I’m always on the hunt for the best RPGs on the Switch and Switch 2. After all, I was raised as a handheld console gamer and it’s still my preferred mode of playing anything, especially when it comes to my favorite genre of all time: roleplaying games. Luckily, Nintendo’s hybrid consoles are packed with some of the best RPGs around, and I’ve decided to round-up the top 11 that still have me in a chokehold.
From Zelda appearances to JRPG goodness I’ve waded through the best Switch 2 games to recommend both first-party Nintendo hits, as well as third-party gems. Since it’s the new console and what all future new games will be released on, all my picks here are playable on the Switch 2, be that through backwards compatibility or by the fact that they have dedicated Switch 2 editions. I’ve made sure to include which consoles all these RPGs are available on so that you can make the right purchase for your setup. You’ll also find a “Vibe” descriptor where I indicated what kind of experience you can expect from each, as well (for more on those, read our FAQ section).
The best Switch and Switch 2 RPGs, starting with…
10. Octopath Traveler 0
Release date: December 4, 2025
Console: Switch, Switch 2
Vibe: Quick Play
Our glowing Octopath Traveler 0 review calls the latest entry in the JRPG series “the strongest” yet. And, despite being a massive Octopath Traveler 2 fan, I’ll admit that in terms of the top pick for Switch 2 and Switch players, that statement is correct. This is due to performance, as well as refined tactical gameplay that runs like a dream in handheld mode. If you are unfamiliar with the series, Octopath Traveler 0 is a prequel to the first game and is set on the continent of Osterra.
However, unlike previous titles that follow a group of heroes there is only one protagonist here, your own character who is on a revenge quest. You’ll still be recruiting other characters but the story is a lot more streamlined and focused. There’s also polished turn-based battles to enjoy and some building elements, too. If you are looking for something to easily get into, Octopath Traveler 0 is super approachable and hopefully it will also get you to explore the rest of the games in the series after.
9. Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster
Release date: June 5, 2025
Console: Switch 2
Vibe: Chill Out
I love Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster, and honestly, it deserves way more recognition as being one of the best JRPGs for Nintendo’s latest-gen consoles. In fact, back when the Switch 2 first released in 2025 we wrote an article explaining why Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster was the hidden must-play RPG of the system. So yeah, big fans over here and trust me, you’ll be as well once you take a crack at it.
The game follows four heroes who must reclaim elemental crystals from the forces of darkness to save their world. Every character is well written and there are plenty of ways to catch-up with lore when you need to. This is one of Bravely Default’s charms as it respects your time, and its story is one that you can easily dip in and out of. The turn-based combat is also very fun here thanks to the “Brave points” system that allows you to use multiple actions against an enemy. This is an all-rounder folks.
8. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
Release date: June 5, 2025
Console: Switch 2
Vibe: Chill Out
As someone who also owns a Steam Deck, I can confidently say that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition on the Switch 2 is the best handheld experience of the game, and it runs like a dream. In this futuristic RPG, you are a mercenary called V who is stuck with the consciousness of the rocker terrorist, Johnny Silverhand. You’ll need to work together to survive and that means exploring neon streets, shooting plenty of bad guys, and navigating a dystopian urban landscape.
In our Cyberpunk 2077 review, we mention how the title is a “paragon of open-world gaming”, giving you endless freedom and opportunities to build up your character and explore. It’s also one of the best relaxing RPGs, and curling up to cruise around Night City with your Switch 2 on the couch is a top-tier cozy experience that I 100% recommend.
7. Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined
Release date: February 5, 2026
Console: Switch, Switch 2
Vibe: Expect the Unexpected
While Nintendo has some of the best Dragon Quest games around (and I debated adding a few on here, especially the masterpiece Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes of an Elusive Age), Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined on the Switch 2 took my breath away. If you have Ninty’s new console it’s currently the best experience of the iconic bunch. In this fantasy RPG, you follow a young fisherman’s son on a journey to sail away from home and discover the wide world. However, to add some peril to the situation, you end up uncovering some secrets that put the fate of the world in your hands, classic stuff.
