Which Zelda Games Can You Play on Nintendo Switch?

You can play several Zelda games as standalone Nintendo Switch releases, or play selected older entries through the Nintendo Switch Online classic-game apps. The classics are split between the standard membership and the Expansion Pack; the newer Switch releases are separate games you buy for the console. Nintendo also lists distinct Switch 2 editions of some games, so check the platform and edition before choosing.

Standalone Zelda games for Nintendo Switch

These are Switch releases rather than games accessed through a Nintendo Classics library. The list highlights major releases and notable related games; it is not a claim that every regional or third-party listing is included. Availability can differ by region, so check your local Nintendo eShop or store.

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - World Edition	$56.99	Buy on Amazon

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Mainline Zelda adventures

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild — a standalone Nintendo Switch game. Nintendo lists a separate Nintendo Switch 2 Edition as well; select the Switch version if you are buying for the original Switch family.
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom — a standalone Nintendo Switch game, also listed separately in a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.
• The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom — a Nintendo Switch release.
• The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening — the Switch release is distinct from Link’s Awakening DX, the Game Boy version available through Nintendo Switch Online.
• The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD — a Switch release from July 16, 2021. Nintendo lists TV, handheld, and tabletop modes; the product page cautions that compatibility and experience may differ on Nintendo Switch Lite.

Related games in the Zelda franchise

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition, and Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda are also listed as Switch titles. They are related franchise games, not mainline Zelda entries, so choose them for their own styles rather than expecting the same format as a mainline adventure.

Classic Zelda games through Nintendo Switch Online

Older games are accessed by downloading the corresponding Nintendo Classics library app and having a qualifying Nintendo Switch Online membership. Nintendo Support describes NES, Super NES, and Game Boy libraries as part of the standard membership; the Expansion Pack adds Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance libraries, among others. The table reflects the tiers Nintendo identified in its October 16, 2024 announcement. Membership libraries can change, so check the current app and membership details before subscribing specifically for a title.

#1 Best Overall

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - World Edition

• Discover Hyrule as never before: by making your own path, choices, and consequences
• Ingenuity is the key to survival: find multiple solutions to tons of dynamic puzzles
• Surprises hide around every corner: scavenge weapons, armor, plants, animals, and more
• Live off the land: find weapons and armor, cook food, and brew elixirs
• Utilize special technology: the in-game Sheikah Slate controls, objects and enemies in fun ways

$56.99

Buy on Amazon

The classic Ocarina of Time listed here is the Nintendo 64 version in the Expansion Pack library, not the separately listed Nintendo Switch 2 release. Nintendo’s support information identifies GameCube classics as Switch 2 exclusive; they should not be counted as games available on Nintendo Switch.

How to get the game you want

1. Decide whether you want a standalone release or a classic. For a specific modern Switch game, find its Nintendo Switch edition in your regional store. For an older original, identify its console library in the table.
2. For a standalone game, confirm the platform label. Nintendo lists Switch 2 editions separately for Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. A Switch 2 edition is not the same listing as the Nintendo Switch game.
3. For a classic, check the membership tier and library. Download the relevant Nintendo Classics app and verify the title is currently included. Nintendo’s October 2024 tier listing places NES, Super NES, and Game Boy selections under standard membership and Nintendo 64 and Game Boy Advance selections under Expansion Pack.
4. Check the title’s play modes and your console. Requirements and experience vary by game. For example, Nintendo lists TV, handheld, and tabletop modes for Skyward Sword HD and notes that the experience may differ on Switch Lite.

Choosing a Zelda starting point

There is no single official play order established by these listings. Choose by the game you want to play, whether you prefer a standalone Switch release or a classic, and whether you already have the membership tier needed for a classic. If you are seeking a particular version of a familiar title, verify the console and edition name rather than relying on the title alone.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - World Edition

Discover Hyrule as never before: by making your own path, choices, and consequences; Ingenuity is the key to survival: find multiple solutions to tons of dynamic puzzles

$56.99

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.