The latest Nintendo Switch eShop charts for the week of December 20, 2025, reveal a familiar landscape, with *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* reclaiming the top position after its previous dominance was momentarily interrupted by *Metroid Prime 4*. The current rankings reflect a market where longstanding favorites continue to thrive amidst a sparse release schedule, indicating the enduring appeal of established franchises.
As the year winds down, *Pokemon Legends: Z-A* holds strong at #1, emphasizing its popularity among players. Following closely are perennial favorites such as *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe* and *Super Smash Bros. Ultimate*, which maintain their positions in the top three. This week’s chart is largely characterized by evergreen titles that show no signs of losing their appeal, underscoring the trend of games that continue to resonate with audiences long after their initial launch.
The complete eShop rankings feature a mix of genres, with games like *Super Mario Party Jamboree*, *Minecraft*, and *Animal Crossing: New Horizons* rounding out the top five. Notably, *Hogwarts Legacy* has also managed to secure a spot within the top ten, showcasing the success of franchise-based titles. Meanwhile, *Hades 2*, which has garnered attention for its gameplay and narrative depth, comes in at #10, indicating a strong reception from the gaming community.
In the download-only category, *Hades 2* leads the pack, affirming its status as a must-have title for digital gamers. Following it are *Divinity: Original Sin 2* and *Stardew Valley*, both of which have developed robust fan bases that continue to support them. Titles such as *Hollow Knight: Silksong* and *Marvel Cosmic Invasion* are also noteworthy, reflecting the diversity available in download-only offerings.
The significant presence of classic titles like *Super Mario Galaxy 2* and *Hollow Knight* in the download-only charts highlights the nostalgia factor that often drives player engagement. These games, while not new, have a timeless quality that keeps them relevant in an ever-evolving industry.
While the rankings for this week are dominated by established franchises and critically acclaimed titles, they also speak to broader trends in the gaming industry. The reliance on well-known IPs suggests that players may be gravitating towards familiar experiences during the holiday season, a time often associated with comfort and nostalgia.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how new releases in 2026 will impact these rankings. With several anticipated titles expected to debut early next year, the dynamics of the eShop charts could shift significantly. The enduring success of current favorites, however, indicates that players continue to seek entertainment in both new adventures and familiar worlds.
