37 Best Nintendo Switch Shooter Games

Just a few years after its launch, the Nintendo Switch quickly established itself as the home to some of the best shooters. From high-octane first-person shooters like DOOM to fun to blast through shmups like Astebreed, the Switch’s library of shooters is massive.

We’ve taken our time to pick up the best shooters on the Nintendo Switch, and while this list may not tackle every shooter on the platform, there’s something for everyone here. Without going further into detail, let’s dive right into the best Nintendo Switch Shooter games.

Best Nintendo Switch First-Person Shooters

The best First-Person-Shooters on the Switch are right in front of you

DOOM 2016

About
	Release Date May 13, 2016
	Developer id Software
	Publisher Bethesda Softworks
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2017-10-10
2017-11-10

DOOM was already a fantastic game when it landed on PC and consoles, but to see such an exhilarating FPS land on the Switch has surprised just about everyone. You’re no longer obliged to shoot demons while sitting in front of a TV, you can do all sorts of badass things on your bed.

Take control of a potent space marine known as the ” Doom Slayer ” and tear your way through hordes of demons from hell. Shoot them in the head, stomp them to death, or just shred them to pieces, you can do all that with the 2016 DOOM reboot thanks to this fantastic port.

Wolfenstein® II The New Colossus™ 2017

About
	Release Date October 26, 2017
	Developer MachineGames
	Publisher Bethesda Softworks
	Franchise Wolfenstein
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Military
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2018-06-29
2018-07-26

Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus is yet another high-octane FPS if you’re looking for something as good as DOOM. The story follows our titular hero Agent BJ Blazkowicz in his struggle against the Nazi army. Loaded with potent weapons under his belt, he’s ready to blast tons of them to oblivion.

Wolfenstein 2 carries the same DNA as its predecessors; it’s a fast-paced shooter with multiple weapons to choose from and an excellent difficulty curve to keep your FPS skills in check. If you’re a fan of fast-paced shooters, there’s no reason not to give Wolfenstein 2 a shot.

Crysis Remastered 2020 Remaster

About
	Release Date July 23, 2020 Initial Release: November 13, 2007
	Developer Crytek
	Publisher Electronic Arts
	Franchise Crysis
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept War
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2020-07-23
2021-09-28

Crysis originally melted our PCs when we attempted to try it out for the first time. This remastered port on the Switch is an impressive piece of work; It performs well on the hardware, has decent visuals, and most importantly, it won’t melt your Nintendo Switch.

The inclusion of the gyro controls is the icing on the cake as it makes the experience immersive for handheld players. Although the game is a remaster of a 2007 game, it still feels incredibly satisfying to take out an army of aliens with your nano suit. If you’ve missed the opportunity to try the Crysis franchise back then, it’s never too late to do that on the Nintendo Switch.

Call of Juarez: Gunslinger 2013

About
	Release Date May 14, 2013
	Developer Techland
	Publisher Ubisoft
	Franchise Call of Juarez
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Cowboy
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Poland

Switch Releases
2019-12-10

Call of Juarez: Gunslinger is a criminally underrated first-person shooter. Sadly, the game didn’t enjoy enough love when it was originally released back in 2013. Perhaps it was due to the game’s release in a pretty much-crowded market full of hits such as Grand Theft Auto V, Battlefield 4, and AC IV.

However, now with this port, gamers can enjoy Call of Juarez: Gunslinger in full on the Switch. Call of Juarez: Gunslinger is one of the best first-person shooters you’ll ever experience. It’s a brilliant game with an incredibly satisfying arcade-ish feel that nudges players to perform stylish tricks. Even after you’re done with the game, you’ll want to give it a second replay just to show your enemies who’s the real cowboy.

Prodeus 2021

About
	Release Date June 24, 2021
	Developer Bounding Box Software
	Publisher Humble Bundle
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Online Co-Op, Online PvP, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2022-10-28
2023-02-14
2023-04-07

Prodeus is one of the best boomer shooters to release in recent years, and an incredible experience you shouldn’t sleep on. The game has been made with passion and love, and that’s apparent throughout the rest of the game. Prodeus isn’t the kind of complicated game that tries to forcibly win you over. It’s a simple game: reload your shotgun and start blasting.

