It’s been a big year for Nintendo with the release of the Switch 2 and a host of games from some of the biggest IPs, giving you plenty of options when deciding which Nintendo Switch games to consider gifting this holiday season.
Below, Insider Gaming has highlighted some of the best Switch and Switch 2 games to gift in 2025, including major recent releases and must-haves from Nintendo’s extensive catalogue.
For even more holiday shopping guides, check out Insider Gaming’s Holiday 2025 hub for the best deals available.
Best Nintendo Switch Games to Gift
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
The newest entry in the long-standing Pokémon franchise, Legends: Z-A brings players back to Kalos’ Lumiose City and features the return of Mega Evolutions, including favorites from the past and new additions. With open-world exploration and real-time balance mechanics, Legends: Z-A breaks off from the standard Pokémon script, yet impresses as one of the best games in the franchise’s history.
Mario Kart World
Mario Kart 8 seemed to go on forever, but, after many years of waiting, 2025 finally saw the arrival of Mario Kart World on Nintendo Switch 2. While it’s not available on the original Switch console, Mario Kart World is a must-have for any Switch 2 owner, providing plenty of enjoyment solo or against other players.
Hades 2
After an extended stint in early access, Hades 2 fully released a 1.0 version this year and Switch players are the first to be able to jump in as the title is a timed console exclusive. The roguelike game is great to play on Switch, with the ability to play on the go, and the biggest challenge you’ll likely face is putting it down.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Although now five years old, Animal Crossing: New Horizons continues to be a must-play title, standing as one of the best available on the Switch, and there’s even more content right around the corner. The big 3.0 update next year brings Switch 2 improvements to the game, but there’s also a bunch of new free additions for players across both generations of console.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Another title that stands as a must-have for any Switch player, Tears of the Kingdom is widely regarded to be one of the greatest games of all time. There’s so much to do that you’ll lose hours and hours in the game, with a gripping story to complete and a near-endless amount of side quests and exploration to tick off.
Super Smash Bros Ultimate
Though it celebrates a seventh birthday this year, and is likely due to be replaced by a successor in the coming years, Super Smash Bros Ultimate remains the best in show in the brawler scene, and has a stacked roster like no other. Unlocking everyone is quite an undertaking, but it’s worth it and provides a fun challenge to the single-player push.
Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2
This two-in-one bundle has hours of entertainment through arguably the best Mario titles ever created, and the fact it’s at an affordable price makes it even more enticing. Super Mario Galaxy paved the way for the modern generation of titles and, while they may be old news by now, they’re worth picking up if you haven’t already.
PowerWash Simulator 2
Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. On paper, PowerWash Simulator 2 may not sound like the most thrilling adventure, and you’d be right, but what it does offer is relaxing gameplay that hits the spot every time you boot it up. There’s nothing else quite as satisfying as finally finishing a big job in PowerWash Simulator 2, and it’s well worth trying out.
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Super Mario Party Jamboree is the latest instalment in the beloved franchise that has been testing friendships for generations, and it’s another must-have title for any Switch owner. With an array of mini games, plenty of boards to work through in matches, and unrivalled multiplayer, Super Mario Party Jamboree needs to be near the top of your wishlist.
Which titles on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 are must-haves in your eyes? Share your thoughts in the Insider Gaming Discord.
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