Exciting and Kid-Friendly Nintendo Switch Games
As both a parent and avid gamer, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality video games that are appropriate and fun for kids. The Nintendo Switch has an excellent selection of family-friendly games perfect for younger children.
Choosing games with age-appropriate content that encourage creativity, problem-solving and collaboration is key. The Switch’s hybrid console/handheld play and multiplayer support make it a great choice for gaming families.
Below I highlight the top 10 Nintendo Switch game recommendations to consider for your little ones, from preschoolers to pre-teens.
1. Super Mario Odyssey
The whimsical platforming gameplay of Super Mario Odyssey is perfect for kids of all ages. Vibrant worlds to explore, quirky characters and Mario’s signature jumping action enthralled my children for hours.
The two-player mode also allows a second player to join in and assist, making it a great family game. With its charm, colorful visuals and forgiving gameplay, Super Mario Odyssey is a must-have for Switch-owning households.
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
The relaxing, creative simulation gameplay of Animal Crossing: New Horizons has wide appeal for kids. Making your own virtual island paradise by fishing, gardening, collecting items and customizing your surroundings fosters so much imagination.
Daily discoveries keep gameplay fresh too. Parental supervision is still advised given the social play features. But overall, Animal Crossing’s soothing vibe and freedom make for engaging family fun.
3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe 
It’s hard to beat the pure fun of the Mario Kart franchise, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe refines its arcade racing action to perfection. With colorful weapons, stunt ramps and skills to master across dozens of tracks, it keeps kids hooked for hours.
The Switch version supports up to 4-player split screen racing. Plus, its honed mechanics make it more accessible for younger kids compared to past Mario Kart titles – they’ll have a blast!
4. Minecraft
The ultimate virtual sandbox, Minecraft promotes boundless creativity and problem-solving as kids explore, gather resources and craft elaborate structures however they want.
Peaceful mode removes enemies for younger players. Its blocky graphics and simple controls also make the game forgiving for kids learning gaming mechanics while still offering immense depth.
5. Splatoon 2
Nintendo put a family-friendly spin on online shooters with the Splatoon series. As ink-shooting squid kids, players compete in messy turf battles. It captures all the adrenaline of multiplayer shooters without blood or gore.
Local and online modes, tons of customization, and post-launch content updates provide plenty for kids and parents to enjoy together in this standout third-person shooter.
6. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
For a classic side-scrolling platformer, the New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe 2D level designs are accessible for young gamers while still offering just enough challenge.
Up to 4 players can run through levels together on one system, making for wonderfully chaotic family multiplayer. And Mario’s cheery world provides hours and hours of lighthearted jumping antics.
7. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The Super Smash Bros. series lets Nintendo characters duke it out in over-the-top cartoon fights. With dozens of fighters and items, no blood or mature content, and 8-player Smash matches, this fast-paced party game is made for kids.
Just don’t let sore losing ruin friendships! Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers endless, raucous gaming memories in a kid-safe package.
8. Kirby Star Allies
The adorable pink puffball’s Nintendo Switch adventure, Kirby Star Allies, is a stress-free romp packed with charm and co-op hijinks.
Its side-scrolling levels, simple controls and chill pace make it suitable and enjoyable for gamers as young as preschool age. Add in creative copy abilities and 4-player multiplayer, and you’ve got a delightful family game night.
9. Yoshi’s Crafted World
Nintendo knocked the whimsical, homemade art style out of the park with this clever Yoshi-starring platformer. The flip-the-level mechanic breathes new life into the 2D side-scroller.
With two-player co-op, Yoshi’s Crafted World captures youthful imagination with its materials aesthetic and laidback egg throwing and collecting challenges. It’s an artistic adventure perfect for sharing.
10. Luigi’s Mansion 3
While giving a slight spooky vibe, Luigi’s Mansion 3 keeps scares very family-friendly with its comedic Ghostbusters-esque action. Busting ghosts never gets old!
The puzzles, locales, multiplayer modes and polished game feel make Luigi’s latest adventure a true all-ages treat. From inventive boss battles to its charming personality, Luigi’s Mansion 3 is a timely Halloween delight for kids.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch offers no shortage of stellar games suitable for younger audiences. Look for titles with E ratings that emphasize age-appropriate content, creative freedom, problem-solving and shared screen fun.
Gaming together provides wonderful bonding time while teaching kids collaboration, strategizing and digital skills. Let your child’s interests and abilities guide which games are best. With the right selections, the Nintendo Switch can fuel healthy play for all ages!
People Also Ask
What is the appropriate age for Nintendo Switch?
The Switch is appropriate for kids aged 6 and up. Look at ESRB ratings for guidance. For younger kids under 6, co-play with parental supervision is recommended given small parts like cartridges. Enable parental controls for younger players.
What are the best Nintendo Switch games for a 5 year old?
Great starter Switch games for a 5 year old include Super Mario Odyssey, Kirby Star Allies, Pokemon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee, Super Mario Party, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, Yoshi’s Crafted World, Minecraft and any LEGO title.
What are the best Nintendo Switch games for a 7 year old?
Recommendations for a 7 year old include Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Splatoon 2, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, Pokemon Sword/Shield, Super Mario Maker 2, Mario Tennis Aces and Just Dance titles.
What are the best Nintendo Switch games for a 10 year old?
For a 10 year old, consider The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Minecraft, Fortnite, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Luigi’s Mansion 3, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Pokemon Sword/Shield.
What are the best Nintendo Switch games for teens?
Top Switch titles for teens include The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Splatoon 2, Super Mario Odyssey, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, Minecraft, Fortnite and Just Dance titles.
Are Nintendo Switch games downloadable?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch e-Shop allows you to download digital versions of games to play directly on your console without a physical cartridge. This enables convenient access to titles. Multiplayer requires multiple profiles. An internet connection and SD card help.
How do you set parental controls on the Nintendo Switch?
Under System Settings, select Parental Controls. You can restrict game ratings, set play time limits, disable communication features, limit purchases and more. A PIN prevents kids from changing settings. Use these tools to help manage kids’ gaming.
What is the easiest game on Nintendo Switch?
Some of the most accessible, easiest to pick up Nintendo Switch games for novice or younger players include Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe, Kirby Star Allies, Yoshi’s Crafted World, Super Mario Party, Pokemon .Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee and any LEGO title.