Sonic Games on Nintendo Switch: 2025 Preview

If you're seeking a versatile gaming platform for both home and on-the-go play, the Nintendo Switch is your perfect companion. This is especially true for Sonic enthusiasts, as Sega has been consistently delivering Sonic games for the hybrid console since its launch in 2017. The excitement around Sonic reached new heights last year with the release of Sonic x Shadow Generations, coinciding with the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie. With the official announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2, fans can look forward to even more Sonic adventures. The Switch 2's backward compatibility ensures that your current Sonic games will continue to be playable. For those eager to dive into the modern era of Sonic and his friends, here's a comprehensive list of Sonic the Hedgehog games currently available on the Switch, along with anticipated titles for the Switch 2.

A total of **nine Sonic games** have graced the Nintendo Switch, from the system's debut in 2017 to the latest release, Sonic x Shadow Generations, in October 2024. Below is a detailed rundown of these games in release order, excluding those accessible via a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.

Sonic Mania (2017)

Sonic Mania, developed by PagodaWest Games and Sonic fan Christian Whitehead, is a heartfelt tribute to the classic Sonic titles on the Sega Genesis and Sega CD. Set after Sonic 3 & Knuckles, it remixes eight iconic levels like Green Hill Zone and Chemical Plant Zone, and introduces five new ones, including the vibrant Studiopolis Zone and the serene Press Garden Zone. The game also features a new group of Eggbots, the Hard-Boiled Heavies, for Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles to conquer. Mania stands out as one of the best Sonic games of the 2010s, celebrated for its fan-driven development, vivid neon graphics, and fresh challenges in every stage.

Sonic Forces (2017)

Sonic Forces pits Classic Sonic and Modern Sonic against Dr. Eggman, who has conquered much of the world with the help of Infinite, a masked jackal wielding the Phantom Ruby to manipulate reality. The game alternates between third-person Boost gameplay with Modern Sonic, side-scrolling with Classic Sonic, and a mode featuring a customizable avatar character powered by Wisp abilities. While the narrative and lighting may not be the series' strongest, Sonic Forces remains enjoyable for many players.

Team Sonic Racing (2019)

Team Sonic Racing redefines racing games by emphasizing teamwork over competition. Inspired by Sonic Heroes, players race in teams of three, collaborating to win races by sharing Wisp power-ups and boosting teammates. The game's sports cars can be customized with gold rims and painted in any color, reminiscent of West Coast Customs.

Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 (2019)

Released ahead of the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympics, this game brings Mario and Sonic together in a variety of new events, including surfing, skateboarding, karate, and sport climbing. The story mode takes players back to the 1964 Tokyo Olympics with 2D sprites, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay and offering a glimpse into Olympic history.

Sonic Colors: Ultimate (2021)

Sonic Colors: Ultimate, a remastered version of the original Sonic Colors, was released for Sonic's 30th anniversary. It features enhanced graphics, a new Jade Ghost Wisp for phasing through obstacles, and replaces traditional lives with rescues by Tails. Players can also engage in mini-races against Metal Sonic and customize Sonic's appearance with Park Tokens.

Sonic Origins (2022)

Sonic Origins brings together the first four classic Sonic games from the Sega Genesis and Sega CD, remastered for modern audiences. Players can choose between Classic Mode, which retains the original 4:3 aspect ratio, and Anniversary Mode, which introduces coins and the Drop Dash ability. New animated cutscenes by Tyson Heese connect the games into a cohesive narrative when played in release order.

Sonic Frontiers (2022)

Sonic Frontiers marks the franchise's first foray into open-world gaming, inspired by titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Sonic navigates the Starfall Islands, battling cybernetic foes, solving puzzles, and racing through Cyber Space levels reminiscent of past Sonic games to rescue his friends. The game's soundtrack balances serenity and chaos, appealing to both new and veteran fans.

Sonic Superstars (2023)

Sonic Superstars, a collaboration between Sega and Arzest, introduces 3D graphics to a Classic Sonic game. Featuring revamped levels and new music, the game supports up to four players in local co-op across 11 levels on the Northstar Islands. Collecting Chaos Emeralds grants new powers to overcome challenges.

Sonic x Shadow Generations (2024)

Sonic x Shadow Generations is a remastered version of 2011's Sonic Generations, enhanced with an all-new Shadow campaign featuring reimagined stages from past Sonic games. With over 150 stages and 15-20 hours of content, this game has been praised for surpassing previous enhanced versions in the Sonic franchise.

For those with a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription, additional classic Sonic games are available under the SEGA catalog, including Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Sonic Spinball.

Looking ahead, 2024 was a significant year for Sonic fans with the release of Sonic x Shadow Generations and the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 movie. The upcoming Sonic Racing: Cross Worlds, announced at the 2024 Game Awards, is set to launch on the Switch, PC, PS5, and Xbox later this year, continuing the legacy of Team Sonic Racing. A Nintendo Direct in April 2024 will shed more light on the Switch 2's release date and launch titles. Beyond gaming, Paramount has confirmed Sonic the Hedgehog 4, slated for a Spring 2027 release.

For more on Sonic the Hedgehog, explore guides on the best Sonic toys for kids and the best Sonic games of all time.