Best HD Rumble games for Nintendo Switch iMore 2021

Nintendo invented the Rumble Pak in 1997, setting a new standard for gaming by giving players a physical connection with what's happening on the screen through their controllers. The Nintendo Switch HD Rumble builds on this technology by giving Joy-Cons the ability to provide a variety of subtle feedback to enhance some of the best Nintendo Switch games. Here are the Nintendo Switch HD Rumble games you should try to really take advantage of the technology.

Super Mario Odyssey Nintendo Switch Screenshot

Featured favorite: Super Mario Odyssey for Nintendo Switch

Super Mario Odyssey delivers one of the best platforming experiences of the storied series, giving Mario a sidekick-talking hat that he can throw at enemies to take on their abilities. You'll explore the world collecting objects and completing missions to save Princess Peach from Bowser.

Thumper

A bug's life: Thumper for Nintendo Switch

Staff Pick

Play a space beetle hurtling down an endless track to face a giant head from the future in this bizarre rhythm violence game packed with psychedelic visuals. The simple controls involve just one button and stick, but the Rumble feedback will add to the immersion provided by the original noise-rock soundtrack.

$20 at Nintendo
Shantae Half Genie Hero

Make a wish: Shantae: Half-Genie Hero

Protect Sequin Land from a crime wave by using Shantae's hair whip and belly dancing powers that allow her to unleash magical attacks or transform into creatures. This version features all the game's DLC and costumes, so it's the perfect way to experience its strange humor.

$30 at Nintendo
Tumbleseed

Ready to roll: TumbleSeed - Nintendo Switch

Control a seed you have to roll up a massive procedurally generated mountain while doing your best to avoid holes, creatures, and various other perils. Unlock 30 unique powers as you try to beat your previous records or compete in daily challenges.

$15 at Nintendo
super mario kart 8 deluxe

Start your engines: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe for Nintendo Switch

Race your friends locally and online on various courses collecting items you can use to help yourself or mess with your opponents. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also adds a smart steering feature to make it easier for kids or newbies to get into the game.

1-2 switch

Party time: 1-2-Switch - Nintendo Switch

Designed to really show off the HD Rumble features, this party game has players facing each other and using the feel of their Joy-Cons to guide their movements as they milk cows, swing weapons, or try to count virtual balls rolling around in a box.

Ready to rumble

Nintendo Switch HD Rumble games add an extra level of immersion by letting you feel a wide variety of sensations as you play through your Joy-Cons vibrations. It might not be the flashiest feature of the console, but it's definitely a fun one.

We recommend picking up Super Mario Odyssey because it's one of the best platformers out there, elevating the Mario franchise with some new twists that include taking full advantage of the haptic feedback. You can also get the feeling of holding a steering wheel and running off the track, thanks to how the feature is implemented in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Both of those are great games even without HD Rumble, but if you really want to see the technology shine, we recommend grabbing 1-2-Switch. The party game really makes you focus on the sensation your Joy-Cons are producing since you're meant to look at your opponent rather than the screen. Whichever of these Nintendo Switch HD Rumble games you try, we think you'll have fun taking full advantage of Nintendo's latest spin on the Rumble Pak.

We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.