The game provides some intense shooting sequences with demons filling every inch of the map for you to shoot them down. Players will also be provided with a multitude of arsenals that keeps the action going for as long as they can handle. On top of the already excellent gameplay and the sprawling level design, players will be treated to some of the best metal scores ever made by Andrew Hulshult. The action doesn’t stop until the music stops. The game is that great, and it manages to perfectly strike that sweet spot between nostalgia and modernity without feeling stodgy.

BioShock: The Collection 2016

About
	Release Date September 13, 2016
	Developer 2K
	Publisher 2K
	Franchise BioShock
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2020-05-29

BioShock: The Collection is the definitive way to experience the franchise in full. Not only do you get to try three games in one package, but also their DLCs. All of this makes this collection a fantastic port for those who are willing to try the series for the first time.

The first two instalments see players venturing through the menacing halls of an abandoned utopia known as Rapture, and the third game puts you in the shoes of Booker and his struggle to save Elizabeth. Similar to the many games mentioned above, this port performs wonderfully on the Switch. The visuals may show their age, but the engrossing storyline and the solid gunplay make this collection an easy recommendation on this list.

Turok 2: Seeds of Evil 1998

About
	Release Date December 10, 1998
	Developer Acclaim Studios Austin
	Publisher Acclaim Entertainment
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Concept Dinosaur
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2019-08-09
2019-11-25

Turok 2 made us hunt down dinosaurs during the N64 days like a Saturday job. Now, after 20 years, we will be doing it all over again on the Nintendo Switch. Acting as the second instalment in the series, players venture with the legendary warrior Turok and his efforts to thwart the plans of an alien from destroying the world.

Players who are into boomer shooters such as Quake and Doom will feel right at home with Turok 2: Seeds of Evil. With a multitude of sci-fi weapons and tight gunplay that sees you taking an array of foes, this is another game you should add to your FPS collection.

Ion Fury 2018

About
	Release Date April 17, 2018
	Developer Voidpoint
	Publisher 3D Realms
	Genre FPS
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective First-Person
	Concept Cyberpunk
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2020-05-14

Ion Fury is an excellent throwback to the era of boomer shooters, and an attempt to emulate what made cult classics such as Blood, Shadow Warrior Classic and Duke Nukem fun to play.

Built using the Build Engine that brought us incredible titles like Duke Nukem, Ion Fury is a trip back to the 90s. The story puts you in the shoes of Shelly Harrison as she singlehandedly fights off an array of cybernetic goons littering the streets of Neo DC. This is yet another incredible boomer shooter you should also add to your collection.

The fact that you can play it while waiting for the bus, on your way to work, or on top of a tree, makes this title a worthy mention on the list.

Metro: Last Light Redux 2014 Remaster

About
	Release Date August 26, 2014 Initial Release: May 14, 2013
	Developer 4A Games
	Publisher Deep Silver
	Franchise Metro
	Genre FPS
	Perspective First-Person
	Concept Post-Apocalyptic
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Malta

Switch Releases
2020-02-28
2020-04-23

Metro Last Light was the closest to the Crysis experience back then. In the sense, they’ve both melted PCs. Years after, and as hardware improved, the game would go on to receive a remaster that improved upon the original. However, seeing the game receive a Switch port was unexpected.

In this excellent first-person shooter survival horror game, journey with Artyom through the irradiated remains of Moscow as you encounter ferocious monsters, human bandits and several supernatural encounters that will keep you on the edge of your seat. As far as the story, performance and gameplay go, this is one of the very best FPS games you should try, and another well-done port too.

SUPERHOT 2016

About
	Release Date February 25, 2016
	Developer SUPERHOT Team
	Publisher SUPERHOT Team
	Genre FPS
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Poland

Switch Releases
2019-08-19

Superhot’s campaign may be a short-lived tour, but it is another indie with a unique concept executed quite well. The game’s objective is simple: shoot everything standing in your way. Enemies can be taken in various ways making the gameplay feel diverse and fresh with each new level you unlock.

