Overview of Nintendo Switch’s Success
- Recent years have seen a surge in the release of highly popular games for the Nintendo Switch, demonstrating that the console continues to enjoy a robust player base despite its maturity in the market.
- The bestselling titles for the Switch primarily consist of first-party games, a trend that is characteristic of Nintendo’s hardware.
- The success of these titles is supported by the console’s extensive install base and its strong presence across multiple global markets.
While it is uncertain if the Nintendo Switch can propel itself to become the highest-selling video game console ever, it is clear that the system still exhibits vitality. Many of its most beloved games were launched within the last few years, highlighting ongoing engagement from consumers who have embraced Nintendo’s esteemed handheld device.
Interestingly, some of the top-selling titles were not recently released but instead have accrued their impressive sales figures over various years. Collectively, these games have surpassed 250 million units sold, fueled by the Switch’s strong market positioning across diverse regions worldwide. Consistently, the best-selling titles are first-party releases, echoing a common pattern for Nintendo hardware.
The compilation of the most popular Nintendo Switch games is based on sales data provided by Nintendo. All figures are accurate as of December 31, 2024, unless stated otherwise.
Updated February 26, 2025, by Tom Bowen: With the anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, Nintendo has recently refreshed its list of best-selling titles. While no major surprises emerged, their third-quarter report provided key updates about the success of Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Nintendo Switch Sports, both of which have achieved over 15 million units sold, drawing them close to the top ten bestsellers of all time.
14 Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! & Let’s Go, Eevee!
15.07 Million Copies Sold (as of December 31, 2022)
These remakes of the original Generation 1 Pokémon games effortlessly captured the hearts of fans, reaffirming their legacy as foundational titles in one of gaming’s most successful franchises. The enduring appeal of the 90s classics ensured high expectations even before the game was released.
It’s essential to acknowledge that Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! & Let’s Go, Eevee! transcended mere nostalgia by offering a meticulously reimagined Kanto region, making them accessible to a new generation of gamers. This thoughtful approach has contributed to impressive sales exceeding 15 million units.
13 Ring Fit Adventure
15.38 Million Copies Sold (as of March 31, 2023)
Drawing inspiration from previous Nintendo fitness titles like Wii Fit, Ring Fit Adventure was a natural evolution for the gaming company, yet it surprised many with its unique design featuring a Pilates ring. This innovative approach proved to be highly effective.
With over 15 million units sold by March 2023, Ring Fit Adventure has successfully fused fitness with gaming. It offers a wealth of content and diverse side activities, keeping players engaged even after completing the main adventure, including a rich rhythm mini-game that features tunes from other widely loved Nintendo franchises.
12 Super Mario Bros. Wonder
15.51 Million Copies Sold
In a gaming landscape dominated by 3D experiences, Super Mario Bros. Wonder reaffirms the relevance of thoughtful 2D gameplay. With its engaging mechanics and captivating design, the game shines brightly among modern releases.
Incorporating new power-ups and the innovative Wonder Effect, which transforms stages in surprising ways, this title has achieved over 15 million in sales within just two years, securing its status as one of the Switch’s bestsellers.
11 Nintendo Switch Sports
15.57 Million Copies Sold
Building on the legacy of Wii Sports, the announcement of Nintendo Switch Sports in early 2022 generated great expectations. Though opinions on its enjoyment may vary compared to its predecessor—originally released in 2006—it has still managed impressive sales of over 15 million copies in its first three years on the market.
The game has been enhanced since its release, with the addition of popular sports such as soccer, basketball, and golf, which broadens its appeal and enhances replayability.
10 New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
18.06 Million Copies Sold
This enhanced port of a Wii U title, released in early 2019, features additional content such as a new playable character, improved visuals, and access to the New Super Luigi U expansion, offering a refreshing upgrade for fans.
The Switch’s far larger player base propelled the game to exceed the three million sales mark within its first three months, solidifying its position as a beloved title on the platform.
9 Super Mario Party
21.10 Million Copies Sold
Despite some players and critics favoring Mario Party Superstars, it is Super Mario Party that stands among the top sellers on Switch. The timing of its earlier release likely contributed to its broad reach and frequent discounts.
While it lacks some content when compared to its sequel, Super Mario Party remains an entertaining experience, considerably improving upon its predecessor, Mario Party 10, emphasizing enjoyment and playful rivalry among friends.
8 The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
21.55 Million Copies Sold
The overwhelming success of its predecessor set high expectations for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. It achieved over ten million in sales within its first three days and quickly approached the 20 million threshold.
This sequel excels at enhancing the core elements that made the original a classic while also introducing fresh concepts, including a notably expansive world that alters traditional gameplay dynamics.
7 Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
26.38 Million Copies Sold
Despite facing some technical challenges, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet signifies a substantial advancement within the franchise, offering players a sizeable open-world experience. The game’s unique story structure allows for flexibility in gameplay, letting players explore in a non-linear fashion.
Their success is rooted in the strong groundwork laid by Pokémon Legends: Arceus and prior installments, establishing Scarlet & Violet as immensely popular titles within the Nintendo Switch catalog.
6 Pokémon Sword & Shield
26.60 Million Copies Sold
While the Pokémon series is traditionally not known for groundbreaking innovation, the popularity of Pokémon Sword & Shield derives from its ability to engage players without radically deviating from the successful formula. Their introduction of download content and the Wild Area broadened the scope for open-world exploration in subsequent titles.
5 Super Mario Odyssey
29.04 Million Copies Sold
It has been years since a mainline Mario title topped the sales charts for a Nintendo home console, with Super Mario 64 being the last to do so back in 1996. Although it’s uncertain if Super Mario Odyssey can surpass this legacy, it remains an outstanding title in its own right.
Debates may arise concerning its comparison to the Mario Galaxy series, but the innovative capture mechanic and extensive content ensure players remain engaged long after completing the game.
4 The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
32.62 Million Copies Sold
While it isn’t the first open-world title in the Zelda series, Breath of the Wild captivated audiences with a meticulously crafted world that has propelled sales to over 30 million units and counting. Its innovative approach redefined traditional mechanics within the franchise.
The game replaced classic elements with a new emphasis on exploration and creativity, while the user-driven approach allowed players to shape their own adventures in Hyrule.
3 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
35.88 Million Copies Sold
The title “Ultimate”in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate aptly describes its role as the definitive edition of the series, with a roster that includes every playable character from the franchise’s history alongside new entrants.
With its exceptional reception and sustained popularity, surpassing this landmark success will require significant changes in future installments, making it a cornerstone of the Switch’s library.
2 Animal Crossing: New Horizons
47.44 Million Copies Sold
Launched at the onset of a global pandemic, Animal Crossing: New Horizons saw remarkable sales success, but its charm and rich content firmly establish its status among the top-selling titles in Nintendo’s history.
This installment offers extensive gameplay features and received commendable post-launch updates, affirming its must-play status for fans of social simulation genres, despite calls for extended support from the company.
1 Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
67.35 Million Copies Sold
The inclusion of several enhanced Wii U titles in the list of top-selling Switch games, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, highlights the overlooked potential of the Wii U. While it is fundamentally an upgraded port, this entry retains its beloved core mechanics.
Renowned for its engaging multiplayer and split-screen gameplay, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe stands out as a prime example of cooperative gaming, overflowing with content including a multitude of racers, circuits, and tournaments to keep players entertained.
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