The Nintendo Switch has seen an influx of RPGs the likes of which hasn't been seen on a Nintendo console since the SNES. Not only is the genre thriving on the system quantity-wise, but it also boasts a plethora of diverse titles that are highly regarded. These range from vibrant JRPGs to action-laced indies to WRPG epics and everything in-between. This list only looks to be strengthened with the recent announcement of a new Paper Mario, The Origami King.
Still, with such a robust lineup of role-playing games, there are bound to be some that get lost in the shuffle. With that said, here are some of the most underrated RPGs for Switch that fans of the genre should definitely check out.
Updated on July 6, 2022 by Ritwik Mitra: The Nintendo Switch has been graced with a large number of amazing RPGs that are worth anyone's time. However, for many reasons, most people don't get to know about certain games that deserve to be in the spotlight. The following titles are great examples of excellent RPGs that deserve way more love and attention than what they're getting right now. Fans of the genre will have a blast playing these underrated RPGs on the Nintendo Switch.
10 Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle
The idea of a crossover between the Mario universe and Ubisoft's Rabbids franchise sounds pretty odd. However, many people were more than happy with the end result, which was a solid strategy RPG.
For many, this can possibly be a gateway into a subgenre of RPGs that is littered with amazing content. Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle might not be the most groundbreaking game around, but it's pretty decent regardless.
9 Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings Of Ruin
Not many people expected a turn-based spinoff set in the Monster Hunter universe to do as well as it did. However, Monster Hunter Stories was a pleasant surprise, and its sequel upped the ante even more.
Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is an excellent title, with an engaging story and solid gameplay mechanics. Fans of this series should definitely check out the spinoff series, especially due to the high quality of the second game.
8 The Legend Of Heroes: Trails Of Cold Steel
The Legend of Heroes series features a bunch of games with excellent worldbuilding and combat. Trails of Cold Steel is one of the many arcs in the series that is absolutely legendary in its own right.
This four-game epic boasts a great story, memorable characters, and fun combat to boot. Players who get hooked on this series will have a great time with Trails of Cold Steel.
7 The Banner Saga Trilogy
The Banner Saga combines elements from strategy RPGs and titles like Oregon Trail to make for an epic journey that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. It helps that the art style of this game is absolutely dashing as well.
The story and characters in this title are pretty memorable in their own right, and the combat doesn't shy away from upping the difficulty at times. With three games that progressively get better with each installment, The Banner Saga Trilogy promises hours upon hours of entertainment for players.
6 Kingdoms Of Amalur: Re-Reckoning
Kingdoms of Amalur is a game that didn't succeed on the commercial front, causing the game's planned sequels to be dead in the water even before they could turn into something substantial. However, over time, more and more people started appreciating this cult classic.
The fact that this game received a remaster, along with a new piece of DLC, shows just how loved this game really is. Fans can only hope that this recent round of updates means that the series will finally be continued.
5 I Am Setsuna
This action RPG managed to escape the knowledge of many when released for the PS4 and Vita, being buried amongst a sea of software. This largely continued with the Switch port, despite being one of the console's launch titles.
But even if the game was soon eclipsed by heavy hitters like Octopath Traveler and Xenoblade Chronicles 2, I Am Setsuna shines as both fun and emotionally gripping. The unique Active Time Battle system blends swiftness with strategy, reminiscent of Chrono Trigger and early Final Fantasy. This romp from Tokyo RPG Factory is a deep, atmospheric journey worth taking.
4 Golf Story
It's easy to overlook a bizarre indie romp that blends RPG sensibilities with golf. And though one shouldn't expect a visually dazzling epic, Golf Story intrigues with its unique, appealing concepts and charming aesthetic.
The game offers a captivating narrative, featuring a downtrodden golfer looking to reclaim his childhood love of golf after 20 years. But the gameplay is where Sidebar Games truly hits a hole-in-one, with its distinct blend of golfing mechanics, exploration, and RPG progression.
3 Grandia HD Collection
It's tough to muster too much excitement for decades-old remasters, especially since this package is missing the third Grandia game. Still, this compilation is able to stand on the strength of the stellar Grandia 1 and 2.
These titles offer some of the most entertaining and inventive battle systems in the genre - having players use strategy and timing to disrupt enemy attacks. Coupled with interesting stories and gorgeous worlds, the fun combat makes for an enthralling experience that comprises dozens of hours.
2 Dragon Quest Builders 2
For a game that seemingly garnered a fraction of DQXI's hype and recognition, Dragon Quest Builders 2 sure comes close in quality. In fact, at least for fans of Minecraft and social gaming, this dynamic romp may even top that RPG.
Don't be fooled by the cute, blocky exterior - for underneath the surface lies a rich, diverse, and addictive adventure. Players get a more traditional RPG experience, laced with versatile building and crafting mechanics, and a streamlined co-op mode. The hours will simply fly by when delving into this colorful journey.
1 Ys 8: Lacrimosa Of Dana
It makes sense that this Japan-centric series - whose title isn't particularly appealing - might slip under the West's radar. This shouldn't be the case, however, as this is one of the most enjoyable ARPGs on the Switch.
Nihon Falcom's Ys 8 takes on the vibe of a Zelda or Tales experience, stressing arcade-style combat and exploration over RPG fluff. The battle system is both accessible and deep enough to hold one's interest. The story, while taking some time to get going, is no slouch either, getting more wondrous and endearing as it unfolds.