When it comes to finding the best Nintendo Switch games for kids, the console offers an incredible variety of titles that cater to all ages and interests. From the fast-paced excitement of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe to the creative freedom of Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the Switch has something for everyone.
I’m an avid gamer, and with four kids between three and 13 years old at home, I have found myself playing a lot of different games, mostly of the multiplayer variety.
Whether your kids are into action-packed adventures like Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3, charming platformers like Kirby and the Forgotten Land, or cooperative fun like It Takes Two, the Nintendo Switch library has family-friendly games that encourage creativity, teamwork, and endless entertainment.
I asked my kids for their favorite picks and why they like these games over the many others they have played. According to my children, here are the best Nintendo Switch games for kids.
It Takes Two
It Takes Two is a unique co-op adventure game where players control Cody and May, a couple turned into dolls, as they navigate a fantastical world to repair their fractured relationship. With creative puzzles, varied gameplay mechanics, and a heartfelt story, this game is perfect for playing together. My kids love the teamwork and the imaginative levels.
Why my kids love this game: I’ve only played It Takes Two with my 13-year-old, and she loves every part of it, from its emotional story and co-op mechanics to intricate but accessible puzzles. I’ve been gaming since the 1980s, and this is my all-time favorite game. It Takes Two is available on Nintendo, Playstation, Xbox, and PC.
I know a lot of couples who play this game together, but it’s also one of the best Nintendo Switch games for kids because of its co-op gameplay, fun, imaginative world, and storyline that tackles a tough family issue head-on.
Number of Players: 2 players locally or online (co-op only).
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a high-octane racing game that brings the beloved Mario Kart franchise to the Nintendo Switch with stunning HD graphics and anti-gravity karts that let players race upside down. With a roster of iconic characters, including all of Bowser’s Koopalings, and a variety of tracks, this game offers endless fun for players of all ages. My kids will love the chaotic multiplayer races, power-ups, and the ability to play as their favorite Mario characters.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old and 10-year-old enjoy the competitive nature of the races, while my 3-year-old has fun with the assist features that keep her in the game. My 13-year-old appreciates the strategy of using items and mastering the tracks and all of their secret shortcuts.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally, 12 players online.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the ultimate crossover fighting game, featuring every character from the series’ history, including newcomers like Inkling from Splatoon and Ridley from Metroid. With fast-paced combat, a variety of stages, and endless customization options, this game is perfect for both casual and competitive play. My kids love the chaotic battles and the chance to play as their favorite Nintendo characters.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys mastering the combat mechanics, while my 13-year-old loves the nostalgia of playing as classic characters. My 7-year-old has fun with the simple controls and button mashing, and I get frustrated that my 10-year-old has been easily defeating me in this game for the past two years.
Number of Players: Up to 8 players locally, online multiplayer available.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a life simulation game where players create their own island paradise, customize their home, and interact with charming animal villagers. With seasonal events, creative freedom, and relaxing gameplay, this game is perfect for players of all ages. My kids love designing their island, collecting items, and visiting each other’s creations.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old enjoys decorating her house and catching bugs, while my 10-year-old loves designing the island and working as a family unit to maintain the island. My 13-year-old appreciates the creative freedom and the relaxing pace of the game. My one qualm is that there is only one leader at a time in this game, and they control the island without the ability to create more islands for other players. I gave the game to my 13-year-old as a Christmas present a few years ago, so we’ve been stuck on her island the entire time.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally, online multiplayer available.
Mario Party Superstars
Mario Party Superstars brings back the classic board game fun of the Mario Party series with five remastered boards from the Nintendo 64 era. With 100 mini-games from across the series, this game is perfect for family play.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old and 10-year-old enjoy the competitive mini-games, while my 13-year-old appreciates the strategic elements of the board game mode. My 3-year-old joins in with simpler mini-games, which gets her a little involved with the fun. We haven’t gotten into Mario Party Jamboree yet, but I’m sure that will also make its way onto my list of the best Nintendo Switch games for kids once we dive in.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally, online multiplayer available.
Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3
Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3 is an action RPG where players assemble a team of Marvel superheroes to battle iconic villains and save the universe. With an extensive roster of characters, cooperative gameplay, and exciting combat, this game is perfect for Marvel fans. My kids love playing as their favorite superheroes and teaming up to take down villains.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the fast-paced combat and building the ultimate team, while my 13-year-old loves the deep roster of characters and the cooperative gameplay. My 7-year-old loves everything to do with Marvel, and she caught on quickly to this game.
