Video games aren’t just for kids, especially with some of these Nintendo Switch games for grown-ups. Mature players can appreciate themes of horror, stealth, sniping, and more while playing on their favorite hand-held console. If you are a fan of your Nintendo Switch, whether Lite or OLED, these adult video games will take your gaming to the next level. Even if you are intimidated by horror or violence, many of these games rely more on strategy, collaboration, and skill to progress in the game.

Some of the best Nintendo Switch games are played with certain accessories, such as a gaming headset or pro controller. But other games have gameplay specific to the Switch incorporated, such as motion controls for melee, HD rumble effect, or faster frames per second. Discover new themes such as the Wild West, an apocalypse in Russia, or the terrifying terrain of Italy in the 1940s. These Nintendo Switch games for grown-ups will immerse you in history, gore, and violence, so get ready to play!

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1. Dark Souls: Remastered

9.40 / 10
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Did you play Dark Souls on the Xbox, PlayStation, or another console? Now, try playing this iconic video game on the Nintendo Switch with Dark Souls: Remastered by Bandai Namco. This adventure video game includes the main game and the Artorias of the Abyss DLC. Explore the familiar yet ancient land of Lordran, once the home to Gwyn, Nito, The Witch of Izalith, and more characters. Players will see how the Curse caused chaos, following a story that keeps surprising you throughout with daunting challenges. Even when you believe you have completed a path, there is yet another twist to the story.

Some notable features include the hundreds of combinations of weapons, gear, and magic, so you can personalize your gameplay. As you start out, you will build your character to your liking while strengthening your strategy. While some of the controls might be easier using a Pro Controller, Dark Souls: Remastered is perfect for fans of the franchise ready to play on a new platform. Get ready to explore dungeons, hidden paths, and secret missions in the deep universe altered by the Curse. You can now take your favorite game on the go or play with up to six players, discovering where your true covenant lies.

Key Features
  • Includes the main game and the Artorias of the Abyss DLC
  • Hundreds of personalization options
  • Surprising twists to the game play
  • Intricate world design
Specifications
  • Publisher: Bandai Namco
  • Genre: Action, Adventure
  • Mode: Singleplayer, Mulitplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Ideal for fans of the Dark Souls franchise
  • New secret passages
  • Diverse magic and crafting options
Cons
  • Might be easier with a Pro Controller
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Dark Souls: Remastered

If you are an adult looking to escape into a fantastical virtual world, check out The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. This adventure video game is developed by Bethesda Game Studios, creators of the popular video game series Fallout. Rated Mature for blood and gore, intense violence, sexual themes, and use of alcohol, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is made for an adult audience. There are now updated motion controls to use when battling, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch. You can also use these controls to aim your bow and arrow or even pick locks!

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim also features new gear and clothing based on the Legend of Zelda series, which is great for fans of this open-world game. As you battle dragons, you will explore calming scenes of rivers and sunsets, greenery framed by snowy mountains, and barren lands. But with your shield and sword in hand, you can confidently fight against daunting enemies. Players can indulge in horseback riding, shooting dragons, and discovering the many spells and abilities of Dragonborn. When you play as Dragonborn, you have the power of The Voice, giving you heroic powers to discover the reason the dragons have returned. Because this game is open-world, players can pace themselves and even focus on building a home instead of fighting dragons. Plus, there is now amiibo compatibility, official add-ons such as Hearthfire, and the Champion's Tunic!

Key Features
  • Updated motion controls
  • New Amiibo compatibility
  • Gear and clothing based on the Legend of Zelda series
  • Add ons such as Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn
Specifications
  • Publisher: Bethesda Game Studios
  • Genre: Open-world adventure, Fantasy
  • Mode: Single-player
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Beautiful scenery to explore by foot or horseback
  • Winner of 200+ Game of the Year Awards
  • Great for fans of the Legend of Zelda series
Cons
  • DLC (Downloadable Content) may not be included and is not guaranteed to work
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The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

If you grew up playing Mortal Kombat, you have probably been following the popular franchise as each installment released. Dive back into the nostalgia of Mortal Kombat 11 for the Nintendo Switch, with both new and classic characters. Some fan favorites in this video game include Raiden, Baraka, Scorpion, Sonya Blade, Skarlet, and Sub-Zero. A notable new character is Geras, the loyal servant of Kronika with the power to alter time. Players will explore new Fatalities, abilities, and customizations as you can change fighters to your liking. With the updated graphics engine, be prepared to see all the blood, gore, and intense violence in Mortal Kombat 11. Plus, the story mode continues from prior installments of Mortal Kombat, keeping the cinematic story alive for 25 years.

