The Nintendo Switch has become a popular platform for gamers who enjoy first-person shooters despite its portable nature. While the console isn’t typically associated with FPS games, there are actually many excellent options available. You’ll find everything from classic shooters to modern hits that have been optimized to run smoothly on Nintendo’s hybrid console.
When looking for the best first-person shooters on Switch, it’s important to consider factors like controls, performance, and multiplayer options. Some games take full advantage of the Switch’s unique features like motion controls, while others focus on delivering solid gameplay experiences that you can enjoy both at home and on the go. The variety of FPS games available means there’s something for every type of shooter fan.
1: Metroid Prime Remastered
Metroid Prime Remastered stands as one of the finest first-person experiences available on Nintendo Switch, though interestingly, many fans argue it’s not actually an FPS. Instead, it’s better described as a first-person adventure with shooting elements.
The remaster brings stunning visual upgrades to the GameCube classic, making it feel fresh and modern. You’ll explore the mysterious planet Tallon IV as bounty hunter Samus Aran, solving environmental puzzles and battling alien creatures.
What makes this game exceptional is its control options. The remaster includes a modern dual-analog setup similar to contemporary shooters, while also offering classic control schemes for purists. This accessibility makes it perfect for both newcomers and returning fans.
The focus on exploration rather than combat sets Metroid Prime apart from typical shooters. You’ll spend more time scanning environments, discovering lore, and navigating complex areas than in firefights.
The expanded gallery feature rounds out the package, showing how thoughtfully older games can be revitalized for modern audiences. The atmosphere remains unmatched, with haunting music and environmental storytelling creating a sense of isolation.
If you’ve never experienced Metroid Prime, this remaster offers the definitive way to play what many consider one of the greatest games ever made. Even if you’re not typically a fan of first-person shooters, the adventure elements might win you over.
2: Doom Eternal
Doom Eternal stands as one of the most impressive first-person shooters available on the Nintendo Switch. Despite undergoing significant visual downgrades to run on the platform, the game delivers a solid gaming experience that maintains the core gameplay that fans love.
While the Switch version runs at 30 frames per second rather than the 60 fps seen on other platforms, this is still quite an achievement. The developers managed to keep the fast-paced action intact without compromising the fundamental gameplay mechanics.
You’ll find the signature combat loop of Doom Eternal preserved on the Switch. The “dance” of glory kills, chainsaw fuel management, and constant movement remains just as engaging on the handheld platform.
The port is especially noteworthy considering the game’s high visual fidelity and complex environments. While you’ll notice reduced texture quality and simpler lighting effects, the core visual design still shines through.
The fact that Doom Eternal runs at all on the Switch is impressive, given its demanding requirements on other systems. You can enjoy the full campaign and all gameplay features of this critically acclaimed shooter wherever you go.
If you’re looking for a premium FPS experience on Switch, Doom Eternal delivers intense action and challenge. The Switch version may not be the most visually stunning way to experience the game, but the core gameplay remains intact and highly enjoyable.
3: Borderlands Legendary Collection
The Borderlands Legendary Collection brings together three iconic games from the beloved looter-shooter franchise to your Nintendo Switch. This package includes Borderlands, Borderlands 2, and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, offering you tremendous value with hundreds of hours of gameplay.
What makes this collection stand out is how well it runs on the Switch hardware. All three games maintain a solid 30FPS performance, which ensures smooth gameplay whether you’re exploring Pandora or engaged in frantic firefights.
You’ll appreciate the distinctive cel-shaded art style that has aged remarkably well. The unique visual presentation helps these older titles feel fresh even years after their original release.
The games are designed with flexibility in mind. You can enjoy the entire experience solo or team up with friends, as the difficulty scales automatically based on player count. This makes it perfect for both single-player sessions and cooperative play.
The Switch version maintains the core appeal of Borderlands – the addictive loot system with customizable weapons that keep you hunting for that next great find. Each gun feels unique, with countless combinations to discover.
If you’re new to the series, this collection provides an excellent entry point. If you’re a returning fan, the portability factor adds fresh appeal to these prototypical looter shooters. The ability to play these massive adventures on the go makes revisiting them worthwhile.
4: Crysis Remastered Trilogy
The Crysis Remastered Trilogy brings one of gaming’s most graphically impressive shooter series to the Nintendo Switch. This collection includes all three main Crysis games, offering you hours of first-person shooter action on the go.
You’ll find that Crysis 2 and 3 are particularly impressive on the Switch. These games have been ported exceptionally well to Nintendo’s handheld, maintaining solid performance despite their demanding graphics.
The series is known for its “nanosuit” gameplay that lets you customize your approach. You can choose stealth, brute force, or a mix of tactics to overcome challenges. This flexibility makes each encounter feel fresh.