Upon completing the game, you’ll be granted access to various neat modes such as endless mode and challenge mode. These modes are made to put your skills to the test against challenging enemies. If you enjoy some challenges, Superhot is the game for you.

Bulletstorm: Duke of Switch Edition 2019 Remaster

About
	Release Date August 30, 2019 Initial Release: February 22, 2011
	Developer People Can Fly
	Publisher Electronic Arts
	Genre FPS
	Concepts Sci-Fi, Space
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Poland

Switch Releases
2019-08-30

Bulletstorm received quite the praise when it originally launched back in 2011, but sadly it didn’t sell well to warrant a follow-up. And that’s a shame because Bulletstorm is up there with one of the best innovative shooters ever made.

This port on the switch doesn’t add much, but it’s still a straight-up fun stint with tons of content worthy of multiple replays on the Switch. Being stylish and creative with how you kill your enemies makes the meat and potatoes of the game. Pull and stomp them with a kick to the wall, shoot them in the nuts, or straight-up throw an explosive barrel as you watch them writhe in pain. If you missed the game when it launched, now is a better time to try it out on the Switch.

Dusk 2018

About
	Release Date December 10, 2018
	Developer David Szymanski
	Publisher New Blood Interactive
	Genre FPS
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2021-10-28

Dusk is another boomer shooter to check out if you hadn’t enough of the games mentioned above. Developed by a solo developer, Dusk is a brilliant first-person shooter with a single objective, shoot down anything that approaches you.

For a solo-developed game, Dusk is an impressive attempt at delivering a fantastic fast-paced shooting experience for newcomers and long-time FPS veterans. If you’re planning to get into boomer shooters, Dusk is one of the best options you have today.

Best Nintendo Switch Third-Person Shooters

The best Third-Person-Shooters to enjoy on the Switch

Splatoon™ 3 2022

About
	Release Date September 09, 2022
	Developer Nintendo
	Publisher Nintendo
	Franchise Splatoon™
	Genre Third-Person Shooter
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Online PvP, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2022-09-09

Splatoon 3’s vibrant gameplay makes it a worthy mention on the list. The game immerses players in a world of colour as they shoot opponents, splash the ground with different hues, and navigate through various environments. The gameplay is simple and addictive, making it easy to spend hours playing.

With the ability to team up and take on powerful Splatooners from around the world, or simply engage in friendly competition, the game truly shines when played in a group setting. Overall, Splatoon 3 is a game that is fun, colourful, and addictive.

Resident Evil™ Triple Pack 2016

About
	Release Date September 22, 2016
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Franchise Resident Evil
	Genre Survival Horror
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept S
	Players Online Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2019-10-29
2019-10-31

The Resident Evil Triple Pack is a collection of three critically acclaimed games from the popular Resident Evil franchise in one package. These games offer players a chance to experience the horror and suspense of the Resident Evil universe in a whole new way.

For those who missed the chance on playing these games back then when they were released, now is your chance to do that on the Switch. This package is a must-have for fans of the series, offering a thrilling and spine-tingling experience that will keep players on the edge of their seats.

Sniper Elite III: Ultimate Edition 2015 Complete Edition

About
	Release Date March 10, 2015 Initial Release: June 26, 2014
	Developer Rebellion Developments
	Publisher Rebellion Developments
	Genre Third-Person Shooter
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Military
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United Kingdom

Switch Releases
2019-10-01

Sniper Elite 3 Ultimate Edition is an enhanced version of the popular tactical shooter game, Sniper Elite 3. This port for the Switch includes the base game as well as all of the game’s DLCs, providing players with a wealth of content to enjoy.

As the name implies, Sniper Elite 3’s objective is to snipe down enemies without being noticed. With the wealth of arsenals the game offers, players can customize their weapons to suit their playstyle and unlock new upgrades as they progress through the game. All in all, this package is the ultimate option for you to experience Sniper Elite 3 in full.

Red Faction: Guerrilla Re-Mars-tered 2018 Remaster

About
	Release Date July 03, 2018 Initial Release: June 02, 2009
	Developer Volition
	Publisher THQ Nordic
	Franchise Red Faction
	Genre Third-Person Shooter
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2019-07-02

Red Faction: Guerilla Re-Mars-tered is a high-definition remaster of one of the best open-world action shooters, Red Faction: Guerilla. The story puts you in the shoes of alec Mason and his struggle against an oppressive Earth Defense Force on Mars.

