The best RPGs for Nintendo Switch

After seven years, the Nintendo Switch has enjoyed some incredible RPGs, here are the best!

10. Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom

Ni no Kuni 2
© BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment

Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom retains the same charm as its predecessor, with an improved combat system and stunning graphics. While the story might not be the strongest, it sets the stage for a gorgeous game that feels like a dream come to life.

9. Octopath Traveler II

Octopath Traveler 2
© Square Enix

Octopath Traveler 2 is a wonderful tribute to classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy VI, featuring engaging gameplay systems and stunning pixel art. Each character has a unique storyline, culminating in a beautiful and satisfying ending.

8. Sea of Stars

Sea of Stars Header
© Sabotage Studio

This RPG, which feels like a love letter to classics like Chrono Trigger, not only met but exceeded our high expectations. The small cast of characters is incredibly charming, and the beautifully crafted world with its unique inhabitants proves that pixel art can still be breathtaking.

Even though the story is somewhat weak, the gorgeous visuals and enjoyable combat make it perfect for a 40-hour adventure.

7. Live A Live

LIVE A LIVE Key Art
© Square Enix

In the 90s, this game was only available in Japan, but now we can finally experience its enhanced gameplay and upgraded graphics. You can choose from seven different heroes, each with their own unique story and gameplay mechanics.

Whether it's the nonverbal caveman with no dialogue or the boxer whose combat system feels like an RPG version of a fighting game, the differences between each story are what make this game truly stand out.

6. Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster

Ranking Every Final Fantasy Game Final Fantasy 6
© Square Enix

We're fortunate to have one of the best Final Fantasy games available on the Switch. The pixel remaster does more than just update the graphics to reflect its classic pixelated style; it also introduces new features like level and money boosts that improve the gameplay experience, letting us skip the tedious parts of grinding.

The story, the unique group of heroes, and the fate of the continent still make it one of the greatest JRPGs out there, and with the new features, it's more accessible than ever.

5. Super Mario RPG

Super Mario RPG Thumbnail
© Nintendo

This charming, smaller-scale JRPG is ideal for those who aren't typically fans of the genre—and that's exactly why we love it. It's light-hearted and stands out for its creative level design and gameplay features.

While it doesn't offer a deep story or extensive exploration, it remains a competent and imaginative RPG.

4. Shin Megani Tensei V: Vengeance

Shin Megani Tensei V Vengeance 2
© Atlus

We wake up to find all of Japan in ruins. As a half-demon, it's our task to collect, fuse, and battle other demons in a dystopian version of Japan. Picture a Pokémon game, but with grotesque and unsettling demons, paired with a complex yet captivating storyline that will keep you engaged for at least 70 hours.

3. Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Fire Emblem Three Houses
© Intelligent Systems

This game revolves around routine. As a teacher at a military academy, you train students in various fighting styles and weapons, leading them into tactical turn-based battles to help them grow stronger. The combat system is the best tactical turn-based experience on the Switch, and the character interactions are well-written. It makes losing a character even more heartbreaking because, if someone falls in battle, they're gone for good.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom
© Nintendo

Although Breath of the Wild marked the beginning of a new era for the Zelda series, Tears of the Wild has expanded the maps, introduced even more possibilities with new gadgets, and most importantly, brought back dungeons. Zelda emphasizes exploration like no other RPG, and it excels at it.

1. Xenoblade Chronicles 3

Xenoblade chronicles 3 trailer release date
© Monolith Soft

The third installment of this JRPG series aims to combine the best elements of its predecessors while removing the weaker aspects. One thing that remains central is exploring the vast maps. As you journey through the world, you'll encounter new enemies and treasures, as well as distant mountains and massive ruins that will likely occupy much of your time.

Even if you stick to the main storyline, the game offers enough depth to hold its own against other JRPGs. The battle system resembles an offline MMORPG, where you control a large squad, evoking a true raid experience. Overall, the game embodies the motto: big, bigger, Xenoblade Chronicles 3.
Moritz Look

Moritz has been a devout a gamer for as long as he remembers, and is now the newest writer in our content team. Although deeply involved in shooters in the past, he is currently focused on trying to prove himself in fighting games....