Welcome, Dear Reader, to Rogueliker’s guide to the best roguelikes and roguelites on Nintendo Switch.
Of all the console platforms, Nintendo’s hybrid is probably the best suited to bursts of roguelite play. Not only are these games often consumable during shorter sessions, but there’s the added bonus that the file sizes are smaller and the technical demands more modest than they are in the triple-a arena.
The criteria for inclusion in this list is simple: each game is either a roguelike or a roguelite, it enjoyed a respectable critical reception, and there isn’t something else on the platform that does the same thing but significantly better.
Armed with that all-important context, I’m going to cut to the chase and serve up a selection of the very best roguelikes that you can buy on Nintendo Switch. Just don’t blame me if you start to drift on those new Joy-Cons….
Hades | Supergiant Games | iOS, PC (Mac, Win), Nintendo Switch, PS, Xbox
I often leave this one until last as it’s my personal favourite, but I’m tearing up tradition today and running with it first. Hades is an exquisite action-RPG steeped in Greek mythology and with an expertly executed roguelite gameplay loop.
The focus is on the chthonic gods, and Hades has you playing as the immortal son of Hades himself, Zagreus. The game is all about your efforts to leave the underworld and find you mother, with classic gods like Zeus lending you cool special abilities to help you escape your dad’s minions.
The action is exciting and varied, and the core systems are built with longterm replayability in mind. More than anything, though, it has bags of personality. Hades is a truly unforgettable experience and a great gateway into the roguelike genre.
For more about Supergiant’s masterwork, here’s my review of the first Hades. Alas, there’s no sign of Hades 2 yet.
Epyx Rogue | Glenn Wichman, Michael Toy, Ken Arnold | Android, iOS, PC (Lin, Mac, Win), Nintendo Switch
From the best to the original. Rogue made its appearance on Switch as recently as July 2024, and it arrived with one of two improvements for dungeon crawlers who after a nostalgia adventure on Nintendo’s console.
The Switch version has a new pixel-art tileset to sit on top of the original ASCII design, and there are one or two other minor updates to make things more accessible. That said, this is still the same game that first saw the light of day all the way back in 1980, so get ready to seek out the Amulet of Yendor and see where the legend began.
Into the Breach | Subset Games | Android, iOS, PC (Lin, Mac, Win), Nintendo Switch
This mech puzzle roguelite from Subset Games is an absolute blast and a great pick for anyone looking for a bite-sized experience on the go (also check out FTL Faster Than Light if you’ve got a PC/iPad).
This perfectly formed mecha gem has you controlling giant robots from the future and fighting aliens called the Zek. In a similar vein to Invisible, Inc, this is a game that will have you agonising over every move as you work to solve the puzzle-infused battle put before you.
Into The Breach boils down the tension of turn-based tactics and then squeezes it into an 8×8 grid. This makes for a focused challenge that often feels like mix between late-game chess and XCOM. If that sounds good to you, I doubt this time-looping rogue will disappoint.
Shogun Showdown | Roboatino | PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
Speaking of tightly designed tactics games that deliver on their promise, Shogun Showdown is a fantastic game of side-stepping turn-based battles set in Japan and filled with interesting combat puzzles that the player must overcome using a limited deck of cards.
Shogun Showdown is about as charming a game as you can get about brutally slicing people to death in deadly combat. I adored the game when I played version 1.0 for review in September and for the most part I played on my Steam Deck, and based on that experience I think this is the ideal game for anyone looking for something tactical to play in handheld mode on their Switch.
TumbleSeed | Benedict Fritz, Greg Wohlwend, Joel Corelitz, David Laskey, Jenna Blazevich | iOS, PC (Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch
Few games take advantage of the Switch’s unique feature-set as well as TumbleSeed, and that’s across any genre. Likewise, TumbleSeed is available on a range of platforms, but the Switch version is the one I recommend if you’re going to try it out.
Using the console’s gyroscopic controls – which is harder than it looks – you’re tasked with using a balance board to guide your little seed through a nature-inspired obstacle course of five procedurally-generated worlds.
This one might be absolutely nails but its ingenious use of the hardware makes it a good recommendation for anyone after a tactical rogue that does things a little differently.
Peglin | Red Nexus Games | Android, iOS, PC (Mac, Win)
In a similar vein but also completely different is Peglin, a lovely game that blends a roguelite gameplay loop with pachinko style challenges. It launched on the Nintendo Switch at the same time as it left Early Access on PC (check out my review if you’d like all the details).
