The Nintendo Switch remains one of the most versatile consoles for adventures that unfold on the go, on the couch, or across multiple sessions. In 2025 the library of adventure games on Switch continues to grow — not just with new releases, but with timeless titles that have found fresh life in the portable format. Whether you’re exploring uncharted lands, solving environmental puzzles, or getting lost in narrative-rich stories, this list covers the top adventure games you should play on Nintendo Switch this year, each chosen for its quality, experience and value.
Below you’ll find detailed highlights of each title: what makes it special, the core mechanics, the atmosphere, and why it’s worth your time in 2025. Let’s dive in.
Kirby & the Forgotten Land 2 – A Bright, Expansive Adventure Beyond Dream Land
One of the most joyful and technically ambitious adventures on Switch, Kirby & the Forgotten Land 2 continues Kirby’s journey into a vibrant, semi-open world where exploration and platforming merge seamlessly. While Kirby games have always leaned toward the lighter side of adventure, this entry raises the bar: wider environments, deeper mechanics, and an endearing narrative that still delivers fun in every moment.
In this game you’re invited to roam vast zones, discover hidden collectibles, use Kirby’s trademark copy abilities in creative ways, and engage with dynamic action-set pieces that feel built for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The combination of platforming, exploration and mild combat keeps the pace brisk but also satisfying.
What stands out in 2025:
- Rich world-design with more verticality and space than many past Kirby titles.
- New copy abilities and tool mechanics that keep the gameplay fresh.
- Excellent performance in handheld mode, making it one of the top adventure picks for on-the-go play.
- Family-friendly yet deep enough for veterans to appreciate secrets and challenges.
If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like when classic Nintendo platforming meets a larger sandbox environment, this game delivers that in style.
Pokémon Legends: Z‑A – Evolution of the Pokémon Adventure Formula
The Pokémon series has always sat at a crossroads of RPG and adventure, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A in 2025 proves just how far that hybrid can go. This title steps away from the strict linear progression of past entries and offers a more open-adventure feel: you explore an expansive region, uncover mysteries, engage with Pokémon in new ways, and shape your journey with a higher sense of agency.
What sets this one apart is its willingness to experiment: environmental interactions, traversal mechanics, and a storyline that feels rooted in exploration rather than just gym battles. It’s still unmistakably Pokémon, but with a bold twist toward genuine adventure.
Highlights:
- Large open region with diverse biomes that encourage exploration.
- Enhanced traversal tools (gliding, climbing, etc.) that turn movement into an adventure element.
- A narrative that rewards curiosity, not just progression.
- Strong visuals and performance on the Switch, making it a top choice for 2025 adventure gamers.
For anyone who wants the familiarity of Pokémon but craves more freedom and discovery, this title hits the mark.
Rune Factory : Guardians of Azuma – Adventure, Life Simulation & Fantasy Blended
Adventure takes many forms, and Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma highlights one such direction — blending fantasy exploration, adventure combat, and life simulation in a way few games manage. In this 2025 entry, you step into a world of magical islands, guardians, and centuries-old secrets. At its heart lies the thrill of discovering new lands, forging your path, and engaging in combat that feels integrated with exploration.
But it’s the life simulation layer — crafting, farming, social interaction — that gives the adventure real staying power. Instead of being a pure “go here, fight that” game, it creates a rhythm of exploration, rest, discovery, and growth.
Why it matters:
- The adventure component is strong: large map, secrets, dungeons, and explorative rewards.
- Hybrid gameplay keeps you invested: when you’re done exploring, you’re still doing something meaningful.
- Switch version is well optimized and offers a portable fantasy world you can dive into for hours.
- For 2025 gamers who value both story and sandbox, it’s a standout.
If you prefer an adventure that gives you freedom to live in the world, not just traverse it, this one is a must-play.
Octopath Traveler II – Narrative-Driven Adventure with Eight Paths
Adventure isn’t always about free roam. Sometimes it’s about story, characters and choice. Octopath Traveler II delivers an adventure game built around eight protagonists, each with their own story and gameplay mechanics, merging JRPG systems with exploration-heavy gameplay. On Switch in 2025, it stands out as one of the best narrative-adventure games.
Exploration here takes a different shape: you’re not just moving through terrain, you’re unlocking stories, side paths, and secrets unique to each character. The art style — “HD-2D” — gives environments richness and personality. Whether you’re climbing mountain trails, diving into caves, or navigating mysterious towns, the sense of adventure is ever present.
Highlights:
- Eight diverse campaigns that interlock and give exploratory freedom.
- Beautifully crafted visuals that make even routine exploration feel poetic.
- Gameplay systems that reward inquisitive players: hidden bosses, optional areas, secret overworld paths.
- A value-rich experience for 2025: many hours of content with exploration as core loop.
When you want story and exploration — not just traversal — Octopath Traveler II is hard to ignore.
ASTRONEER – Cosmic Adventure and Discovery
Adventure can also mean uncertain frontiers and creation. ASTRONEER brings a sandbox-adventure experience to Switch that is as much about discovery as it is about patience and creativity. On alien planets you’ll explore, build, craft, and adapt. The low-poly aesthetic and vibrant color scheme might disguise it as a casual game, but the sense of adventure it generates is profound.
Why it stands out in 2025:
- Open world planets with procedural elements that encourage genuine exploration.
- Crafting and building mechanics integrated into adventure — you’re not just passing through, you’re constructing your journey.
- Switch version offers portability that suits the pace of exploration.
- For those who prefer creating their story within the game rather than following one, this is an ideal choice.
The pure joy of exploration and creation makes ASTRONEER a refreshing take on “adventure” for the Switch.
Other Noteworthy Mentions
Adventure on the Nintendo Switch in 2025 isn’t limited to just the titles above. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Hollow Knight: Silksong, Upin & Ipin Universe, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt – Complete Edition (Switch version) also offer exceptional adventure experiences. These may fall into other categories (RPG, Metroidvania, open-world), but they all share that sense of journey, discovery, and immersion.
Conclusion
In 2025 the Nintendo Switch remains an excellent vehicle for adventure. The five titles above each represent a different flavor of adventure — from narrative-heavy to sandbox, from fantasy islands to cosmic exploration. They are all well-worth your time, and each brings something unique to the table.
If you’re looking for your next great adventure on Switch, choose based on what kind of journey you want: exploration and freedom? Go ASTRONEER. Narrative and characters? Octopath Traveler II. Fantasy life simulation? Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma. Pokémon exploration with bite? Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Joyful platforming with depth? Kirby & the Forgotten Land 2.
The adventure is yours to pick.
Disclaimer
This article is entirely original and written for informational and editorial purposes. No content has been copied from other websites. Game availability may vary by region and platform edition. All descriptions represent general impressions and interpretations.
