Best Animal Games On Nintendo Switch: A Must-Have List

Hey there, fellow gamers and animal lovers! If you're like me, you probably adore the Nintendo Switch for its portability and amazing game library. And what's better than exploring virtual worlds filled with adorable animals? So, let’s dive into the best animal games you can find on the Nintendo Switch. These games aren't just fun; they offer a delightful escape into captivating worlds.

Why Animal Games on Nintendo Switch?

The Nintendo Switch has become a hub for amazing animal-themed games, providing relaxing simulations, thrilling adventures, and everything in between. Animal games provide unique experiences, whether you're managing a farm, solving mysteries with a canine companion, or building a community alongside charming animal villagers. The charm of interacting with virtual animals brings a layer of relaxation and joy that's hard to find elsewhere. Animal-focused games have a broad appeal because of their cute characters, engaging stories, and simple, easy-to-understand gameplay.

Animal games on Nintendo Switch also provide educational value, especially for younger players. Many games introduce concepts such as animal care, ecosystem management, and the importance of environmental conservation. They can spark curiosity about the natural world and inspire a lifelong love for animals.

Furthermore, the Nintendo Switch’s portability makes it perfect for animal games. You can easily pick up and play a quick session on your commute, during a break, or while relaxing at home. The console’s versatility ensures that you can always have your virtual animal companions with you, offering a constant source of entertainment and comfort.

Top Animal Games on Nintendo Switch

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the top animal games you absolutely need to check out on the Nintendo Switch: From adventures to simulations, there's something for everyone.

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Of course, we have to start with the king (or queen) of animal games! Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a cultural phenomenon, and for good reason. This game allows you to create your own island paradise, filled with adorable animal villagers. The gameplay is open-ended and relaxing, focusing on building friendships, decorating your home, and exploring the island.

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, you start with a deserted island and gradually transform it into a thriving community. You can collect resources, craft furniture, and customize every aspect of your island. The game operates in real-time, with seasons changing and special events occurring throughout the year. This constant evolution keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

One of the core elements of Animal Crossing: New Horizons is interacting with your animal villagers. Each villager has a unique personality and design, making forming bonds and building friendships enjoyable. You can chat with them, give them gifts, and help them with their requests. Over time, you’ll develop meaningful relationships that make your island feel like a real home.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons also shines in its customization options. You can design your clothing, create unique patterns, and decorate your home to reflect your style. The game encourages creativity and allows you to express yourself in countless ways. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a casual player, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to personalize your island and make it your own.

2. Pokémon Sword and Shield / Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

No animal game list is complete without mentioning Pokémon! While technically creature-collecting, Pokémon Sword and Shield (and the newer Pokémon Scarlet and Violet) offer incredible animal companions to train and battle with. The sense of adventure and the bond you form with your Pokémon make these games unforgettable.

Pokémon Sword and Shield introduce players to the Galar region, inspired by the United Kingdom. The game features a vast open world to explore, filled with diverse environments and unique Pokémon to discover. You’ll embark on a journey to become the Champion, battling Gym Leaders and challenging powerful rivals along the way.

In Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the adventure takes place in the Paldea region, inspired by the Iberian Peninsula. These games introduce an open-world concept, allowing you to explore the region freely and choose your path. You’ll attend the Naranja or Uva Academy, where you’ll undertake various missions and uncover the mysteries of the Paldea region.

Both Pokémon Sword and Shield and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet emphasize building a strong bond with your Pokémon. You can train them, battle with them, and even interact with them outside of battles. Each Pokémon has unique abilities and characteristics, making team-building a strategic and rewarding experience. The connection you form with your Pokémon adds depth to the gameplay and makes each victory feel personal.

3. Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin

If you're looking for a deeper RPG experience with animal companions, Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin is a fantastic choice. You play as a Monster Rider, forming bonds with monsters and battling alongside them. The storyline is engaging, and the world is rich and vibrant.

In Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin, you inherit the legacy of a legendary Rider and embark on a journey to uncover the mysteries surrounding the disappearance of Rathalos. You’ll travel through diverse landscapes, encounter various monsters, and form bonds with them to create your team.

The gameplay in Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin combines turn-based combat with exploration and monster collection. You’ll need to strategize your attacks and utilize your monsters’ unique abilities to defeat challenging foes. Building a strong team of monsters and understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for success.

What sets Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin apart is the deep connection you form with your monsters. You can raise and customize your monsters, teaching them new skills and equipping them with different armor. The bond you share with your monsters grows as you adventure together, making each victory feel even more rewarding.

4. Little Friends: Dogs & Cats

For a more simulated pet ownership experience, Little Friends: Dogs & Cats is a charming option. You can adopt and care for a virtual dog or cat, playing with them, feeding them, and training them. It's a relaxing and heartwarming game perfect for animal lovers.

In Little Friends: Dogs & Cats, you can choose from various breeds of dogs and cats, each with unique personalities and characteristics. You’ll need to care for your pet by feeding them, grooming them, and playing with them. Building a strong bond with your pet is essential for their happiness and well-being.

The gameplay in Little Friends: Dogs & Cats focuses on interacting with your pet in various ways. You can play fetch, teach them tricks, and dress them in adorable outfits. The game also features realistic animal behavior, making the experience feel authentic and engaging.

Little Friends: Dogs & Cats is perfect for players who enjoy nurturing and caring for virtual pets. The game offers a relaxing and rewarding experience, allowing you to form a deep connection with your virtual companion. Whether you’re a dog lover or a cat enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this charming simulation game.

5. Yoku's Island Express

Okay, this one is a bit different, but hear me out! Yoku's Island Express stars a dung beetle, Yoku, who becomes the island's postman. It's a unique blend of pinball mechanics and open-world exploration, with a charming art style and plenty of animal characters to meet along the way. The unique gameplay and adorable protagonist make it a standout title.

In Yoku's Island Express, you’ll explore a vibrant and interconnected island, solving puzzles and delivering mail along the way. Yoku uses his pinball-like abilities to navigate the island, bouncing between flippers and bumpers to reach new areas.

The gameplay in Yoku's Island Express combines platforming with pinball mechanics, creating a unique and engaging experience. You’ll need to master Yoku’s abilities to overcome obstacles and solve puzzles. The game also features a variety of colorful characters, each with their own stories and challenges.

Yoku's Island Express stands out for its charming art style and innovative gameplay. The game offers a fresh and unique experience that’s sure to delight players of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of pinball, platformers, or simply looking for a unique adventure, Yoku's Island Express is a must-play title on the Nintendo Switch.

Tips for Choosing the Right Animal Game

Choosing the right animal game can be overwhelming with so many fantastic options available. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice:

1. Consider Your Favorite Genre: Do you prefer relaxing simulations, action-packed adventures, or strategic RPGs? Knowing your favorite genre will help you narrow down your options.
2. Read Reviews: Check out reviews from other players and critics to get a better understanding of the game’s quality and gameplay.
3. Watch Gameplay Videos: Watching gameplay videos can give you a good sense of what the game is like and whether it’s something you’ll enjoy.
4. Think About the Animals: What kind of animals do you love? Choose a game that features animals you find appealing and engaging.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch is a treasure trove for animal game lovers. Whether you're raising virtual pets, exploring vast open worlds with Pokémon, or embarking on adventures with monster companions, there's a game out there for you. So grab your Switch, pick a game, and get ready to dive into a world of adorable animals and unforgettable experiences! Happy gaming, everyone!