Peglin is a lovely game that plays a bit like Peggle. In this super-cute fantasy adventure you take control of a little green fella who looks somewhat like Baby Yoda and go on an adventure full of pinball battles and story encounters.
As you advance you’ll be attacked by all manner of beasties, but using a growing collection of magic balls, each one imbued with a special power, you will take down your opponents until you, well, don’t.
GALAK-Z: The Void: Deluxe Edition | 17-Bit | PC (Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch
I’m going back a few years, but one game that I’ll forever remember fondly is Galak-Z. I absolutely love the art style and the gameplay loop is great, although it is worth mentioning that this side-scrolling space shooter is somewhat challenging.
It’s retro-inspired control scheme takes a bit of getting used to, and I remember I had to persevere with it before really getting into the groove of things. However, once I’d managed to overcome that initial difficulty bump, I found a rewarding and charming shooter that I’m still going on about all these years later.
There are two versions of Galak-Z on Switch but stick to the full game, which is a sassy little gem, an all time fave of mine, and a great fit on the Nintendo Switch.
Invisible, Inc | Klei Entertainment | iOS, PC (Lin, Mac, Win) PS, Nintendo Switch
If you want something that sharpens the mind rather than your reflexes, Invisible, Inc is the game for you. Klei’s turn-based stealth adventure still holds up extremely well even after nearly a decade. More importantly for this article, the shorter missions make it a cosy fit on the Switch.
The missions in Invisible, Inc are laser focused on stealth and intense combat, but it is the clever arrangement of the campaign beats that gives it its impressive longevity. You can play the game through in a number of ways, and the procedural elements ensure a varied experience for each new run.
One thing that bothers me about porting older games for newer platforms is when the publisher also ports any DLC as a separate purchase. That’s not the case here as the campaign-expanding Contingency Plan DLC is included in the Switch version as standard. I approve.
Spelunky 2 | Mossmouth, BlitWorks | PC (Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
I can’t tell you how many hours I’ve lost to Spelunky 2 (if you include the first game that number is higher still). I’ve split my time between different versions of the game, and what I can say with certainty is you’ll want a big screen if you’re going to make the most of the game’s multiplayer modes, which can be utterly frantic.
On the other hand, Spelunky’s short bursts of procedural platforming are an excellent fit for a solo player rocking a Switch and wanting to play on the go. Either on the small screen or your family TV, it’s a damn fine side-scrolling platform that captures the spirit of the original, which is also available on Switch.
On that front, Spelunky 2 offers more of the same as its predecessor, but with more of everything thanks to expanded scope of the sequel.
Finally, the story is nice and silly as you’re playing as young Ana, who is searching for her missing parents, who you’ll remember from the first game, on the Moon. Once you’ve arrived at this never-ending myth-filled dungeon it’s a case of learning the ways of your enemies, experimenting with items, and trying to open up shortcuts. It’s great fun and both games comes highly recommended, but if you only pick one then go for the sequel.
The Binding of Isaac | Nicalis, Edmund McMillen | iOS, PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
I reviewed the Nintendo Switch version of Isaac when it came to retail back in the day, and I’m not gonna lie: I had a real good time. This crap slinging action-roguelite has some crazy weapon combos, and the fecal theme is smeared large on the walls. Ew.
There are several expansions for the base game across its various iterations. On the Switch that means the Afterbirth+ edition is the base standard, but you can now update via the Repentance DLC. Thus, if you’ve got the base game on cartridge, simply visit the eShop if you want to play the final cut.
Downwell | Ojiro Fumoto | Android, iOS, PC (Win), PS, Nintendo Switch
When there’s a chance to mention Downwell on any top list, I like to include it because it’s brilliant.
This vertical platformer is a shining example of how stripped down visual design can still be effective if thoughtfully implemented, which it absolutely is here. The extremely limited use of colour infiltrates all aspects of Downwell’s design for one of the leanest, cleanest and purest action-roguelites that you’ll find anywhere.
Downwell is nails, too, and I’ve still not completed it despite many, many (many) attempts – mostly on mobile and I think that’s probably my problem. Don’t be like me, play the game on a console.