Full disclosure: We are a Marvel family and will consume anything Marvel-related, so there's a bit of bias in this selection as one of the best Nintendo Switch games for kids.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally or online (co-op mode available).
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a vibrant and innovative platformer that brings the classic Mario formula to new heights with creative-level designs, power-ups, and the introduction of the Wonder Flower mechanic. This game offers a fresh and exciting experience for both new and longtime Mario fans.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old enjoys the accessible and fun gameplay and she loves the new elephant suit. Like every Mario game he plays, my 10-year-old loves discovering the secrets and surprises in each level. My 13-year-old appreciates the creativity and challenge of the Wonder Flower mechanics. I love that I can play this game with my three oldest kids, even if I spend most of the time helping rescue my seven-year-old.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally (co-op mode available).
Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee!
Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! are charming remakes of the classic Pokémon Yellow, designed to introduce a new generation to the world of Pokémon. With connectivity to Pokémon GO and a Poké Ball Plus controller, this game offers a fresh yet nostalgic experience. My kids love exploring the Kanto region, catching Pokémon, and battling trainers.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the adventure, battles, and pretty much everything else because he’s a huge Pokemon fan. My 7-year-old loves the cute Pokémon and easy-to-learn mechanics.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is an exciting new adventure in the Zelda series, where players step into the shoes of Princess Zelda herself. With a focus on puzzle-solving, exploration, and a unique magic-based combat system, this game offers a fresh perspective on the beloved franchise. My kids love the immersive world, creative puzzles, and the chance to experience Hyrule from Zelda’s perspective.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the casual gameplay of this version of Zelda. My other kids have shown no interest in playing Zelda but my 7-year-old daughter thought this one looked cute and she managed a few hours of gameplay before growing tired of the game.
Number of Players: Single-player.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is an open-world adventure game that redefines the Zelda series with its vast, explorable world and innovative gameplay mechanics. Players control Link as he explores the kingdom of Hyrule, solves puzzles, and battles enemies to save Princess Zelda. My kids love the freedom to explore and the sense of discovery in this beautifully crafted world.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the game’s combat and exploration, just as he did with his foray into Echoes of Wisdom. He is also a fan of the graphics in this game version. As a lifelong franchise fan, I think it’s a triumph.
Number of Players: Single-player.
Luigi’s Mansion 3
Luigi’s Mansion 3 is a spooky yet charming adventure game where Luigi must rescue his friends from a haunted hotel. With clever puzzles, ghost-catching action, and a hilarious co-op mode, this game is perfect for family play. My kids love the quirky humor and the thrill of exploring the hotel’s many floors.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old and 7-year-old both love playing this game with me. They like controlling Luigi while I play as Gooigi. They both love puzzle-based games, and there are plenty of puzzles to solve in Luigi’s Mansion 3.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a remastered version of the classic platformer, featuring updated graphics and gameplay. Players control Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong as they battle through challenging levels, defeat bosses, and collect bananas. My kids love the vibrant visuals, tight platforming, and the fun co-op mode.
Why my kids love this game based on online reviews: My 10-year-old enjoys the challenging levels and boss battles, while my 7-year-old loves the colorful characters and co-op fun. My 13-year-old loves the platformer mechanics and the silliness of the game.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Minecraft
Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows players to build, explore, and survive in a blocky, procedurally generated world. With endless possibilities for creativity and multiple gameplay modes, this game is a favorite for kids and adults alike. My kids love building their own worlds and exploring together.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the survival mode and building elaborate structures, while my 7-year-old loves the creative mode for building without limits. My 13-year-old dives into the game’s deeper mechanics and mods. Thanks to Minecraft Education Edition and the Tynker coding platform, my 13-year-old even learned how to code when she was just eight years old. In my opinion, Minecraft is among the best switch games for young kids who are just learning to game or curious about art or computer programming.
Number of Players: 4 players in split-screen on the same system, or up to 8 players online or via local wireless.