Some fans consider Crysis to be among the best FPS experiences available on Switch. The advanced graphics, engaging gameplay, and sci-fi storyline combine to create a compelling package.
While the trilogy performs well overall, you might notice occasional frame rate dips during intense combat sequences. These rarely detract from the core experience.
It’s worth noting that the Switch version doesn’t include the multiplayer modes found in the original releases. The focus here is entirely on the single-player campaigns.
The soundtrack is excellent, adding tension and excitement to your missions. The audio design helps immerse you in the game’s world of high-tech warfare and alien threats.
5: Superhot
SUPERHOT stands out as a truly unique first-person shooter experience on the Nintendo Switch. It’s a game where time only moves when you do, creating a fascinating puzzle-like approach to combat.
When you stop moving, everything freezes. This gives you precious moments to plan your next move. This innovative mechanic transforms what would be hectic firefights into strategic puzzles.
You can take on enemies using guns, but that’s not your only option. You can even complete the game without using firearms, focusing instead on melee attacks or throwing objects.
The stark visual style uses just three colors: white environments, black objects, and red enemies. This minimalist approach helps you focus on what matters – survival and strategy.
If you’re not typically a fan of first-person shooters, SUPERHOT might still appeal to you. It’s more of a puzzle game that happens to be in first-person than a traditional FPS.
Each level presents a new challenge that requires quick thinking and precise execution. You’ll need to analyze enemy positions and available weapons before making your move.
The game leaves a lasting impression unlike other shooters. Its unique time mechanics make every encounter feel like a choreographed action sequence from a movie.
SUPERHOT proves that innovation in the FPS genre is still possible. You’ll find yourself planning elaborate takedowns and feeling incredibly satisfied when you execute them perfectly.
6: Warframe
Warframe is a unique addition to the Switch library that offers a different perspective on the shooter genre. While technically a third-person shooter rather than first-person, it’s worth including for its exceptional quality and free-to-play accessibility.
You’ll enjoy smooth performance on Nintendo’s portable console. After extensive testing, players have reported that Warframe runs at a consistent 30 fps with 720p/1080p resolution on the Switch. This makes for a perfectly playable experience despite the console’s more limited hardware capabilities.
The game performs well in both docked and handheld modes. You can easily switch between playing on your TV and on-the-go without significant quality loss, though there are visual differences between the two modes.
Performance has improved over time with updates. Digital Extremes has continued to support the Switch version with optimizations, including a significant performance boost in Update 25.4.0.
You’ll find Warframe offers exceptional value as one of the best free-to-play games available on Switch. The combination of deep gameplay systems, regular content updates, and fair monetization makes it stand out in the Switch’s shooter library.
7: Quake
Quake is a legendary first-person shooter that brings classic 90s action to your Switch. This feature-rich remaster delicately updates the classic FPS while keeping its soul intact. You’ll appreciate how the developers have packed in tons of content while adding optional bells and whistles.
The game’s fast-paced action remains as addictive as ever. You’ll blast through corridors and arenas with a satisfying arsenal of weapons that feel great even with the Switch’s controls.
Quake’s level design showcases why it was revolutionary, though you might notice it lacks some modern FPS conveniences. The levels come from a time when 3D gaming was still finding its footing, giving them a charming if sometimes dated feel.
Performance on the Switch is generally good, though frame rate drops can occur in larger areas or when facing numerous enemies. These hiccups rarely detract from the overall experience.
The atmosphere and gunplay remain top-notch even by today’s standards. Many players consider Quake superior to 99% of modern shooters in these aspects.
If you enjoy Quake, you might also want to try Quake II on Switch. Both titles are superb remasters worth purchasing for the impressive work done to modernize these classics.
You’ll find that Quake stands among the best FPS games on Nintendo Switch, offering a perfect mix of nostalgia and timeless gameplay that still feels great to play today.
8: Metro 2033 Redux
Metro 2033 Redux brings one of the most atmospheric first-person shooters to Nintendo Switch with impressive results. This post-apocalyptic adventure takes you through the dark tunnels of Moscow’s metro system, where humanity has retreated after nuclear devastation.
The Switch port maintains excellent performance with a steady 30 FPS and only occasional frame drops. This stability helps keep you immersed in the tense, survival horror experience that Metro is known for.
Visually, Metro 2033 Redux stands out as one of the most impressive Switch ports with remarkable graphics and lighting effects. The gloomy tunnels and dilapidated stations maintain their oppressive atmosphere even on the portable screen.
Unlike many FPS games, Metro offers deeper storytelling through narration between chapters. You’ll experience a rich narrative alongside the tense combat and stealth sections.