Vampire Survivors | Poncle | Android, iOS, PC (Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
In contrast to Downwell, which is extremely minimal, we’ve got Vampire Survivors, the auto-shooter that took the world by storm and spawned a whole heap of imitators, many of which are now finding their way onto Nintendo’s platform.
This genre-defining game is a dizzying spectacle where the screen fills with enemies and exciting visual effects, and there are so many secrets and bonus missions that you’ll be playing it for ages. It’s cheap as chips, too, so if you’ve not already taken the plunge, there really is no excuse.
For more on Vampire Survivors and its ever-expanding library of content, you can read about the Among Us DLC right here.
Enter the Gungeon | Dodge Roll | PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
Bullet heavens such as the one above may be the cool kids on the block right now, but Enter the Gungeon was king back when it was much cooler to raise hell instead of heaven.
Gungeon’s standout feature is the sense of friction and feedback you feel when you’re fighting through each arena. Each room is uniquely reactive to what happens around you. The theme is also executed to absolute perfection. This bullet hell is stuffed full of self-referential jokes and nods, and any fan of the genre is going to find things to appreciate.
Dave the Diver | Mintrocket | PC (Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch
Dave the Diver is a unique game in many respects, but in terms of vibes and atmosphere, the lack of guns and death means that this quirky title is a bit more laid back and suitable for all the family.
Playing as the eponymous Dave, the aim of the game is dive deep into the Blue Hole every day and during said dive catch exotic fish to serve in your restaurant that evening. Your eatery in paradise serves sushi, and each night you’ve got to manage the fortunes of your restaurant and thus conclude a characterful gameplay loop that continues to evolve through your various encounters.
Cadence of Hyrule | Brace Yourself Games | Nintendo Switch
A great Switch exclusive, Cadence of Hyrule (or Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda if you want the full name) is a Zelda-twist on NecroDancer and I think it’s well worth checking out. I’m not saying it’s the best Zelda game, but it is great fun nonetheless.
If you’re unfamiliar, the gameplay loop is built around taking your turns in time with the music. Balancing your movements in time to the music whilst also fighting enemies takes real skill. On top of that, there’s more of a puzzle feel to Cadence of Hyrule, aligning it perfectly with the main franchise.
Finally, it’s probably worth noting that if you’re a Zelda fan who tries Cadence of Hyrule first, you should absolutely check out Crypt of the NecroDancer on Switch, too. It’s excellent and would have been on the list itself were it not for this Switch-exclusive spin-off.
You can read more about the latest major expansion for NecroDancer in my review of Synchrony, which adds new characters and new ways to play the game, and is available on Nintendo Switch.
Risk of Rain Returns | Hopoo Games | PC (Win), Nintendo Switch
One of the more recently released games on this list. I reviewed Risk of Rain Returns, admittedly on PC, but as it’s out on Switch too and ridiculously good, I thought I’d include it.
Returns is a remake of a cult classic platform game with punishing gameplay and a whole bunch of replayability.
With loads of characters, tons of combinable items, and co-op for up to four, this Risk of Rain remake is an absolute star of a game. You’d also do well to check out Risk of Rain 2, which is just as good but a third-person interpretation of the same idea.
Darkest Dungeon | Red Hook Studios | iOS, PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
Turn-based terror Darkest Dungeon is one of the more grown-up games on this list, and flies in the face of the more traditional family-friendly vibe that one typically associates with Nintendo’s platform.
Instead of toadstools and colourful plumbers, this is a game about hardy warriors going insane during battles against terrible men and hideous beasts. Not one for the faint of heart, then. In fact, death by heart attack is a fairly common occurrence in Darkest Dungeon – you have been warned.
It’s also worth noting that Darkest Dungeon II is also available on Nintendo’s platform. I like both games and you can read my review of the sequel right here, however, my recommendation for the first game stands, especially if you can pick it up at a discount.
Dead Cells | Motion Twin, Evil Empire | Android, iOS, PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
Next up we’ve got Dead Cells, a lovely metroidvania that is infused with roguelike themes. I think my favourite thing about the game is the wonderful pixel-art visuals, and how the developer uses them to bring life to this sinister and imposing world.
There is a ton of DLC for the game by now, so once the initial party is over the fun can start all over again. In particular, there’s a cool Castlevania crossover that’s worth checking out, but they’re all good and will keep you coming back again and again (and again and again).
