Looking for some action-packed fun on your Nintendo Switch? The portable console has become home to many excellent shooting games that range from family-friendly paint battles to intense first-person shooters. These games take full advantage of the Switch’s unique capabilities while delivering exciting gameplay experiences.
The Nintendo Switch offers an impressive variety of shooting games that run well on the system, including classic ports, Nintendo exclusives, and modern titles adapted for the platform. Whether you prefer colorful team-based competitions or gritty sci-fi adventures, there’s something for every type of player. You can enjoy these games at home or on the go, making the Switch a versatile choice for shooting game fans.
1: Splatoon 3
Splatoon 3 stands as one of the most unique shooter games available on Nintendo Switch. Unlike traditional shooters, you’ll use colorful ink instead of bullets, creating a fresh take on the genre.
The game invites you to enter the Splatlands, where you can ink your way to the top in various online modes. Turf War remains the signature mode, where your goal is to cover more ground with your team’s ink than the opposing team.
You’ll find the gameplay accessible yet deep. The controls feel intuitive, allowing you to swim through your ink as a squid and then transform back to humanoid form to splat opponents.
Salmon Run offers a cooperative experience where you team up with other players to collect eggs while fighting off waves of enemies. This mode provides a nice change of pace from the competitive matches.
The single-player story mode lets you discover mysteries while testing your skills through varied challenges. It’s a great way to improve your abilities before heading online.
If you’re looking for a shooter on the Switch, Splatoon 3 deserves your attention. Its colorful aesthetics and family-friendly approach make it accessible to players of all ages.
You can even enhance your experience with compatible accessories designed specifically for shooting games on the Switch.
2: DOOM
DOOM for the Nintendo Switch is a perfect blend of classic shooting action and modern gameplay. The fast-paced FPS delivers smooth gameplay that makes it one of the best FPS games on the go. If you’re looking for intense action, this game doesn’t disappoint.
When you play DOOM, you’ll experience the thrill of battling demons with an arsenal of powerful weapons. The port quality is impressive, maintaining the core experience that made the game so popular on other platforms.
Players often praise DOOM for its performance on the Switch. The game runs well despite the console’s hardware limitations, showcasing what’s possible on Nintendo’s portable system.
Price-wise, DOOM offers excellent value. Fans note that it’s amazing for the price, making it accessible for most gamers wanting to add a quality shooter to their collection.
The game’s design focuses on movement and aggression rather than taking cover. You’ll need to stay mobile, collecting health and ammo from fallen enemies to survive the onslaught.
DOOM’s arrival on Switch was once considered an “impossible port,” but it stands as a testament to what developers can achieve on the platform. Its success helped pave the way for more mature shooters on Nintendo’s family-friendly console.
If you enjoy classic shooting mechanics with modern polish, DOOM delivers an experience that feels both familiar and fresh.
3: Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition
Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition brings the chaotic looter-shooter experience to the Nintendo Switch with surprising success. If you enjoy fast-paced action and a nearly endless variety of weapons, this game delivers hours of entertainment in a portable package.
The Switch version maintains a 30 fps pace about 90% of the time, which is impressive considering the game’s scale. Some players have even reported it averages around 45fps, which might be better than the base PS4 and Xbox One versions in certain situations.
While the visuals have been downscaled to accommodate the Switch’s hardware limitations, the core gameplay remains intact. You’ll still experience the fast-paced combat and precise aiming that Borderlands is known for.
What sets Borderlands 3 apart is its massive arsenal of creative guns and explosives. The variety of weapons keeps combat fresh as you progress through the game’s extensive campaign and side missions.
The Ultimate Edition includes all DLC content, giving you access to additional story campaigns, characters, and loot. This makes it an excellent value if you’re looking for a complete gaming experience.
Despite not being the greatest-looking game on the Switch, you won’t need to make many allowances for the hardware. The game’s cel-shaded art style transitions well to the lower-powered system while maintaining its distinctive look.
4: Metroid Prime Remastered
Metroid Prime Remastered offers you one of the most polished first-person adventure experiences on the Nintendo Switch. While technically classified as an FPS, it’s more of an adventure game than a traditional shooter.
The remastered version gives you stunning updated visuals while maintaining the atmospheric exploration that made the original a classic. You’ll find yourself scanning environments, solving puzzles, and battling alien creatures across the mysterious planet Tallon IV.
One of the biggest improvements is the control scheme. You can now enjoy a modern dual-analog setup similar to contemporary first-person shooters. This makes the game much more accessible if you’re used to modern FPS titles.
