Grand Theft Auto (GTA) is one of the most popular gaming franchises, known for its open-world gameplay, action-packed missions, and satirical take on American culture. While the GTA series isn’t officially available on Nintendo Switch, there are several excellent alternatives that capture the essence of GTA’s open-world chaos and freedom. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best games like GTA on Switch, offering engaging alternatives for fans of the series.
The Grand Theft Auto Trilogy – The Definitive Edition
The Grand Theft Auto Trilogy – The Definitive Edition brings three iconic GTA titles to the Nintendo Switch: GTA III, Vice City, and San Andreas. This collection offers a nostalgic trip through the series’ history with updated graphics and improved controls.
Key Features:
- Three classic GTA games in one package
- Remastered graphics and improved lighting
- Updated controls optimized for the Switch
Performance:
Initially, the trilogy faced performance issues on the Switch, including frame rate drops and bugs. However, subsequent patches have addressed many of these problems, resulting in a more stable experience.
Availability:
The Grand Theft Auto Trilogy – The Definitive Edition is available for digital purchase on the Nintendo eShop. Physical copies can also be found on various online retailers.
Saints Row Series
The Saints Row series offers a similar open-world experience to GTA but with a more over-the-top and humorous approach. Two titles from this series are available on the Switch: Saints Row: The Third and Saints Row IV: Re-Elected.
Gameplay:
Both games feature open-world exploration, chaotic missions, and a variety of outrageous activities. From skydiving into gunfights to participating in bizarre game shows, the Saints Row series takes the GTA formula and cranks up the absurdity.
Performance:
Saints Row: The Third suffers from some performance issues in docked mode, with noticeable frame rate drops and reduced texture quality. Saints Row IV performs better but still experiences occasional frame rate dips.
Content:
Both games come with all previously released DLCs, offering a substantial amount of content and replayability.
Availability:
Saints Row: The Third and Saints Row IV: Re-Elected are available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop. Physical copies can also be found at various retailers.
Purchase Saints Row: The Third on Nintendo eShop
Purchase Saints Row IV: Re-Elected on Nintendo eShop
L.A. Noire
Developed by Rockstar Games, the studio behind GTA, L.A. Noire offers a unique twist on the open-world formula. Set in 1940s Los Angeles, the game combines detective work with exploration and action.
Gameplay:
Players take on the role of Detective Cole Phelps, solving cases through investigation, interrogation, and deduction. The open world of Los Angeles can be freely explored between cases.
Performance:
L.A. Noire runs well on the Switch, maintaining a stable frame rate in both docked and handheld modes. However, the open world can sometimes feel sparse compared to more modern titles.
Graphics:
The game’s facial animations remain impressive, though some textures and lighting effects show their age on the Switch version.
Availability:
L.A. Noire is available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop and as a physical copy from various retailers.
LEGO City Undercover
Often described as ‘LEGO GTA,’ LEGO City Undercover offers an open-world city to explore with humorous missions and family-friendly content.
Gameplay:
Players can drive various vehicles, use different disguises with unique abilities, and complete a variety of missions and side activities throughout the city.
Performance:
The game runs smoothly on the Switch, though some minor technical issues like long load times persist.
Content:
LEGO City Undercover offers a substantial amount of content with a main story and numerous side activities, ensuring plenty of replay value.
Availability:
The game is available on the Nintendo eShop and as a physical copy from various retailers.
Retro City Rampage DX
Retro City Rampage DX offers a top-down, 8-bit style open-world experience that pays homage to classic games while incorporating GTA-like gameplay elements.
Gameplay:
The game features over 60 story missions and 40 arcade challenges, combining elements of early GTA games with various arcade-style mechanics.
Humor:
Packed with pop-culture references and retro gaming nods, Retro City Rampage DX offers a nostalgic and humorous experience.
Performance:
The game runs exceptionally well on the Switch, with responsive controls and smooth gameplay in both docked and handheld modes.
Availability:
Retro City Rampage DX is available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop.
Shakedown: Hawaii
A spiritual successor to Retro City Rampage, Shakedown: Hawaii offers a 16-bit style open-world experience with a focus on building a criminal empire.
Gameplay:
Players can engage in various activities to build their business empire, including intimidating competitors, buying properties, and participating in missions.
Satirical Elements:
The game takes a satirical approach to modern business practices, offering a cynical yet entertaining critique of corporate culture.
Performance:
Shakedown: Hawaii runs smoothly on the Switch, delivering vibrant 16-bit graphics and responsive controls.
Availability:
The game is available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop.
Burnout Paradise Remastered
While not a traditional GTA-like game, Burnout Paradise Remastered offers an open-world racing experience with high-speed action and exploration.
Gameplay:
Players can freely explore Paradise City, participating in races, stunts, and takedown events.
Performance:
The game runs at 60 frames per second on the Switch, though the resolution drops in handheld mode.
Content:
Burnout Paradise Remastered includes all previously released DLCs, providing a wide range of vehicles and additional content.
Availability:
The game is available on the Nintendo eShop and as a physical copy from various retailers.
Other Notable Mentions
While not direct GTA alternatives, these games offer expansive open worlds and engaging gameplay:
Minecraft
Offers endless possibilities for exploration and creativity in a sandbox world.
Terraria
A 2D sandbox game that combines exploration, crafting, and combat.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
While different in tone, it offers one of the most impressive open worlds on the Switch.
Exploring Other Switch Gaming Options
While we’ve focused on GTA-like games, the Nintendo Switch offers a diverse range of gaming experiences. If you’re looking to explore other genres or options, consider checking out:
- Best RPGs on Switch: For those who enjoy immersive storylines and character development.
- Nintendo Switch Games for Girls: A collection of games that appeal to a wide range of interests.
- Nintendo Switch PUBG Alternatives: For battle royale enthusiasts looking for PUBG-like experiences on Switch.
Troubleshooting and Parental Controls
To ensure the best gaming experience, it’s important to address any technical issues and set up appropriate controls:
- If you’re experiencing display issues, check out our guide on Nintendo Switch Not Connecting to TV.
- For parents concerned about content accessibility, learn how to set up Nintendo Switch Parental Controls.
Conclusion
While the Nintendo Switch may not have the official GTA series, it offers a variety of games that capture the essence of open-world exploration and chaos. From the nostalgic charm of Retro City Rampage DX to the expansive world of L.A. Noire, there’s something for every fan of open-world games on the Switch platform.
FAQs
How can I purchase and download these games for the Nintendo Switch? You can purchase and download games directly from the Nintendo eShop on your Nintendo Switch console. Simply search for the desired game and follow the on-screen instructions to make the purchase and initiate the download.
Can I play Grand Theft Auto on the Nintendo Switch? No, Grand Theft Auto is not officially available on the Nintendo Switch. However, there are many similar open-world games available on the platform.
Are these games suitable for all age groups? The recommended age ratings vary for each game. It’s important to check the age rating and content descriptors before purchasing a game.
Can I play these games offline? Yes, most games on the Nintendo Switch can be played offline. However, some games may require an internet connection for certain features or multiplayer modes.
Can I use mods in games like GTA on the Nintendo Switch? Mod support is generally limited on the Nintendo Switch. While some games may offer limited modding capabilities, it’s not as extensive as on other platforms.