The narrative in this video game revolves around Kronika and Raiden, adding the new twist of time-bending to the story. Kronika is the Keeper of Time, creating existence and holding the key to time itself. As players follow this mysterious story, they can use a variety of Gear, Skins, Brutalities, Special Abilities, and Taunts. While you need at least 20 GB of storage for Mortal Kombat 11, the matches are 60 frames per second and have decent graphics. Find a new way to duel in this updated video game for the Nintendo Switch!

Key Features
  • Custom character variations
  • Both new and returning Klassic Fighters
  • Updated graphics engine
  • Engaging story mode
Specifications
  • Publisher: Warner Bros. Games
  • Genre: Duel, Fighting
  • Mode: Singleplayer, Multiplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Great gift option for fans of the Mortal Kombat series
  • Matches are 60 frames per second
  • Can play local or with friends
Cons
  • Need at least 20 GB of storage
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Mortal Kombat 11 - Nintendo Switch

For adults who are not intimidated by violence or historical themes, this mature video game is an option to explore. Sniper Elite 4, created by Rebellion Developments, is the fourth installment in the Sniper Elite series. Players can choose between single-player, multiplayer, and co-op mode as they adventure into the rugged yet beautiful Mediterranean land. Taking place during World War II in Italy, there is an important historical aspect to this game set in the 1940s. You should be prepared to use advanced ballistics to join the Italian Resistance and take down Fascist enemies. Rated mature for blood and gore, intense violence, and language, this tactical shooting game requires skill to make it through the war zone.

With extensive maps, you will encounter endless enemies, forging your own path as you find different missions. Some notable features of this sniping game include the detailed ballistics, where players must take into account multiple factors to shoot across distances. There are kill cams with x-ray abilities, so when you have the opportunity to use explosives or melee, you will see exactly what damage has been done. Plus, with accurate World War II weapons, players will have the option to deeply customize their collection of pistols, traps, grenades, and sniper rifles.

Key Features
  • Advanced ballistics 
  • X-ray kill cams
  • Large maps
  • World war two weapons
Specifications
  • Publisher: Rebellion Developments
  • Genre: Adventure, Tactical shooter, and Stealth
  • Mode: Singleplayer, Multiplayer, Co-Op
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Great for fans of the Sniper Elite series
  • Historical scenes from the 1940s
  • Option to stealth
Cons
  • Can be too violent at times
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Sniper Elite 4

Do you have a group of friends looking for a new horror game to play? Take a look at Dead by Daylight: Definitive Edition developed by Deep Silver. This horror video game is a four-versus-one survival game, where one player is a killer and the rest try to escape the killer's grasp. The three survivors can help each other and collaborate, or choose to fight alone and split up the group. Players will need to use communication and strategy to beat the killer, especially when spawning in random areas each level.

If you appreciate the horror theme, Dead by Daylight: Definitive Edition offers a range of terrifying characters to play as the killer. Try being the violent Slasher, or discover new abilities as a paranormal entity. When you play as a survivor, you will play in third-person to feel like you have control over your situation ... even when the fog rolls in and the music swells. But when you play as the killer, you play in first-person to have more focus on the hunt and sacrifice. Every player will have their own path to unlockables with customization options too. While Dead by Daylight: Definitive Edition is online only, you can enjoy the base game, new chapters, and creepy cosmetics with your group of friends.

Key Features
  • Chilling music to create tense atmosphere
  • Third-person game play for situational awareness
  • Plenty of unlockables as the game progresses
  • Base game plus chapters and cosmetics
Specifications
  • Publisher: Deep Silver
  • Genre: Horror, Stealth
  • Mode: Mulitplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Great for groups of friends invested in horror theme
  • Random spawn points for diverse game play
  • Realistic human emotions and reactions
Cons
  • Online-only and requires a valid Nintendo Switch Online account
  • Muddy graphics at times
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Dead by Daylight: Definitive Edition

Are you looking for an escape into a mysterious and historical world? Call of Juarez: Gunslinger developed by Techland takes players into the dry and dusty world of the Wild West. Tap back into your love of cowboys, gunslingers, and horses in this adventurous and violent video game. As a first-person shooter, players will have to harness their skills as they take on the legendary outlaws. Some of the most dangerous gunslingers include John Hardin, an ex-con who plays it smart, or the notorious Jesse James. There is also Billy the Kid, the smiling and crooked murderer, and Butch Cassidy, the gunslinger known for train and bank robberies. If you are familiar with these historical figures, you will appreciate the accuracy in their characters as you battle them in Call of Juarez: Gunslinger.

