Best Kids Nintendo Switch Games Right Now (2025 Guide)

Scott Daly

The Nintendo Switch has become a favorite gaming platform for families, offering a wide range of titles suitable for children of all ages. With its portable design and family-friendly focus, parents can find games that are not only entertaining but also age-appropriate and sometimes even educational.

The best Nintendo Switch games for kids combine engaging gameplay with colorful graphics while avoiding excessive violence or complicated controls. From beloved Nintendo franchises like Super Mario and Animal Crossing to indie gems, these games provide hours of fun while often teaching problem-solving skills and creativity. Many titles also offer multiplayer options, allowing the whole family to join in the gaming experience.


🏆 Top Picks for Kids

Game TitleAge RangeGenreWhy It’s Great for KidsMultiplayer?
Animal Crossing: New Horizons6+Life SimulationEncourages creativity, social play, and responsibility through building and customizing an island.Yes (Online & Local)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe5+RacingEasy to pick up, fun for all ages, and great for family game nights.Yes (Local & Online)
Super Mario Odyssey7+PlatformerColorful adventure with puzzles, exploration, and light challenges.Limited (2-player assist mode)
Pokémon Scarlet & Violet8+RPGCollecting Pokémon and exploring open worlds encourages strategy and creativity.Yes (Online features)
Luigi’s Mansion 37+Puzzle/AdventureSpooky but kid-friendly with fun puzzles and cooperative play.Yes (2-player co-op)
Kirby and the Forgotten Land6+PlatformerBright, cheerful, and forgiving gameplay that’s great for younger players.Yes (2-player co-op)
Minecraft (Switch Edition)7+Sandbox/CreativeEndless creativity, problem-solving, and cooperative fun.Yes (Local & Online)
Splatoon 39+Action/Shooter (Non-violent)Bright, ink-based battles that are competitive but family-friendly.Yes (Local & Online)
Yoshi’s Crafted World5+PlatformerGentle difficulty, adorable visuals, and cooperative play.Yes (2-player co-op)
Mario Party Superstars6+Party/MinigamesPerfect for family play with fun, short mini-games.Yes (Local & Online)

🌟 Tips for Parents

  • Use Parental Controls: The Switch has excellent parental control options to manage screen time, purchases, and online play.
  • Consider Co-op Games: Titles like Kirby and Yoshi’s Crafted World allow parents and kids to play together.
  • Balance Fun & Learning: Games like Minecraft and Animal Crossing can help kids develop creativity and problem-solving skills.

✅ Whether your child loves racing, exploring, or creating, the Nintendo Switch has a game that fits their interests and age level.

Best Kids Nintendo Switch Games by Age Group (2025)


👶 Ages 4–6 (Early Gamers)

These games are gentle, easy to control, and visually appealing. Perfect for little ones just starting out.

Game TitleWhy It’s GreatMultiplayer?
Yoshi’s Crafted WorldBright visuals, simple platforming, forgiving difficulty.Yes (2-player co-op)
Kirby and the Forgotten LandKid-friendly, colorful, and forgiving gameplay.Yes (2-player co-op)
Mario Kart 8 DeluxeEasy steering options for young players, fun for the whole family.Yes (Local & Online)
Paw Patrol: Mighty Pups Save Adventure BayFamiliar characters, simple missions, great for preschoolers.Yes (Local)

🧒 Ages 7–9 (Elementary School)

Kids at this age enjoy more challenge and creativity.

Game TitleWhy It’s GreatMultiplayer?
Animal Crossing: New HorizonsEncourages creativity, routine, and social play.Yes (Local & Online)
Super Mario OdysseyFun puzzles, exploration, and colorful adventure.Limited (Assist mode)
Luigi’s Mansion 3Lightly spooky but fun puzzles, teamwork-friendly.Yes (2-player co-op)
Minecraft (Switch Edition)Endless creative play, problem-solving, and teamwork.Yes (Local & Online)

👦 Ages 10–12 (Pre-Teens)

At this stage, kids are ready for more strategy, story, and competition.