What makes Red Faction: Guerilla special is its Geo-Mod Engine which allows players to destroy anything their eyes stumble across. Destruction and mayhem make the meat and potato of this game as causing havoc never get stale one bit. On top of the already excellent gameplay, the game’s storyline plays a pivotal role to keep you hooked through the rest of the game. Now, if only Square Enix would port the Just Cause franchise to the Switch because the platform could use some games with destruction.

Daemon X Machina 2019

About
	Release Date September 13, 2019
	Developer Marvelous First Studio
	Publisher Nintendo
	Genre Vehicular Combat
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Mecha
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2019-09-13

Daemon X Machina is probably what you’re looking for if you’ve just finished Zone of the Enders 2 or an instalment from the Armored Core series. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where players control potent armoured suits called Arsenals, the game will see you confronting other mecha units in intense fast-paced gunfights using an array of destructive weapons.

One element that makes Daemon X Machina are the visuals. They’re beautiful with each mecha having a distinctive design along with the vibrant environment that feels like it’s been ripped straight from Kill La Kill anime.

Saints Row® IV™ Re-Elected™ 1970 Content Update

About
	Release Date January 01, 1970 Initial Release: August 20, 2013
	Developer Volition
	Publisher Spike Chunsoft
	Genre Open World
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Online Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Austria

Switch Releases
2020-03-27

Saints Row IV: Re-elected is yet another high-definition remaster of a critically acclaimed open-world action game. Take the role of the president of the United States and put an end to the Alien who destroyed earth, Zinyak.

This port adds a few visual improvements that cast a more modern look and feel to the game. And while the game may suffer from some frustrating moments, the sense of humour and over-the-top-action third-person shooting outweigh the negatives of the game.

Rogue Trooper® Redux 1970 Remaster

About
	Release Date January 01, 1970 Initial Release: April 20, 2006
	Developer Rebellion Developments
	Publisher Rebellion Developments
	Genre Third-Person Shooter
	Graphics 3D
	Perspective Third-Person
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept War
	Players Online Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United Kingdom

Switch Releases
2017-10-17

Rogue Trooper Redux is an attempt to revive an overlooked game from the sixth generation of consoles. While this remaster adds significant changes such as improved textures and lightning, it doesn’t add anything major content-wise.

However, Rogue Trooper Redux is a solid third-person shooter with tight controls and engaging gunfights. The game also offers a special Biochip System which will have you spend time customizing and tinkering with it however you see fit. All in all, if you’re looking for a good TPS title, Rogue Trooper Redux is a must.

Best Nintendo Switch Shoot ‘Em Ups / Shmups

A compilation of some of the best Shoot’em ups (Shmups) on the Switch

Psyvariar Delta 2018

About
	Release Date August 30, 2018
	Developer City Connection
	Publisher City Connection
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2018-08-30
2019-07-02

Psyvariar Delta is a must-have for any shoot ”em-up veteran. As a remake of the classic 2000s game, it offers an engaging and challenging experience that is sure to put your skills to the test. The game’s unique “Buzz System” adds a fresh twist to the genre, encouraging players to take risks by grazing enemy bullets for a higher score and temporary invincibility.

On top of the excellent gameplay, the retro-style pixelated graphics and catchy soundtrack add to the nostalgia of the game. With a variety of enemies and backgrounds, Psyvariar Delta offers a good amount of variety to keep players engaged. Overall, Psyvariar Delta is an excellent addition to any shmup collection and a must-play for fans of the genre.

Darius Cozmic Revelation 2021

About
	Release Date February 25, 2021
	Developer M2
	Publisher Taito
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Perspective Top-Down
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2021-02-25

Darius Cozmic Revelation is a compilation of two remastered instalments from the Darius series: G-Darius HD and Dariusburst: Another Chronicle EX+. Although this compilation has been released exclusively to Asian territories, you don’t need to understand Japanese to enjoy the game. Just boot up the game, and enjoy.