While this game case does not include a game cartridge, it does include a unique code, so you can download the game at 4GB. The Nintendo Switch offers special edition effects such as motion control and HD rumble when firing. Players will explore western saloons, gold mines, and epic Wild West tales as they play as a skilled bounty hunter. Get ready to duel dangerous cowboys with this dark Wild West video game for the Nintendo Switch.

Key Features
  • New motion controls
  • Personalize your skills and combos
  • HD rumble effect
  • Beautiful scenes of the Old West
Specifications
  • Publisher: Techland
  • Genre: First-person shooting, Wild West, Adventure
  • Mode: Singleplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Ideal for fans of the Wild West
  • Focus on storyline and characters
  • Historically accurate characters such as Butch Cassidy
Cons
  • No game cartridge included
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Call of Juarez: Gunslinger

Are you hoping to find a new apocalypse game? Check out Metro Redux by Deep Silver for an apocalyptic experience in the Moscow Metro. Set during an apocalypse in Russia, players will need a gas mask, hand-made weapons, and courage as they face intense enemies. From mutants to broken buildings, the environment itself poses a real threat as you stealth across rugged terrain and shoot enemies. As you explore the solo mission, you might find it difficult to regenerate health or see in the dark. But with two campaigns and all DLC included, players will be offered endless content at no extra charge. Plus, there are ten hours of bonus content for when you finish facing the enemies of the Russian Apocalypse.

With all Downloadable Content included, Metro Redux is an incredible two-game collection. There are two play styles: Spartan and Survival. Spartan gives players the advanced abilities of a Spartan ranger, while Survival creates a slow and terrifying gameplay. If you are feeling brave, try Survival mode and take in the impressive graphics, secret areas, and skills needed to escape enemies. For players itching to fight, take on the Spartan gameplay and battle using advanced weaponry. Metro Redux has the perfect blend of horror, accurate ballistics, and haunting adventure for the Nintendo Switch.

Key Features
  • Set in the Moscow Metro
  • Two play styles of Spartan or Survival
  • Hand-made weaponry
  • Two complete campaigns make one solo adventure
Specifications
  • Publisher: Deep Silver
  • Genre: Apocalypse, Horror, Shooting
  • Mode: Singleplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • All DLC included
  • 10 hours of bonus content
  • Unique styles of game play to keep players engaged
  • Impressive graphics
Cons
  • Difficult to regenerate health
  • Sometimes the game appears too dark
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Metro Redux

Do you miss playing the classic arcade games? Try playing Valfaris, an action arcade game developed by Merge Games. This unique video game takes place in space, introducing galactic battles, alien enemies, and foreign landscapes. The heavy metal soundtrack creates an intense atmosphere and was created by former Celtic Frost guitarist, Curt Victor Bryant. With unique 2D action and art, players will engage in brutal combat, facing deadly enemies as they explore Valfaris. There is a looming darkness in the fortress now, and it is up to Therion to return home and discover the truth.

Once you complete the game, you can unlock Full Metal Mode for an even harder challenge. However, many players find the base game difficult as it is, which is something to keep in mind if you are easily frustrated. But if you are looking for a challenge, like to develop strategy, and have some extra time, take a chance on Valfaris. The classic arcade-style can be compared to Super Mario Bros, as you progress through levels and battle bosses. Don't get discouraged as you take on different approaches when fighting bosses, as each monster has its own weak spot. If you also enjoyed the art style and gameplay in Slain: Back From Hell, this video game will feel nostalgic yet challenging!

