The best Nintendo Switch games for kids masterfully blend fun, creativity, and age-appropriate challenges, with titles like “Super Mario Odyssey.”
“Animal Crossing: New Horizons” and “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” are leading the pack. As a parent and a lifelong gaming enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours on the couch with my kids,
controller in hand, discovering which games truly captivate their imaginations while giving me peace of mind. The Nintendo Switch’s unique library is a treasure trove for families, but navigating it can be overwhelming.
This guide will cut through the noise and highlight the absolute best picks for your young gamers, broken down by what makes each one special.
Finding the right game is about more than just keeping kids busy; it’s about finding joyful experiences, encouraging problem-solving, and sometimes even bringing the whole family together. Nintendo has always excelled at creating worlds that are welcoming
to players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a solo adventure, a cooperative masterpiece, or the perfect party game for a sleepover, the following recommendations are based on hands-on experience, child development principles, and a deep understanding of what makes a game both fun and worthwhile.
Top Kid-Friendly Nintendo Switch Games (2025 Edition)
These are my recommended games for young players, age-graded loosely from younger (5–8) to slightly older children (9–12+):
| Game | Why It’s Great for Kids |
|---|---|
| Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | Classic racing with assist mode (auto-steer, auto-accelerate) makes it accessible to even beginner players. |
| Animal Crossing: New Horizons | Gentle, open-ended, no stress — perfect for creativity, gardening, and slow-paced fun. |
| Just Dance (series) | Physical, active, and easy to pick up — kids just mimic the moves for immediate fun. |
| Super Mario Odyssey | Bright, imaginative worlds, forgiving gameplay, and optional hint systems help kids explore confidently. |
| Luigi’s Mansion 3 | Spooky but lighthearted; more puzzle / ghost-hunting than horror. |
| Yoshi’s Crafted World | Cute visuals, forgiving mechanics, cooperative play, and safe content. |
| Kirby and the Forgotten Land | Easy platforming, low stress, fun environments — great for new players. |
| Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker | Puzzle-platform style; encourages thinking but without high intensity. |
| Paper Mario: The Origami King | RPG-lite with humor and manageable combat; great for older kids starting into story games. |
| Super Mario Party / Mario Party 11 | Mini-games that are short, varied, and fun for groups, especially with family. |
