Best Switch Games during quarantine

Stuck inside due to coronavirus? Check out the best Switch games to play while on quarantine.

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10. Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle

Strategy fans looking for a new game to tackle should check out Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle. This unlikely cross-over game developed by Ubisoft features lots of influences from the XCOM series.

Sniper Luigi and Mario’s Hammer bring order to the Mushroom Kingdom after the Rabbids invade. There is a surprising amount of depth to the strategy on display, despite the overly colorful graphics.

9. The Witcher 3: The Wild Hunt

Journey with Geralt of Rivia on his quest to find Ciri through a land inspired by 14th-century Poland. Slavic mythology dominates the country-side as monsters return to a war-ravaged land. Geralt’s legendary skills as a Witcher are needed once again.

This slow-burn RPG is a great game to kick back with if you’re stuck inside. The Switch version of The Witcher 3 includes all the DLC released on other platforms and has over 100 hours of gameplay. Recent patches for the Switch version have upped the handheld quality, but this one is best experienced in the dock.

It is one of the best Switch games to play during quarantine thanks to its lengthy story. Plus, once you finish it, you can start on Netflix’s new The Witcher series.

8. Diablo III

Diablo III is a dark and moody hack-n-slash game featuring several different classes to master. The game features randomized levels and loot but brings followers as a new addition. Diablo III also features an expanded difficulty with unique settings not found in normal gameplay for seasoned veterans.

Seasons are also a fun way to start Diablo III for the first time. Seasonal characters are rolled over after the season ends, so you never lose them. One unique incentive for seasons is tracking your journey and exclusive transmog rewards for participating. There are even special XP bonuses for starting a season with friends.

The Switch version of Diablo III also includes the Reaper of Souls expansion pack. Some exclusive Ganondorf armor, a cucco pet, and a special banner are available to Switch owners.

7. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

Exploring the world of Skyrim and becoming the Dragonborn is a great way to stay busy. The Nintendo Switch port of Skyrim works well, though you won’t get any mod support. All The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim DLC is included, so you get the full experience.

Defeat dragons and become the best stealth archer on this side of Whiterun. Or ignore the story and tend your home and family while venturing out to defend against vampires. The choice is yours, and there is plenty to do in the last installment of The Elder Scrolls.

6. Stardew Valley

Want something more relaxed than exploring dungeons or finding Ciri? How about managing your very own farm right outside Pelican Town? Take over your grandpa’s old farm and build it back up as you make friends with the residents.

Explore the mine and slay lots of monsters, either by yourself or with friends. Stardew Valley offers a great, relaxing way to enjoy your time stuck indoors. Taking care of animals and setting up your farm feels very rewarding.

5. Xenoblade Chronicles 2

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a massive open-world RPG with a 30-hour tutorial. Despite the slow start, the combat is genuinely engaging and not your typical turn-based affair. I enjoyed my time spent with Xenoblade Chronicles 2 and look forward to the first game making its way to Switch.

Even if you have played this one, an expansion pack called Torna: Golden Country is now available. It is a standalone prequel to events that happen in XC2, but you should play the game first.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Breath of the Wild features a vast open-world to explore with hundreds of shrines to solve. The game’s physics and combat are second to none, and we’re eagerly awaiting the game’s sequel. If you haven’t explored the world of Hyrule on Switch, you should check it out.

There are over 75 side quests and 900 korok seeds to find in this huge, open-world RPG. You’ll lose yourself in the world as you adventure as the hero of Hyrule once again.

3. Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the perfect mix of strategy RPG and life simulator. The game draws much inspiration from the Persona series, with players picking a side early on. Things get hairy later on, resulting in a game that has a slow-burn to get through. You could easily spend 70 hours on a single playthrough of the game.

A recent DLC expansion brings the fourth house for players to join and explore how the story wraps up. Strategy gamers and those who love getting attached to characters will love Fire Emblem. Recent games are more accessible, with the casual setting not killing off characters.

Don’t worry though, if you’re hardcore enough to enjoy those stakes – every battle matters in normal mode.

2. Pokemon Sword & Shield

Pokemon GO fans who can’t get their fix by exploring the neighborhood can turn to Pokemon Sword & Pokemon Shield. The most recent release in the franchise takes players to the legendary Galar region – which is based heavily on Great Britain.

The new Dynamax system in this game feels similar to Pokemon GO raids, as you can participate with friends. You’ll find plenty to love about the new Pokemon game, whether you’re an old fan or new.

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the perfect game to play during the coronavirus quarantine. Players are swept away to a desert island via Tom Nook’s getaway package. Help develop the island and attract new residents, or explore other deserted islands for resources.

This Animal Crossing game is one of the most complex ever, allowing players to craft and customize their furniture. Players can also join their friends and family on their islands for lots of fun. With lots of fish, bugs, and fossils to collect, island residents are sure to have fun.

Need more Switch games to play during quarantine?