Amongst other popular shmups out there, Darius is an iconic name in the genre. If you’re into shmups, and want something fresh and addictive for a few hours, you should hunt down this copy whenever you can.

Raiden V: Director's Cut 2017 Content Update 雷電V Director's Cut (Raiden V Direkutā' s Cut)

About
	Release Date September 14, 2017 Initial Release: February 25, 2016
	Developer MOSS
	Publisher UFO Interactive
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2019-07-25

Raiden V is the latest addition to the emblematic shoot ’em up series, and it’s a must-experience for any fan of the genre. This bullet-hell shmup brings back many of the elements that fans of the series have come to adore while introducing new features to test their might.

Expect to be challenged by the game’s intense gameplay, as players navigate through a screen filled with massive bullets, dodging and squeezing through tiny spaces, all while taking down waves of enemy ships. This game is not for the faint of heart, but if you’re a fan of bullet-hell shmups, Raiden V is a must-play. Its fast-paced action and challenging gameplay make it a thrilling addition to the series and a must-have for any shoot ’em-up enthusiast.

Aleste Collection 2020

About
	Release Date December 24, 2020
	Developer M2
	Publisher M2
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Perspective Top-Down
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2020-12-24

Aleste Collection is a treasure trove of shoot ’em up classics, featuring 4 beloved games from the Aleste franchise, as well as a new title for fans to enjoy. M2 has expertly revived this timeless franchise from Compile’s catalogue without compromising anything.

For players seeking a true challenge, the Aleste Collection delivers. With increasingly difficult levels as you progress, this collection will test your skills and wits. If you’ve had the misfortune of not experiencing Aleste during the genre’s heyday, this collection is a great introduction for you.

Cotton™ Reboot! 2021 Remaster コットン リブート！ (Kotton Ribūto!)

About
	Release Date February 25, 2021 Initial Release: February 12, 1993
	Developer Success
	Publisher SEGA
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 16-Bit, 2D
	Concept Kawaii
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2021-02-25
2021-07-20

Cotton Reboot is a charming and visually stunning remaster of a classic shoot ”em-up game. Players control a witch (Nata de Cotton) riding her broom, taking down various threats with colourful and satisfying enemy defeat effects.

The game manages to stay true to the original, preserving classic elements from its predecessor while elevating the graphics to high-definition. Fans of the shoot ’em up genre and those looking for an interesting and adorable gaming experience will surely enjoy playing Cotton Reboot.

ESP Ra.De. Psi 2019 Enhanced Port エスプレイドサイ (Esu Puei Do Sai)

About
	Release Date December 19, 2019 Initial Release: April 01, 1998
	Developer CAVE
	Publisher M2
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2019-12-19

Esp.Ra.De.Psi is the perfect example of how you introduce a masterpiece to a new generation. Once again, M2 manages to deliver a fantastic port of one of the best shmups.  In this arcade shmup, the fate of the world is in the hands of three children who must stop Garra Ono from erasing the human race.

Esp Ra De was Cave’s short break from their successful Dodonpachi franchise, focusing instead on a fully original shmup this time around. This enhanced port features additions that will delight both veterans and newcomers, including the Arcade Plus mode, created specifically for experienced shoot ’em up fans.

Deathsmiles I・II 2021

About
	Release Date December 15, 2021
	Developer CAVE
	Publisher City Connection
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept Kawaii
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player, Split-Screen Co-Op
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2021-12-16

Deathsmiles 1 & 2 is the definitive collection of two classic shmup games, offering players the complete Deathsmiles experience. With fiendishly side-scrolling bullet-hell gameplay, challenging boss battles, and a dark and gothic atmosphere, this game is not for the faint of heart.

The gameplay is both intense and satisfying, offering a true challenge for even veterans of the genre. The graphics are exquisite, with a gorgeous art style and intricate background details. On top of all that, Deathsmiles has a selection of beautiful soundtracks to keep a smile on your face. Definitely one of the best.

