The Nintendo Switch boasts one of the most exciting game libraries of any console in recent years, featuring iconic titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Super Mario Odyssey. But what if you could enjoy these classics in higher resolution, smoother framerates, and even with mods? That’s where Nintendo Switch emulation comes in.Using popular emulators like Yuzu or Ryujinx, gamers can play their favourite Switch titles on a PC, unlocking features that the console itself can’t always offer. Imagine Mario Kart 8 Deluxe running at 120 FPS, Breath of the Wild in crisp 4K, or Pokémon Sword and Shield with fan-made mods that add entirely new experiences.
Of course, emulation isn’t just about performance. It’s also about convenience being able to save your progress at any point, tweak settings to your liking, or even play with a broader range of controllers. That said, it’s essential to note that emulators are legal, but downloading games you don’t own is not. Always use backups of games you’ve purchased to stay on the right side of the law.In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best Nintendo Switch games to play on an emulator. Whether you want epic adventures, relaxing life sims, or fast-paced action, these titles not only run beautifully on PC, they’re some of the most fun experiences gaming has to offer.
Why Emulate Nintendo Switch Games?
Emulation offers several advantages, including the ability to play at higher resolutions (up to 4K), smoother frame rates (60 FPS or more), and mod support for enhanced visuals or gameplay tweaks. On powerful PCs or high-end Android devices, games that run at 720p/30 FPS on the Switch can feel like entirely new experiences. However, emulation comes with legal and ethical considerations. Using pirated ROMs is illegal, and Nintendo has actively pursued legal action against emulator developers, such as Yuzu and Ryujinx, which led to their discontinuation in 2024. Forks like Citron and Sudachi have emerged, but players must dump their own game files to stay within legal boundaries. With that in mind, let’s dive into the top Switch games that shine on emulators.
How to Play Nintendo Switch Games on Android for Free
Playing Nintendo Switch games on Android for free is now possible thanks to powerful emulators like Skyline and Egg NS, which let you run Switch titles directly on modern smartphones. All you need is a high-end Android device (Snapdragon 865+ or newer) and a compatible emulator downloaded from its official source. Once installed, you can load your legally owned Switch game files dumped from your own console to start playing classics like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Breath of the Wild anywhere. Pairing a Bluetooth controller makes the experience even smoother, Top 10 Best Gamecube Games and many emulators allow save states, mods, and performance tweaks to improve gameplay. While Switch emulation on Android is still evolving and not every game runs perfectly, it’s a fun, portable way to enjoy Nintendo favourites remember to stick to legally obtained game backups to stay safe.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Genre: Action-Adventure
Release Date: March 3, 2017
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Enhanced visuals and performance
Zelda: The Legends Breath of the Wild transformó el concepto de Open World Gaming. with its vast, interactive Hyrule. As a launch title for the Switch, it showcased the console’s potential with a sprawling world filled with shrines, puzzles, and dynamic systems like weather and physics-based combat. On emulators, Breath of the Wild is a revelation. Running at 4K resolution with 60 FPS, the game’s vibrant landscapes and distant vistas become even more breathtaking. Mods, such as texture packs or gameplay tweaks (e.g., increased enemy difficulty), further enhance the experience.The story follows Link, who awakens after a century-long slumber to defeat Calamity Ganon and save Hyrule.
The game’s non-linear design lets you explore at your own pace, tackling divine beasts, collecting Korok seeds, or simply wandering. Emulation smooths out occasional frame rate dips seen on the Switch, especially in dense areas like Korok Forest. For players revisiting Hyrule or experiencing it for the first time, Breath of the Wild on an emulator feels like a next-gen remaster.Emulation Notes: Requires a beefy PC for stable 4K/60 FPS. Citron and Ryujinx forks handle it well, but you’ll need to dump your own game files and firmware. Mods are widely available for graphical enhancements.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Genre: Action-Adventure
Release Date: May 12, 2023
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Massive world benefits from higher fidelity
The sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, expands Hyrule with sky islands and a subterranean Depths region. New mechanics, such as Ultrahand (for building vehicles) and Fuse (for crafting unique weapons), make it a creative sandbox. The game’s narrative sees Link and Zelda confronting the Upheaval, a cataclysmic event tied to the return of an ancient evil. Its scope is staggering, with hundreds of hours of content across shrines, quests, and exploration.On emulators, Tears of the Kingdom shines with improved frame rates and resolutions.
