The Nintendo Switch has become a welcoming space for independent creators, offering a platform where smaller titles can thrive alongside big-budget blockbusters. Since its launch, the console has embraced games from passionate studios and solo developers alike.
What makes the Switch such a great match for indie titles? A big part of it is its versatility. Whether it’s adventure, RPGs, platformers, or fast-paced action, the console handles a wide mix of styles. Some games even take full advantage of the unique features of the system, like touchscreen controls, HD rumble feedback, and its on-the-go playability.
In this guide, we’re spotlighting ten standout indie games available on the Switch—each one handpicked to appeal to a wide range of players and play styles. Let’s dive in.
Best Indie Games on Switch
No matter what kind of gameplay you’re into, there’s likely an indie title on the Nintendo Switch that’ll catch your attention. Here’s a look at ten standout independent gems on the hybrid console, starting with something a little unexpected:
10. Golf Story
Golf might not be the first genre that comes to mind when you think of gripping adventures, but Golf Story breaks that mold in the most charming way.
This quirky blend of golf and RPG turns what could’ve been a niche sports game into a genuinely engaging journey. You’ll play through courses set in forests, beaches, icy tundras, even the occasional dungeon—all while picking up gear, learning new tricks, and unlocking story beats through your swing.
It’s not just about aiming for birdies and eagles. The game shines thanks to its witty writing, colorful characters, and a surprisingly heartfelt plot. It even took home the Best Original Sports Game award from the National Academy of Video Game Trade Reviewers.
If you’re open to something a little different, grab your digital clubs, load up your Switch, and get ready to hit the green in a way you’ve never experienced before.
9. Streets of Rage 4
Streets of Rage 4 breathes new life into a beloved ‘90s beat-’em-up series, giving it a modern twist while staying true to its roots. The revival feels right at home on the Nintendo Switch, offering that nostalgic punch with a fresh indie flair.
This isn’t just a recycled throwback. The 2020 release updates the classic formula with tighter controls, smoother combat, and a slick, hand-drawn art style that makes every punch feel like a comic book panel in motion. You’ll step back into the action with familiar faces like Axel, Blaze, and Adam, alongside fan favorites like Max, Skate, and Shiva.
The game packs 12 vibrant levels, energetic hand-animated fights, and a soundtrack that throws you straight into the chaos of the streets. Whether you’re flying solo or teaming up with friends (local co-op supports up to four players), Streets of Rage 4 delivers a satisfying brawl that honors its legacy while confidently moving forward.
8. Ori and the Blind Forest
Some games go beyond entertainment—they feel like living pieces of art. Ori and the Blind Forest is one of those rare titles that blends visual beauty with emotionally rich storytelling and tight gameplay.
While some artistic games can feel slow or abstract, Ori strikes a perfect balance. It’s stunning to look at, sure—but it’s also genuinely fun to play. The movement is fluid, the controls are sharp, and each level offers a rewarding mix of platforming, puzzle-solving, and discovery.
Fans of the Metroidvania genre will feel right at home here. There’s a strong focus on exploration, with areas that loop back on themselves as you gain new abilities and uncover hidden paths. But even if you’re not a die-hard Metroidvania player, the journey through the mystical “Blind Forest” alongside the luminous creature Ori is easy to fall in love with.
It’s heartfelt, challenging, and unforgettable—a must-play for anyone who appreciates games with soul.
7. Katana Zero
Katana Zero doesn’t pull any punches. This fast-paced, neon-drenched action platformer blends razor-sharp combat with a moody, noir-inspired narrative, and it quickly became a standout on the Switch.
The game’s pixel art may look retro, but the violence hits hard. Every move feels deliberate, every strike precise. With its instant-death mechanics, there’s no room for sloppy timing—one mistake and you’re back at the start of the room. But that’s part of the thrill.
You’ll slash through enemies with style, rewinding time to refine your approach and master each encounter. It’s intense, satisfying, and surprisingly layered, with a story that dives deeper than you might expect from its action-heavy exterior.
If you’re into tight combat, slick visuals, and a story that keeps you guessing, Katana Zero is a ride worth taking—just be ready for some serious blade work.
6. Stardew Valley
What began as a humble tribute to Harvest Moon quickly grew into something bigger—Stardew Valley didn’t just honor its inspiration; it redefined the farming sim genre entirely.
At first glance, it’s about tending crops and raising animals. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find layers of gameplay that go far beyond the field. From fishing and crafting to battling creatures in hidden caves, there’s always something pulling your attention in a new direction.
Life in Stardew isn’t just about work, though. The village is full of unique characters with their own stories, secrets, and relationships to build. Attend festivals, help out your neighbors, uncover the town’s mysteries—or find someone special, settle down, and start a family.
While it has RPG elements, calling Stardew Valley just an RPG wouldn’t do it justice. It’s a relaxing, personal experience that can be played solo or shared with up to three friends. Whether you’re farming under the stars or exploring the mines together, it’s the kind of game that quietly captures your heart.
