Best Nintendo Switch Games to Buy in February 2026
Minecraft - Nintendo Switch
- EXPLORE ENDLESS WORLDS: BUILD HOMES, CASTLES, AND MORE!
- ENJOY CREATIVE OR SURVIVAL MODES WITH LIMITLESS ADVENTURES!
- UNIQUE NINTENDO SWITCH FEATURES: PLAY HANDHELD OR TABLETOP!
Monster Jam Showdown - Nintendo Switch
- EXPERIENCE THRILLING OFF-ROAD RACING IN MONSTER JAM SHOWDOWN!
- SHOWCASE YOUR FREESTYLE SKILLS WITH JAW-DROPPING TRICKS!
- RACE ICONIC MONSTER JAM TRUCKS ACROSS DIVERSE ENVIRONMENTS!
NBA 2K26 - Nintendo Switch
- CONTROL THE GAME WITH ENHANCED GAMEPLAY AND AUTHENTIC CONTROLS.
- BUILD YOUR MYPLAYER AND LEAD YOUR TEAM TO NBA FINALS GLORY!
- COLLECT LEGENDS IN MYTEAM AND COMPETE WITH STAR-STUDDED ROSTERS.
Bluey: The Videogame- Nintendo Switch
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JOIN BLUEY’S FAMILY IN FUN, INTERACTIVE ADVENTURES TOGETHER!
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PLAY EXCITING CO-OP GAMES WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS ANYTIME!
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EXPLORE ICONIC BLUEY MOMENTS AND LOCATIONS FROM THE SERIES!
Stray - Nintendo Switch
- EXPLORE A NEON-LIT CYBERCITY IN THIS UNIQUE CAT ADVENTURE!
- UNRAVEL AN ANCIENT MYSTERY AND EXPERIENCE THRILLING GAMEPLAY.
- GET 6 COLLECTIBLE ART CARDS WITH THE PHYSICAL NINTENDO SWITCH EDITION!
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - US Version
- RACE ANYTIME, ANYWHERE WITH MARIO KART 8'S DEFINITIVE VERSION!
- ENJOY 4-PLAYER LOCAL MULTIPLAYER IN STUNNING 1080P TV MODE!
- NEW SMART STEERING HELPS NOVICES RACE LIKE PROS, EVEN AT 200CC!
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - US Version
- ULTIMATE ROSTER: EVERY FIGHTER FROM PAST SMASH BROS. GAMES!
- PLAY ANYWHERE: COUCH CO-OP OR ON-THE-GO BATTLES AWAIT!
- VERSATILE MODES: LOCAL, ONLINE, HANDHELD-YOUR WAY TO PLAY!
Sonic Superstars - Nintendo Switch
- EXPERIENCE CLASSIC SONIC WITH EXCITING NEW GAMEPLAY FEATURES!
- MASTER CHAOS EMERALD POWERS TO UNLOCK HIDDEN PATHS AND SECRETS!
- TEAM UP IN LOCAL CO-OP OR BATTLE GLOBALLY WITH UP TO 4 PLAYERS!
LEGO 2K Drive - Nintendo Switch
- EXPLORE VAST OPEN WORLDS AND CONQUER THRILLING RACES!
- ENGAGE IN STORY MODE, SINGLE RACES, AND CUP SERIES TOURNAMENTS!
- MASTER DRIFTING AND POWER-UPS TO OUTPACE YOUR OPPONENTS!
Super Mario Galaxy™ + Super Mario Galaxy™ 2
- EXPERIENCE ENHANCED GRAPHICS AND GAMEPLAY ON NINTENDO SWITCH!
- TWO CLASSIC SUPER MARIO ADVENTURES PACKAGED FOR ENDLESS FUN!
- PLAY SOLO OR WITH FRIENDS FOR EPIC CO-OP GAMING SESSIONS!
In 2025, the Nintendo Switch continues to be one of the most popular gaming consoles, beloved for its versatility and expansive library of games. However, encountering issues such as a game not loading can be frustrating. This guide provides general troubleshooting steps to help you get back to gaming quickly.
Common Reasons for a Game Not Loading
Before diving into the solutions, it’s essential to understand some common reasons why a game might not load:
- Software Glitches: Temporary issues with the console's firmware or the game software.
- Corrupted Game Data: This can occur due to incomplete downloads or interruptions during updates.
- Network Issues: A poor internet connection can affect games that require online access or updates.
- Hardware Problems: Faulty hardware components, although rare, can also be the culprit.
Troubleshooting Steps
1. Restart Your Nintendo Switch
A simple restart can resolve temporary glitches. To restart your Nintendo Switch:
- Press and hold the power button on the top of your console.
- Select Power Options from the menu.
- Choose Restart.
If restarting doesn’t help, proceed to the next steps.
2. Check for Software Updates
Ensure that both your console and the game are up to date:
- For the Console: Go to System Settings > System > System Update.
- For the Game: Highlight the game on the Home menu and press + or -, then select Software Update > Via the Internet.
3. Verify and Repair Game Data
To fix potential corruption in your game data:
- Go to System Settings.
- Scroll to Data Management.
- Select Manage Software.
- Choose the problematic game and select Check for Corrupt Data.
This will identify and offer solutions to any corrupted data issues.
4. Boost Your Internet Connection
For games that rely on online access, a stable connection is crucial:
- Place your router closer to your Nintendo Switch or consider using a wired connection if possible.
- Disable other devices that may be hogging bandwidth.
5. Clear Cache
Clearing the cache can sometimes help resolve software issues:
- Go to System Settings.
- Select System > Formatting Options.
- Choose Clear Cache.
This will remove all temporary data without affecting your save data or screenshots.
6. Reinsert the Game Cartridge
If you have a physical copy of the game, try removing and reinserting it:
- Power down the console completely.
- Eject the game card, then gently clean its contacts.
- Reinsert the card and power the console back on.
7. Reinstall the Game
If none of the above steps solve the issue, consider uninstalling and reinstalling the game:
- Go to System Settings > Data Management > Manage Software.
- Choose the game and select Delete Software.
- Re-download or reinstall from the cartridge.
Considerations When Choosing Nintendo Switch Games
When purchasing new games, consider the following:
- Evaluate game reviews and ratings.
- Consider your gaming preferences, like RPGs on Nintendo Switch.
- Compare alternative platforms, such as Steam Deck vs Nintendo Switch.
Additional Resources
If you continue experiencing issues, you might also want to familiarize yourself with steps to quit a game on Nintendo Switch. This could help in restarting the game without rebooting the entire console.
By following these steps and understanding how to manage your console and games, you can enhance your gaming experience and quickly get back to enjoying your Nintendo Switch, even in the ever-evolving landscape of 2025.