There are some time-travelling mechanics here too, which I personally love, as your actions affect the present day. So if you are looking for RPGs with meaningful consequences, this is another to add to your pile. Combat also feels snappy and never too grueling, and Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined’s story will also shock you by how well it’s put together. All in all, it’s a cute, extremely polished JRPG.
6. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade
Release date: January 22, 2026
Consoles: Switch 2
Vibe: Story-driven
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade has no business looking as good as it does on the Switch 2. But hey, I’m not complaining about getting high definition Cloud as he slashes up enemies on my console. In this RPG, you play as the mercenary Cloud, who joins an eco-terrorist group that is trying to stop an evil corporation from basically using the planet’s life essence.
The great thing about this Remake is that you don’t need to have played any of the best Final Fantasy games before to enjoy it. It’s the start of a contained trilogy, which is perfect for any RPG fans who have been scared to dive into the FF franchise for a while now. As I mentioned above, the game runs and looks great on Nintendo’s new console, and the real-time combat feels fluid and natural, too. Both as a docked or handheld experience, this is an easy Switch RPG to recommend.
5. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Release date: March 3, 2017
Consoles: Switch, Switch 2
Vibe: Chill Out
Ever since it was released in 2017, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has been the main system seller for the Switch, and for good reason, it’s a masterpiece. Giving us the most freedom that any Zelda game has ever had, it’s an open-world action RPG that has you stepping into the shoes of the hero Link, who has to save Hyrule from calamity. As you discover towers, solve puzzles, fight roaming robots, and more, it’s easy to get swept up in the Nintendo magic.
I still fully agree with our five-star The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild review years later. And if you have a Switch 2, I will also mention that the upgrade to the Switch 2 edition of the game is stunning and very much worth it. So, if you love taking things at your own pace, exploring, and a cartoony art style, this has to be your next Nintendo-related purchase.
4. Pokemon Legends Arceus
Release date: January 28, 2022
Console: Switch, Switch 2 (via backwards compatibility)
Vibe: Quick Play
I could have put a ton of Pokemon games on this list, but Pokemon Legends Arceus earns a place as one of the most unique RPGs in the series. Capturing the freedom of exploration that all of us trainers have been waiting for, you play as a kid sent back in time before the events of Pokemon Diamond and Pearl, and are tasked with encountering all Pokemon in the Hisui region.
The game is easy to dip in and out of if you are strapped for time, and it puts the emphasis on catching critters instead of battling gyms. In our Pokemon Legends Arceus review, our Brand Director pointed out how this shift in focus was the stuff of her childhood dreams, and honestly, it still holds up today. I will say that performance-wise, Arceus is a bit rough. Thanks to Pokemon Scarlet and Violet‘s Switch 2 upgrade, their open worlds run a whole lot better than Pokemon Legends Arceus. However, Arceus still beats them in storytelling and its original setting, so its space on this list is safe for now.
3. Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter
Release date: September 19, 2025
Consoles: Switch, Switch 2
Vibe: Story-driven
The Switch and Switch 2 are a haven for some of the best JRPGs, but Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter still manages to stand out from the crowd. In fact, our Games Editor believes that it’s a “masterclass in how remakes should be done“. And I happen to firmly agree with that opinion. The game follows Estelle Bright and her adopted brother Joshua, who are determined to become senior Bracers. However, on their journey, they end up uncovering a conspiracy and have to work with their allies to thwart a coup. Despite the dark themes, though, this is one of my new go-to comfort games that’s packed with charm.
The game’s writing really draws you in to care about each character, and I especially loved getting to see Estelle’s development. Exploring new towns and experiencing the real-time and turn-based combat system are also a treat. Fans of the original will love it, and I’d also recommend this to JRPG newbies who want something new for their Switch 2 system. It’s a great introduction to the genre and feels like a welcoming hug, too.
2. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
Release date: July 26, 2019
Console: Switch, Switch 2 (via backwards compatibility)
Vibe: Story-driven
Fire Emblem: Three Houses is one of the best turn-based RPGs on the Switch, as well as a glorious tactical outing for the more strategy-minded gamers out there. Playing as Byleth, a former mercenary turned professor of one of the three houses that you’ll choose from at the start of the game, you’ll need to lead units into battle and decide the very fate of the continent of Fódlan in the process. Each house has its own route and story to follow, and you’ll also have to piece together your mysterious past.