5. Animal Well
Animal Well stands out in the Metroidvania space with its eerie atmosphere and sense of quiet mystery. Built entirely by a solo developer, the game is a pixel-crafted maze of secrets, puzzles, and subtle storytelling—every corner invites curiosity.
As you explore its shadowy depths, the map begins to unfold in clever, unexpected ways. The deeper you go, the more the world reveals itself—not through dialogue or exposition, but through your own discovery. Puzzles are woven into the environment, often requiring creative thinking and close observation to solve.
You’re not always alone, either. The game introduces a sense of tension with enemies that can pursue you across different areas, turning once-safe zones into high-stakes escapes. Tools you find, like a yo-yo, aren’t just for novelty—they unlock new ways to interact with the environment and open up hidden paths.
Released in 2024 on the Nintendo Switch, Animal Well has already made waves for its design and atmosphere. And there’s more on the horizon: future updates and DLC promise to deepen the mysteries for players who can’t get enough of its haunting world.
4. Cuphead
Cuphead hardly needs an introduction. With its runaway success, Netflix series, and a well-received DLC, it’s become one of the most iconic indie games of the last decade—and for good reason.
Inspired by the golden age of animation, the game looks like a cartoon pulled straight out of the 1930s. Every frame is hand-drawn, bursting with charm and detail. The animation style alone would be enough to turn heads, but Cuphead isn’t just a pretty face—it’s also one of the most challenging platformers out there.
Backed by a rich jazz and blues soundtrack that feels straight from an old gramophone, the game throws you into a relentless series of boss battles and tight run-and-gun levels. You’ll take control of Cuphead and his brother Mugman on a wild journey to repay their debt to the Devil, facing off against a colorful (and often chaotic) cast of enemies.
Though it plays great in handheld mode, Cuphead truly shines on the big screen. If you haven’t experienced it yet, it’s a visual and gameplay treat that’s as tough as it is unforgettable.
3. Hades
When Hades dropped, it didn’t just impress—it dominated awards lists, taking home honors like Best Indie Game of the Year. And on the Nintendo Switch, it runs just as smoothly as it does on any other platform.
This action-packed RPG mixes rogue-like elements with a gripping narrative rooted in Greek mythology. You play as Zagreus, the rebellious son of Hades, fighting your way out of the underworld in a series of ever-changing escape attempts. Each run is different, and every defeat pulls you deeper into the story rather than setting you back.
Relationships matter here, too. Interacting with gods, spirits, and other mythic figures unlocks new dialogue, perks, and upgrades, giving the game a strong emotional core beneath all the chaos.
For players who love variety, Hades is a dream. With six distinct weapons and multiple upgrades for each, there’s an endless number of ways to shape your build. Despite its dark setting, the world is bursting with color, rich animation, and a soundtrack that ramps up the energy in all the right moments.
If you’re looking for a game that blends sharp combat, stylish art, and a meaningful story, Hades delivers on all fronts.
2. Hollow Knight
Few games have defined the Metroidvania genre as powerfully as Hollow Knight, and that’s exactly why it earns the #2 spot on this list. It’s a 2D platformer that blends atmosphere, precision, and depth into one unforgettable experience.
Set in the hauntingly beautiful kingdom of Hallownest, you’ll take control of a silent, mysterious knight and uncover a world teeming with secrets. Though the map may feel straightforward at first, it gradually branches in unexpected directions, giving you the freedom to explore in the order that suits your playstyle.
Make no mistake: Hollow Knight is challenging. It demands sharp reflexes and thoughtful upgrades. As you unlock new abilities—like wall jumps, dashes, or magic-based attacks—you’ll gain access to previously unreachable areas, opening up new layers of the world piece by piece.
Combat is tight, responsive, and layered. Boss fights are intense, and every victory feels earned. It’s the kind of game where exploration and combat go hand-in-hand, rewarding players who are patient, persistent, and curious.
Just don’t get too distracted by the game’s hand-drawn art—it’s stunning, yes, but the sentient bugs roaming this kingdom aren’t shy about putting an end to your admiration.
1. Bastion
Topping our list is Basket, an indie title that takes the genre to a whole new level. Set in a haunting, post-apocalyptic world, the game follows a character known simply as “The Kid,” whose mission is to collect mysterious rock fragments to fuel a strange structure called the Basket.
Visually, the game stands out with its art style that feels like you’re moving through a living painting—each frame carefully crafted to look hand-painted. The combat system is solid and satisfying, perfectly complementing the story, which unfolds through a captivating narration that guides you through each environment while encouraging exploration and growth.
One of the game’s standout features is its soundtrack, which has earned awards for its immersive and emotional quality. Basket isn’t just something you play—it’s an experience you immerse yourself in. So grab your headphones, find a quiet spot, and dive into this unique and beautifully told adventure.
