Picture this: a gaming landscape where timeless classics like Mario Kart keep shattering records, while the next-gen Switch 2 teases a new era of adventures. As of September 2025, we're diving into the top ten best-selling Nintendo Switch games, straight from the company's latest financial update – and yes, we'll sneak in a quick peek at two Switch 2 titles that are already making waves. Stay tuned; there's plenty of intrigue ahead that might just challenge what you think about Nintendo's sales strategies.
Drawing from Nintendo's official financial report (available at https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/software/switch.html), this update reveals a steady climb in sales for the original Nintendo Switch lineup. While the overall rankings remain unchanged – a testament to the enduring popularity of these titles – each game is seeing gradual but noticeable increases in units sold. For instance, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, that adrenaline-pumping racing game where you can drift, jump, and power-up your way to victory with friends or family, is now tantalizingly close to 70 million copies sold. We fully anticipate it'll hit that milestone in the upcoming financial release, showcasing how a game with intuitive controls and endless replayability keeps gamers coming back year after year.
Then there's The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which has just surpassed 22 million units – a remarkable feat for a sequel that builds on the epic exploration and puzzle-solving of its predecessor. You might be curious why this game and its companion, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, didn't see an even larger sales boost despite both getting special Switch 2 Editions. But here's where it gets controversial: Nintendo has clarified that their Upgrade Packs – those convenient digital add-ons that let you enhance your original game for the new console without buying a whole new copy – don't contribute to total software sales figures. It's a policy designed to keep the numbers focused on core purchases, but does it accurately reflect player enthusiasm? Some fans argue it undervalues the investment in sequels and remasters, while others see it as a smart way to encourage initial buys. What do you think – is this fair, or should upgrade packs count toward the legacy of these beloved titles?
And this is the part most people miss: despite the excitement around Switch 2, the original Switch ecosystem is still thriving, proving that great games don't need the latest hardware to captivate. For beginners jumping into Nintendo's world, think of these titles as accessible gateways – no steep learning curves here, just fun mechanics that evolve with each playthrough, like customizing your island in Animal Crossing or mastering ultimate battles in Super Smash Bros.
Let's break down the top ten in detail, with figures from Q1 and Q2 of 2026 for easy comparison. These numbers highlight the steady growth, even as global gaming trends shift toward new platforms:
Title | Q1 2026 (millions) | Q2 2026 (millions)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | 68.86 | 69.56
Animal Crossing: New Horizons | 48.19 | 48.62
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | 36.55 | 36.93
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | 33.04 | 33.34
Super Mario Odyssey | 29.50 | 29.84
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet | 27.15 | 27.61
Pokémon Sword and Shield | 26.84 | 26.96
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom | 21.93 | 22.15
Super Mario Party | 21.19 | 21.23
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe | 18.36 | 18.53
As promised, let's shift gears to the Switch 2, Nintendo's shiny new console that's generating buzz with its enhanced features like better graphics and backward compatibility. Unfortunately, not all early titles have racked up impressive sales yet, so Nintendo's report only highlights two standout games. For context, the Switch 2 Welcome Tour and Drag x Drive, while innovative, haven't crossed the threshold for inclusion here – a reminder that launching a new system means building momentum from the ground up. Here's where the Switch 2 lineup currently stands, with Q2 2025 figures:
Title | Q2 2025 (millions)
Mario Kart World | 9.57
Donkey Kong Bananza | 3.49
Mario Kart World, for example, expands on the karting formula with fresh tracks and multiplayer modes that feel right at home on the upgraded hardware, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. Donkey Kong Bananza, on the other hand, brings platforming chaos with a mix of adventure and arcade-style fun, potentially sparking debates on whether these experimental titles will define the Switch 2's identity or if more mainstream hits are needed to boost sales.
Have you added to these numbers lately by grabbing one of the top ten or trying out a Switch 2 game? Maybe you've rediscovered the joy of Animal Crossing's creative world-building or battled it out in Super Smash Bros. What keeps you coming back to these classics, and do you think the Switch 2 will eventually overshadow the originals? Share your thoughts in the comments below – I'd love to hear if you agree with Nintendo's upgrade pack policy or if there's a hidden gem here that deserves more spotlight. Let's discuss!
[source: nintendo.co.jp (https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/software/switch.html)]
Nintendo Life’s dedicated horror enthusiast, Ollie, spends his off-hours immersed in the chilling worlds of Resident Evil and Silent Hill, often paired with a gripping horror novel and a hot cup of tea. When not delving into dark narratives, he enjoys leisurely strolls and a diverse soundtrack ranging from TOOL's intensity to Chuck Berry's classics.
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