Nintendo Switch has reached global sales of 150.86 million units as of December 31, 2024. Now is the perfect time to reflect on the games that defined the console. From launch titles to recent releases, these best-selling games have cemented their place in gaming history.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 best-selling Nintendo Switch games, based on official sales figures.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – 60+ million
The definitive version of Mario Kart 8 continues to dominate as the best-selling game on the platform, with over 60 million copies sold. With enhanced graphics, all DLC included, and new battle modes, it remains the go-to multiplayer experience for Switch owners.
Its accessible yet competitive gameplay appeals to both casual and hardcore players. The addition of new tracks has kept the excitement alive even years after its initial release. With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how the next Mario Kart World innovates beyond this well-established formula.
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – 40+ million
A cultural phenomenon, Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a staple for many players, selling over 40 million copies. With its charming island-life simulation, customization options, and real-time seasonal events, it gained widespread popularity.
Many players dedicated countless hours to perfecting their islands, trading items, and visiting friends. However, as time passed, some wished for more substantial updates to maintain long-term engagement. The next Animal Crossing title could explore deeper mechanics and expanded multiplayer interactions.
3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – 32+ million
Featuring the largest roster in Smash history, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate lived up to its tagline: “Everyone is here!” With extensive DLC fighters, competitive play, and casual party modes, it remains one of the most beloved fighting games of all time.
Boasting over 32 million copies sold, the game is praised for its fast-paced combat and balanced character roster. The depth of its mechanics allows players to refine their skills, whether playing for fun or in tournaments. The future of Smash Bros. remains uncertain—will Nintendo continue expanding the roster or take the series in a new direction?
4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – 30+ million
A game that revolutionized open-world exploration, Breath of the Wild set a new standard for adventure games, selling over 30 million copies. With a vast world, intricate physics-based gameplay, and minimalistic storytelling, it remains one of the most critically acclaimed titles on the Switch.
Players continue to discover new secrets in Hyrule, and the freedom to tackle challenges in multiple ways adds to its longevity. Tears of the Kingdom improved upon many aspects, raising questions about how the franchise will evolve in future entries.
5. Pokémon Sword and Shield – 26+ million
The first mainline Pokémon games on the Switch introduced an open-world-inspired Wild Area, dynamic battles, and new Pokémon designs. Despite some initial criticism, Sword and Shield became a massive commercial success, selling over 26 million copies.
While some players expected more graphical improvements, the gameplay refinements and online battle features ensured its longevity. With Pokémon Scarlet and Violet introducing more open-world elements, the future of the franchise could focus on refining performance while expanding gameplay depth.
6. Super Mario Odyssey – 26+ million
A return to the sandbox-style 3D platforming of Super Mario 64, Super Mario Odyssey took Mario across diverse kingdoms with the help of his sentient hat, Cappy. Its creative level design and nostalgic callbacks contributed to its success, with over 26 million copies sold.
The sense of discovery in each kingdom and the joy of collecting Power Moons provided players with extensive replayability. Future entries in the series could introduce new mechanics and even larger, more dynamic worlds.
7. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet – 24+ million
Building on Sword and Shield’s success, Scarlet and Violet introduced a fully open-world Pokémon experience. Despite performance issues, the game’s ambitious design and engaging new mechanics drove strong sales numbers, surpassing 24 million copies.
The transition to an open-world format marked a significant shift for the franchise, though technical optimization remains an area for improvement. The next Pokémon installment could refine this balance between expansive exploration and stable performance.
8. Super Mario Party – 19+ million
Nintendo revived the classic board game formula with Super Mario Party, featuring 80 new mini-games, Joy-Con functionality, and local and online multiplayer. Selling over 19 million copies, its accessibility made it a popular choice for social gatherings.
While the mini-games and dynamic board mechanics were well received, some players desired a greater variety of boards to maintain replay value. With Mario Party Superstars offering a more nostalgic experience, it will be interesting to see how future iterations evolve the franchise.
9. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – 20+ million
The much-anticipated sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom expanded on Hyrule’s world with new sky islands, creative building mechanics, and an even richer narrative. Though it didn’t surpass its predecessor’s sales, it still managed to reach over 20 million copies within its first year.
The new mechanics introduced fresh gameplay possibilities, allowing for creative problem-solving. The next entry in the series may further refine exploration mechanics and introduce new innovations to the Zelda formula.
10. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – 16+ million
A Wii U port that found new life on the Switch, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe brought classic 2D Mario platforming to a broader audience. Its simple yet refined gameplay made it an essential title for platformer fans, selling over 16 million copies.
While it maintained the familiar Mario formula, some players hoped for more new features rather than a reliance on nostalgia. Future 2D Mario games may introduce fresh mechanics while preserving the series’ core platforming appeal.
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The Legacy of the Nintendo Switch’s Best-Sellers
Nintendo’s first-party titles continue to set industry standards, with many of these best-sellers becoming defining experiences for a generation of gamers. As the industry looks ahead to the Nintendo Switch 2, it will be fascinating to see how these franchises evolve and whether they can surpass their current records.
Finally, with confirmed backward compatibility and hardware improvements, the legacy of these games will likely continue into the next generation.
