Best upcoming Nintendo Switch games for 2023
From indie horror adventures to superhero RPGs, we take a look at the most anticipated Nintendo titles coming soon.
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Nintendo gave us some great new games in 2022, including Bayonetta 3, Kirby and The Forgotten Land, Splatoon 3, Neon White, Nintendo Switch Sports and two new Pokémon titles – Pokémon Legends: Arceus and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
And, while its 2023 games list isn’t quite as stacked as that of the PlayStation 5, there are still plenty more standout releases on their way.
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From a brand new Zelda game to promising indie titles, we’ve rounded up all the best Switch releases you can look forward to in 2023 below.
Of course, we are expecting even more games to be announced over the course of the year, so stay tuned for more additions.
DC’s Justice League: Cosmic Chaos
Release date: April 7
Suit up and prepare to take on 5th Dimensional trickster, Mr. Mxyzptlk, and a host of Super-Villains in DC’s Justice League: Cosmic Chaos. Set in a colourful cartoon world, the adventure-RPG allows you to switch between Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman at any time and use their combined abilities to defeat the baddies.
With a wide range of missions and side-missions, unlockable extras and entertaining dialogue, this one will entertain both adults and kids alike.
Cult of the Lamb: Deluxe Edition
Release date: April 14
Following a hugely successful launch in 2022, physical copies of Cult of the Lamb are now available for pre-order. The ominously cute roguelike sees you start a cult in the name of an elder-god after he brings you back to life post-sacrifice.
Spread the word, destroy the nonbelievers and enjoy the gorgeous 104-page artbook, official soundtrack CD and collectable tuck-in box that make up the Deluxe Edition.
Minecraft Legends
Release date: April 18
Despite dropping over a decade ago, Minecraft is arguably one of the most popular games to ever be released. So it’s not surprising to see Developer Mojang and its parent company Microsoft branch out into spin-offs, like Minecraft Dungeons and, now, Minecraft Legends.
Legends is set to be Minecraft’s first action-strategy title and will require you to unite the Overworld (including longtime enemies like creepers and skeletons) against an invasion of ravenous piglings.
The Pathless
Release date: April 18
Originally released for PlayStation, PC and Apple Arcade, open world action adventure game, The Pathless, will hit Switch consoles this month. With no map to guide you, you’ll create your own path as you explore everything from the meadows to the mountaintops as a Hunter looking to rid the world of a curse of darkness.
Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp
Release date: April 21
After suffering multiple delays due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, the remake of the first two Advance War games is officially on its way. First released on Game Boy Advance, the strategic, turn-based title involves building military units to gain control of a map in either online or local co-op play.
You’ll also be able to design your own maps and share them with friends, and challenge friends to head-to-head battles online.
Bramble: The Mountain King
Release date: April 28
Rooted in Nordic folklore, Bramble: The Mountain King is a new indie horror adventure coming to Switch this April. If you haven’t seen the playthroughs all over TikTok, prepare to have your pulse sped up as you run into all manner of creatures on a perilous journey to save your sister from a monstrous troll.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Release date: May 12
The sequel to 2017’s critically acclaimed The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom is easily one of this year’s most anticipated titles. The game will see Link return to Hyrule, only this time, the world has expanded to floating islands in the sky.
Nintendo has also promised, “never-before-seen weapons and mysterious vehicles,” so I think I speak for all of us when I say, “bring on May 12”.
Trinity Trigger
Release date: May 16
After getting held back six months, the Western release of Trinity Trigger is finally on its way. The all-new ‘90s-inspired action adventure-RPG will see you take control of three young heroes as they attempt to “defy fate and save the continent of Trinitia.”
Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by Triggers – creatures that can shapeshift into various weapons for you to try to master. You can also puzzle solve and engage in customisable combat alone, or play with up to two friends in local co-op.
LEGO 2K Drive
Release date: May 19
Build stuff, break stuff and race stuff in newly-announced title LEGO 2K Drive. The massive open-world driving adventure will see you build and customise your own wacky range of cars and boats (we’ve already seen both a burger car and a full-size racing chook in the reveal trailer); go on crazy quests and, of course, race ‘til your heart’s content with Story mode, single races, and Cup Series tourneys.
If you’re looking to share in the fun, you can also play local two-player split-screen or jump online and play with up to six friends.
Skabma Snowfall
Release date: May 19
Previously released on PC, Skabma Snowfall is coming to Switch this May – and, if the jaw-dropping images are anything to go by, it will be one to watch. Set in northern Sámiland, the narrative 3D adventure sees you play as a young reindeer herder who finds an old drum and steps onto the path of becoming the first Noaidi (a Sámi seer and healer) in centuries.
Offering plenty of exploration and a never-seen-before representation of indigenous Sámi stories and culture, this indie title is now firmly on our wishlist.