The combat feels satisfying but serves the exploration rather than being the main focus. You’ll acquire new abilities throughout your journey that open up previously inaccessible areas, creating a rewarding sense of progression.
Critics have praised this remaster, with some calling it one of the best first-person shooters ever made. The attention to detail in this update goes well beyond a simple visual enhancement.
If you enjoy games like Zelda, you’ll likely feel right at home with Metroid Prime’s focus on exploration and gradual power progression. The game consistently ranks among the best FPS games available on Switch.
5: Bioshock: The Collection
Bioshock: The Collection brings three of the most captivating first-person shooters to your Nintendo Switch. This package includes Bioshock, Bioshock 2, and Bioshock Infinite, giving you incredible value in one purchase.
Each game offers a unique and immersive story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing. The excellent environmental storytelling creates atmospheric worlds that are both beautiful and haunting.
If you’re looking for deep, narrative-driven shooting games, you’ll find Bioshock stands out from other options. The series is known for its thought-provoking themes and memorable characters that challenge your expectations.
The gameplay combines traditional shooting mechanics with special abilities called “plasmids” or “vigors” that give you creative ways to defeat enemies. You can freeze opponents, control machines, or even send swarms of bees at your enemies.
While the games require large downloads, the physical version lets you easily share the collection with friends or family members. The Switch port maintains the stunning graphics and provides smooth gameplay throughout all three titles.
For those new to shooters, you’ll appreciate how the Bioshock series balances action with exploration. You can take your time exploring the underwater city of Rapture or the floating city of Columbia at your own pace.
The Switch port performs admirably, making this one of the best single-player FPS options available on Nintendo’s portable console.
6: Crysis 3
Crysis 3 is one of the most technically impressive first-person shooters available on the Nintendo Switch. The game looks really good and runs very smooth, making it a standout choice if you’re looking for a high-quality FPS experience.
You’ll find yourself equipped with the iconic Nanosuit, which gives you special abilities like cloaking, armor mode, and increased strength. These powers add depth to the gameplay and let you approach combat situations in multiple ways.
The storyline is engaging and well-crafted. You’ll navigate through the Liberty Dome, a rainforest-covered New York City, as you battle both human and alien enemies. Many players consider it one of the best FPS games with a great storyline on the Switch.
The performance on Nintendo Switch is impressive for such a graphically intensive game. Even in handheld mode, you’ll experience smooth gameplay with only minor compromises compared to other platforms.
If you own a Switch OLED, you’ll benefit from the improved screen, making the visual experience even better. The vibrant colors and deep blacks of the OLED display complement the game’s atmospheric environments.
For FPS fans looking for a game that combines action, stealth, and strategy, Crysis 3 delivers on all fronts. The game ranks among the best FPS titles available on Nintendo’s portable console.
7: Quake
Quake stands as a cornerstone in the first-person shooter genre, and its presence on Nintendo Switch is a testament to its lasting appeal. This fast-paced shooter brings all the frenetic action that made it a legend in the 1990s gaming scene.
The Switch version offers an excellent remaster that preserves the original’s spirit while adding modern conveniences. You’ll experience smooth gameplay with options for gyro aiming that helps overcome some of the limitations of Joy-Con thumbsticks.
The level design remains impressive even by today’s standards. Though created in an earlier era of game development, these labyrinthine structures offer a challenge that many modern shooters cannot match.
What makes Quake special on Switch is the portability factor. You can now take this classic shooter anywhere, playing in handheld mode when you’re on the go.
The remastered version includes the original campaign plus its expansions. You’re getting tremendous value with content that will keep you busy for many hours.
Despite being decades old, Quake’s gameplay feels exceedingly fun with its perfect balance of speed, precision, and challenge. The gothic atmosphere and Nine Inch Nails soundtrack further enhance the experience.
If you enjoy Quake, you might also want to check out Quake II on Switch, which received an equally impressive remaster treatment.
8: Duke Nukem 3D
Duke Nukem 3D is a classic first-person shooter that brings its unique brand of action to the Nintendo Switch. The game’s 20th Anniversary World Tour edition offers you the complete experience with improved visuals while maintaining the retro charm that made it famous.
You’ll find this port excellent for on-the-go gaming. The Switch version runs smoothly and offers some of the most satisfying gunplay of its era. The controls adapt well to the Nintendo Switch, making monster-blasting feel natural whether you’re playing docked or handheld.
The level design remains a highlight. Unlike fantasy-based shooters, Duke Nukem 3D takes its art style from pop culture, featuring realistic environments like buildings, streets, and caves. This attention to detail creates an immersive world that still impresses today.
