The Ultimate Guide to Must-Have Nintendo Switch Games for Kids

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age recommendation: 3-4

We begin with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This kart racing game is arguably the most accessible game on the Switch, featuring numerous accessibility options — including auto-acceleration and steering aids — that give even the littlest players the chance to get in on the action.

The support is so generous that you can actually turn it on, take your hands off the controller, and still finish in 4th place. Veteran players might scoff at this idea, but it’s perfect for very young kids who want to make the transition from spectator to participant.

If, for some reason, you’d prefer your kart racing games with fewer mustachioed plumbers, Team Sonic Racing and Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled both present solid, if not as iconic, alternatives. However, Mario is undeniably the king of kart racing.

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New Pokémon Snap (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age recommendation: 4

New Pokémon Snap tasks players with photographing Pokémon (funny, right?) as you travel through vibrant environments as if on a safari. It’s an on-rails adventure, meaning you have no control over where you go — you just aim and shoot a camera as Pokémon appear around you, as if you were leisurely strolling through an amusement park.

This safari-style gameplay makes it fantastic for parents to enjoy alongside their kids, spotting Pokémon together while relishing some of the most stunning visuals on the Switch.

Yoshi’s Crafted World (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age recommendation: 4

The whimsical art style alone suggests the E-for-Everyone nature of Yoshi’s Crafted World. Mario’s beloved companion stars in a game brimming with toilet paper rolls, cardboard houses, and textured felt, and its lighthearted charm makes it an excellent introductory platformer for children.

Two-player co-op is easily accessible if you have more than one child, and there are plenty of collectibles hidden in these beautifully crafted worlds to keep them engaged for a while.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+ ‘Mild Violence’, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 4-5

Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a delightful, colorful adventure that is especially forgiving for younger players, particularly with the optional Spring-Trail Mode that simplifies the gameplay even further, along with a co-op mode that allows for simultaneous play.

This 3D platformer brims with fun and creativity, successfully translating everything we adore about previous Kirby games into this brand-new setting while introducing a plethora of exciting new features along the way. Mouthful Mode is just as wonderfully whimsical as it appeared in the trailers, each stage is filled with secrets and surprises, and is beautifully detailed,

There are plenty of engaging activities, items to collect, and cooperative enjoyment here to keep you occupied and coming back for more for a good long time.

If you enjoy Kirby, you might also like Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe and Kirby Star Allies, both vibrant side-scrolling platform games that promise Fun for the Whole Family™. While our top recommendation would undoubtedly be the first one, Star Allies still offers a solid experience.

Disney Illusion Island (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age suggestion: 4-5

Disney Illusion Island is a 2D platformer featuring a large map that’s playable in cooperation with up to three other players. Its focus on non-combative exploration makes it a fantastic entry point into the genre for younger audiences. With its ability to accommodate four players through local co-op, it’s an excellent option for families wanting to share some quality time with some of Disney’s most iconic characters that you can also befriend and hug for health boosts.

A delightful platforming adventure with some Disney favorites – there’s so much to appreciate here.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age suggestion: 4-5

Super Mario Bros. Wonder marks the latest 2D Mario adventure in a long while, boasting a colorful, whimsical world that is perfect for kids to enjoy, alongside their nostalgic Mario-loving parents. The Wonder Plants, badges, and delightful online features create an endless creative and thrilling platforming experience with lively animation details and an infectious sense of adventure.

It features a solid lineup of characters to choose from (including a couple that take no damage – great for the littlest ones), and a gentle design approach with a visual aid indicating the challenge level of each stage, plus four-player local cooperative gameplay to enjoy. It’s undoubtedly one of the most joyful games on the system, perfect for both nostalgic adults and young players alike.

Additionally, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe was an earlier return to Mario’s platforming origins that also offers frantic four-player action and an expansive single-player journey. It is packed with quality platforming content to keep your little ones entertained for countless hours, though we would personally suggest starting with Wonder first.

Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age suggestion: 5

Pokémon has become a global sensation, yet this Switch remake of the very first Game Boy titles marks a point where the mainline games can be enjoyed by younger players. Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Eevee! combine the classic turn-based gameplay of the original series with elements from the mobile game Pokémon GO to create the most accessible version of the full Pokémon adventure on console.

The Let’s Go games serve as excellent introductions to the franchise and also offer a delightful nostalgia trip for those who played the original titles over two decades ago. Some light cooperative gameplay rounds off a captivating PokéPackage.

Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age suggestion: 5

A leisurely puzzle-platformer, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker now features 2-player co-op gameplay, making it a wonderful option to enjoy alongside your little ones. There’s no jumping in this platformer, so you’ll be examining the environment for clues on how to collect each gem and navigate through the bite-sized stages.