Fire Emblem: Three Houses still looks stunning on the Switch despite its age. Since the game has social-sim elements (romance fans rejoice) alongside its tactical gameplay, you’ll see many stunning cutscenes and a very clean UI, too. I also can’t recommend its story enough, and if you are after replayability, well, between all of us on the GamesRadar+ team, we’ve put thousands of hours into this one. For more information, check out our five-star Fire Emblem: Three Houses review.
1. Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition
Release date: March 20, 2025
Consoles: Switch, Switch 2
Vibe: Chill Out
When the Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Switch 2 upgrade was announced, I squealed. Sure, it’s still playable on the original Switch, but on Nintendo’s newest machine, this RPG runs super smoothly, even if visuals can be a bit finicky. This is an expanded remaster of the original Wii U game and has you playing as a character who joins a group called BLADE. Together, you work to protect human survivors after crash landing on the mysterious planet known as Mira.
Xenoblade Chronicles X has a great story that will tickle any sci-fi fan pink with the fate of humanity at stake and a bunch of angry mechanized aliens out for blood. However, it’s open world mechanics and auto-attack based gameplay I really love and is what makes it uber satisfying to play. It does take a while until you get your own Mech, but you’ll want to make your way through all the side quests here, and take in the brilliant world-building along the way too – trust me. Oh, also prepare to wave goodbye to hundreds of hours with this one, friends.
Best Switch 2 RPGs FAQs
How do we pick our entries for the best RPGs on Switch and Switch 2?
All of the entries on this list have been played and vetted by myself and other RPG experts on the team. We always prioritize Switch 2 experiences since it’s the new console and this list focuses on the best games to play right now. Switch games have been considered still if they are playable on the Switch 2, but you may not see some big titles simply because they can’t hold up to modern standards.
Why do we update our lists?
At GamesRadar+, we want to make sure that all our recommendations are always relevant and keep genre enthusiasts in the loop with the best titles in the genre to play right now. So when a new Switch and Switch 2 RPG releases, we check it out and debate on whether it beats out one of our current entries for a spot on this list.
This also applies to any hidden gems or classics that we haven’t played yet (any recommendations in our comments section are welcomed). If we’ve played something new and we think it’s worthy of the spotlight, we’ll consider adding it to our list.
Our RPG Vibes explained
All our entries include a “vibe section”, which we use to indicate what kind of game experience you’ll largely be getting here. Of course, a lot of RPGs have multiple kinds of experiences, but the vibes we’ve chosen are specifically curated for the subgenre you’re after.
In this case, we’ve taken into account how RPGs on the Switch and Switch 2 play via handheld mode and docked when it comes to deciding vibes. You can also find a definition of all of our vibes below.
- Story-driven: RPGs where the story propels your journey forward, with unforgettable companions and impactful choices and consequences.
- Better With Friends: RPGs that can be played solo but thrive with others. These offer the possibility for shared experiences, be that online or locally.
- Quick Play: RPGs that aren’t hard to pick up and play whenever you have the spare time. The perfect choice for busy folks after quick gaming sessions.
- Chill Out: RPGs that let you take things at your own pace, explore, and venture on side-quests if you choose. For those looking for a less demanding and more stress-free time.
- Expect the Unexpected: RPGs where you can get silly and find yourself in novel and very unusual situations. Things can go wrong quickly, but also in very funny directions.
How frequently do we update our ranking?
The frequency of updates is based on what is released and if the team and I can confidently recommend any new games over the current ones to you. The Switch 2 is my current favorite console, so I have a special interest in maintaining this list as well as playing every new release I can get my hands on. If a new title beats out a current entry fairly, we’ll add it. However, when our current ranking still stands strong we won’t touch it until the new year to make sure everything is still up to date. The frequency of updates depends on the quality of new releases and our expert opinions on them.
Next, check out our round-up of all the upcoming Switch 2 games still on the way and all of the upcoming RPGs on the horizon as well.
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