The Best Nintendo Switch Games for Kids
If you’re looking for the best Nintendo Switch games for kids that are fun, age-appropriate and perfect for family game nights, you’ve come to the right place! This list features some of my favourite Nintendo Switch games that are perfect for gamers of all ages.
I’ve been a huge fan of Nintendo products from an early age. I still remember playing on my Nintendo 64 with my cousins as a child—those are such happy memories for me. Needless to say, Nintendo games have been a staple in my house for a long time.
The Nintendo Switch is a favourite of mine—I even have a Nintendo Switch Lite for those moments on the go. And don’t get me started on how excited I am for the Nintendo Switch 2 release!
Whether you’re shopping for a young gamer or want a game everyone can enjoy together, the Nintendo Switch is packed with incredible kid-friendly titles that offer something for every type of player.
From classic characters like Mario and Kirby to cozy favourites, these games are easy to learn, full of charm and offer the perfect balance of fun and challenge. Whether you’re raising the next Mario Kart champion or looking for a cozy simulation, you’ll find the perfect game right here!
To make things even easier, I’ve included key details for each game—like the release year, ESRB rating, game type and number of players—so you can quickly find the best fit for your family.
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Super Mario Nintendo Switch Games for Kids
Mario, Luigi and their friends are some of the most iconic characters in the Nintendo universe. Luckily, the Nintendo Switch offers a variety of exciting games featuring these beloved characters. From Mario and Luigi to Princess Peach and Toad, these games deliver fun, family-friendly adventures that everyone can enjoy.
Whether you’re racing through colourful courses, solving creative puzzles, or embarking on heroic quests, these games bring the magic of Mario and his friends to life in fresh and thrilling ways—making them perfect choices for kids and fans of all ages.
Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
When I play Mario Kart, I always pick Toad—so it’s no surprise Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker made this list. Players guide Captain Toad through clever, treasure-filled levels packed with puzzles and surprises. It’s a simple, smart, and creative game, especially suited for younger players who enjoy adventure and thinking outside the box.
I love Luigi’s Mansion 3, and I really need to pick up its sequel, Luigi’s Mansion 2, soon! In this entertaining adventure, Luigi explores a spooky hotel while searching for Mario and his friends. Full of goofy ghosts, clever puzzles and themed levels, and bosses, it’s a spooky-but-silly experience that kids will love.
Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope
In this sequel to Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, players team up with Mario and the Rabbids in a strategy adventure across the galaxy. Players will take down new bosses, battle familiar enemies, and rescue the Sparks. It’s the perfect mix of turn-based combat and quirky humour for kids looking for a little more depth in their gameplay.
If your kids love a little friendly competition, Mario Golf: Super Rush is the perfect game to get them off the couch. With easy-to-learn controls, fun power-ups, and a few zany twists, it’s a family-friendly game that’s perfect for a quick round of golf or an afternoon challenge. When my Dad and I are looking for a fun afternoon, Mario Golf is our go-to!
I love Princess Peach—who doesn’t? Princess Peach: Showtime is a great Nintendo Switch game for kids (and grown-ups!). Players step into the spotlight as Princess Peach in this whimsical stage-themed adventure as she tries to save the Sparkle Theatre from the wicked Grape and the Sour Bunch.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
I loved curling up with my Game Boy Advance and playing the classic Super Mario Games when I was younger. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a refreshing twist on the classic 2D Mario experience, and it delivers all the nostalgia. With animated transformations, surprises around every corner, and multiplayer options, it’s playful, imaginative, and great for new and returning fans.
This is one of my personal favourites on the list—you really can’t beat a great Mario adventure. In Super Mario Odyssey, players join Mario and Cappy on a globe-trotting adventure to stop Bowser’s wedding plans and save Princess Peach. The levels are creative, the controls are kid-friendly, and hidden secrets add an extra layer of fun. There’s even an assist mode, which is perfect for younger players who may need a bit of help.
Yoshi has always been one of my favourite characters! In Yoshi’s Crafted World, players explore a handmade world of everyday objects as Yoshi embarks on a treasure hunt while encountering characters like Bowser and Kamek. With a gentle learning curve and co-op play, it’s a relaxing and visually charming experience—perfect for younger gamers.
Party Nintendo Switch Games for Kids
If you’re looking for Nintendo Switch games that get everyone laughing and competing, these party games are the perfect choice. Ideal for family game nights or anytime you’re in the mood for a little friendly competition, these games are designed to bring people together.
It should be no surprise that this game is on this list! Mario Kart 8 Deluxe brings all the classic karting fun of Mario and friends with easy-to-learn controls, hilarious power-ups, and lightning-fast tracks. Whether you’re zooming through Rainbow Road or knocking out friends with a well-timed shell, it’s the perfect game for families who love a bit of friendly competition. While my friends and I often race each other, we also love the mini games—Balloon Battle is our personal favourite!
If your family loves a little friendly competition, Nintendo Switch Sports is a total win. It features active games like bowling, soccer, tennis, and more—perfect for family game nights to get everyone off the couch. With motion controls and simple gameplay, it’s easy for anyone to jump in. If you were a fan of the classic Wii Sports games, this one will feel like a nostalgic upgrade!
