Ahoy there, Nintendo Switch owners, today, we’ll focus on the hybrid console’s games for adults only. Kiddy games are nice and all, but after a while, players might need a bit of oomph in gaming variety. Don’t get us wrong; the Switch has a significant portion of its player base with kids. But hey, we grown-ups also need games catering to our age demographic.
Are there Games for Adults on the Nintendo Switch?
The power of Nintendo’s marketing strategy is that people question the existence of games for adults on Nintendo’s hardware. Nintendo’s portrayal of itself in the mainstream has been synonymous with family-friendly consoles and games for a long time. However, it might seem shocking to many Nintendo Switch owners that its offerings are diverse.
So yes! Specifically, the games that target the adult crowd are aplenty on Nintendo Switch. Still, if you’re looking for games to keep things light for the kiddies, you can check out our ranking of Disney games on Switch. However, today’s list concerns adult retro gamers finding their next wave of favorite games on the Switch.
How to Tell if A Nintendo Switch Game for Adults is Good?
Worry not, dear readers, for today, we’ll set a few hard requirements that a game must meet to qualify for selection. If a game fails even one of the conditions, we won’t consider it for our list. Alright, let’s quickly go over the criteria.
- The Nintendo Switch game must have a mature rating and not at all be for kiddies, so an adults-only rule applies. On the down low, if you’re looking for gaming suggestions that adults can play at parties, we have a nice selection of games like Cards Against Humanity.
- Secondly, the game must have captivating gameplay with a learning curve but not be Dark-Souls-level frustrating. A balance of fun and challenging gameplay.
- Lastly, the games should include narratives with thought-provoking moral dilemmas or over-the-top nonsense. Either of the two extremes will do nicely.
A quick side note before we begin. We’ll focus on Nintendo Switch games, which means exclusives take priority, but they’re not a hard requirement.
Which Nintendo Switch Games for Adults are on Our List?
Alrighty, time to see which titles make the cut and make it on our list. We’ve got some obvious no-brainers but a few surprising picks as well. Let’s see which of them you can guess correctly. Here we go!
6. Shin Megami Tensei V
Shin Megami Tensei V’s central focus is Japanese anime fantasy and supernatural themes with philosophical, moral conundrums about humanity. The storyline isn’t straightforward, and with multiple endings, the plot will fly over kiddies’ heads.
If you like Japanese games with complex storylines and eye-catching aesthetics, you can check out our Fire Emblem Games ranking. Let’s see why we think Shin Megami Tensei 5 is a fantastic Nintendo Switch game for adults.
Shin Megami Tensei V Brings Turn-Based Combat With Traditional JRPG Elements For Nostalgia
For gamers like us, who have been playing games for 20-plus years, JRPGs are a massive part of the gaming niche of our childhoods. Shin Megami Tensei V instantly evokes that sense of nostalgia when you play the game. Everything from the victory animation to leveling up your character and your demons feel modern yet familiar.
Strategizing is essential to survive late-game encounters. Players can fuse the demons they have to create powerful hybrids with special attacks to overpower enemies. Retro adult gamers will feel at home on the Nintendo Switch exclusive game.
The Visuals and Storytelling of Shin Megami Tensei Have an Iconic Feel to them
The upgrade of the Nintendo Switch’s visuals to Shin Megami Tesnei V makes it one of the best adult games on the platform. Players must navigate dual planes of existence, one with social elements and side-quests in modern Tokyo, and then there is the Netherworld, where demons and angels exist. Both have distinct vibes that mix modern crispness with anime-esque aesthetics.
The story-telling technique of Shin Megami Tensei V is also top-notch. Plus, the decisions at critical junctures or instead choosing not to do specific missions before others can block out paths for players. The Nintendo Switch game’s replay value is terrific; adults will enjoy the fantastic narrative writing. Check our favorite story-driven games for similar suggestions.
