5 Lesser Known Nintendo Franchises Still Worth Checking Out

When it comes to Nintendo, most people immediately think of heavy-hitters like Mario, Pokémon, and The Legend of Zelda. But beneath the spotlight of those juggernauts lies a treasure trove of franchises that deserve just as much love. 

These are the games that don’t always make the hype cycle or dominate sales charts, yet they continue to carve out loyal fanbases and unique experiences. They prove that Nintendo’s creativity runs deeper than its mascots.

Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop

And if you’re ready to experience them in the best way possible, the Nintendo Switch OLED is now available at the Next Upgrade Shop!

Pikmin

From Nintendo

Pikmin may not have the fame of Mario or Zelda, but it’s one of Nintendo’s most charming and strategic franchises. Leading your squad of tiny plant-like creatures to gather resources, solve puzzles, and fend off quirky alien wildlife is both relaxing and challenging. With Pikmin 3 Deluxe and Pikmin 4 available on Switch, it’s a series that rewards patience and smart play.

Advance Wars

From Nintendo

Tactical strategy fans should not sleep on Advance Wars. This colorful yet surprisingly deep series lets you command units across grid-based battlefields, blending accessible mechanics with plenty of tactical nuance. The Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp collection on Switch is the perfect way to experience the franchise.

WarioWare

From Nintendo

WarioWare is a wild ride of zany, fast-paced microgames that test your reflexes and sense of humor. Each challenge lasts only seconds, but the sheer variety and absurdity keep you hooked. With WarioWare: Get It Together! and WarioWare: Move It! on Switch, it’s a party game unlike any other.

Xenoblade Chronicles

From Nintendo

Xenoblade Chronicles isn’t as well-known as Pokémon or The Legend of Zelda, but it offers some of Nintendo’s most ambitious RPG adventures. Massive open worlds, deep real-time combat, and heartfelt storytelling make it a must-play for fans of epic journeys. Multiple entries, including Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition, are available on Switch.

BoxBoy!

From Nintendo

BoxBoy! may look simple, but its clever puzzle-platforming proves otherwise. You control a cube that generates boxes to navigate inventive challenges, often requiring creative thinking. With BoxBoy! + BoxGirl! available on Switch, it’s an understated yet rewarding gem in Nintendo’s library.

Find Hidden Gems on Next Upgrade Shop

Whether you’re reliving these cult classics or discovering them for the first time, Nintendo’s lesser-known franchises prove that big fun isn’t just about big names. Discover your next favorite series and play it on the stunning Nintendo Switch OLED, now available at the Next Upgrade Shop.