Captain Toad primarily focuses on puzzles, so keep this in mind if your child prefers action-packed experiences. However, if you’re seeking a calm, wholesome way to stimulate the mind with your offspring, this is undoubtedly one of the standout games on the platform.

New Super Lucky’s Tale (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age suggestion: 5

Light on complexity but high on enjoyment, New Super Lucky’s Tale is an old-school style 3D platformer refined for the 21st century. While it may not offer the deepest adventure, it certainly provides a heartwarming experience with plenty of silly humor and endearing characters. Lucky’s escapades are perfect for starry-eyed youngsters and nostalgic older players alike, making it well worth checking out.

LEGO Marvel Super Heroes (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age suggestion: 5

Featuring split-screen co-op and incredibly manageable gameplay expectations, LEGO Marvel Super Heroes offers a delightful, low-pressure gaming experience for parents and children to enjoy together, as well as for adults searching for something that passes the time pleasantly without overwhelming them. Excelsior!

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Super Mario Odyssey (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 5-6

A bit more intricate than Kirby, yet in terms of platform games, your initial destination might likely be Nintendo’s iconic character with a moustache. In both 2D and 3D forms, Mario’s lively charm appeals to players of all ages.

Super Mario Odyssey certainly ranks among his top adventures. It features a delightful two-player co-op mode where one player guides the plumber’s hat while the other controls Mario himself, making it an excellent choice for enjoying with your child. The abundant variety of collectible Moons and other treasures also guarantees there is plenty to explore as their gaming skills improve.

If you’re struggling to locate certain items, we have guides available to assist you in finding those elusive Power Moons.

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+ ‘Comic Mischief, Light Violence, In-Game Purchases’, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 5-6

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga presents a remarkable experience on Switch, showcasing everything Star Wars in stunning form as it makes its way to Nintendo’s console. Enhancements to the series’ fundamental gameplay here—such as combo-oriented combat, spectacular space battles, boss fights, third-person shooting mechanics, and cover systems—combine to create the most engaging LEGO Star Wars experience yet, though they also complicate things just a tad more than traditional LEGO games.

With a vast open-world environment brimming with secrets and collectibles, you’ve got an absolute treasure trove of all things Star Wars to immerse yourself in. Yub nub.

Splatoon 3 (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 5-6

A third-person shooter that uses paint instead of bullets, Splatoon 3 features a single-player campaign that serves as an excellent introduction to the various competitive modes. Players compete to capture a moving platform, fend off waves of advancing salmon, or cover as much of the stage as possible before time runs out in Turf War.

Control-wise, Splatoon offers plenty of action, but kids adapt quickly, and thanks to its gyro-aiming controls, we have personal experience of a 5-year-old rapidly progressing from aimlessly spraying the ground in Splatoon 2 to successfully completing that game’s challenging Octo Expansion DLC within a year.

And let’s not forget: Splatoon 2 is almost as enjoyable as this version and comes with its own substantial single-player campaign (and the aforementioned DLC), so there’s no shortage of splatting action on Switch.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age recommendation: 5-6

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a leisurely life simulation game where you find yourself on a deserted island, creating a new life surrounded by charming animal residents. You can shake trees, harvest fruits, fish, catch bugs, craft furniture, and engage in a variety of other wholesome activities.

It’s a captivating game—a soothing remedy when you’re cooped up at home and in need of a little fresh (virtual) air to keep your mind and spirit healthy. To fully enjoy it and collaborate effectively with all inhabitants (and read item names), your child will need basic reading skills, though they can happily collect fish and bugs and wander around the island without reading a word.

One important detail to note is that while up to eight players can ‘live’ on a single island, only one player serves as the ‘Resident Representative’—the individual in charge of development, projects, and overall management in the game. Others can fish and engage in activities, but the overall experience revolves around the player who establishes the island at the start. You cannot swap the Resident Representative once you’ve begun, and only one island can be created per Switch console (regardless of how many copies of the game you own—save data is linked to the console, not the game card).

For many, these stipulations might not be significant, but they are worth considering, especially if you have a shared family Switch used by more than one child.

Princess Peach: Showtime! (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 5-6

We expected a trivial offering, perhaps a series of minigames and simpler Mario-style platforming, but Princess Peach: Showtime! is genuinely one of the finest games aimed at children on the Switch.

This single-player platformer is bursting with creativity, style, and enjoyment, featuring levels filled with secrets, cool outfits, and enough innovative mechanics to ensure that nothing overstays its welcome. Embrace the style, but don’t miss out on the boss encounters, slow-motion bullet dodges, and thrilling cardboard horse chases.