Game TitleWhy It’s GreatMultiplayer?
Pokémon Scarlet & VioletCollecting, exploring, and battling with strategy.Yes (Online features)
Splatoon 3Friendly, colorful team battles (non-violent).Yes (Local & Online)
Mario Party SuperstarsGreat for friends and family, quick minigames.Yes (Local & Online)
Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild / Tears of the KingdomExpansive open-world adventure, problem-solving, exploration.No (Single-player)

🎯 Ages 13+ (Teens)

For older kids ready for deeper gameplay, longer adventures, and more challenge.

Game TitleWhy It’s GreatMultiplayer?
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KingdomDeep puzzles, open-world creativity, and epic adventure.No (Single-player)
Super Smash Bros. UltimateFast-paced fighting game with Nintendo characters, competitive fun.Yes (Local & Online)
Fortnite (Switch Edition)Popular online battle royale, free-to-play, social play.Yes (Online)
Monster Hunter Stories 2Turn-based RPG with monsters and strategy.Yes (Local & Online)

✅ This breakdown helps parents choose age-appropriate, safe, and fun games while also knowing which ones are best for family play.

The Nintendo Switch has become one of the most family-friendly gaming consoles, offering a wide variety of titles that are safe, fun, and engaging for kids. From creative adventures to multiplayer fun, here are the top picks for children of different ages.

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons stands out as one of the most family-friendly games available on Nintendo Switch. Released in March 2020, this relaxing life simulation game creates a peaceful world where players can build their own island paradise.

The game removes life’s stresses and focuses on simple pleasures, making it something anyone can appreciate. Children can enjoy activities like fishing, bug catching, and decorating their virtual home without any complicated mechanics.

Parents looking for games suitable for younger children might wonder about the accessibility. Many have questioned if the game works for children as young as five years old, as discussed in online gaming communities.

The reading requirements are minimal, and the game progresses at whatever pace the player chooses. There’s no way to “lose” in Animal Crossing, which makes it stress-free for younger gamers who might get frustrated with challenging games.

Nintendo consistently features Animal Crossing: New Horizons in their games for kids collection, highlighting its child-friendly nature. Priced at $59.99, it provides excellent value with virtually endless gameplay.

The game shines as both a solo experience and a shared activity. Parents and children can play together, making it one of the best Switch games to play with kids. Multiple players can share one island, fostering cooperation and sharing.

Seasonal events keep the game fresh throughout the year. Children delight in discovering new items and activities tied to holidays and changing seasons, making the game educational about natural cycles.

The friendly animal neighbors provide positive social interactions through simple conversations. These characters model kindness and generosity, subtly teaching children about friendship and community.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

Super Mario Odyssey is a fantastic choice for children who are new to Nintendo games. It offers colorful 3D worlds that kids can explore at their own pace while learning basic gaming skills.

The game includes an assist mode which makes it much easier for younger children to pick up and learn. Parents have noted that even three-year-olds enjoy playing and get excited when discovering new items in the game.

Children will love joining Mario and his ally Cappy on their globe-trotting adventure. They’ll explore amazing places far from the traditional Mushroom Kingdom setting that appear in other Mario games.

The large, open levels are perfect for young players. A seven-year-old can have fun simply running around exploring the big environments, and the game clearly shows which objectives are necessary to progress.

Mario Odyssey strikes a nice balance between accessibility and challenge. While younger kids can enjoy the core gameplay, there are additional challenges that grow with a child’s skill level.

The two-player cooperative mode is especially valuable for families. A parent can control Cappy while the child plays as Mario, making it easier for them to succeed while learning the controls.

Unlike some games with complicated controls or difficult obstacles, Super Mario Odyssey is designed to welcome players of all skill levels. Its intuitive gameplay makes it easy for children to understand how to play.

The non-violent nature of the game is appealing to many parents. Instead of defeating enemies through combat, players can often choose to avoid them or use Cappy to “capture” them and use their abilities.

3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe stands as one of the most popular Nintendo Switch games for children. This family-friendly racing game offers exciting gameplay that appeals to players of all ages, making it an excellent choice for young gamers.