The Switch version occasionally struggles with performance in complex scenes, but a powerful PC can maintain a steady 60 FPS, making vehicle-building and combat smoother. The addition of HDR support on emulators enhances the game’s vibrant visuals, especially in the glowing Depths. Mods can add custom blueprints or visual overhauls, making it a perfect fit for emulation enthusiasts.Emulation Notes: Demanding hardware is needed for optimal performance. Ensure you have a high-end GPU and at least 16GB of RAM. Citron is currently the best fork for this title.
3. Super Mario Odyssey
Genre: 3D Platformer
Release Date: October 27, 2017
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Colourful visuals pop in high resolution
Super Mario Odyssey is Mario’s grandest 3D adventure, blending sandbox-style exploration with tight platforming. Mario teams up with Cappy, a sentient hat that lets him possess enemies and objects, opening up creative gameplay possibilities. From the bustling streets of New Donk City to the vibrant Luncheon Kingdom, each world is packed with Power Moons to collect and secrets to uncover. The game’s joyful tone and inventive mechanics make it a Switch classic.
Emulation elevates Odyssey’s colourful art style to new heights. At 4K, the game’s textures and lighting effects are stunning, and 60 FPS ensures buttery-smooth controls during precise platforming sections. Mods can add custom levels or costumes, extending replayability. Whether you’re a Mario veteran or a newcomer, Odyssey’s charm is irresistible on an emulator.
Emulation Notes: Runs well on mid-range PCs. Sudachi and Citron offer excellent compatibility, with minimal setup required for stable performance.
4. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Genre: Life Simulation
Release Date: March 20, 2020
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Relaxing gameplay with enhanced visuals
Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a global phenomenon during the 2020 lockdowns, offering a tranquil escape to a customizable island. Players fish, catch bugs, decorate their homes, and befriend quirky villagers, all while paying off a mortgage to Tom Nook. The game’s serene pace and robust customization, including terraforming, make it endlessly replayable. The Happy Home Paradise DLC adds even more design-focused content.On an emulator, New Horizons’ vibrant island looks stunning in 4K, with sharper textures for foliage and water. Emulation also allows for mods that add new items, villagers, or quality-of-life features like faster crafting. The game’s relaxed gameplay is ideal for playing on a PC with a controller, and its low performance demands make it accessible on modest hardware.
Emulation Notes: Highly compatible with most emulators. A mid-range PC or Android device can handle it easily. Modding communities offer extensive customization options.
5. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Genre: 3D Platformer
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Charming 3D adventure with crisp visuals
Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks Kirby’s first whole 3D adventure, set in a post-apocalyptic world filled with vibrant levels and secrets. Kirby’s signature abilities, like inhaling enemies to gain powers, are joined by new Hypernova transformations and a Mouthful Mode that lets him possess objects like cars or vending machines. The game’s co-op mode and challenging extra content add depth.Emulation enhances Kirby’s colourful world, How to Use Letterboxd for Video with 4K resolution making the lush environments pop. best switch games to emulate on android The game’s 30 FPS cap on Switch can be unlocked to 60 FPS on emulators, improving responsiveness during fast-paced sections. Mods can tweak difficulty or add new abilities, making it an excellent pick for emulation.
Emulation Notes: Runs smoothly on most setups. Citron and Sudachi provide stable performance, with 60 FPS mods widely available.
6. Pikmin 4
Genre: Strategy/Adventure
Release Date: July 21, 2023
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Detailed environments shine in high resolution
Pikmin 4 revitalizes Nintendo’s quirky strategy series, tasking players with commanding colourful Pikmin to solve puzzles and battle enemies. The addition of Oatchi, a lovable dog companion, adds new gameplay layers, while night missions and Dandori battles keep things fresh. The game’s lush overworld and intricate dungeons are a visual treat.On an emulator, Pikmin 4’s detailed environments benefit from higher resolutions, making the tiny Pikmin and flora more vivid. Stable 60 FPS performance enhances the precision needed for real-time strategy. Mods can adjust Pikmin behaviour or add new challenges, perfect for fans of the series.
Emulation Notes: Requires a decent GPU for 4 K resolution. Yuzu forks like Citron handle it well, with minimal stuttering after initial shader compilation.
7. Celeste
Genre: Platformer
Release Date: January 25, 2018
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Tight controls and pixel art scale beautifully
Celeste is a critically acclaimed indie platformer that combines challenging gameplay with a heartfelt story about overcoming self-doubt. Players guide Madeline through treacherous levels on Mount Celeste, using precise jumps and dashes. The pixel art and evocative soundtrack create a memorable experience, while assist modes make it accessible to all skill levels.Emulation enhances Celeste’s pixel art with crisp upscaling, and 60 FPS ensures responsive controls for its demanding platforming. Mods can add custom levels or skins, extending the game’s replay value. Exploring the Best Reviews on It’s a perfect fit for emulation on both PCs and Android devices.
