The Nintendo Switch is a fantastic console that offers the perfect gaming experience while you’re on the go. Whether you’re carrying it in your bag or pocket (if you own a Switch Lite), the Switch provides the convenience of a console-like experience wherever you are. However, not all games are suitable for travel. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best Switch games that are perfect for gaming on the move.
Finding the Perfect Travel Game
A good travel game is one that keeps you engaged for hours without repeating the same content. It should have a main story or objectives, but also allow you to continue playing without feeling like you’re stuck in a loop. Additionally, travel games should be easy to pick up and put down as you please. Whether you have a few minutes or a long flight ahead, these games fit perfectly into your travel schedule.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
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Breath of the Wild is a groundbreaking game that takes the beloved Zelda franchise in an entirely new direction. With its expansive open world and survival mechanics, it offers a unique experience that sets it apart from other Zelda games. Whether you’re following the main story, engaging in side quests, or simply exploring the world, Breath of the Wild provides an immersive gaming experience that is perfect for your travels. With around 50 hours of gameplay, and up to 200 hours if you want to complete everything, this game will keep you entertained for many journeys to come.
Octopath Traveler
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Octopath Traveler is a visually stunning homage to classic JRPGs from the 16-bit era. With its eight distinct story arcs and a massive semi-open world map, this game offers a captivating adventure. Each traveler in your party brings a unique set of skills and abilities, making for exciting gameplay. Octopath Traveler is a lengthy game, requiring over 100 hours to complete everything. However, the game’s generous save points allow for easy pick-up-and-play sessions, perfect for gaming on the go.
Stardew Valley
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Stardew Valley is a charming farming game inspired by the classic Harvest Moon series. Developed by one person, it addresses shortcomings of previous farming games, making it a truly enjoyable experience. Alongside farming and crafting, the game offers quests, dungeons, and combat, providing a dynamic and immersive world to explore. With its deep simulation systems and extensive content, Stardew Valley will keep you engaged for hours. Whether on a plane or by the pool, this game is perfect for relaxing and unwinding during your travels.
Hyrule Warriors Definitive Edition
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If you’re a fan of hack-and-slash games, Hyrule Warriors is a must-play. Developed by the creators of Dynasty Warriors, it combines the thrilling combat of that series with iconic Legend of Zelda characters. With its massive amount of story content and all DLC characters and maps included, the Definitive Edition on Switch is the ultimate way to experience this game. The various quality-of-life improvements make it even more enjoyable, ensuring countless hours of gameplay while you’re on the move.
Dragon Quest XI Definitive Edition S
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Dragon Quest XI is hailed as one of the best JRPGs of all time, and the Switch version is the definitive way to experience it. Despite the slight visual downgrade compared to other platforms, the Definitive Edition comes with additional content and quality-of-life improvements. Featuring a captivating story and a multitude of gameplay enhancements, this game offers a truly immersive experience. With its portable nature and the ability to pick up where you left off, Dragon Quest XI is perfect for gaming during your travels.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
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Who doesn’t love a good round of Mario Kart? Mario Kart 8 Deluxe brings the ultimate kart racing experience to the Nintendo Switch. With its diverse selection of tracks, characters, and vehicles, this game offers endless fun and excitement. The Deluxe version expands on the original release, featuring new characters, revamped Battle Mode, and the ability to carry two items at once. Whether you’re racing against friends or challenging yourself in single-player modes, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe guarantees an enjoyable time wherever you are.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
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Animal Crossing needs no introduction. The latest installment, New Horizons, takes the beloved series to new heights. Create your character and customize your island, bringing your vision to life in this delightful game. With features borrowed from previous entries and new additions like crafting, New Horizons offers a fresh and immersive Animal Crossing experience. As a Switch exclusive, it’s the perfect game to enjoy during your travels.
Puyo Puyo Tetris
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For puzzle enthusiasts, Puyo Puyo Tetris combines two beloved franchises: Puyo Puyo and Tetris. In this unique mashup, you can switch between Puyo Puyo and Tetris modes, offering endless puzzle fun. Whether you prefer one style or want to mix them together in Arcade Mode, this game has something for everyone. With its captivating gameplay and a story mode to help you master the mechanics, Puyo Puyo Tetris is the perfect puzzle game to play during your travels.
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
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Looking for a game with great value? Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove offers five games in one, each set in the charming Shovel Knight universe. From platforming to multiplayer battles, this game has it all. With its retro-inspired graphics and nostalgic NES-era charm, Treasure Trove provides hours of exciting gameplay. For an affordable price, you’ll have an entire treasure trove of gaming content to keep you entertained throughout your travels.
Baba Is You
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If you enjoy solving puzzles, Baba Is You is a game that will put your thinking skills to the test. This innovative puzzle game challenges your perception of how games should function. Change the rules of each stage to reach your objectives, and watch as elements in the game transform. With its unique mechanics and outside-the-box thinking, Baba Is You is a true gem in the puzzle genre.
Conclusion
These are some of the best Nintendo Switch games that are perfect for gaming on the go. Whether you’re a fan of action, adventure, simulation, racing, or puzzles, there’s something for everyone in this curated list. So, pack your bags, bring your Switch along, and let the gaming adventures begin!