The game blends survival horror with shooter mechanics brilliantly. You’ll need to manage limited ammunition and gas mask filters as you navigate through radioactive zones and mutant-infested tunnels.
Metro 2033 Redux has been described as a top-class first-person shooter that’s been almost flawlessly ported to Switch. If you’re looking for a more mature and atmospheric FPS experience on your Nintendo console, this game delivers an unforgettable journey through its bleak but captivating world.
9: Immortal Redneck
Immortal Redneck brings a unique blend of fast-paced first-person shooting and roguelite elements to the Nintendo Switch. You play as a redneck who wakes up mummified in Egypt and must fight through randomly generated dungeons to figure out what happened.
The game’s frantic gameplay and twitch controls give it an arcade-style feel that works perfectly on the Switch. You’ll find yourself constantly on the move, strafing and jumping while taking down various Egyptian-themed enemies.
Each run through the pyramids is different thanks to the roguelite elements. When you die, you can use the gold you’ve collected to purchase permanent upgrades, making each attempt a bit easier than the last.
You’ll discover nine different character classes to unlock, each with their own special abilities and playstyles. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh even after many hours.
The Switch version runs smoothly with solid performance that makes it ideal for both docked and handheld play. Some players even consider it among the best FPS games on the system.
While the story is admittedly thin, the gameplay loop is addictive enough that you likely won’t mind. The colorful visuals and varied environments keep things interesting as you progress through the three massive pyramids.
For FPS fans looking for something with replayability on the Switch, Immortal Redneck offers a satisfying shooting experience that you can enjoy in short bursts or extended sessions.
10: The House of the Dead Remake
The House of the Dead Remake brings the classic 1996 arcade rail shooter to the Nintendo Switch with updated graphics and gameplay. This nostalgic zombie-blasting experience has been completely built from the ground up with modern visuals while maintaining the charm of the original.
One of the Switch version’s biggest highlights is its control options. You can use traditional button controls, but the real standout is the improved gyro aiming that received updates to enhance accuracy. This makes shooting zombies feel more intuitive and closer to the arcade light gun experience.
For fans of the original, this remake offers a welcome dose of nostalgia. You’ll blast through familiar environments while facing hordes of zombies and grotesque bosses. The game preserves the B-movie charm and campy dialogue that made the original so memorable.
While the remake isn’t perfect, it remains an easy recommendation for hardcore fans who have waited years for a better way to play at home. Some players note that it can break the “arcade loving kid’s heart,” but others find it satisfies their nostalgia craving.
If you enjoyed light gun games in the past or want to experience a piece of gaming history with modern enhancements, The House of the Dead Remake is worth adding to your Switch library. Just temper your expectations and embrace its arcade roots.
The Evolution of First-Person Shooters on Switch
The Nintendo Switch has transformed how we experience first-person shooters with its unique portable design and growing technical capabilities. These developments have shaped both the visual quality and gameplay mechanics of FPS titles on the platform.
Technological Advancements and Graphics
When the Switch first launched, many doubted its ability to handle demanding FPS games. Early titles often suffered from lower framerates and visual compromises. However, developers have made remarkable progress in optimization techniques.
Games like DOOM Eternal demonstrate how far Switch FPS graphics have come. Through clever texture compression and dynamic resolution, these games maintain smooth gameplay while preserving visual impact.
The Switch OLED model further enhanced the FPS experience with its improved screen contrast and color reproduction. This makes darker scenes in games like Metroid Prime Remastered more visually striking.
Motion controls have also evolved, giving you more precise aiming options that rival traditional mouse and keyboard setups in some cases.
Influence of Classic FPS Games
The Switch’s FPS library draws heavily from gaming history while adapting classics for modern portable play. Iconic franchises like DOOM and Wolfenstein have found new life on the platform.
These ports don’t just replicate the original experiences—they enhance them with Switch-specific features. Gyroscopic aiming and touchscreen interfaces add new dimensions to familiar gameplay.
Nintendo’s own contributions, particularly the Metroid Prime series, have influenced the FPS genre on Switch by blending shooting mechanics with exploration and puzzle-solving.
Third-party developers have followed this hybrid approach. Many top Switch FPS games now incorporate elements from other genres, creating unique experiences that stand apart from traditional console or PC shooters.
You’ll find that these games often include creative concessions to work within the Switch hardware limitations, resulting in more focused gameplay experiences.
Advanced Gameplay Mechanics
Modern FPS games on the Switch have evolved beyond simple point-and-shoot mechanics. Today’s shooters incorporate sophisticated control options and multiplayer features that enhance the overall gaming experience for both casual and competitive players.
Innovations in Control Schemes
The Switch offers unique control options that many first-person shooters have embraced. Motion controls using Joy-Con gyroscopes give you precision aiming that rivals mouse and keyboard setups. Games like DOOM and Overwatch have implemented these controls effectively, allowing you to fine-tune sensitivity to match your play style.