The game includes 48 base courses with an additional 48 courses available through downloadable content. These tracks feature inspired designs from other Nintendo franchises like Excite Bike and The Legend of Zelda, adding variety and nostalgic elements that parents might appreciate too.

For younger players, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes helpful features like auto-acceleration and steering assist. These options allow children as young as six to enjoy the game without frustration, gradually building their gaming skills.

The multiplayer aspect makes this title perfect for family game nights. Up to four players can race together on a single Switch console, creating opportunities for parents to bond with their children through friendly competition.

Character selection is another highlight, featuring beloved Nintendo icons that children recognize. Players can choose from Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and many other familiar faces when racing.

The vibrant, colorful graphics and upbeat music create an engaging atmosphere without any concerning content. Common Sense Media recognizes it as a family-friendly racer suitable for children.

Sales figures indicate that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is practically a must-have for Switch owners. PCMag notes that based on sales numbers, almost everyone who owns a Switch has already purchased this game.

Parents report that children around six years old can enjoy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, especially when playing together with family members. The game’s accessibility options make it appropriate for newcomers to Nintendo gaming systems.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild offers an incredible open-world adventure that kids can enjoy at their own pace. While Nintendo designed this game with older players in mind, many children have fallen in love with its expansive world and freedom to explore.

The game allows young players to set their own goals and discover hidden treasures across the vast landscape of Hyrule. They can climb mountains, glide through the air, or simply collect interesting items they find along the way.

Parents should know that this game is recommended for children 9 and older according to many parent reviews. The combat can be challenging but isn’t graphic, and puzzles provide excellent brain exercise.

What makes Breath of the Wild special for younger gamers is the ability to play however they want. Some kids might focus on solving shrine puzzles, while others might enjoy cooking different recipes or taming wild horses.

The game teaches patience and problem-solving as children figure out how to overcome obstacles. Many parents report their children developing better strategic thinking skills while playing.

For children who feel intimidated by the main quests, simply wandering around and discovering the beautiful world can provide hours of entertainment. The non-linear gameplay means there’s never pressure to follow a specific path.

Some younger players might need help with certain challenging sections or reading text. Playing alongside a parent can turn this into a bonding experience where adults can assist with trickier parts.

The sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, builds on these foundations but Breath of the Wild remains an excellent entry point for kids new to the Zelda franchise. Its gentle learning curve allows players to gradually master its systems.

5. Luigi’s Mansion 3

Luigi’s Mansion 3 takes the spooky fun of ghost hunting to new heights on the Nintendo Switch. Released on October 31, 2019, this game brings Luigi back for another adventure where he must rescue his friends from a haunted hotel. Despite its eerie theme, the game is rated E for Everyone, making it perfect for kids.

The gameplay centers around exploring the hotel’s themed floors, solving puzzles, and capturing ghosts with Luigi’s upgraded Poltergust G-00 vacuum. Kids will love the new abilities like Slam, Suction Shot, and Burst that add variety to ghost battles. The addition of Gooigi, Luigi’s gooey clone, creates unique cooperative puzzle-solving opportunities.

Parents will appreciate that the game balances its spooky elements with humor and cartoon-like visuals. While some younger children might find certain ghosts startling, the game never ventures into truly scary territory. The ghosts are more mischievous than menacing.

The puzzle design in Luigi’s Mansion 3 is particularly impressive. The challenges are clever and provide just enough difficulty to engage kids without frustrating them. Many puzzles encourage critical thinking and experimentation.

Visually, the game showcases Nintendo’s attention to detail. Each floor of the hotel has a distinct theme, from a medieval castle to a natural history museum. The animations are expressive, especially Luigi’s nervous reactions to the supernatural surroundings.

The game also features a multiplayer mode called ScareScraper, where up to eight players can team up to clear objectives. This adds replay value and encourages social gaming experiences.

Critics have praised Luigi’s Mansion 3, with IGN noting it’s so charming and smartly designed that it stands among Nintendo’s best. The game sits comfortably alongside other Switch greats like Super Mario Odyssey and Breath of the Wild in terms of quality and entertainment value.