“`Minecraft (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 6

Let’s be honest, if you’ve got kids and a Switch, there’s a good chance you’ve already purchased Minecraft. This first-person sandbox game encourages creativity and imagination, and it’s easy to see why it has been such a colossal success with kids worldwide for nearly ten years: it’s actually, truly brilliant.

Exploring the 3D universe and crafting resources to create your own cubical haven isn’t straightforward, but from our experience, it’s fascinating how quickly children grasp the basics.

Perhaps the only drawback of introducing Minecraft to your kids (especially if you’re not playing it yourself) is enduring their extremely detailed accounts of their achievements, leaving you feeling somewhat out of touch with what they’re describing.

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 6-7

Another delightful 2D platformer, this time from Ubisoft, Rayman Legends on Switch is the ‘Definitive Edition’ of a game that originally appeared on Nintendo’s former console. Therefore, it’s available at a budget-friendly price, but don’t be misled into thinking it offers a lesser experience.

This is undoubtedly one of the best platforming games ever created that doesn’t feature Nintendo’s mascot. With stunning graphics, a variety of characters to choose from, and a fun Kung Foot minigame included, it’s a fantastic option for young gamers who love jumping on platforms.

If they enjoy this and want more 2D platformers, both Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair and Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze are excellent choices, although the latter can be quite challenging in the later levels.

Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 6-7

Note. This is not compatible with either the Switch OLED or Switch Lite — only the regular Switch. Something to keep in mind!

Nintendo’s Labo kits are innovative cardboard structures that you carefully assemble and insert your Joy-Con (and even the Switch console) into, creating a variety of toys and fun experiences that interact with the screen in unique ways.

The Labo Variety Kit is a great place to start, while the Labo VR Kit has been particularly well-received by the kids we know, offering enjoyable and straightforward VR experiences along with mini VR mode upgrades for various other games, including Super Mario Odyssey and Captain Toad. These kits are available quite cheaply right now, so there’s no better time to try one out, and replacement cardboard templates can be ordered directly from Nintendo.

For parents, there are two key points to keep in mind regarding Labo. First, you may need to assist with assembly (or take over entirely), which could take a few hours depending on the Toy-Con. Second, you’ll end up with a substantial amount of cardboard. On the one hand, this makes it convenient when they inevitably get damaged – just crush them and toss them in the recycling – but you’ll need to store them while Labo is favored in your home.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 6-7

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury offers a bright and welcoming introduction to a grand Super Mario universe in 3D.

It is the only four-player 3D Mario game, skillfully combining the freedom of 3D exploration with the characteristic design of the more structured (yet equally imaginative) themes of his 2D games. It’s a wonderful way to engage younger players while providing support and guidance. Plus, with all its cat costumes and feline elements, it may very well be the cutest Super Mario game ever crafted.

Super Mario Party Jamboree (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age recommendation: 6-7

Super Mario Party Jamboree might just be the ultimate Mario Party game, delivering multiplayer mini-games in a lively format that transports Mario and his Mushroom Kingdom friends into what is essentially a digital board game.

Parents should remember that while the various mini-games can be hilarious, gameplay outside of those involves turn-based actions (as you take turns rolling dice and moving on the board, etc.) and includes quite a bit of reading and, potentially, waiting. Completing a board can take well over an hour (depending on your chosen mode), so keep that in mind – if your children are not old enough to read the on-screen prompts and instructions, they’ll need supervision for this activity. You’ll also want multiple players to get the most enjoyment out of it.

In our opinion, Jamboree is the best Mario Party game to date, but Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars are both highly enjoyable as well.

Sonic X Shadow Generations (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 6-7

There is no scarcity of Sonic video games; nonetheless, Sonic X Shadow Generations might very well be the premier 3D Sonic title to date. The revamped Generations content remains enjoyable, guiding you through some of the franchise’s most memorable stages, while Shadow’s unique storyline showcases the franchise’s 3D gameplay at its finest, introducing an array of incredible new abilities and displaying some of the most imaginative levels we’ve encountered.

If you’re a fan of 2D Sonic, Sonic Origins offers a delightful collection of the hedgehog’s early adventures from the ’90s, while Sonic Mania and Sonic Superstars take that classic framework and build upon it.

Luigi’s Mansion 3 (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 7

One of the most visually stunning games on the Switch, Luigi’s Mansion 3 places Mario’s lanky sibling in the spotlight as a ghost hunter of sorts. Equipped with a vacuum cleaner and a flashlight, it’s up to Luigi to save his big brother in this brilliantly eerie sequel.