Key Features
  • Pixel art hand-crafted by Andrew Gilmour
  • Array of brutal weaponry
  • Soundtrack by Curt Victor Bryant
  • Space monsters and unique setting
Specifications
  • Publisher: Merge Games
  • Genre: Action, Arcade
  • Mode: Singleplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Perfect for fans of classic arcade games
  • Unique 2D graphics
  • Great gift for gamers who love heavy metal
Cons
  • Game play can be too difficult at times
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If you want a new Metroidvania game, check out Blasphemous Deluxe Edition by Team17. Players explore a large map and unlock new paths as they battle enemies in the world of Cvstodia. You can upgrade your fighting skills, execute enemies, and embark on your quest to save Cvstodia. This video game includes all downloadable content and even has stickers and a small print of the game map to follow along. Similar to classic arcade games in art style, Blasphemous Deluxe Edition has beautiful pixel art with 2D battles and environments. Use your Mea Culpa sword to slaughter monsters, fight in melee battles, and survive attacks in this terrifying world. With impressive voice acting in English and suspenseful music, the atmosphere in this game is unmatched. While some players argue the gameplay is frustrating, it might just take some practice to properly face your foes in Cvstodia.

There is plenty of symbolism in Blasphemous Deluxe Edition, pointing to historical massacres and religious cults. For players who appreciate history, this can be an educational game too. As you progress, you will come across relics, rosaries, and prayers that give you boosts and strength to survive. But what will it truly take to explore everything unscathed? Find out and explore Blasphemous Deluxe Edition on the Nintedo Switch today!

Key Features
  • 2D pixel art
  • Compelling music to build atmosphere
  • Melee battles with unique weapons
  • Small print of the game map included
Specifications
  • Publisher: Team17
  • Genre: Action, Adventure
  • Mode: Singleplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Mature
Pros
  • Incredible English voice acting
  • Includes all DLC and stickers
  • Historically accurate with symbolic game play
Cons
  • Frustrating game play sometimes
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Blasphemous Deluxe Edition

Are you looking to get back into the mystery genre of video games? Agatha Christie: The ABC Murders by Microids is a Teen video game with endless puzzles to solve. Players will be private detective Hercule Poirot, adapted from the Agatha Christie novel, solving riddles all throughout the United Kingdom. The key to this mysterious video game is examining suspects, observing their actions, and using the clues at hand to solve the murders. Agatha Christie: The ABC Murders features a comic book-like art style that gives the game character and warmth. With new light effects, reworked sound design, and an updated interface, this video game for the Nintendo Switch will be a mystery worth following.

While there might be some glitches during puzzles, make sure you are using all the clues and strategies at hand. Some teens might find this game too difficult, so adults might be better off trying to solve violent crimes. Developed by Microids, Agatha Christie: The ABC Murders has incredible music, impressive voice acting, and challenging brain-teasers to create the perfect mystery video game. Be sure to follow Poirot's timeline to put together the relevant events and progress the case of the ABC murders. You might be surprised how the game ends if you haven't read the book!

Key Features
  • Challenging puzzles
  • Set in the UK
  • Unique art style
  • Redesigned interface
Specifications
  • Publisher: Microids
  • Genre: Mystery
  • Mode: Singleplayer
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch
  • Rating: Teen
Pros
  • Ideal gift for fans of Agatha Christie's work
  • New light efffects
  • Reworked sound design
Cons
  • Some glitches during puzzles
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Agatha Christie: The ABC Murders

Warning: Adult Themes

Even though most of these video games are rated M, not every adult will be comfortable with the contents of certain games. The "Mature" rating has a spectrum, and some games might be too violent or jarring for players. While most adult video gamers are comfortable with blood, nudity, and violence, it is important to keep in mind what themes you feel best playing. The Wild West is a more relaxing atmosphere than an apocalypse, but some players enjoy the thrill of stealthing and surviving. Both Valfaris and Blasphemous Deluxe Edition feature arcade-style graphics, so this might be a better option if the gore spooks you. Remember not every second of these games will be gory, and you can choose when to amplify or mute aspects of the game. Try playing for a few hours at a time, playing during the daytime, or keeping headphones off to stay slightly distanced from the violence. But if you have no problem immersing yourself into war themes, get comfortable with advanced ballistics, bloody battles, and terrifying atmospheres!

Benefits of the Nintendo Switch

One benefit of playing adult video games on the Nintendo Switch is the hand-held aspect. You can take your console with you as your drop off your kids at school, eat a snack at work, or take a road trip with friends. If you are looking for a way to relax more throughout your day, maybe these video games can help you make time for yourself. The Nintendo Switch is also more affordable than other popular consoles, and easier to personalize.

Also, the Nintendo Switch has many accessories, such as screen protectors, controllers, and carrying cases. If you get serious about one of these video games for grown-ups, think about investing in the proper gear to transport your Nintendo Switch. Plus, you can connect your Switch to a TV or monitor to play with friends!