Duke’s personality and one-liners are intact in this version. The humor is definitely mature and reflects its 90s origins, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive to dated content.
For Switch owners, this edition is a great way to experience Duke in its full glory. The portability factor adds value, letting you enjoy this shooter classic wherever you go.
If you’re looking for an FPS with attitude, memorable levels, and straightforward shooting mechanics, Duke Nukem 3D delivers. It’s a slice of gaming history that holds up surprisingly well on Nintendo’s hybrid console.
9: Rainbow Six Siege: Shadow Vanguard
Rainbow Six: Shadow Vanguard offers a tactical shooter experience that stands out from typical run-and-gun games on the Switch. This title brings the strategic elements that the Rainbow Six franchise is known for to Nintendo’s portable console.
You’ll find yourself commanding a team of elite operatives through 11 thrilling missions designed to take down dangerous terrorist threats. The game emphasizes planning and precision over simply having fast reflexes.
The missions in Shadow Vanguard are recreated and enriched levels based on the original Rainbow Six game. This gives you both a nostalgic touch and fresh challenges if you’re familiar with the series.
Unlike many standard shooter games, Shadow Vanguard requires you to think before you act. Each decision matters as you coordinate your team through complex scenarios.
The control scheme has been adapted well for the Switch, making good use of the console’s unique features. You can play in both handheld mode and docked, giving you flexibility in how you approach each mission.
If you’re looking for a shooter that rewards patience and strategy rather than just quick trigger fingers, Shadow Vanguard deserves a spot in your Switch library. It offers a different pace compared to many other shooter options on the platform.
10: Battlefield Bad Company 2
Battlefield Bad Company 2 stands as one of the most beloved entries in the Battlefield franchise. This first-person shooter brings intense combat and tactical gameplay to your Switch, allowing you to experience military action on the go.
When you jump into Bad Company 2, you’ll find both a focused story campaign and expansive multiplayer options. The single-player mode follows a special forces squad on dangerous missions with engaging storytelling and varied objectives.
The game truly shines with its destructible environments, letting you tear down buildings and change the battlefield in real time. This feature adds a strategic layer most shooters lack, as you must constantly adapt to the evolving terrain.
Bad Company 2 is widely considered by many fans to be one of the best Battlefield games ever released. Its balanced weapons, vehicle combat, and squad-based gameplay create memorable moments whether playing alone or with friends.
The Switch version retains the core experience that made the game great even years after its original release. While graphics have been scaled to fit the Nintendo hardware, the gameplay mechanics remain intact.
You’ll appreciate the variety of weapons and vehicles at your disposal. From rifles and shotguns to tanks and helicopters, each option offers a different way to approach combat situations.
If you’re looking for a shooter with depth beyond simple run-and-gun gameplay, Bad Company 2 delivers a robust military experience on your Switch.
Gameplay Mechanics
First-person shooters on Switch offer unique control options and multiplayer experiences that set them apart from other platforms. These gameplay elements can make or break your gaming experience when playing shooting games on Nintendo’s hybrid console.
Control Schemes
Nintendo Switch shooting games offer versatile control options that cater to different play styles. Many titles feature motion controls that utilize the Joy-Con’s gyroscope for precise aiming, which can feel almost as responsive as mouse and keyboard setups.
For traditional players, most games support standard dual-stick controls. You can use the Pro Controller for a more console-like experience or handheld mode for gaming on the go.
Some standout examples include:
- Splatoon 3: Features refined motion controls that are especially welcoming for shooter newcomers
- DOOM: Offers customizable sensitivity settings for both sticks and motion
- Overwatch: Provides extensive button mapping options
Remember that you can typically adjust sensitivity, button layouts, and even turn motion controls on or off based on your preference. This flexibility makes Switch shooters accessible regardless of your skill level.
Multiplayer Modes
Switch shooting games deliver diverse multiplayer experiences ranging from competitive online matches to cooperative local play. Top FPS titles offer various ways to connect with friends and strangers alike.
Online multiplayer typically includes:
- Team deathmatch
- Capture the flag
- Control point modes
- Battle royale variants
Games like Fortnite and Apex Legends support cross-platform play, allowing you to team up with friends on other systems. Meanwhile, titles such as Borderlands and Payday 2 focus on cooperative gameplay where you work together against AI enemies.
For local multiplayer enthusiasts, many Switch shooters support split-screen play. Splatoon 3 offers local wireless connections between multiple Switch consoles for LAN-party style gaming sessions.