Super Mario Odyssey
Super Mario Odyssey is a 3D platformer that takes Mario on a globe-trotting adventure to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser. With the help of his new companion, Cappy, Mario can possess enemies and objects to solve puzzles and explore vast, imaginative kingdoms. My kids love the creative gameplay, vibrant worlds, and the thrill of discovering hidden secrets.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old enjoys the colorful worlds and simple platforming, while my 10-year-old loves mastering Mario’s moves and finding hidden Power Moons.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a side-scrolling platformer that brings challenging levels, vibrant visuals, and fun co-op gameplay to the Nintendo Switch. Players control Donkey Kong and his friends as they battle through icy environments and take on creative bosses. My kids love the colorful worlds and the teamwork required in co-op mode.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the challenging levels, while my 7-year-old loves the colorful characters and co-op fun. And my 13-year-old once again likes the platform mechanics.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pokémon Sword and Shield are the first mainline Pokémon games on the Nintendo Switch, set in the Galar region. With new Pokémon, Dynamax battles, and an expansive Wild Area, this game offers a fresh take on the classic Pokémon formula. My kids love catching new Pokémon and battling in gyms.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the battles and exploration and the overall story. He was the only kid in my house to play this game but given his love of Pokemon I’m going to take his word for how good the game is for kids.
Number of Players: Single-player, with online battles and trading.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a 3D platformer where Kirby explores a mysterious world filled with abandoned structures and enemies. With new copy abilities and co-op gameplay, this game is perfect for family fun. My kids love the adorable Kirby, creative levels, and the ability to transform into different forms.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old enjoys the cute characters and easy gameplay, while my 10-year-old loves the exploration and challenges. My 13-year-old loves the old-school platformer feel and the cuteness of Kirby, who is among her favorite Nintendo characters.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Minecraft Dungeons
Minecraft Dungeons is an action-adventure game set in the Minecraft universe. It offers a dungeon-crawling experience with a focus on exploration, combat, and loot collection. With its family-friendly gameplay and cooperative multiplayer, this game is perfect for kids who love Minecraft and adventure. My kids love the blocky visuals, exciting battles, and the thrill of discovering new gear.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the combat and strategy required to progress in the game. My 7-year-old loves the colorful, blocky world and simple controls that she was able to master quickly. My 13-year-old appreciates the cooperative gameplay and the challenge of tackling tougher dungeons. My kids play together without me, which is rare in our household, except when playing Minecraft games. In fact, I have to say that Minecraft is the game that excites my older kids when it comes to teaching their younger siblings how to play.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally or online (co-op mode available).
Mario Tennis Aces
Mario Tennis Aces is a fun and competitive sports game that brings the Mario cast to the tennis court. With a story mode, multiplayer matches, and special moves, this game is perfect for both casual and competitive play. My kids love the fast-paced matches and the chance to play as their favorite characters.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys mastering the special moves, while my 7-year-old loves the simple controls and the ability to play on my team. My 13-year-old appreciates the competitive multiplayer mode.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally, online multiplayer available.
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle
Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is a quirky tactical RPG that combines the Mario universe with the chaotic Rabbids. Players control a team of characters, including Mario, Luigi, and Rabbid versions of them, as they battle through turn-based combat and solve puzzles. My kids love the humor, strategy, and unique blend of two beloved franchises.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the tactical battles, while my 7-year-old loves the silly Rabbids and playing the game with her brother. My 13-year-old appreciates the puzzle-solving but she’s not a huge Rabbids fan so this game would fall further down the list for her.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Overcooked! 2
Overcooked! 2 is a chaotic cooking simulation game where players work together to prepare and serve meals in increasingly absurd kitchens. With new recipes, levels, and online multiplayer, this game is perfect for family fun. My kids love the teamwork and hilarious challenges.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old and 7-year-old enjoy the fast-paced teamwork, while my 13-year-old takes charge as the “head chef.” Even my 3-year-old joins in with simpler tasks with my help. My 3-year-old actually loves to be part of the cooking experience in our house in general, so this is a fun little game for her to explore even if she doesn’t quite “get it” yet. I like making my kids call me “chef” the entire time we play.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally, online multiplayer available.
Pokémon Quest
Pokémon Quest is a free-to-start action RPG where players explore Tumblecube Island with cube-shaped Pokémon. With simple controls and a charming art style, this game is perfect for younger players. My kids love collecting Pokémon and battling through levels.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old enjoys the cute Pokémon and easy gameplay, while my 10-year-old loves the Pokemon storyline and the Minecraft meets Crossyroad graphics.
Number of Players: Single-player.
Snipperclips
Snipperclips is a cooperative puzzle game where players control two characters, Snip and Clip, who must cut each other into shapes to solve puzzles. With creative challenges and a fun art style, this game is perfect for family play. My kids love the teamwork and creativity required to solve each level.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old and 10-year-old enjoy working together to solve puzzles. My 3-year-old is very inquisitive and she seems to like the goofiness of the characters and their cute designs because she will stop what she’s doing just to watch this game being played.