Emulation Notes: best nintendo games to emulate Lightweight and highly compatible. Runs flawlessly on low-end hardware with any modern emulator.
8. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Genre: Racing
Release Date: April 28, 2017
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Smooth multiplayer racing in high fidelity
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the definitive version of Nintendo’s iconic racing game, featuring every track from the Wii U version plus new characters and a revamped battle mode. Its chaotic, fun gameplay and colourful tracks make it a multiplayer staple. The Booster Course Pass adds even more tracks, keeping the game fresh.On an emulator, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe runs at 60 FPS in 4K, making races look spectacular. Online multiplayer may be tricky due to Nintendo’s servers, but local multiplayer works well with modded setups. Custom tracks and characters via mods add extra fun.
Emulation Notes: Stable on most emulators, but online play requires additional setup. A mid-range PC handles it well.
9. Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Genre: JRPG
Release Date: July 29, 2022
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Epic scale benefits from enhanced graphics
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 delivers a sprawling JRPG with a deep story about warring nations and a cast of compelling characters. Its massive open world and real-time combat system are complemented by the Future Redeemed DLC, which ties the trilogy together. The game’s visuals are ambitious but can look muddy on Switch.Emulation transforms Xenoblade Chronicles 3 with sharper textures and higher resolutions, making its vast landscapes breathtaking. Homepage Stable frame rates improve combat fluidity, and mods can enhance UI or add new quests.
Emulation Notes: Demanding on hardware. A high-end PC is recommended for 4K/60 FPS. Citron offers the best compatibility.
10. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Genre: Fighting
Release Date: December 7, 2018
Why It’s Great for Emulation: Massive roster shines in high resolution
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the ultimate fighting game, boasting a roster of 86 characters from Mario to Sora. Its fast-paced battles and diverse stages make it a party favourite. The game’s DLC adds even more fighters and content.Emulation enables 4K visuals and 60 FPS, resulting in battles that look crisp and fluid. Mods can add custom characters or stages, expanding the roster endlessly. Local multiplayer works well, though online play may require workarounds.
Emulation Notes: Runs smoothly on mid-to-high-end PCs. Sudachi and Citron are reliable, with modding communities offering extensive support.
Legal and Technical Considerations
Emulating Nintendo Switch games is a legal grey area. Emulators themselves are legal, but using pirated ROMs is not. To stay compliant, dump your own games and firmware from a modded Switch. Emulators like Citron, Sudachi, or Ryujinx forks require a powerful PC or Android device for optimal performance. Top 10 Best Switch Indie Games You Need to Play Now A GPU like an NVIDIA RTX 3060 or higher and 16GB of RAM are recommended for 4K/60 FPS. Android users need high-end devices (e.g., Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or better) for smooth gameplay. Always check emulator compatibility lists, as not all games run flawlessly.
Conclusion
Playing best games to emulate on switch on your Android device for free is an exciting way to enjoy your favourite titles anytime, anywhere, without needing the actual console. With emulators like Skyline steadily improving, more games are becoming playable on smartphones, offering customizable controls, better performance, and the convenience of portable gaming. Just be sure to use legally obtained game files to keep everything above board and support the developers who create these fantastic games. Whether you’re revisiting classics or discovering new adventures, Android Switch emulation opens up a whole new world of gaming possibilities right in your pocket.
FAQ
1. Is it legal to play Nintendo Switch games on Android using emulators?
Emulators themselves are legal, but downloading games you don’t own is illegal. To stay within the law, only use game backups from your own Nintendo Switch cartridges or digital purchases.
2. Which Android phones can run Nintendo Switch emulators smoothly?
High-end phones with powerful processors, such as the Snapdragon 865 or newer, and at least 6GB of RAM are recommended for the best experience. Mid-range phones may be able to run some games, but they could struggle with performance.
3. Which is the best Nintendo Switch emulator for Android?
Skyline Emulator is the most popular and open-source option currently, with ongoing development improving compatibility. Egg NS is another option, but it is less open and may require additional hardware.
4. Do I need a controller to play Switch games on Android?
While touchscreen controls are possible, pairing a Bluetooth controller like an Xbox, PS5, or Switch Pro Controller provides a much better gaming experience.
5. Can all Nintendo Switch games be played on Android emulators?
Not yet. Some games run flawlessly, but many still have bugs or performance issues. Emulation is improving over time, so compatibility continues to grow with updates.