5. No More Heroes III
The next entry on our list of adult games on the Nintendo Switch is No More Heroes III. It’s the third and last game of the series. It’s fitting that the series goes out with a bang. No More Heroes III serves as the No More Heroes trilogy protagonist, Travis Touchdown’s swansong, and a wrap-up of the franchise.
Travis Touchdown’s Final Outing is A Spectacular Adventure into the Bizzare in No More Heroes III
It’s hard to describe No More Heroes III; know that it’s a game for adult gamers on the Nintendo Switch. The eccentric charm of Mr. Suda 51 himself, Goichi Suda, is present in No More Heroes III. If you’re unfamiliar with him, all you need to understand is that his game’s appeal is all bout embracing the weirdness.
Case-in-point, in No More Heroes III, players can do truly outlandish things. Some of Travis’s most fun powers include slowing down time while chopping up enemies with his laser-charged sword. The story is like a smorgasbord of video game genres with little-to-no cohesion in terms of themes. That’s not a negative, but a compliment for the game.
4. Resident Evil 4
Unfortunately, since the remake game isn’t available on the Switch, adult Nintendo console owners will have to make do with the original Resident Evil 4. We have a list of games like Resident Evil 4 Remake if you’re looking for alternatives to the reimagining.
Anyway, the recipient of critical acclaim from gamers and critics alike, the original Resident Evil 4 was innovative and ahead of its time. The game also has the distinction of being the one that’s been re-released 11 times, a record only surpassed by Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Speaking of Skyrim, check out a clear-cut guide to respec in Skyrim.
Action and Survival Horror Blend Seamlessly in Resident Evil 4, Making it the Perfect Nintendo Switch Game for Adults
Many game mechanics, now standards in third-person, survival-horror, and action games, were a part of Resident Evil 4. Of course, we’re referring to the game-changing German suplex. All kidding aside, gamers love Resident Evil 4 because it perfectly balances survival horror and action-driven gameplay.
The villagers and other monstrosities keep players on edge at all times. The plot starts out with a conspiracy but goes into full ridiculous territory. Some of the dialogue might seem cringe-worthy; still, the cheesiness is part of Resident Evil 4’s charm and appeal.
Frightening Ambiance and An Excellent Lead Character Carry Resident Evil 4
The eerie atmosphere and the rush of enemies in Resident Evil 4 keep players constantly on the move. The protagonist, Leon Kennedy, is one of the most awesome and fan-favorite video game characters ever. If you enjoy scary games, we highly recommend our list of the best horror adventure games like Until Dawn.
Resident Evil 4 starts off with a somber build-up, but the madness and intensity keep ramping up. What starts out as a simple trek through a horde of mindless and hostile villagers with torches and pitchforks quickly transitions into horrific abominations. Resident Evil 4 is a game worth the time adults put into playing on their Nintendo Switch.
3. Metroid: Dread
Moving into the upper echelons of the list of the best Nintendo Switch games for adults, we enter the terrifying world of Metroid: Dread. A throwback game in many ways, Metroid Dread will appeal to fans of the bygone era as well as modern gamers. Metroid: Dread gives players pause because you never know what’s around in the next room.
The Side-Scrolling and Platforming in Metroid: Dread Up The Pressure for Players as an Excellent Nintendo Switch Game For Adults
Metroid: Dread puts a great deal of emphasis on precision and fast movement for platforming. The fluidity of the action and traversal feels hugely satisfying, especially when you unlock and enter new areas for upgrades.
The enemies and traps are deceptively fast, requiring players to always remain mindful of their surroundings. If you enjoy games with platforming elements, check out our list of 8 of the best platforming games like It Takes Two.
The Traditional Backtracking and Upgrades Give Metroid: Dread Excellent Replay Value
Metroid: Dread begins with the protagonist, Samus Aaron, instantly losing all the upgrades of her mech suit. Now, it’s a case of the hunter turning into the hunted. Those brave enough will traverse the 2D side-scrolling levels, discover new paths, and unlock new abilities.