The game’s light-hearted humor and spooky atmosphere might not appeal to everyone (especially for our younger family members who have set it aside for when they are a bit older), and its control scheme may take some time to get used to, but it is a visually stunning game enhanced by a co-op mode available once you’ve unlocked Luigi’s goo-based twin, Gooigi, after a couple of hours.

Add in a variety of mini-games, and Luigi’s Mansion 3 is the perfect choice for entering the Halloween spirit without frightening your little ones with gory images. And if you find yourself stuck collecting a few gems or capturing Boo ghosts, we have guides that can help you.

And even after capturing all the ghosts in this game, there’s always Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD to explore.

ARMS (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 12, NL minimum age recommendation: 7

Vibrant, colorful graphics combined with easy and intuitive controls make ARMS a strong contender for your kids’ attention. In this boxing game, your arms are mapped to the motion-controlled Joy-Con, providing the added benefit of burning off some of your little ones’ energy while they play.

As an enthusiastic and competitive game, it’s advisable to keep an eye on the intensity of the matches to ensure they don’t become too intense, but overall, it’s a fantastic way to get your kids off the couch and moving.

Pokémon Sword and Shield (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 7

With various user-friendly features and a vibrant, appealing presentation, Pokémon Sword and Shield serves as an excellent introduction to the Pokémon world for slightly older kids. While we recommend Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! and Let’s Go, Eevee! for younger players, this full-fledged traditional Pokémon game offers a wide range of Pokémon to catch. Although it may have been surpassed by Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, we still suggest starting with this one, given the opportunity.

The main storyline is relatively straightforward to navigate, even if you aren’t the most seasoned Pokémon strategist; however, there is a significant amount of post-game content once you become the Pokémon Champion. Then, of course, there is the series’ motto to keep in mind: Gotta catch ’em all! With that said, Pokémon Sword and Shield can easily keep your little ones engaged for a long time.

Super Mario Maker 2 (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age recommendation: 7

Another fantastic option if your child shows a talent for creativity, Super Mario Maker 2 allows them to create their own Mario levels using one of five different styles, from retro NES pixel art to his beloved HD form. The game supports some impressively complex designs, yet it’s just as easy to create a simple course filled with ‘?’ blocks and some Koopa Troopas.

A solid solo campaign helps teach the basics and highlight the creative potential of the game’s tools. We would have loved to create our own Mario levels as kids, making this an ideal choice for the ultimate Nintendo fan in your family.

Rocket League (Switch eShop)

ESRB: Everyone, PEGI: 3, NL minimum age recommendation: 7-8

Combining two of many children’s passions, Rocket League involves playing 3-on-3 soccer, but instead of controlling a player, you’re driving a car. This may sound like a chaotic mix of turns and sluggish movements, but believe us when we say – it actually works!

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It might take a bit to fully grasp — especially getting accustomed to the camera that automatically tracks the ball instead of your vehicle — but once it does click, Rocket League is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable and captivating competitive games on Switch. With a myriad of customization options and decorative items to adorn your car, it’s a thrill for players of all ages, particularly if your little one is enthusiastic about either football (or soccer, if you prefer) and/or remote-controlled cars; this game is a clear winner.

Moreover, it is free-to-play, which means there’s no cost to download and get started if it piques your interest.

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 7-8

Featuring the title princess stepping into a significant role for the first time in her well-known series, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom allows you to copy and paste ‘echoes’ of items and creatures found in the environment to solve puzzles and overcome adversaries, combining strategy and experimentation with the series’ classic swordplay (though you can still wield a sword for a limited time if you’d like).

Younger players might need some assistance, as certain sections can be challenging and the menus can be a bit complex, but the expansive world to explore and the opportunities to solve problems in various ways make this a fantastic Zelda experience for children.

Alternatively, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is equally charming and serves as a wonderful introduction to Nintendo’s premier action-RPG series. This remake of the Game Boy classic requires a fair amount of reading and patience, but it is indeed a delightful little adventure filled with large, cartoonish monsters that you’ll be glad to assist with if the kids get stuck. Naturally, helpful guides are just a click away if you’re truly in a tough spot.

Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 7, NL minimum age recommendation: 7-8

Despite Mario taking a prominent place as the unquestioned king of platforming, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is a turn-based strategy game. Reminder — THIS IS NOT A PLATFORM GAME, so make sure you don’t pick it up thinking you’ll be controlling the plumber and jumping on Goombas’ heads.

Combining Ubisoft’s Rabbids with Nintendo’s Mushroom Kingdom characters, this game is packed with humor and is perfect for kids who enjoy light strategy and puzzles.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Switch)

ESRB: Everyone 10+, PEGI: 12, NL minimum age recommendation: 8

Everyone is here. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate features every fighter from prior games within the series, offering a vast array of characters to choose from.