The Knight Witch: Deluxe Edition
Release date: May 23
Metroidvania adventure game, The Knight Witch, will return this May, allowing fans to get their hands on a physical release. Once again, you can enjoy the gorgeous hand-drawn world and fast-paced, shoot ‘em up combat as you cast spells, forge bonds and make moral decisions in a mission to save your home.
Sonic Origins Plus
Release date: June 23
Get all the Sonic adventures you can handle in newly remastered title Sonic Origins Plus. Packing in 16 Sonic games, including a whopping 12 Game Gear titles, plus new playable characters, modes and behind-the-scenes content, Origins Plus is the definitive way to revisit these classics.
Story of Seasons: A Wonderful Life
Release date: June 27
Remake of the beloved GameCube game, Harvest Moon: A Wonderful Life, is another cozy title coming to Switch this year. The action/adventure life sim will see you tend crops and animals, find a life partner and heaps more as you take up farming to fulfil your grandfather’s wish.
It’s also set to drop in June here in Australia, making it the perfect game to hibernate with this winter.
Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE
Release date: June 30
Merging crime with the supernatural, dark fantasy/action game Master Detective Archives: RAIN CODE is set to hit screens in June this year. You’ll play as amnesiac detective-in-training, Yuma, accompanied by Shinigami (the little spirit haunting him), and try to solve mysteries in the curious city of rain.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie
Release date: July 14
Following in the footsteps of the war hero Rean Schwarzer, this climactic chapter of The Legend of Heroes series will see the intertwining fates of three figures in Zemuria decided. You can also switch between the three story arcs at any time, discover side episodes and play a variety of mini games.
Pikmin 4
Release date: July 21
Nintendo kept Pikmin 4 under wraps for a long time, but a release date was finally revealed at February’s Nintendo Direct. Prepare for another fever dream adventure as you guide your plantlike friends through a strange planet, overcome big challenges and face some familiar enemies.
The latest instalment also features a Space Dog, Ice Pikmin and at least one new ‘leader’ character, giving us plenty to look forward to.
Hogwarts Legacy
Release date: July 25
While Hogwarts Legacy launched on PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC on February 10, you will have to wait a while longer to play it on Switch. Set in the 1800s, the single-player open-world action RPG sees you play as a Hogwarts student who holds the key to an ancient secret.
The wizarding world is in your hands as you make allies, battle Dark wizards and enjoy all Hogwarts has to offer – including crafting potions, discovering fantastic beasts, customising your character and, of course, mastering your spellcasting.
Disney Illusion Island
Release date: July 28
Announced at last year’s Disney & Marvel Games Showcase, D23, Disney Illusion Island is a brand new 2D adventure starring Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck and Goofy. Working solo or with up to three friends, you’ll make your way through three magical books, solving puzzles, unlocking special abilities and battling epic bosses in a valiant attempt to save the world.
Ghost Song
Release date: July 28
Atmospheric 2D adventure, Ghost Song, brings a new, visually captivating Metroidvania world to Switch. Set on the desolate moon of Lorian, you’ll play as the armed and combat-ready Deadsuit, who awakens from a long slumber with no memory. Explore an alien world, battle powerful creatures and remember the truth about your purpose in this haunting tale of survival and redemption.
Sea of Stars
Release date: August 29
Explore the classic themes of adventure and friendship in retro-inspired, turn-based RPG, Sea of Stars. The indie title follows two Children of the Solstice as they harness the powers of the sun and moon, perform powerful Eclipse magic and battle the monstrous creations of an evil alchemist.
Little Friends: Puppy Island
Release date: August 31
If spending time with dogs on an island paradise sounds like a dream come true, Little Friends: Puppy Island should be the next game on your wishlist. With nine unique breeds to find and adopt, you can explore; dig up treasure; build shops and activity stations; and meet, dress up and care for all your virtual puppy pals.
Rune Factory 3 Special
Release date: September 5
More than a decade after its original release on Nintendo DS, Nintendo is gifting us a remastered version of Rune Factory 3. Featuring redesigned characters and new features like “Newlywed Mode,” the simulation/action RPG will have plenty to offer for both new and returning players alike.
Hollow Knight: Silksong
Release date: First half of 2023
While we don’t know exactly when the Hollow Knight sequel is coming, I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it will be very, very soon. Set in a whole new kingdom, Hollow Knight: Silksong will see you play as princess-protector/former boss, Hornet, as she battles foes and solves mysteries.
If it’s anything like its predecessor, expect gorgeous artwork, epic boss battles, powerful tools and suitably melancholy melodies.
Fae Farm
Release date: Autumn 2023
One for all the Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing fans out there, magical RPG farming sim, Fae Farm, is set to drop in Autumn of this year. In addition to cutesy characters and gorgeous graphics, the cozy indie game is set to bring something new to the farming genre.