If you’re looking for a night full of laughs, Super Mario Party Jamboree is a must-play! It’s packed with mini-games, silly antics, and the chance to outwit your friends and family. With bright visuals and fast-paced fun, it’s the ultimate party game for kids and adults.
Adventure Nintendo Switch Games for Kids
If your kids love exploring magical worlds, solving puzzles or jumping through colourful levels, platform and adventure games are a fantastic choice. These Nintendo Switch games for kids combine storytelling, creative gameplay and just the right amount of challenge to keep young (and grown-up!) players engaged.
As a Disney fan, it’s no surprise this one made the list! Disney Illusion Island is a side-scrolling adventure game starring Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy. Players work to help the characters find three magical books and save a mysterious island. With its charming animation and co-op gameplay, it’s a great Nintendo Switch game for families and younger players. It focuses on teamwork and exploration rather than combat—making it a fun, family-friendly platformer.
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Who doesn’t love a game featuring Donkey Kong? Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is a side-scrolling platformer that follows Donkey Kong, Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong and Cranky Kong as they save their island from arctic invaders. The graphics are impressive, the levels are challenging, and the characters are full of charm. It’s a great choice for kids who want more of a challenge—but if younger players need a more accessible experience, Funky Mode is the perfect solution.
This might be one of the most adorable and creative adventures your kids (and you!) will play. In Kirby and the Forgotten Land, players will explore a mysterious world while saving the kidnapped Waddle Dees using Kirby’s signature powers—including the all-new “mouthful mode,” which lets him inhale and transform into various objects. It’s an exciting Nintendo Switch game for kids, with just the right level of challenge.
The Spyro games are so nostalgic for me—I still remember playing them on my cousin’s PlayStation 1 when I was younger. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy introduces a whole new generation to the classic dragon-fueled adventures with smooth controls and stunning updated graphics. With over 100 levels across three full games, it’s a fantastic pick for kids who go through games quickly. Plus, it’s one of my personal favourites to play!
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
Classic Zelda games are full of nostalgia, and I know I’m not alone in that! The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening is a whimsical remake of the original Game Boy title, which makes it a great introduction for kids. With its cute, toy-like graphics and manageable puzzles, this game offers a magical adventure without being too overwhelming. It’s perfect for gamers of all ages!
LEGO Nintendo Switch Games for Kids
If you’re looking for kid-friendly Nintendo Switch games full of humour, action, and creativity, LEGO games are always a safe bet. These family-friendly adventures combine iconic characters, clever storytelling and hilarious cutscenes in a way that kids (and adults!) can’t get enough of.
Whether your child loves superheroes, wizards or anything in between, there’s a LEGO Switch game that brings those worlds to life—brick by brick.
This magical collection includes both Years 1-4 and Years 5-7, making it perfect for fans of both LEGO and Harry Potter. With classic LEGO humour, easy-to-follow gameplay, and all the spells, secrets, and twists from the Wizarding World, it’s a fun and immersive experience for players of all ages.
As a Marvel fan, I love how LEGO Marvel Super Heroes brings the action of the MCU into a playful, interactive world. Players team up with their favourite superheroes to stop Loki and other villains from taking over the world. It’s packed with humour, engaging missions, and plenty of side quests.
LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
Covering all nine Star Wars films, LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga delivers epic action, silly humour and galaxy-spanning adventures. With vibrant visuals, pick-up-and-play mechanics and plenty of laughs, it’s a great choice for Star Wars fans both big and small.
Suit up and save the day with your favourite Pixar super family! LEGO The Incredibles blends the heartwarming storytelling of Pixar with the charm of LEGO gameplay. With fun puzzles, action-packed missions, and built-in co-op play, it’s a lighthearted superhero adventure the whole family can enjoy.
Creative and Life Simulation Nintendo Switch Games for Kids
If you’re looking for Nintendo Switch games that involve building, designing or diving into everyday adventures, these creative and life simulation Nintendo Switch games are the perfect choice. These games offer cozy, open-ended play that encourages creativity while allowing players to enjoy a quiet afternoon of relaxing screen time.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is one of the most calming and delightful games for kids (and adults—I’m obsessed too!). Players build and decorate their island, befriend cute animal neighbours and enjoy real-time seasonal events. With a Nintendo Switch Online membership, you can even visit other islands! It’s cozy, creative and endlessly replayable—my Nintendo Switch is the Animal Crossing version, if that tells you how much I love this game!
This is another one of my all-time favourites—and honestly, my current Nintendo Switch addiction. Disney Dreamlight Valley is like Animal Crossing meets Disney magic! Players rebuild a village by completing quests, crafting, and customizing. It’s a relaxed, story-driven game that keeps growing with regular updates. As a bonus: there are also two expansions—A Rift in Time and The Storybook Vale.
The newest game on this list, but Hello Kitty Island Adventure deserves a spot. This cozy game is full of adorable moments and light exploration, making it perfect for younger kids who want low-pressure play. Players can decorate their island, complete side quests and enjoy relaxing mini-games with no stress at all!
Who doesn’t love Pokémon? In New Pokémon Snap, players explore different Pokémon habitats and take photos along the way! It’s a peaceful and fun game packed with adorable creatures—it feels like a relaxing nature safari with all the familiar Pokémon you know and love. With no battling or pressure, it’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
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