Rogue Legacy 2 | Cellar Door Games | PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
I hardly touched the original and my hours with the sequel are in single digits and therefore somewhat limited compared to the army of people who swear by Rogue Legacy 2. This entry is for them.
Rogue Legacy 2 is genealogically-themed action-roguelite all about passing on traits down through the generations. The sequel took the basic imprint of its predecessor and then ran with it in all aspects, resulting in a deep and satisying platformer that prizes quick thinking.
With deep systems that expand on the genealogical premise of original, Rogue Legacy 2 is a slick and polished side-scrolling action-platformer that gives real purpose to the replayable gamepaly loop and lots of moment-to-moment variety thanks to the different classes and some new game-changing mechanics.
Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island | Spike Chunsoft | Nintendo Switch
Shiren the Wanderer returns in this, the sixth mainline entry in the long-running roguelike series. The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island sees our boy Shiren and his pet ferret heading into the heart of island filled with pirates, treasure, and danger at every turn as they look to save a mysterious woman who is trapped inside a monster.
The turn-based gameplay is balanced near-perfectly, and there are so many tactical options open to players thanks to an expansive array of items, spells, and miscellaneous gubbins. The new rescue system works a charm, there is tons of content waiting to be discovered, and despite the simple 3D visuals, the presentation is rather charming.
Finally, you can read the full review of the new Shiren right here.
Nuclear Throne | Vlambeer | PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
The very definition of a cult classic, Nuclear Throne is an absolutely chaotic top-down shooter about blasting strange mutants in an even stranger post-apocalyptic world.
Nuclear Throne is one of the great on-the-go action-roguelites, and I used to play it all the time on my long lost PS Vita. In my book that makes it an ideal fit for the versatile Switch, and one of the reasons that I’m always happy to recommend this to anyone seeking a stern challenge.
Slay the Spire | MegaCrit | Android, iOS, PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
And I’m rounding out the list with Slay the Spire – arguably the finest deckbuilder currently on Nintendo’s hybrid console (the plan is to do some digging and play more – see below).
Slay the Spire remains one the most addictive games on any platform, but on the Switch it’s a perfect fit. This king of deck-builders includes a wealth of powerful and dynamic cards and you’ll unlock more as you play, broadening the possibilities until your brain hurts – in the best possible way.
Read the full review of Slay the Spire to find out more about the game or head this way for news on the announcement of Slay the Spire 2.
Balatro | LocalThunk | Android, iOS, PC (Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
A new deckbuilder landed in 2024 that has absolutely blown me away. I’m talking about Balatro, the Poker-infused deckbuilder that invites players to break the rules as gloriously as possible.
Balatro gives players special joker cards that add multipliers to your poker hands. There are also planet and tarot cards that can enhance your deck in weird and wonderful ways. Before long, you’ll be playing crazy flushes or even super-powered pairs. It’s more mechanical than many other deckbuilders, but Balatro is also extremely addictive.
Read the full review if you’d like to know more, or I’ve got an interview with Balatro developer LocalTunk, who talked to Rogueliker about the game’s development!
Inscryption | Daniel Mullins Games | PC (Lin, Mac, Win), PS, Nintendo Switch, Xbox
There are few games that manage to create as much atmosphere as Inscryption does, but it’s the compelling gameplay loop that will keep you coming back to this sinister deckbuilder from Daniel Mullins Games (who I was just reminded also made Pony Island).
This murky adventure game has you playing cards in a strange hut with a weird thing called Leshy. Together you play a game of cards about woodland creatures, which sounds sweet until you see what happens to said critter cards…
If you’re after a spooky game to entertain and enthrall, roguelike fans with a taste for horror will very likely enjoy Inscryption.
30XX | Batterystaple Games | PC, Nintendo Switch
If the name Mega Man causes the corners of your mouth to curve up into a nostalgic grin then please may I introduce 30XX. The newer of the two games by Batterystaple Games is, at the time of writing, PC and Switch only, so let’s focus on that because of the exclusivity.
It’s set a cool one thousand years after the events of 20XX, which I played a bunch back in the day. 20XX is also very good and also available on the Nintendo Switch, by the way. Just saying.
If you’re after a more technically challenging platform experience in the Mega Man style, you won’t find one with more replayability and gameplay variety than 30XX and its predecessor.
If you’re after something accessible to get your teeth stuck into, we’ve got the best roguelikes and roguelites for beginners here.