Number of Players: 1-4 players locally (co-op mode available).
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 – Turbocharged is a high-speed racing game that brings the iconic Hot Wheels cars to life with stunning graphics and fast-paced tracks. Players can collect cars, build their own tracks, and race against friends. My kids love the thrill of racing and the creative possibilities.
Why my kids love this game based on online reviews: My 10-year-old enjoys the competitive races that offer some “crazy courses,” as he puts it. My 13-year-old dives into the track-building feature because she loves games that let her take control creatively.
Number of Players: Up to 12 players online, 2 players locally.
Sonic Origins
Sonic Origins is a collection of classic Sonic games, including Sonic the Hedgehog, Sonic CD, Sonic 2, and Sonic 3 & Knuckles. With updated graphics and new features, this game is perfect for fans of the blue blur. My kids love the fast-paced platforming and nostalgic charm.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the platformer’s simplicity when he doesn’t want to go down a rabbit hole of open-world play or more complex games. My 13-year-old appreciates the classic gameplay, and my 7-year-old loves everything Sonic, so she says her favorite part is simply that it’s a Sonic game.
I struggled with whether or not a bunch of classics should qualify for the best Nintendo Switch games for kids, but it’s among the favorites in my house, so here we are.
Number of Players: Single-player.
WarioWare: Get It Together!
WarioWare: Get It Together! is a collection of over 200 microgames, each lasting just a few seconds. With quirky challenges and multiplayer modes, this game is perfect for quick bursts of fun. My kids love the fast-paced, chaotic gameplay.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old and 10-year-old enjoy the silly microgames, while my 13-year-old appreciates the humor and creativity. My 3-year-old might need help, but she loves the colorful visuals and watching the mini-games unfold.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally.
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is a tactical RPG that combines the Mario universe with the chaotic Rabbids. Players explore planets, battle enemies, and save Spark companions. My kids love the humor, strategy, and colorful worlds.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys the tactical battles, while my 7-year-old loves the silly Rabbids. My 13-year-old has avoided this one because of her aversion to Rabbids.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Lego Brawls
Lego Brawls is a multiplayer fighting game where players create their own Lego characters and battle in various arenas. With simple controls and fun gameplay, this game is perfect for family play. My kids love the creativity and chaotic battles.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old and 10-year-old enjoy creating their own characters and battling, while my 13-year-old appreciates the competitive multiplayer.
Number of Players: Up to 8 players online, 4 players locally.
Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain is a collection of brain-training mini-games designed to test your mental skills. This game is perfect for family fun with multiplayer modes and varying difficulty levels. My kids love the challenges and friendly competition.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old and 10-year-old enjoy the fun mini-games, while my 13-year-old appreciates the more challenging levels. Even my 3-year-old joins in with simpler tasks with my help. Because of the varying difficulty levels for players, this is a great family game night option.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally.
Pac-Man World Re-Pac
Pac-Man World Re-Pac is a remastered version of the classic platformer, featuring updated graphics and gameplay. Players control Pac-Man as he explores colorful worlds and battles ghosts. My kids love the nostalgic charm and fun platforming.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old enjoys the colorful visuals and silly gameplay while my 10-year-old appreciates the challenging levels. My 13-year-old finds it nostalgic but prefers a step further back with the original Pac-Man.
Number of Players: Single-player.
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is an action-adventure game that covers all nine main Star Wars films. With humor, exploration, and fun gameplay, this game is perfect for Star Wars fans. My kids love the iconic characters and epic battles.
Why my kids love this game: My 10-year-old enjoys everything about this particular LEGO game, which is one among many. Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga made my list of the 10 best LEGO video games to play with your kids.
Number of Players: 1-2 players locally (co-op mode available).
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 is a chaotic fighting game featuring characters from popular Nickelodeon shows like SpongeBob, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Avatar: The Last Airbender. With new characters, stages, and gameplay mechanics, this game is perfect for fans of Nickelodeon and competitive brawlers. My kids love the fast-paced battles and the chance to play as their favorite characters.
Why my kids love this game: My 7-year-old and 10-year-old enjoy playing as their favorite Nickelodeon characters, while my 13-year-old appreciates the competitive gameplay and deeper mechanics. When I say my 13-year-old appreciates competitive gameplay, I really mean she loves defeating her siblings.
Number of Players: Up to 4 players locally, online multiplayer available.
My four children think those are the best Nintendo Switch games for kids. If they suddenly decide they have new favorites, I’ll add more games as they become available.