6. Minecraft

Minecraft on Nintendo Switch offers a perfect blend of creativity and adventure that kids absolutely love. The Bedrock Edition available for Switch allows children to explore endless virtual worlds while developing problem-solving skills and unleashing their imagination.

The game provides two main modes that appeal to different play styles. Creative mode gives kids unlimited resources to build whatever they can imagine, from simple houses to elaborate castles. Survival mode offers more challenge as players craft weapons and armor to defend against creatures that come out at night.

Nintendo Switch makes Minecraft especially kid-friendly with its portable nature. Children can build their blocky creations at home on the TV or take their adventures on the go in handheld mode. This flexibility makes it perfect for long car rides or visits to grandparents.

The multiplayer options are particularly strong on Switch. Up to four players can enjoy split-screen gameplay on a single console, making it great for siblings or playdates. Online play supports up to eight players, allowing kids to collaborate on building projects with friends.

Parents should note that the Bedrock Edition is recommended for younger children rather than the Java Edition available on computers. The controls are simpler and the user interface is more intuitive for small hands.

For kids who enjoy more structured gameplay, Minecraft Dungeons offers a spin-off adventure set in the same blocky universe. This action-RPG lets players customize characters with various weapons and abilities while battling familiar creatures like Creepers and Endermen.

The educational benefits of Minecraft shouldn’t be overlooked. The game teaches resource management, spatial awareness, and basic geometry concepts. Many children also learn rudimentary architecture principles as they design and construct their buildings.

7. Pokémon Sword

Pokémon Sword is one of the flagship Pokémon games for the Nintendo Switch. It’s the first in the series to truly take advantage of a modern home console. The game offers an expansive world for kids to explore while capturing and training their own Pokémon team.

Children will enjoy the vibrant and colorful world of the Galar region. This setting is inspired by the United Kingdom and features diverse environments from lush countryside to industrial cities. The game maintains the classic Pokémon formula that has made the series so beloved for decades.

For children who are already fans of the TV show, Pokémon Sword offers a chance to embark on their own journey similar to what they’ve seen on screen. Players collect gym badges, battle other trainers, and work toward becoming the champion of the region.

The battles and storyline in Pokémon Sword are particularly engaging. Many children have enjoyed how the story plays out and find the exclusive Pokémon in this version especially appealing. The improved mobility in the game also makes exploring more fun than in previous titles.

For families with children of different ages, Pokémon Sword might be more appropriate for older kids. Parents with children around eight years old have found this game to be a good fit, while younger children may benefit from starting with the simpler Let’s Go Pikachu or Let’s Go Eevee.

The game introduces new features like Dynamaxing, which makes Pokémon grow to enormous sizes during battles. This adds an exciting element that kids find thrilling during gym battles and special encounters throughout the game.

With its mix of adventure, strategy, and collection elements, Pokémon Sword provides a substantial gaming experience that grows with the child. Its intuitive controls and helpful tutorials make it accessible even for those new to the series.

8. Pokémon Shield

Pokémon Shield is an excellent choice for children who love adventure and collecting creatures. This game takes place in the Galar region, which draws inspiration from the United Kingdom. Players can explore a vast open-world environment filled with new and familiar Pokémon.

Children will enjoy becoming a Pokémon Trainer and embarking on a journey to become the champion. They’ll challenge gym leaders, collect badges, and unravel the mystery behind Legendary Pokémon like Zamazenta. The story is engaging but easy enough for kids to follow.

The game features simplified controls that work well for children. Players can catch wild Pokémon, train their team, and battle against other trainers. The vibrant graphics and charming character designs appeal to young players.

As one of the flagship Pokémon games for the Nintendo Switch, Shield takes full advantage of the console’s capabilities. The game includes a mix of 3D environments and traditional Pokémon gameplay that fans love.

Parents should note that Pokémon Shield is better suited for children who can read or have some gaming experience. For younger children around five years old, Let’s Go Pikachu might be more appropriate, while Shield works well for eight-year-olds and up.

The multiplayer features allow children to trade Pokémon and battle with friends, encouraging social play. Kids can also participate in Max Raid Battles where they team up with others to defeat powerful Pokémon.

