Summary
Mass Effectwowed players with its incredible science-fiction plot and enjoyable gameplay when it debuted back in 2007. BioWare’s game went on to spawn two direct sequels and a further entry that was meant to start a new era for the IP, along with a 2021 compilation of the original trilogy. While some are more loved than others, all four games have their fans and left their mark on gaming as a whole.
Mass Effectmight not be available on the Switch, but players can turn to other games to scratch a similar itch. Even if not the greatest option for BioWare’s output, the Nintendo console has a massive library of titles that cover most genres and preferences.
Updated on July 11, 2025 by Mark Sammut:BioWare’s space opera does not seem like it will ever be coming to the Nintendo Switch. Consequently, fans will need to check out someSwitch games like Mass Effectto get their fill.
TheBioShockseriesis composed of three shooter games that explore different settings and themes.BioShock Remasteredexplores an undersea dystopia,BioShock 2explores the theme of family with a character looking to save his sister, and finally,BioShock Infinitecombines the two with the idea of rescue and the interesting setting of a city above the clouds.
The franchise’s interesting settings, visuals, and complex themes make all three games worthy of praise and recommendation, although they are still largely different experiences fromMass Effect. In terms of gameplay,BioShockis played from a first-person perspective and blends gunplay with unique abilities similar to BioWare’s series.
Another great adventure game that is a must-play for sci-fi fans isNo Man’s Sky.Now, on the surface, Hello Game’s release is very different fromMass Effectsince the former prioritizes exploration and resource management over anything resembling a story; however, they both highlight the appeal of space investigation, even if they emphasize different elements. There is even aMass EffectEaster egg inNo Man’s Sky,with the Normandy SR1 being brought into the game.
The game isan action-adventure survival gamewhere players must focus on surviving in the galaxy as they attempt to reach its core.No Man’s Skygenerally leaves players to their own devices rather than streamlining them down a specific path (although there is some direction), and while launching to a mixed reception, the game has benefited from several substantial updates.
Citizen Sleeperis a narrative RPGthat leans into immersive sim territory. Before moving any further, it should be mentioned thatCitizen Sleepermoves at a fairly slow pace and is nowhere near as action-driven asMass Effect. However, the game does a stellar job of immersing players in its cyberpunk-esque universe through its fleshed-out NPCs and intelligent world-building.
After escaping an overwhelming corporation, players attempt to settle down in a space station, which is easier said than done since they are fugitives. Using a dice system that showcases its tabletop inspirations,Citizen Sleeperconstantly challenges players to make both major and minor decisions, even if it is something as simple as how they would like to spend a day.
The Nintendo Switch has a couple ofStar Warsgames that, more often than not, are decent recommendations for sci-fi fans.The Skywalker Sagais a stellarLego-themed option that comes packed with plenty of content as it covers all the main movies, although its family-friendly nature results in a tone that is far removed fromMass Effect.The Force Unleashedis a solid hack and slash option, while old-school titles likeRepublic Commandohave their charm. However, when it comes toSwitch games likeMass Effect, there is no need to look further than BioWare’sKnights of the Old Republicand its Obsidian sequel.
Released in 2003,KOTORis still regarded as one of BioWare’s crowning achievements, and time has done little to diminish its stronger aspect. Featuring a genre-pushing dialogue system that leans into a simple but effective morality mechanic,KOTORnails its world-building, crafting a universe that feels completely alive. The main plot is solid, but the campaign is at its best when highlighting smaller stories driven by memorable NPCs. The combat is not particularly great, but it does not take away too much from the overall experience or theclass system.
A rough launch aside,Warframehas been a staple of the free-to-play scene for the best part of a decade, and the game runs surprisingly well on the Switch. While that might sound like a given for a 2013 release, Digital Extremes has expanded significantly onWarframe’s original blueprint, including incorporating wide open areas. Ultimately, there are better platforms for running this action RPG, but Switch-only users are not short-changed either.
Set in a lore-rich world and granting players access to Warframes as Tenno members,Warframecenters around fast-paced combat that blends melee and ranged action. Although not necessarily the main reason to play, the overall story is serviceable and helps add some stakes to the fantastic gameplay. At this point, the game has so much free content that it could easily keep a new player hooked for months or years.
