Nintendo Switch: Top 3D Platformer Games

Alright gamers, gather 'round! Today, we're diving headfirst into the glorious world of 3D platformers on the Nintendo Switch. If you're like me, you probably have a soft spot for those games where you're leaping across giant gaps, collecting shiny things, and generally just having a blast navigating vibrant, three-dimensional worlds. The Switch, guys, is an absolute treasure trove for this genre. We're talking about games that offer incredible replayability, challenging yet rewarding gameplay, and stories that can sometimes surprise you with their depth. Whether you're a seasoned veteran who grew up with the classics or a newcomer looking for some fantastic adventures, there's something here for everyone. We're going to explore some of the absolute best 3D platformers the Switch has to offer, looking at what makes them so special, why they stand out in a crowded field, and what kind of experience you can expect. Get ready to dust off your Joy-Cons, because these are the games that will have you jumping for joy!

Super Mario Odyssey: The Crown Jewel

Let's just get this out of the way: Super Mario Odyssey is, without a doubt, one of the best 3D platformer games you can get your hands on, not just for the Switch, but arguably for any console. This game is pure, unadulterated Nintendo magic. From the moment you start, you're whisked away on an epic adventure across wildly diverse and imaginative kingdoms. What makes Odyssey so special is its incredible sense of freedom and exploration. Unlike some more linear platformers, Odyssey encourages you to go off the beaten path, to poke around every corner, and to experiment with Mario's new best friend, Cappy. Cappy, the sentient hat, isn't just a gimmick; he's the key to the game's ingenious gameplay mechanics. You can throw Cappy to attack enemies, use him as a temporary platform, and, most importantly, capture objects and enemies, taking control of them and using their unique abilities. This mechanic opens up a universe of possibilities, transforming how you approach traversal and puzzle-solving. Imagine controlling a Cheep Cheep to swim through underwater sections, possessing a T-Rex to smash through obstacles, or even taking control of a tank! The sheer creativity on display is mind-blowing. Each kingdom is a sandbox brimming with Power Moons to collect, secret areas to discover, and quirky characters to meet. The level design is masterful, offering challenges for both casual players and hardcore completionists. There are always more Moons to find, more outfits to unlock for Mario, and more secrets to uncover. The game’s presentation is also top-notch, with stunning visuals, an incredibly catchy and dynamic soundtrack that changes with your actions, and that signature Nintendo polish that makes everything feel so vibrant and alive. It’s a game that constantly surprises and delights, making it an absolute must-have for any Switch owner looking for a phenomenal 3D platforming experience that truly defines the genre. The joy of discovery in Odyssey is unparalleled, making it a game that you'll keep coming back to, time and time again, finding new ways to play and new secrets to unearth. It’s a testament to Nintendo’s ability to innovate within a beloved franchise while staying true to its core essence.

A Hat in Time: Indie Charm and Nostalgia

Now, let's shift gears and talk about a gem from the indie scene that absolutely nails the nostalgic feel of classic 3D platformers: A Hat in Time. If you grew up playing games like Super Mario 64, Banjo-Kazooie, or Psychonauts, then this game is going to feel like a warm hug from the past, but with its own unique, charming personality. Developed by Gears for Breakfast, A Hat in Time puts you in the shoes of Hat Kid, a little girl traveling through space who accidentally crash-lands on a planet and loses her Time Pieces, which are essential for her spaceship to return home. What follows is a delightful adventure across several distinct and wonderfully designed worlds, each with its own theme, characters, and objectives. The core gameplay revolves around exploration, collecting Time Pieces, and completing various missions. What sets A Hat in Time apart is its incredible charm and personality. Hat Kid is an endearing protagonist, and the supporting cast of characters is equally memorable, often quirky and hilarious. The game doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's part of its appeal. It embraces its whimsical nature with bright, colorful visuals and a soundtrack that perfectly complements the lighthearted tone. The platforming itself is solid, offering a good mix of precision jumping, environmental puzzles, and combat. Hat Kid has a variety of hats she can equip, each granting her different abilities like a sprint, a shield, or a longer jump, adding a layer of strategy to how you navigate the levels and overcome obstacles. The game also features some truly unique and memorable mission types, including some fantastic boss battles and even some levels that playfully parody other video game genres. The developers clearly poured a lot of love and attention into every aspect of this game, from the tight controls to the creative level design. It’s a game that respects its influences but doesn’t shy away from forging its own identity. For anyone looking for a 3D platformer that captures the spirit of the N64 era while offering a fresh and engaging experience, A Hat in Time is an absolute must-play. It's a testament to the fact that great 3D platformers can still be made with passion and creativity, proving that this genre is far from dead. The sheer variety of gameplay elements and the constant stream of delightful surprises make it an unforgettable journey. It's a game that truly shines with its artistic vision and heartfelt execution, making it a standout title in the Nintendo Switch's growing library of indie darlings.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land: A Breath of Fresh Air

Kirby, the pink puffball we all know and love, made a monumental leap into full 3D with Kirby and the Forgotten Land, and let me tell you, it was a resounding success. This game is a fantastic addition to the best 3D platformer games on the Nintendo Switch, offering a unique take on the genre that's both accessible and incredibly engaging. What makes Forgotten Land so special is how it brilliantly translates Kirby's classic abilities into a 3D space. Kirby's signature copy abilities, where he inhales enemies to gain their powers, are more dynamic and satisfying than ever. Whether you're wielding a sword, breathing fire, or using a new drill ability, the combat and platforming feel incredibly fluid and fun. But the real showstopper here is the Mouthful Mode. This hilarious and inventive mechanic allows Kirby to inhale large objects, transforming him into unique shapes with unique abilities – think becoming a car to speed across the landscape, a vending machine to shoot soda cans, or even a traffic cone to... well, cone things! It's utterly ridiculous and absolutely brilliant, adding a layer of unexpected fun and puzzle-solving opportunities that you won't find anywhere else. The world of Forgotten Land itself is a joy to explore. It’s a post-apocalyptic setting, but rendered in Kirby's signature cheerful and colorful art style, making it feel more whimsical than grim. The levels are packed with secrets, collectibles, and challenges, encouraging exploration and rewarding players for venturing off the main path. The difficulty is perfectly balanced, making it approachable for newcomers to the Kirby series or 3D platformers in general, while still offering enough challenge for experienced players, especially in the optional objectives and harder modes. The game also features a robust upgrade system for Kirby's abilities, allowing you to unlock more powerful versions as you progress, which adds a nice sense of progression and customization. The presentation is stellar, with charming character designs, vibrant environments, and an absolutely delightful soundtrack that will have you humming along. Kirby and the Forgotten Land is more than just a good Kirby game; it's a testament to Nintendo's ability to innovate and deliver fresh experiences within their established franchises. It proves that even a long-running series can find new ways to surprise and delight its audience, making it a must-play for anyone seeking a charming, creative, and incredibly fun 3D platformer on the Switch. The sense of wonder and discovery in this forgotten world is palpable, making every new area a delightful treat for the eyes and the gameplay mechanics.

Psychonauts 2: A Masterclass in Storytelling and Design

Oh boy, where do I even begin with Psychonauts 2? This game is, in my humble opinion, a masterpiece and easily one of the best 3D platformer games available on the Nintendo Switch, even though it originally debuted on other platforms. If you haven't played the first Psychonauts, you're missing out on some incredible backstory, but Psychonauts 2 does a fantastic job of catching you up while forging ahead with its own compelling narrative. You play as Razputin