Pokémon Shield teaches strategic thinking as children must consider type advantages and team composition. It also encourages reading comprehension through its story and game mechanics.

9. Just Dance 2021

Just Dance 2021 is the perfect dancing game for families with kids who own a Nintendo Switch. This rhythm game features 40 new tracks from popular artists like Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, and BLACKPINK.

One of the best features for young players is the dedicated Kids Mode that comes with 8 kid-friendly songs. This special mode is designed specifically for younger dancers, making it accessible and fun for children.

Parents appreciate the family-friendly content in Just Dance 2021. The game encourages physical activity and coordination while providing entertainment everyone can enjoy together. Children under 5 might struggle to follow along with some routines, but the content remains appropriate for all ages.

The Nintendo Switch version is particularly convenient since it allows players to use Joy-Con controllers or the Just Dance smartphone app to track movements. This flexibility makes it easy for multiple children to join in without needing additional controllers.

Just Dance 2021 has been described as the ultimate dancing game for the whole family. The variety of songs appeals to different ages and musical preferences, keeping children engaged for hours.

For parents planning a birthday gift, Just Dance 2021 is an excellent choice. It joins other recent editions (2018-2022) that include the Kids Mode feature, making it suitable for children as young as 9 years old.

The game provides a good balance of current pop hits and kid-friendly tunes that will keep children moving. It encourages exercise in a fun way that doesn’t feel like a workout.

10. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga offers an incredible gaming experience for young Star Wars fans on the Nintendo Switch. This game allows children to play through all nine Star Wars saga films in a unique LEGO format that combines humor with adventure.

The game is especially well-suited for children who are developing an interest in the Star Wars universe. Players can explore the galaxy, solve puzzles, and engage in family-friendly combat without any blood or gore.

According to parent reviews, this game works best for children who enjoy Star Wars, puzzle-solving, and action elements. Younger or more impatient children might find some challenges frustrating.

Kids themselves have rated the game highly, with many calling it “SO FUN” and appropriate for ages 10 and up. The game maintains a family-friendly atmosphere while still providing engaging action sequences.

The gameplay on Nintendo Switch runs smoothly, allowing for an enjoyable experience whether playing in handheld mode or on a TV. Children can build, battle, and explore their way through iconic Star Wars moments.

One of the game’s strengths is its accessibility. Players of different skill levels can enjoy the adventure, making it perfect for family gaming sessions where parents and children play together.

The Nintendo Switch version captures the charm and excitement of the franchise while adapting it to a portable format. The controls are intuitive enough for most children to master quickly.

Unlike some more complex Star Wars games, The Skywalker Saga remains kid-friendly while still offering depth and replay value. Each movie provides different characters, settings, and challenges to keep children engaged for many hours.

For parents looking to introduce their kids to Star Wars gaming, this title represents an excellent entry point that balances fun with appropriate content for younger players.

Benefits of Nintendo Switch Games for Kids

Nintendo Switch games provide more than just entertainment for kids. They offer valuable developmental opportunities while keeping children engaged in fun, interactive experiences.

Promoting Cognitive Development

The Nintendo Switch platform offers games that can boost children’s thinking skills. Action games help improve hand-eye coordination and reaction time, while puzzle games enhance problem-solving abilities and logical thinking.

Research suggests that children who play video games may increase their intelligence more than those who don’t. Games with progressive difficulty levels teach persistence and resilience as kids learn to overcome challenges.

Many Nintendo Switch titles, like brain teasers and strategy games, require planning, memory use, and quick decision-making. These mental exercises can strengthen neural connections in developing brains.

Educational games cleverly disguise learning as play, helping children absorb concepts in math, reading, and science without feeling like they’re studying.

Encouraging Social Interaction

The Nintendo Switch is designed for family-friendly gaming experiences, making it perfect for strengthening bonds between parents and children. Its portable design allows for gaming anywhere, creating opportunities for shared activities.

Many Switch games feature multiplayer options that teach important social skills:

  • Cooperation – Working together toward common goals
  • Communication – Coordinating strategies and sharing ideas
  • Healthy competition – Learning to win and lose gracefully

Switch games bring families together for quality time playing age-appropriate games. This shared activity creates lasting memories and opens conversations between generations.

