cheap rpgs on switch（Affordable RPGs for Nintendo Switch）

Cheap RPGs on Switch: Big Adventures, Tiny Price Tags

Let’s be honest — not every gamer has the budget to drop 60 on every shiny new RPG that hits the Nintendo Switch. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to. The Switch eShop and physical retailers are brimming with cheap RPGs on Switch that deliver rich storytelling, deep mechanics, and dozens of hours of gameplay — often for under 20. Whether you’re a dungeon crawler, turn-based tactician, or open-world explorer, there’s a hidden gem waiting for you that won’t break the bank.

In this guide, we’ll spotlight some of the most satisfying, underrated, and downright affordable RPG experiences available on Nintendo’s hybrid console. We’ll also explore why these titles fly under the radar — and why that’s great news for budget-conscious adventurers.

Why Cheap RPGs on Switch Are Worth Your Time

The term “cheap” doesn’t mean “low quality.” In fact, many cheap RPGs on Switch are indie darlings or cult classics that simply never received mainstream marketing. Thanks to digital storefronts and frequent sales, these games are now more accessible than ever.

What you often get with these titles is pure passion. Indie developers and small studios pour their hearts into mechanics, world-building, and character arcs — sometimes even more so than AAA studios burdened by shareholder expectations. Plus, with the Switch’s portability, these games become perfect companions for commutes, lunch breaks, or lazy Sunday afternoons.

Hidden Gems That Punch Above Their Weight

1. CrossCode — $19.99 (Frequently on Sale)

Don’t let the retro pixel art fool you — CrossCode is a modern masterpiece. Blending fast-paced action combat with Zelda-like puzzles and a surprisingly deep narrative about virtual worlds and human connection, it’s a game that feels both nostalgic and innovative. Originally developed by Radical Fish Games, it’s frequently discounted to under $15, making it one of the best cheap RPGs on Switch for action-RPG fans.

Case in point: A Reddit user recently shared how they sunk 60+ hours into CrossCode during a road trip — all for $12 during a holiday sale. “It felt like a full-priced game,” they wrote. “Just without the price tag.”

2. Chained Echoes — 24.99 (Often 19.99)

This love letter to 16-bit JRPGs delivers everything fans crave: airships, turn-based combat with a twist (the Overdrive system), and a sprawling world with zero random encounters. Developed by solo dev Matthias Linda, Chained Echoes launched to critical acclaim — and at less than 25, it’s an absolute steal. Look for it during Nintendo’s seasonal sales; it’s been as low as 17.49.

3. Dawn of the Monsters — $19.99

Think Godzilla meets RPG mechanics. You play as kaiju defending Earth from alien invaders — leveling up, unlocking abilities, and smashing cities (in a good way). The combat is satisfyingly crunchy, and the co-op mode adds replay value. It’s not the deepest narrative experience, but for cheap RPGs on Switch that prioritize fun and spectacle, it’s a standout.

Tactical & Turn-Based Treasures

If you prefer your RPGs with grid-based strategy and thoughtful positioning, the Switch has you covered — without demanding your entire paycheck.

Wargroove 2 — $24.99

While not a traditional RPG, Wargroove 2 features campaign progression, hero leveling, and branching storylines — all wrapped in Advance Wars-style tactics. The pixel art is gorgeous, and the map editor ensures near-infinite replayability. At 25, it’s borderline “cheap,” but frequent eShop discounts bring it down to 19.99 or less — squarely in budget territory.

Shadowrun Returns — $14.99

Set in a cyberpunk-meets-fantasy universe, Shadowrun Returns offers branching dialogue, tactical combat, and a noir-inspired story that reacts to your choices. It’s the first in a trilogy, each under $15, meaning you can own the entire saga for less than the cost of one AAA title. Perfect for fans of Divinity: Original Sin who want depth without the 100-hour commitment.

JRPG Bargains That Feel Premium

Japanese RPGs dominate the “cheap but deep” category on Switch. Many ports of mobile or PC titles come to the system at reduced prices — and they’re often better optimized here.

Voice of Cards: The Isle Dragon Roars — $19.99

Produced by Yoko Taro (NieR: Automata) and composed by Keiichi Okabe, this game tells its entire story through cards — literally. Every character, item, and environment is represented as a card on a tabletop. The minimalist aesthetic is charming, the story melancholic and mature, and the price? Almost always under $20. A must-play for narrative-driven RPG fans.

Mary Skelter 2 — $39.99 (Wait for Sales!)

Okay, full price is steep — but hear us out. During major sales, Mary Skelter 2 drops to $19.99. It’s a dungeon crawler with psychological horror elements, unique party mechanics (characters “blood rage” for power boosts), and multiple endings. If you enjoy Etrian Odyssey or Persona