Top 3D Platformers On Nintendo Switch

Hey guys! If you're anything like me, you love a good 3D platformer. And if you own a Nintendo Switch, you're in luck because the Switch has become a fantastic home for 3D platforming goodness. From iconic characters making a comeback to fresh new faces, let's dive into the best 3D platformers you can play right now on your Nintendo Switch. Get ready for some serious jumping, collecting, and all-around fun!

Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is not just a game; it's a celebration of everything that makes Mario, well, Mario! This title, released early in the Switch's life, immediately set a high bar for what a 3D platformer could be on the console. The game introduces Cappy, a sentient hat, who becomes Mario's new best friend and a crucial part of the gameplay. Cappy allows Mario to "capture" enemies and objects, giving him their abilities. Want to control a T-Rex? Go for it! How about zipping around as a Bullet Bill? Absolutely! This mechanic adds an insane amount of variety and keeps the gameplay fresh throughout the entire adventure.

The world design in Super Mario Odyssey is simply breathtaking. Each kingdom is a vibrant, unique, and expansive playground filled with secrets to uncover. From the bustling streets of New Donk City (yes, with Pauline from the original Donkey Kong!) to the sandy dunes of the Sand Kingdom, every location feels alive and is packed with challenges that cater to both newcomers and seasoned Mario veterans. The game doesn’t hold your hand; instead, it encourages exploration and rewards curiosity. You'll find yourself constantly sidetracked by hidden areas, puzzles, and mini-objectives, all of which add to the overall sense of adventure.

What truly sets Super Mario Odyssey apart is its sheer joyfulness. The controls are tight and responsive, making every jump, dive, and capture feel incredibly satisfying. The game also includes a helpful assist mode for those who might struggle with some of the trickier platforming sections, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. And let's not forget the incredible soundtrack! Each kingdom boasts its own musical theme, and they are all catchy and memorable. "Jump Up, Super Star!" became an instant classic, and you'll find yourself humming the tunes long after you've put the console down. Whether you're a long-time Mario fan or new to the series, Super Mario Odyssey is an absolute must-have for your Nintendo Switch library. Its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and infectious sense of fun make it a true masterpiece of the 3D platforming genre.

Bowser's Fury

Alright, buckle up because Bowser's Fury is a wild ride! Technically an expansion to Super Mario 3D World, this standalone adventure takes the 3D Mario formula and throws it into an open-world setting. And it's amazing. Imagine a series of islands connected by a vast, shimmering lake, all under the looming threat of a gigantic, enraged Bowser. That's Bowser's Fury in a nutshell.

The core gameplay remains similar to Super Mario 3D World, with tight platforming, colorful environments, and a focus on collecting Cat Shines (the game's equivalent of stars or moons). But the open-world structure adds a whole new dimension. You're free to explore the islands in any order you choose, tackling challenges and uncovering secrets at your own pace. The ever-present threat of Fury Bowser, who periodically erupts from the lake in a fiery rage, keeps you on your toes. When Fury Bowser appears, the environment changes, new challenges emerge, and you have to use the Super Bell power-up to transform into Giga Cat Mario to battle him. These epic showdowns are visually stunning and incredibly satisfying.

Bowser's Fury is a masterclass in how to blend traditional 3D platforming with open-world exploration. The game feels both familiar and fresh, and the dynamic weather system and the unpredictable appearances of Fury Bowser add a layer of excitement that's hard to find elsewhere. The game is also relatively short, which means you can experience the whole adventure in a reasonable amount of time. If you enjoyed Super Mario 3D World, or if you're just looking for a unique and exciting 3D platformer, Bowser's Fury is absolutely worth checking out.

A Hat in Time

A Hat in Time is like a warm hug for fans of classic 3D platformers. Developed by Gears for Breakfast, this indie gem draws inspiration from games like Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie, delivering a charming and nostalgic experience. You play as Hat Kid, a tiny space-traveling girl with a magical hat. When she loses her Time Pieces (the fuel for her spaceship) on a strange planet, she must explore five unique open worlds to recover them.

