Since its launch in March 2017, the Nintendo Switch has experienced remarkable success. The console quickly established itself as a game-changer in the gaming industry. Of course, key to that is the games available on the platform, many of which have pushed new boundaries not just for their respective series, but for gaming as a whole. But critical acclaim doesn’t always equate to commercial success. So what are the best selling Nintendo Switch games?

One of the key factors contributing to the Nintendo Switch’s success is its versatility. The ability to dock the console and play games on a TV, or detach the controllers for on-the-go gaming has resonated with a diverse audience. This flexibility has made the Switch a popular choice for families, casual gamers, and enthusiasts alike. It’s a system that bridges the gap between traditional home consoles and portable gaming devices.

However, while the versatility of the console is one thing, it would be nothing without the games. The Switch’s stellar game library has been the real driving force behind its triumph. Nintendo, known for its iconic franchises, delivered a lineup of exclusive titles that showcased the console’s capabilities. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey not only garnered critical acclaim but also became system-sellers, attracting new players to the platform. In fact, there’s a plethora of Mario games to choose from on the console.

Best Selling Switch Games

Best Selling Nintendo Switch Games

Titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate have become multiplayer phenomena. The Pokémon series has been inundated with new adventures and remakes. The Legend of Zelda has benefitted from two brand new titles, and even Metroid has been given a touch of sparkle in both its 2D and 3D iterations.

Some of these franchises perform better commercially than others. There’s a reason Nintendo seem cautious to invest in classic franchises such as F-Zero and Star Fox. All of the best selling Nintendo Switch games will likely be familiar to any gamer worth their salt. And yet, perhaps not in the order you were expecting?

Here’s the top selling Nintendo Switch games of all time (correct as of 31st December, 2023):

Game TitleUnits Sold
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe60.58m
Animal Crossing: New Horizons44.79m
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate33.67m
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild31.61m
Super Mario Odyssey27.65m
Pokémon Sword/Shield26.17m
Pokémon Scarlet/Violet24.36m

Did the list pan out as you expected? Let us know in the comments below!

Other best selling Nintendo Switch games worthy of note include Super Mario Party, standing at 20.43m copies. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – the newest game on the list – makes it into the top 10 with 20.28m sales.

Do you think Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of the best Mario Kart games ever? Let us know in the comments below!

Categories: Games