To help you out with all of the crafting, cultivating, decorating and exploring, Fae Farm will let you play with up to four players either locally or online. Your friends will be able to jump in and out of co-op mode (and will be updated on any story progression they missed), allowing you to maintain your shared home and even play side-by-side.
Outer Wilds
Release date: TBA 2023
If you haven’t already played Mobius Digital’s Outer Wilds on another platform, you’re in for a treat. The single-player, open world roguelike sees your unnamed character explore a solar system stuck in a time loop. You’ll have exactly 22 minutes to explore the system and unravel its secrets before it gets destroyed and you end up right back at the beginning.
The intriguing premise of the title, coupled with its solid gameplay, has seen it win multiple industry awards – so we highly recommend snapping it up when it does finally release on Switch.
The Lord of the Rings: Gollum
Release date: TBA 2023
While we’re still unsure of a Switch release date for The Lord Of The Rings: Gollum, we can’t wait to see what’s in store for our favourite riddle-loving lurker. Set between the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, the story-driven action-adventure requires you to climb, leap and grapple your way out of danger as you seek out your Precious.
Rather than fight your dual personality, you can use it to your advantage by knowing when to be the social and cautious Sméagol and when to embrace the cunning and cruel Gollum.
Star Wars: Hunters
Release date: TBA 2023
Free-to-play, squad-based arena combat game, Star Wars: Hunters, has been delayed twice already – but we are hoping to see it sometime this year. Set between the events of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, you’ll put together teams of unique characters and engage in “real-time cross-play” battles set in iconic Star Wars locations.
You will also be able to customise your Hunters and use their diverse range of skills for a tactical advantage as you fight your way to victory.
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Release date: TBA 2023
While an early access beta version launched back in September of last year, the full, free-to-play version of Disney Dreamlight Valley is set to drop sometime in 2023. The Animal Crossing-like life sim will have you exploring, fishing and taking on quests as you help your favourite Disney and Pixar characters after they’re affected by the ‘Forgetting.’
Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Release date: TBA 2023
Firaxis Games’ Marvel’s Midnight Suns released last year for PlayStation 5, PC and Xbox Series X|S, but is currently still in development for other platforms, including the Switch. While a release date is yet to be announced, you should be able to bag the tactical RPG this year and attempt to stop Lilith, the Mother of Demons, from destroying the world.
Disney Speedstorm
Release date: TBA 2023
Gameloft is remaining tight-lipped on an Australian release date, but we are hoping to see Disney Speedstorm race onto our screens sooner, rather than later. The free to download title will see your favourite Disney and Pixar characters get behind the wheel in a Mario Kart-esque arcade racer game.
Gameloft is also promising plenty of “fresh seasonal content” along with “new racers, new tracks and collectibles” that will drop into the game regularly.
Oxenfree II: Lost Signals
Release date: TBA 2023
As the hotly-anticipated sequel to acclaimed narrative adventure Oxenfree, we’re expecting big things from Oxenfree II: Lost Signals. Set five years after the events of the original, players will investigate mysterious radio signals and shape events through conversations and dialogue choices in this high-stakes adventure.
Moving Out 2
Release date: TBA 2023
If you haven’t already risked your real life friendships with Moving Out, you can put them to the test in Moving Out 2. Once again, you’ll need to show off your moving skills as you race against the clock in hilariously silly challenges.
Moving Out 2 will also introduce online co-op play, so you can have your patience tested by a total stranger in more than 50 new levels and challenges.
Spells and Secrets
Release date: TBA 2023
If you’re upset about never having received a Hogwarts acceptance letter, Spells and Secrets is for you. The rogue-like inspired action adventure sees you play as a student wizard, after your first day throws the school into turmoil.
Solve mysteries, save your fellow students, explore an ever-changing school and, of course, use your spellcasting in single or local co-op modes.
Mineko’s Night Market
Release date: TBA 2023
Cozy gamers, rejoice! Yet another adorable Switch title is on its way. A gorgeous celebration of Japanese culture, Mineko’s Night Market follows the titular character as she arrives at her new home on a struggling Japanese-inspired island.
Eat, craft, complete quests, find plenty of cats and discover secrets as you try to restore the little village to its former glory.
Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun
Release date: TBA 2023
Channelling classic retro first-person shooters, Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is set to blast onto screens later this year. The fast-paced indie has been in the works since 2018, so we can expect a lot from it, including tons of action, plenty of weapons and iconic 90s style gameplay.
Will Nintendo be affected by delayed releases in 2023?
While we would love to promise that every game on this list will drop in 2023 (and on its scheduled release date), global and economic factors mean there is always a level of uncertainty for the video game industry.
We do expect big releases like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Pikmin 4 to stay on schedule, but we are less certain of other titles. We also expect to see a few other games pushed back throughout the year but, hopefully, most appear on time.
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