What makes A Hat in Time so special is its sheer personality. Hat Kid is an adorable and expressive protagonist, and the supporting cast is equally memorable. Each world is filled with quirky characters, hilarious dialogue, and memorable moments. The gameplay is tight and responsive, and the level design is imaginative and varied. From Mafia Town, a sprawling city ruled by mafioso chefs, to Alpine Skyline, a mountainous region filled with tricky platforming challenges, every world feels distinct and lovingly crafted. The game also features a wide array of hats, each granting Hat Kid unique abilities. These abilities are essential for solving puzzles, reaching new areas, and defeating enemies. A Hat in Time isn't just a great 3D platformer; it's a love letter to the genre. If you're looking for a game that will make you smile from beginning to end, this is it.

Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair

Okay, so Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair is a bit of a different beast compared to the other games on this list. While the original Yooka-Laylee aimed to be a 3D platformer in the style of Banjo-Kazooie, The Impossible Lair takes a different approach. It combines a 3D overworld with 2.5D platforming levels. And you know what? It totally works!

The 3D overworld serves as a hub area, where you can explore, solve puzzles, and unlock new levels. The 2.5D levels are where the real platforming action happens. These levels are incredibly well-designed, with challenging layouts, hidden secrets, and a variety of obstacles to overcome. The game features a unique mechanic where you can choose to tackle the "Impossible Lair" (the final level) at any time. However, the Lair is incredibly difficult, and you'll likely need to complete most of the other levels to collect enough bees (which act as health) to survive. What makes Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair stand out is its focus on challenge and replayability. The levels are designed to be replayed multiple times, with different challenges and secrets to discover each time. If you're a fan of challenging platformers like Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, you'll definitely enjoy this game.

Spyro Reignited Trilogy

Nostalgia alert! The Spyro Reignited Trilogy brings the classic PlayStation trilogy into the modern era with stunning visuals and updated gameplay. If you grew up playing Spyro the Dragon, Spyro 2: Ripto's Rage!, and Spyro: Year of the Dragon, this collection is a must-have. But even if you're new to the series, there's a lot to love about these charming and addictive platformers.

Each game in the trilogy follows Spyro, a young purple dragon, as he embarks on a quest to save the Dragon Realms. The gameplay is simple but satisfying: you explore colorful worlds, collect gems, flame enemies, and rescue dragons. What makes the Spyro games so appealing is their sense of exploration and discovery. Each world is filled with secrets, hidden areas, and collectibles to find. The Reignited Trilogy does a fantastic job of preserving the original games' charm while updating the visuals and controls for a modern audience. The characters look better than ever, the environments are vibrant and detailed, and the gameplay feels smooth and responsive. Whether you're a long-time Spyro fan or new to the series, the Reignited Trilogy is a fantastic way to experience these classic 3D platformers.

Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy

Speaking of nostalgia bombs, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is another fantastic collection that brings a beloved PlayStation franchise to the Nintendo Switch. This trilogy includes Crash Bandicoot, Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back, and Crash Bandicoot: Warped, all rebuilt from the ground up with stunning new visuals and updated gameplay.

These games are known for their challenging platforming, quirky characters, and memorable level design. You play as Crash Bandicoot, a genetically enhanced bandicoot, as he attempts to thwart the plans of the evil Dr. Neo Cortex. The gameplay is fast-paced and demanding, requiring precise jumps and quick reflexes. The N. Sane Trilogy does a great job of capturing the spirit of the original games while making them more accessible to modern players. The visuals are gorgeous, the controls are tight, and the difficulty is still challenging but fair. If you're a fan of challenging platformers, or if you're just looking for a dose of nostalgia, the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is definitely worth checking out.

New Super Lucky's Tale

New Super Lucky's Tale is a delightful 3D platformer that's perfect for younger players or anyone looking for a more relaxed and accessible experience. You play as Lucky, an optimistic and adventurous fox, as he embarks on a quest to save the Book of Ages from the villainous Jinx and his Kitty Litter.

The gameplay is simple and straightforward, with a focus on exploration, collecting, and light puzzle-solving. The levels are colorful and charming, and the game is filled with secrets and hidden areas to discover. New Super Lucky's Tale isn't the most challenging 3D platformer on the Switch, but it's a great option for families or anyone looking for a fun and lighthearted adventure. The game's positive message and adorable characters make it a joy to play, and its accessibility makes it a great entry point for newcomers to the 3D platforming genre.

In Summary

The Nintendo Switch boasts an impressive library of 3D platformers, catering to a wide range of tastes and skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your Switch, pick a game, and get ready to jump into some unforgettable adventures!