Kyūkyoku Tiger Heli: Toaplan Arcade Garage 2021

About
	Release Date October 28, 2021
	Developer M2
	Publisher M2
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Top-Down
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2021-10-28

Kyūkyoku Tiger Heli: Toaplan Arcade Garage is a treasure trove of classic arcade titles from the Toaplan catalogue of arcade gems. This package includes fan-favourite titles such as Tiger Heli, Hellfire, and Fire Shark, all of which have been meticulously restored to their original arcade glory.

Astebreed 2013

About
	Release Date December 31, 2013
	Developer Edelweiss
	Publisher Active Gaming Media
	Genre Shoot 'Em Up
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2018-11-08

Astebreed is the last breath into this fine compilation of beautiful shmups. This is yet another thrilling and stylish sci-fi shoot-’em-up that packs a punch. Its combination of horizontal and vertical levels, combined with a unique mecha sword feature, helps to set it apart from other games in the genre.

Despite having a short campaign, the game’s replay value is high. Players will find themselves craving more, and that’s where the hard mode comes to play. Astebreed is definitely a game you should check out.

Best Nintendo Switch Run & Gun Games

Run and gun down anything that moves with this list featuring some of the best titles

Huntdown 2020 ハントダウン (Hanto Daun)

About
	Release Date May 12, 2020
	Developer Easy Trigger Games
	Publisher Coffee Stain Publishing
	Genre Run & Gun
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept Crime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Sweden

Switch Releases
2020-05-12
2021-10-14
2021-10-28
2021-10-29

Huntdown is an intense run & gun that borrows elements from several classics from the genre while casting its own magic on the formula. The game’s engaging action will immediately pique your interest, pulling you in from the start.

In a city overrun by dangerous criminals, where chaos and destruction rule, even the police are powerless. When all hope is lost, a group of bounty hunters emerges, ready to take on a horde of goons and their bosses. Join them on an incredibly addictive adventure as you blast through waves of enemies. One of the best run & gun games of recent years.

Mega Man® 11 2018

About
	Release Date October 02, 2018
	Developer Capcom
	Publisher Capcom
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Sci-Fi
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2018-10-02
2018-10-04

Mega Man 11 is a new chapter in the Blue Bomber’s heroic adventures to save the world from the evil scientist, Dr Willy. Retaining much of what made the originals a blast to shoot through, Mega Man 11 is simply amazing.

The difficulty curve may feel steep for long-time fans of the series, but nonetheless, the game as a whole is a great introduction to newcomers. Especially those who aren’t familiar with the originals and want something easy-to-understand out of the box. The side-scrolling in Mega Man is top-notch with most of the levels having you control the Blue Boy bombarding enemies with bullets. On top of the already refined gameplay of its predecessors, MM1 provides an excellent musical score. If you haven’t played the game yet, it’s never too late.

Mighty Goose 2021

About
	Release Date June 05, 2021
	Developer Blastmode
	Publisher Playism
	Genre Run & Gun
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Animal
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2021-06-05

Mighty Goose may give you the impression that the Goose is probably the angry version of Untitled Goose Game, but tragically, that’s not the case. We would have loved to see that, a crossover between these two games.

Similar to other run & gun games mentioned above, Mighty Goose slaps, and it does hard. The level of action in this game is insane. And it helps to mention that you are also accompanied by a bunch of animals throughout the game (they do pass out sometimes, but no biggy). All in all, Mighty Goose is an under-the-radar run and gun you might wanna check out when you have the time.

Contra Anniversary Collection 2019

About
	Release Date June 11, 2019
	Developer M2
	Publisher Konami
	Genre Run & Gun
	Graphics 16-Bit, 8-Bit
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Concept War
	Players Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2019-06-11

Contra the Anniversary Collection is one of the best endeavours Konami has done in recent years. Ten games in one package. Would you ask for more? Of course. However, one can make do with what Konami provided until they decide to bring back other Contra instalments. Like Contra: Shattered Soldiers. Please, Konami?

Foregone 2020

About
	Release Date October 05, 2020
	Developer Big Blue Bubble
	Publisher Big Blue Bubble
	Genre 2D Platformer
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Side Scroller
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Canada

Switch Releases
2020-10-13
2021-03-18

Foregone may not be considered a run-and-gun, but thankfully, it does feature elements from the latter. This is a fast-paced action 2D platformer loaded with stunning pixel art graphics, loot elements, and a compelling story with a twist in the end.

