10 Best Hunting Games on Nintendo Switch (2025)

As gaming genres continue to subdivide into more specific types, new sub-genres like hunting games are coming up. These games simulate the hunt for wild animals, from exploring vast forests to keeping an eye out for clues on where animals might be. 

Some games go as far as to simulate the chase, capture, and kill. While Nintendo Switch is more popular for platformers and retro games, its roster of hunting games is just as impressive, starting with these best hunting games on Nintendo Switch. 

What is a Hunting Game?

A hunting game is a simulation game about the hunt for wildlife and feral animals. They can be summed as the seeking, pursuit, capture, and killing of distinct animal species.

Best Hunting Games on Nintendo Switch

If hunting wild animals in real life makes you queasy, perhaps these best hunting games on Nintendo Switch may be a more favorable substitute. However, keep in mind some of them are pretty realistic simulations of the hunt.

10. America Wild Hunting

First up is America Wild Hunting, which features real-life locations across North America. These feature real birds, from ducks to pigeons and eagles. Depending on the bird, you may need to switch your weapons. 

Thankfully, you have different options, including rifles, handguns, and even machine guns. As a result, you can practice your speed as well as concentration span to capture the most accurate angle before the birds fly away.

9. Duck Hunting Challenge

A little more specific is the Duck Hunting Challenge, which takes you all around the US hunting ducks. You can have a dog companion, too, as you embark on a memorable hunting trip. Unlike the other best hunting games on Nintendo Switch, Duck Hunting Challenge actually curates diverse game modes.

You have a Career mode that tracks your skills and progress across various challenging stages. There’s also Quick Hunt for when you want to brush up on your hunting skills on the go. The more you play, the more you’ll unlock new skills, weapons, camouflage gear, and more.

8. Animal Hunting 3D

Animal Hunting 3D takes you to the wilderness to hunt for wild animals. While you don’t need extensive hunting experience, you do have to be thoughtful of the number of rounds you use. Every shot counts, plus you don’t want to scare away the animals. 

Furthermore, some animals will be easier to kill, while others may get away too quickly. Animals like rabbits can be elusive. However, the challenge will always feel welcome as you delve deeper into the breathtaking wild.

7. Red Dead Redemption

Tracking wild animals is fun. But imagine chasing after your old gang members who stabbed you in the back. Playing as the former outlaw John Marston, you’ll navigate the dangerous Old Wild West in search of the last members of the notorious Van der Linde Gang. 

But it’s not just the hunt that will keep you glued to Red Dead Redemption. The story, too, is hugely compelling, as is the combat. 

6. Big Buck Hunter

The best hunting games on Nintendo Switch include Big Buck Hunter. It stands out from the games on this list because of its arcade gameplay. Don’t be fooled, though. The stakes are just as high, incorporating fast-paced action on the hunt for the biggest buck you can find. 

Bucks often feed in packs. So, you’ll need to approach them delicately and take an accurate shot, as, more often than not, only one shot will net you the biggest prize. 

5. Cabela's The Hunt: Championship Edition

Cabela's The Hunt: Championship Edition also features real-life sites across North America. However, rather than hunting birds, you’ll also chase after and capture wild animals. But to switch things up, you can explore the multiple gameplay modes, from local multiplayer to arcade mini-games and seasonal hunt modes. 

You don’t need to love hunting to enjoy Cabela’s The Hunt. Simply, a competitive spirit and a strong desire to perfect your trigger shots, range, stalking skills, and more.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild isn’t just a popular RPG. It also has hunting expeditions. You can hunt deer in the game as well as boars using your handy bow and arrow. Catching prey nourishes Link, keeping you going for longer on your combat and exploration of the kingdom of Hyrule.

3. Dauntless

If you want to step away from the norm, you can always try Dauntless. This hunting game on Nintendo Switch is about going after monsters. You’re the protector of Ramsgate and must fend away any encroaching Behemoths that seek to destroy your home. While you can rely on your own wit and skill, it’s more fun when you jump head-on into the co-op action RPG. Plus, it’s free to play. 

2. Monster Hunter: Rise

Another monster-hunting game you can check out is Monster Hunter: Rise. It takes place in a fictional ninja-inspired Kamura Village, where lush green environments and terrifying monsters co-exist. However, as the hunter the world is relying on, you’ll fight to prevent a forthcoming disaster threatening to destroy your home. 

Furthermore, you have a canine companion who often chips in during combat. Feel free to hunt the monsters solo. However, there’s always the option to team up with friends and earn even more gear and rewards. 

1. Hunting Simulator 2

Last on the list of the best hunting games on Nintendo Switch is Hunting Simulator 2. Its environments are breathtaking, immersing you in natural spaces filled with over 30 animal species. Each animal will require a different hunting technique, which is supplemented by the myriad weapons, accessories, and overall gear you can access. 

Be sure to make use of your hunting dog, too, who can more easily identify where the animals are hiding. From the arid regions of Texas to the greenery in Europe, Hunting Simulator 2 takes you all around the world in expansive open spaces simulating the thrill of the hunt.