Top Nintendo Switch 2 Games to Grab for Christmas 2025

This blog contains affiliate links. This means that ReHack may make a small commission if you purchase products through links in this post. Click here to learn more.

---

Nintendo’s new console has hit the gaming industry with ferocity. While you may think its release titles were underwhelming, the same cannot be said for its autumn and winter announcements. The season is stacked with highly anticipated games, so which ones should you purchase as gifts? What games are on Switch 2 that are worth wrapping up and giving to your loved ones?

What Is the Difference Between Switch and Switch 2 Games?

Here are a few key points you need to understand about Switch games:

• The Switch 2 is backward compatible, meaning it will play games released on the original Switch. The Switch cannot play games released exclusively for Switch 2.
• Many games are still being dual-released on both consoles — including some on this list. However, playing on Switch 2 may lead to a more fluid experience because of its hardware and technical upgrades.
• Even though the Switch 2 is out, some games are still being released exclusively as an original Switch title. However, these are still playable on Switch 2.
• Some games are labeled Switch 2 Edition, which means they may have been cross-released, but they feature upgraded graphics, features or content exclusive to the new console.

What Games Are On Switch 2 To Get for Christmas?

Some of the most hyped games, including Final Fantasy 7 Remake Integrade and Resident Evil Requiem, are not coming out until 2026. However, there are plenty of games to satisfy you until then. 

This list will include mostly first-party games, with a few other gems thrown in there for variety. These exclusives are one of the primary reasons those who own a Switch 2 in 2025 beat the rush to get the console in the first place. Therefore, these are the most hyped titles to put under your tree.

1. Mario Kart World

Mario Kart World was a game that fans had waited a decade for. However, many were not anticipating a Switch 2 launch title to have its infamous $80 price tag. Many held out on buying it, despite mostly receiving positive reviews. If your loved one is a fan of Mario or Mario Kart, but hesitated on buying this entry because of the cost, Christmas is the perfect excuse to return to Rainbow Road. Its innovative open-world Free Roam game mode gives this old franchise new life, even in single-player experiences.

2. Kirby Air Riders

Over 20 years ago, the famous video game icon, Masahiro Sakurai, created the beloved Kirby spin-off, Kirby Air Ride, for the GameCube. Nobody expected a sequel to come in a Nintendo Direct in 2025, but Kirby Air Riders is very real. It is unlike any racer you have ever played, chock-full of Easter eggs for diehard Kirby fans and lightning-fast pacing to drag in new players. It revives its most famous game mode, City Trial, with brand new twists and a modern edge. It’ll likely be the online multiplayer game of the season.

3. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment

If you have already found all 1,000 Koroks in Tears of the Kingdom, don’t worry — this game’s story is continuing in the well-known spin-off series from Koei Tecmo. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is the third installment in this Legend of Zelda-Dynasty Warriors hybrid game. It explores the story left untold in Breath of the Wild’s successor, tracing Zelda in the past during the original founding of Hyrule. The games are known for their fast-paced hack-and-slash combat style and sweeping orchestral soundtracks, so it’s a fight you won’t want to miss.

4. Silksong

There are fewer games in history that have been so long-awaited. Silksong, the legendary follow-up to Team Cherry’s smash indie hit, Hollow Knight, follows Hornet in this Metroidvania-style adventure. Known for its brutal combat, haunting art style, devilish bosses and atmospheric music, every gamer wants a piece of Silksong.

5. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Metroid fans are not as frequently treated with new games compared to some of Nintendo’s other intellectual properties. However, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is expected to be one of the biggest releases of the year. The Prime series within the Metroid universe is one of the most beloved in gaming history, so this installment only has high expectations from fans. Once fans saw the trailer of Samus traversing a gorgeous desert landscape on a motorcycle, they only chomped at the bit more for its fall release.

6. Hades II

Hades II launched for console in September, but it was only available digitally. The physical version arrives right around Thanksgiving, which is perfect for anyone who wants the box for their collection. This epic rogue-like is a direct sequel to the critically acclaimed Hades by Supergiant Games. Players navigate through the Underworld as the witch, Melinoë, to fight Chronos, the Titan of Time, who is threatening her family — the House of Hades.

7. Donkey Kong Bananza

Often referred to as the Super Mario Odyssey of the Donkey Kong franchise, Donkey Kong Bananza is one of the best platformers to release this year. Its vibrant world, waiting to be smashed to pieces by the iconic monkey, is one of the best places to unwind or let out some pent-up aggression. This game was a turning point in the franchise with its addictive pseudo-open-world gameplay, making many curious what the future for DK looks like.

8. Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Pokémon Legends: Z-A brings trainers to Lumiose City. It is the first game in the series to feature real-time battling — no more turn-based fights like in the days of old. Players will find Pokémon while upgrading their rank from Z to A, fighting mega-evolved Pokémon along the way. It is one of several Pokémon games to be announced for the Switch 2, so playing it over Christmas is perfect. That way, you can be ready for the next release!

What Games Are On Switch 2?

These are some of our recommendations for games your loved ones will likely enjoy receiving on Christmas Day. Whether they are fans of a specific franchise or need something to do with their free time, this list has a little bit of everything to appeal to any gamer’s sensibilities.