Cheapest Switch Games: How to Play More Without Paying More
Let’s be honest — Nintendo Switch games aren’t cheap. New releases often hover around
This isn’t about pirated copies or shady downloads. We’re talking legit, accessible, and often critically acclaimed titles — many under
Why “Cheapest” Doesn’t Mean “Worst”
Before we dive into the deals, let’s debunk a myth: low price ≠ low quality. The indie revolution, digital storefronts, and Nintendo’s own sales strategy have created a golden age for affordable gaming. Many of these titles are labors of love, built by small teams with big ideas — and they often innovate more than big-budget sequels.
Take Celeste, for example. Originally priced at
Where to Find the Cheapest Switch Games
1. Nintendo eShop Sales (The Obvious — But Often Overlooked)
Nintendo runs frequent, rotating sales — especially during holidays, Nintendo Directs, or themed events like “Indie World.” Sign up for email alerts or check the eShop’s “Deals” tab weekly. Titles like Hollow Knight (
Pro Tip: Use sites like IsThereAnyDeal or Nintendo eShop Tracker to set price alerts. You’ll be notified the moment your wishlist drops.*
2. Physical Copies — Secondhand & Clearance
Don’t sleep on GameStop, local game stores, or even Facebook Marketplace. Many retailers discount physical indie titles to clear shelf space. You can snag sealed copies of games like Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove or Cave Story+ for under $20 — sometimes half that.
Case Study: In 2023, a Reddit user bought a used copy of Katana ZERO for
3. Humble Bundle & Fanatical
These digital storefronts occasionally offer Switch keys through curated bundles. Pay what you want — or a set price — and get 3–5 games, often including Switch titles. Recent bundles included A Short Hike, Golf Story, and River City Girls — all excellent, all for under $10 total.
Note: Always check region compatibility before purchasing keys.
4. eShop’s “Great Value” Section
Nintendo quietly curates a section called “Great Value Games” — usually tucked under “Special Offers.” Here you’ll find hand-picked titles under $20, often with user ratings above 4 stars. It’s a goldmine for discovery.
Top 5 Cheapest Switch Games That Punch Way Above Their Weight
1. Undertale ($9.99)
A quirky, heartfelt RPG where your choices truly matter. Combat is turn-based but infused with bullet-hell mechanics. The writing? Brilliant. The soundtrack? Legendary. For under $10, it’s an essential experience.
2. Axiom Verge ($10–15 on sale)
A Metroidvania with retro soul and modern polish. Explore a glitchy alien world, unlock bizarre weapons, and unravel a sci-fi mystery. Often discounted, it’s one of the best value propositions on Switch.
3. VVVVVV ($4.99)
Yes, that’s the real name. This gravity-flipping platformer is brutally hard, charmingly simple, and costs less than a coffee. Perfect for quick sessions or masochistic high-score chasers.
4. SteamWorld Dig 1 & 2 (Often bundled for $15)
Dig, mine, upgrade, repeat. These steampunk platformers are addictive, well-paced, and dripping with personality. The sequel improves on everything — and together, they’re a steal.
5. CrossCode ($15–20, but wait for sale)
An action-RPG disguised as a retro MMORPG. Fast combat, clever puzzles, and a surprisingly deep story. Feels like a $40 game — often found for half that.
Hidden Gems Under $10 You’ve Probably Never Heard Of (But Should)
- Downwell ($3.99) — Descend a well, shoot enemies with your gunboots. Addictive, minimalist, endlessly replayable.
- Poi: Explorer Edition ($9.99) — A 3D platformer that channels classic N64 charm. Great for Mario