. The game is praised for its challenging gameplay and best suits players who enjoy exploration and discovering secrets.  

In the game, you take on the role of the Ori as he navigates through various platforms and solves intricate puzzles. Ori maneuvers across the game by jumping, gliding, swimming, and climbing various obstacles. As you progress through the game, you will unlock new abilities and upgrades that allow Ori to access previously inaccessible areas. Furthermore, you can collect orbs that boost Ori’s health and energy.

In addition to the main campaign, you can also participate in the Spirit Trials mode. This mode challenges you to race to complete a mission in the fastest time possible. Ori and the Will of the Wisps also features a leaderboard that lets you see the best times and routes other players take. You can also complete side quests to earn collectible items such as Gorlek Ores, which are used to expand the game’s area.

Ori and the Will of The Wisps - Nintendo Switch
$31.70
  • Play the critically acclaimed masterpiece
  • Immerse yourself in a hand-crafted narrative experience
  • Master new skills and face larger-than-life bosses
  • Get bonus physical item: digital soundtrack
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/03/2023 09:39 am GMT

1. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey supports cooperative play, so a friend can take control of Cappy as you work together to progress through the game.

©Pe3k/Shutterstock.com

Super Mario Odyssey is an action-adventure platformer game that features Mario as the main character. This game is set in a sandbox-style open world, where you can collect Power Moons and explore various kingdoms. The game appeals to Super Mario fans and players who enjoy collecting items and exploring new worlds.

In gameplay, you control Mario as he journeys across several worlds on the Odyssey ship in order to save Princess Peach from being married by Bowser. Mario traverses every Kingdom in his wake and must collect the Power Moons there. Moving on to the next Kingdom requires a minimum number of Power Moons to be collected. Mario has a unique hat that he can use to capture his enemies and special objects, giving him special abilities such as flying across large gaps, climbing up electric wires, and trampling over things.

Super Mario Odyssey supports cooperative play, in which a second player can take control of Cappy. The game also has a photo mode, which allows players to take and save screenshots with a free-moving camera. A leaderboard system ranks the players based on the number of Power Moons they have acquired. The game also features several additional modes and challenges to keep players engaged and to provide more replay value.

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Super Mario Odyssey - Nintendo Switch
  • Explore 3D kingdoms filled with secrets and surprises, including costumes for Mario and several ways to interact with environments
  • Mario's new friend, Cappy, lets you master new moves like cap throw, cap jump and capture
  • Visit astonishing new locales, such as the skyscraper-packed New Donk City, and run into familiar friends and foes as you try to save Princess Peach from Bowser's clutches and foil his dastardly wedding plans
  • Hand a Joy-Con controller to a friend to enjoy simultaneous multiplayer: Player 1 controls Mario while Player 2 controls Mario’s new ally Cappy
  • Unlock even more features with the exclusive new amiibo figures - Mario, Princess Peach and Bowser dressed in their wedding outfits

Final Thoughts

As we have seen, the Nintendo Switch offers a wide variety of action games that cater to all types of players. These games not only push the limits of the console but also offer unforgettable experiences that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of Nintendo gaming or an experienced player, these titles are a must-have. You should add these games to your collection and experience the best action games the Nintendo Switch offers.

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Last update on 2023-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Absolute Best Nintendo Switch Action Games of All Time FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Are the action games on the Nintendo Switch suitable for all ages?

It depends on the game. Some action games on the Nintendo Switch may be suitable for all ages, while others may be rated for mature audiences. To ensure a game is ideal for the intended audience, it’s crucial to check the game’s rating and review its content before playing.

Can I play action games on the go with the Nintendo Switch?

Yes. The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid console that seamlessly transitions between playing on a TV at home and on the go in the handheld mode.

Do the action games on the Nintendo Switch have a good replay value?

Yes. Many action games on the Nintendo Switch have high replay value. They usually feature multiple endings, side quests, and unlockable content that keeps players coming back for more.

Can I play online multiplayer action games on the Nintendo Switch?

Yes. Most action games on the Nintendo Switch have online multiplayer modes. This allows you to engage in competitive play with your friends and other players across the globe.

Is buying a Switch worth it now?

Despite its shortcomings, the Nintendo Switch remains a worthwhile purchase in 2023. The release of the OLED model in 2021 offered increased storage and a better screen, but it still lacked internal hardware improvements, indicating that Nintendo isn’t planning on upgrading the hardware any time soon.

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