The Switch’s portable nature makes it uniquely positioned for impromptu multiplayer sessions. You can easily set up games at parties, during commutes, or anywhere you and your friends gather with your Switch consoles.
Graphics and Performance
When choosing shooting games on the Switch, graphics and performance directly impact your gaming experience. The console offers impressive visuals despite its hardware limitations when compared to other platforms.
Visual Styles
Switch shooting games showcase a variety of visual approaches. Games like DOOM run on the technically impressive id Tech engine with dark, gritty aesthetics despite some expected resolution compromises.
For those preferring stylized visuals, Splatoon games deliver vibrant, colorful worlds that work perfectly with the Switch’s capabilities. The clean, cartoonish style helps mask hardware limitations while maintaining a distinct visual identity.
The BioShock Collection demonstrates how atmospheric lighting and detailed environments can create immersion even on portable hardware. Meanwhile, Borderlands uses cel-shaded graphics that transfer well to the smaller screen while maintaining visual clarity.
Frame Rates
Most Switch shooters target 30fps to balance visual quality with smooth gameplay. However, performance can vary significantly between titles and gameplay situations.
Crysis Remastered represents an impressive port that manages consistent performance in most scenarios, though intense combat can cause occasional dips. For competitive players, Splatoon 3 maintains a solid 60fps in both docked and handheld modes.
Some ports like Wolfenstein 2 use dynamic resolution scaling to maintain playable frame rates during intense action. This technology automatically adjusts visual quality to prevent stuttering during gameplay.
When purchasing shooting games, you should check digital reviews that specifically address performance on Switch hardware. Patches often improve frame rate stability post-launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nintendo Switch offers many excellent shooting games across different play styles and price points. Players often want specific details about multiplayer options, free games, and compatibility with accessories.
Which shooting game on the Nintendo Switch offers the most immersive multiplayer FPS experience?
For immersive multiplayer FPS action, Overwatch stands out as a top choice on the Switch. This team-based shooter gives you various heroes with unique abilities to master.
Splatoon 3 provides a different but equally engaging multiplayer experience with its ink-based territory control gameplay. The Nintendo-exclusive offers regular updates and Splatfest events that keep the community active.
DOOM Eternal also delivers intense multiplayer action if you prefer more traditional FPS combat with demons and heavy weaponry.
What are some of the top-rated shooting games for the Nintendo Switch that are also free to play?
Fortnite, Paladins, and Warframe top the list of quality free-to-play shooters on Switch. These games offer substantial content without requiring any initial purchase.
Fortnite combines building mechanics with battle royale shooting for a unique experience. The game receives constant updates and crossover events.
Paladins gives you a hero shooter alternative similar to Overwatch but without the price tag. Warframe offers a sci-fi ninja experience with deep progression systems.
Can you recommend Nintendo Switch shooting games that are compatible with a gun controller?
The Nintendo Switch has limited options for gun controller accessories compared to previous Nintendo consoles. Most shooting games on Switch rely on Joy-Con or Pro Controller inputs instead.
House of the Dead Remake supports aim-based controls with Joy-Cons that somewhat replicate a light gun experience. You can point the Joy-Con at the screen for more intuitive aiming.
Some third-party accessories provide gun-shaped holders for Joy-Cons, but these don’t add functionality beyond housing the standard controllers.
What multi-player shooting games on the Switch are best for two-player gameplay?
Borderlands games offer excellent split-screen co-op shooting for two players. The series combines FPS action with RPG elements and a distinctive art style.
DOOM provides split-screen multiplayer modes that work well for two players wanting competitive action. The fast-paced gameplay translates well to smaller screen sections.
Splatoon 3 also supports local multiplayer, though you’ll need two Switch consoles for the full experience between two players.
Are there shooting games for the Nintendo Switch that are comparable to Call of Duty?
While the Switch doesn’t have official Call of Duty titles, several games offer similar military-style FPS experiences. Crysis provides a high-quality tactical shooter with advanced weaponry.
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus delivers a story-focused first-person shooter with intense gunplay. The narrative elements rival those found in Call of Duty campaigns.
Warface is a free alternative that offers team-based military combat similar to Call of Duty’s multiplayer modes.
What are the latest critically acclaimed shooting games available for the Nintendo Switch?
Metroid Prime Remastered has received widespread acclaim for its masterful adaptation of the GameCube classic. The game beautifully combines exploration with first-person shooting elements.
DOOM and DOOM Eternal continue to impress with their impressive Switch ports that maintain the fast-paced action of the originals.
BioShock: The Collection brings three acclaimed story-driven shooters to the platform with all DLC included, offering tremendous value and highly regarded narratives.