Pro Controller support provides a more traditional experience if you prefer standard controls. Many games also offer button remapping, letting you customize layouts to your preferences.
Touch screen controls appear in select titles, giving you quick access to inventory management or map navigation without pausing gameplay. This hybrid approach creates a smoother experience during intense firefights.
Several top FPS games also incorporate HD rumble features, providing tactical feedback during gameplay. You’ll feel different weapon recoils and environmental effects through precise vibration patterns.
Integration of Multiplayer Features
Switch FPS games excel at connecting players across different environments. Cross-platform play has become increasingly common, allowing you to compete against PC and console players in titles like Fortnite and Paladins.
Local multiplayer options shine on the Switch. Games like Screencheat: Unplugged take advantage of the system’s portability for spontaneous split-screen matches. You can set up impromptu gaming sessions anywhere without complex networking.
Voice chat integration through the Nintendo Switch Online app or in-game systems helps you coordinate with teammates. Some games now include proximity chat features that dynamically adjust volume based on virtual distance between players.
Robust progression systems keep you engaged long-term. You’ll find battle passes, seasonal events, and unlockable cosmetics in many popular Switch shooters. These features create ongoing goals beyond simply winning matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nintendo Switch offers several quality first-person shooter options despite hardware limitations. Players can enjoy everything from sci-fi adventures to classic demon-slaying mayhem on this portable console.
Which titles are considered top first-person shooter games on the Nintendo Switch?
Metroid Prime Remastered stands out as one of the best FPS experiences on Switch, blending exploration with combat. The game’s updated graphics and controls make Samus Aran’s adventure feel fresh for both newcomers and returning fans.
Doom Eternal delivers fast-paced demon-slaying action that runs surprisingly well on the portable console. Its fluid gameplay and satisfying combat loops make it a must-play for FPS enthusiasts.
Borderlands Legendary Collection gives you three games in one package with a unique cel-shaded art style. This collection offers hundreds of hours of looting and shooting with friends or solo.
What are the most recommended multiplayer FPS games currently available on Switch?
Fortnite remains one of the most popular multiplayer options with its battle royale format. It’s easy to pick up but difficult to master, making it perfect for both casual and competitive players.
Overwatch 2 brings team-based hero shooting to the Switch with its diverse cast of characters. The game focuses on objective-based gameplay rather than just eliminations.
Paladins offers a free alternative to Overwatch with similar team dynamics but different characters and abilities. Cross-play support lets you team up with friends regardless of platform.
Are there any free-to-play first-person shooter games for the Nintendo Switch?
Fortnite leads the free-to-play category with its constantly evolving battle royale experience. The game receives regular updates with new seasons, weapons, and collaborations.
Warface is a military-themed free FPS with traditional multiplayer modes like Team Deathmatch and Plant the Bomb. It features realistic weapons and equipment customization.
Paladins costs nothing to download and play, with optional purchases for cosmetics and character unlocks. The game’s generous free rotation lets you try different champions before committing.
What options are there for first-person shooters with physical releases on the Switch?
Doom Eternal and its predecessor Doom (2016) both received physical releases. These cartridges include the full single-player campaigns but may require additional downloads for multiplayer.
BioShock: The Collection contains all three BioShock games on a single cart. These atmospheric shooters deliver compelling narratives alongside their first-person gameplay.
Borderlands Legendary Collection comes on a physical cartridge, though additional downloads are required for some content. The package includes Borderlands 1, 2, and The Pre-Sequel.
Can you use a gun controller with any shooting games on the Nintendo Switch?
Currently, the Switch has limited support for specialized gun controllers. Most games use standard Joy-Con controls or Pro Controller support instead.
House of the Dead Remake supports the Hyperkin Hyper Blaster HD, though this isn’t a true first-person shooter. The peripheral mimics light gun gameplay for this on-rails shooting experience.
Third-party options like the NPET Light Gun exist but have limited game compatibility. These accessories typically hold the Joy-Con inside a gun-shaped shell rather than functioning as independent controllers.
How does the experience of playing first-person shooters on Switch compare to other consoles?
Switch FPS games typically run at lower resolutions and framerates compared to PlayStation, Xbox, or PC versions. Games like Doom Eternal make visual compromises to maintain playable performance.
The handheld nature of the Switch creates a unique advantage for FPS fans. You can practice your aim in Superhot or complete missions in Crysis Remastered Trilogy wherever you go.
Motion controls provide an alternative aiming method that some players prefer over traditional analog sticks. Games like Doom and Fortnite allow you to fine-tune your aim with subtle wrist movements.