Metroidvania is the popular term for games that implement revisiting older levels to get new items and upgrades. With Metroid: Dread, the game’s a classic return to form that adult gamers will appreciate on the Nintendo Switch.
2. Bayonetta 2 – The Runner-Up Our List of Top Nintendo Switch Games for Adults
Entering the top-tier category, from one Nintendo Switch exclusive to another, our runner-up adult game is Bayonetta 2. The action game is a modern-day masterpiece and has the fun, wit, charm, and sultry persona of its lead protagonist, Bayonetta, to hook gamers.
Bayonetta is a Modern-Gaming Icon
Let’s be honest; players love Bayonetta 2 because of the lead character. Her attractive figure, remarkably eccentric style, and finesse, plus the dash of panache, make her stand out. Coupling those traits with witch powers and the exaggerated flexibility of her physiology makes it easy to see why she’s a much-beloved video game character.
Combos, Witch-Time, and Wacky Attack Animations Make Bayonetta 2 The Stylish Action Game for Adults on the Nintendo Switch
Players will love the competitive aspect of Bayonetta 2, to land perfect hits without taking one. The score multipliers increase drastically to avoid hits at the last second, activating the witch time, which slows everything down. Also, the witch time allows for individual finishers, which are incredibly satisfying to pull off.
The point is Bayonetta 2 is an amazing game that adults will enjoy playing on the Nintendo Switch. For more gaming suggestions on the Switch, we highly recommend our list of best shooting games on the Switch.
1. Mortal Kombat 11 – The Best Nintendo Switch Game for Adults
When it comes to video games, Mortal Kombat 11 holds the unique position of the most gory fighting game ever. The fact that Nintendo Switch owners can play the game shows that Nintendo cares for adult gamers.
Yes, we know the Switch has its own fantastic library of video games, including co-op games to play together, but Mortal Kombat 11 is a different beast. Let’s find out why we have it as our number 1 pick.
Mortal Kombat 11 is the Fighting Game that Delivers an Incredible Narrative and Thrilling PvP and PvE Combat
The story of Mortal Kombat 11 is another brilliant example of how continuity and rebooting can still work side-by-side. Mortal Kombat 11 depicts the struggle of the remaining earth-realm fighters in the most climactic battle to settle disputes with other realms.
Despite the gimmick of Mortal Kombat 11 as this flashy and gruesome gorefest, the fast-paced gameplay is another area where it shines. For gamers into fighting games, everyone can agree that the thrill of online comebacks is a high like no other. Whether you’re playing against an A.I. or another player, plenty of high-stakes matches can be enjoyed.
The Storyline, Tons of Unlockables and Extras in Mortal Kombat 11 Encourage Adult Players to Learn the Nintendo Switch Game
Mortal Kombat 11 also has a ton of unlockables that will hook players to keep coming back, including extra skins. We’re also fans of alternative outfits in video games; check out our friend’s ranking of Fortnite’s thiccest skins as proof.
Combo inputs, especially the brutalities, fatalities, and hidden friendships finishers give the game a satisfying vibe. Some stages have their own exclusive finishers that players must discover. Adult players will love learning the game’s move-sets of individual characters on the Nintendo Switch.
Final Thoughts About the Best Nintendo Switch Games for Adults
Another gaming list concludes, and we sincerely hope our readers find it enlightening. Nintendo Switch is a versatile console because of its hybrid portability and home console model and its diverse line-up of games. Speaking of titles on the Switch, we have an excellent collection of couples games on Switch if you’re looking for options to play with a significant other.
Let us know your thoughts on today’s selection. Do you agree or disagree, and if so, which other games would you have replaced them with? Tell us in the comments below. Your feedback helps us decide on future content. So feel free to leave suggestions as well. Well, until next time, stay safe, everyone, and happy gaming!