Players take control of the arbiter. A powerful female blonde tasked with protecting the city of Calagan from the Harrow. The arbiter is capable of wielding different arsenals: melee weapons and guns, which makes the gameplay diverse. The game has you taking on an array of enemies in fast-paced gameplay, either slicing them using different melee combos or shooting them from afar. All in all, Foregone is worth your time.

Best Nintendo Switch Top-Down Shooters

They never told us top-down shooters can be this good on the Nintendo Switch

Pocky & Rocky Reshrined 2022 Remake 奇々怪界 黒マントの謎 (Kiki Kaikai: Kuro Manto no Nazo)

About
	Release Date April 21, 2022 Initial Release: December 22, 1992
	Developer Natsume Atari
	Publisher ININ Games, Natsume
	Genre Top-Down Shooter
	Graphics 16-Bit
	Perspective Top-Down
	Interaction Real-Time
	Concept Kawaii
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin Japan

Switch Releases
2022-04-21
2022-06-24
2022-07-08

Pocky and Rocky Reshrined is a revival of one of Taito’s best shoot’em ups. It’s a charming top-down shooter that you’ll quickly fall in love with. Its plot sees players take control of an adorable Shinto shrine maiden and her tanuki companion as they spring into action to rescue a bunch of goblins from evil forces.

Remade for the new players, as well as a love letter to long-time fans of the franchise, Reshrined is how you treat a classic. Retaining much of what made the originals a blast, the game benefited from a gorgeous facelift, as well as, refined controls that made the game suitable for today’s standards. Additionally, it offers the fun of co-op play, so grab a friend or loved one and start blasting baddies.

Enter the Gungeon 2016

About
	Release Date April 05, 2016
	Developer Dodge Roll
	Publisher Devolver Digital
	Genre Dungeon Crawler
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Top-Down
	Interaction Real-Time
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2017-12-04
2019-08-06
2020-04-23

Enter the Gungeon merges classic bullet hell gameplay with rogue-like elements, resulting in a challenging and unique experience. The game’s difficulty is a standout feature, as each run presents new obstacles to overcome, with a difficulty curve that continually pushes players to adapt. Death is inevitable if you fail to rise to the challenge.

Hotline Miami Collection 2017

About
	Release Date October 10, 2017
	Developer Devolver Digital
	Publisher Devolver Digital
	Genre Top-Down Shooter
	Graphics 16-Bit
	Perspective Top-Down
	Concept Crime
	Players Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2019-08-19
2021-07-16

Hotline Miami Collection features two hits in one cartridge: Hotline Miami and Hotline Miami 2: Wrong Number. Both games offer a similar experience, but the sequel expands on the first game’s premise and introduces new gameplay mechanics.

Created using the GameMaker engine, Hotline Miami manages to carve its own identity thanks to its distinctive 1980s neon aesthetics along with fast-paced gameplay and catchy violent sceneries. The neon visuals are incredible,  but the synth-wave soundtracks perfectly complement the game’s retro vibe.

Xeno Crisis 2019

About
	Release Date October 28, 2019
	Developer Bitmap Bureau
	Publisher Bitmap Bureau
	Genre Top-Down Shooter
	Graphics 2D
	Perspective Top-Down
	Concept Military
	Players Couch Co-Op, Single Player
	Monetization Buy to Play
	Country of Origin United States

Switch Releases
2019-10-28

Xeno Crisis is the last game in this list of the best Nintendo Switch shooters. This is one of the games that pay homage to arcade classics like Smash TV, Total Carnage, Shock Troopers and more.

The game is best played with a friend. Players can work together to finish the campaign or compete against each other in score-based challenges. On top of that, it also features a variety of difficulty levels, making it accessible to players of all skill levels.

Overall, Xeno Crisis is a great addition to the top-down shooter genre. Fans of classic arcade games and cooperative play will find a lot to enjoy here, and the attention to detail in the graphics, sound, and gameplay makes Xeno Crisis a must-experience.

That’s it for the list. Thank you for reading.