The console offers various multiplayer titles that encourage face-to-face interaction rather than isolated play, helping children develop crucial interpersonal skills in an increasingly digital world.

Parental Controls and Safety Features

The Nintendo Switch offers robust parental control options that help parents manage their children’s gaming experience. These features allow parents to set appropriate boundaries while still ensuring kids have fun.

Setting Time Limits

Parents can easily control play time on the Nintendo Switch through the dedicated Parental Controls app. This free smartphone application connects to the console and gives parents complete oversight of gaming sessions.

The app allows parents to:

  • Set daily time limits (30 minutes, 1 hour, etc.)
  • Create different schedules for weekdays and weekends
  • Receive notifications when time limits are reached

When a time limit is reached, the system can either alert the child or automatically suspend the software. Parents can temporarily disable these restrictions using their PIN for special occasions or family game nights.

The app also provides activity reports showing which games children have been playing and for how long, helping parents stay informed about gaming habits.

Monitoring In-Game Purchases

The Nintendo Switch parental controls also provide tools to manage spending and prevent unexpected charges on parents’ credit cards.

Parents can:

  • Restrict eShop purchases completely
  • Require password entry for each purchase
  • Set spending limits for the Nintendo eShop

These controls help prevent children from accidentally buying games or in-game content without permission. Many family-friendly games on the Switch have minimal or no in-app purchases, but popular titles like Fortnite do offer cosmetic items for sale.

The parental controls interface also allows parents to restrict access to games based on age ratings, online communication, and social media posting. This ensures children only access content appropriate for their age level and maintains privacy while they enjoy age-appropriate Nintendo games.

Frequently Asked Questions

Parents often have specific questions about finding the right Nintendo Switch games for their children based on age and developmental needs. Many top titles offer different play styles and difficulty levels suitable for various age groups.

What are the top-rated Nintendo Switch games appropriate for children aged 5 and under?

For the youngest gamers, simple controls and colorful visuals are essential. Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a gentle, non-competitive environment perfect for preschoolers.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe includes helpful features like auto-acceleration and steering assist, making it accessible even to very young players.

Yoshi’s Crafted World presents a beautiful papercraft aesthetic with simple gameplay that young children can enjoy with parental help.

Which Nintendo Switch games are most recommended for children aged 6 to 7?

Super Mario Odyssey is ideal for this age group with its forgiving gameplay and assist mode. The colorful worlds and simple objectives keep children engaged without frustration.

Kirby Star Allies offers cooperative play where parents can join in to help navigate trickier sections.

Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee simplifies the traditional Pokémon formula with motion controls and two-player options that are perfect for this developmental stage.

What are the most engaging Nintendo Switch games for kids between the ages of 8 and 10?

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild offers an expansive world of discovery that encourages problem-solving and creativity. The game scales well to different skill levels.

Luigi’s Mansion 3 provides light spooky fun with puzzle elements that challenge growing minds without being overwhelming.

Splatoon 2 introduces competitive play in a kid-friendly format, teaching teamwork through its colorful paint-based battles.

Are there educational Nintendo Switch games suitable for early childhood development?

Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain offers memory, analysis, and problem-solving challenges that adapt to different age and skill levels.

Art Academy provides creative outlets for young artists while teaching fundamental drawing and color theory concepts.

Nintendo Labo combines physical building with digital play, teaching basic engineering and physics concepts through hands-on creation.

What are the currently trending multiplayer Nintendo Switch games for kids?

Mario Party Superstars revives classic mini-games that families can enjoy together with simple controls and quick play sessions.

Minecraft continues to dominate with its creative and survival modes that encourage both independent and collaborative play.

Just Dance offers active gameplay that gets kids moving while following along to popular, age-appropriate songs.

How do I choose age-appropriate Nintendo Switch games for my child?

Check the ESRB ratings displayed on all game packaging and digital listings to understand content and complexity level.

Consider a child’s reading level, as many games require basic reading skills to follow instructions and story elements.

Common Sense Media provides detailed age recommendations and content warnings for most Switch titles, helping parents make informed decisions.