Every Fire Emblem game on Nintendo Switch, ranked:

The Fire Emblem series has been in existence for decades, and although North American fans only became aware of the series through Super Smash Bros. Melee, it has been around for much longer. These tactical games demand sophisticated thinking in order to keep all your valuable units alive in nerve-wracking battles.

The Nintendo Switch hosts more than just a few Fire Emblem games of different styles. While some may be more famous and easily accessible than others, Switch players by no means lack Fire Emblem games that they can enjoy on the go or right at home.

9 Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon And The Blade Of Light

Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light was undoubtedly an entertaining installment of the series, albeit available for a limited time only. Believe it or not, this game served as the starting point for the entire Fire Emblem series, and it remains just as challenging to play as ever.

Despite being the first game in the series, this title solidified many fundamental mechanics of the franchise and introduced one of its most iconic characters, Marth. It also tells a classic tale of Marth assembling his forces to confront the great evil, making it a must-play for fans of the series, if possible.

8 Fire Emblem: Mystery Of The Emblem

Unfortunately, Fire Emblem: Mystery of the Emblem is only available to Fire Emblem fans in Japan through the Super Famicom online app. While Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light is enjoyable, Mystery of the Emblem is a remake of that game with an original second section that can be played through.

Both games allow you to take control of Marth as he sets out to defend the world against major threats such as Gharnef, Medeus, and his former friend turned enemy, Hardin. Those who wish to experience Marth's story in all its glory would certainly love this game if only it were fully localized and released for the rest of the world.

7 Fire Emblem: Genealogy Of The Holy War

Another game on the list that is only available in Japan is Fire Emblem: Genealogy of the Holy War, one of the most legendary games in the series that has not received a worldwide release. The story of this game and its significant turning point set it apart from other games of its time, and it is still regarded by fans of the series as a must-play.

This could potentially be the most requested game in the series for a remake, and it's not hard to understand why. It is one of the most personal stories in the series, and those who have experienced the turning point in the course of the game will immediately know why. It connects you directly with each of your units in a way that no other game in the series achieves.

6 Fire Emblem Warriors

An excellent game that completely deviates from the core gameplay mechanics, Fire Emblem Warriors still offers a lot of fun with its hacking and slashing. Those who have played the Musou-style Dynasty Warriors games will feel right at home here, with the added twist of being able to control Fire Emblem characters.

The story may not be the biggest incentive, but the fact that you can actively and personally participate in what you likely envisioned as grand wars is certainly a major plus. You're right in the midst of it, controlling your characters as they decimate waves of enemies to achieve their objectives.

5 Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes

If you loved playing Fire Emblem: Three Houses and wished to experience full-fledged wars and ever-changing battlefields, you might ultimately prefer this title. As a significant departure from the core gameplay of the series, Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes throws you directly into the heat of battle.

There are still tactical elements that you need to consider throughout the game, but it functions much more as an action game. The story also serves as a companion piece to the narrative of Three Houses, allowing you to spend more time with some of your favorite characters.

4 Fire Emblem Engage

Fire Emblem Engage has made some new choices for the series that may not have resonated well with everyone, but the game is still a lot of fun. As long as you enjoy the gameplay of the core series, you will have an enjoyable time with Fire Emblem Engage and its challenging maps, even if the story doesn't appeal to you as much.

During the game, you build up Arlea's army while summoning significant heroes from the series' past to fight against Sombron. Long-time fans of the series will undoubtedly love seeing classic characters make appearances in 3D form.

3 Fire Emblem The Binding Blade

If you've ever wondered where Roy's official main role in the Fire Emblem series is, then it's in this game that is only available in Japan. It plays most similarly to Fire Emblem for the Game Boy Advance and will be familiar to fans of the series.

Since this game takes place before the first North American Fire Emblem, those who find a way to play this game can explore a familiar world and even encounter familiar characters as Roy battles against the forces of Bern.

2 Fire Emblem

While this game may be just a port of the Game Boy Advance title of the same name, it doesn't mean it's not one of the best Fire Emblem games ever made. As an older title, it may not offer as many choices as the modern games, but it can still provide a significant challenge while serving as a great introduction to the series.

This game allows you to become familiar with the core mechanics of the series as you control the main lords Lyn, Hector, and Eliwood on their journey to defeat Nergal's plans. This sequel to The Binding Blade is even better when played together, but it is also one of the best games in the series on its own.

1 Fire Emblem Three Houses

There is a reason why Fire Emblem: Three Houses could be considered the best game, at least in North America. By blending classic gameplay with some modern adjustments and a life simulation element, this game allows you to connect with each of your units.

The tensions between the three armies that occur throughout the game are so well-executed that it is practically a must to play through the game at least three times. The game is nearly infinitely replayable and presents you with different challenges and story moments depending on the path you choose.