13 Nintendo Switch games the kids (and whole family) will love for Christmas

The Nintendo Switch is considered to be one of the most age-inclusive consoles, as many of the games are suitable for younger players. What’s more, the console comes with two Joy-Con controllers right out of the box, meaning you can jump into multiplayer gaming straight away from the get-go. 

There’s an exciting array of games specifically designed for kids, including racing that can spark competition, immersive fantasy worlds that will enrich their imaginations, and puzzle solving that can improve critical thinking. Plus, with many of Nintendo’s own games offering a multiplayer option, it’s fun for the whole family. So, why not get your own this Christmas?

There's a vast library of games available on the Nintendo Switch, from educational puzzle-solvers to action-packed adventures. While this variety offers something for everyone, finding age-appropriate games for your family might seem tricky at first. 

OnlyBoobsandBabies

Thankfully, the Nintendo Switch's comprehensive parental controls make this much easier. Through the free mobile app, you can set specific boundaries - like preventing gameplay after bedtime or limiting sessions to one hour on school nights. 

The app also lets you monitor exactly which games your children are playing and for how long, giving you valuable insight into their gaming habits. You can restrict communication with other players online, ensure they only access age-appropriate content, and maintain peace of mind while they enjoy their gaming experience. Finally, the console is also portable for ease of use, and highly-rated amongst our Mumsnet community.

So, what are the best Nintendo Switch games for kids for 2024? We've curated a list of favourites our Mumsnet users recommend that are sure to raise the biggest smiles on Christmas morning.

Described as "perfect family fun" (Daily Star), Super Mario Party Jamboree is essentially a giant digital board game where the aim is to collect as many stars as possible. With over 110 minigames and various modes to try, there's plenty of entertainment for everyone. It's suitable for children aged three and up, and you can have up to four players per game in the Mario Party Mode.

Our Mumsnetters say Nintendo Switch Sports is a great way to get everyone up and moving. The Joy-Con controllers use real-world movements to immerse you in the game, and there’s multiple sports to choose from. A great perk is you can upgrade the controller with accessories, including a leg strap for kicking.

Next, Super Mario Bros. Wonder brings fresh chaos to the Mushroom Kingdom when Bowser steals a reality-bending Wonder Flower. Experience unpredictable challenges alone or with friends. Supports up to four players locally or eight online. Less experienced players can play as Yoshi, who is immune to enemy damage, meaning it’s fun for all the family. 

Animal Crossing was voted the number one game by Mumsnetters in our roundup. Players get their own island to create, and it’s a calming game that can offer young minds some escapism. Mumsnetters also like that it doesn’t have an addictive nature, so it’s easy for kids to drop in and out of.

Princess Peach: Showtime! puts the spotlight on Princess Peach herself as she saves the Sparkle Theater from a mysterious villain. This accessible adventure game can be enjoyed by all ages as you master magical transformations to solve stage-themed challenges and rally performers in this creative single-player adventure.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe features 48 exciting courses in the base game. That's not all - the optional paid downloadable content called "Booster Course Pass" (sold separately) adds another 48 tracks to the game - doubling the lineup to 96 in total! Up to four players can enjoy a split-screen view, or you can connect eight players via Wireless Play.

Starring Princess Zelda, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom sees the princess herself step forward to save her kingdom. Players can use new "Echo" powers to copy objects and creatures, and use them to solve puzzles, explore dungeons and battle monsters. Suitable for ages seven and up.

Minecraft can be an engaging game for kids, as it promotes critical thinking and problem-solving. In creative mode, players can explore a world full of different biomes and creatures to discover. Plus, they can build their own structures, from houses to complicated rail tracks - and anything else they can imagine!

Suitable for seven years old and above, Pikmin 4 is a charming strategic adventure. The game sees players lead an army of tiny plant-like creatures to rescue stranded space travellers. Command your helpful Pikmin to solve puzzles, collect treasures, and battle wild creatures across vast landscapes. 

Mario & Luigi: Brothership is an exciting new adventure that takes place on the high seas. The world of Concordia has broken apart and the brothers have to help reconnect the land. It's a single player game and suitable for ages seven and up.

For those who love the spirit of competition, Splatoon is a great game and it’s a child-friendly alternative to a shooter or combat game. Choose from single player mode or play with up to eight players.

This game is an upgraded version of the beloved Kirby’s Adventure, and allows up to four players to join Kirby and friends as they make their way through Dream Land to help repair Magolor's crashed spaceship. This new version also offers slick visuals, as well as sub levels which can add an exciting change of pace to the game.

And finally, Yoshi’s Crafted World is an adorable game that allows players to explore a land created from everyday objects, including boxes and paper cups. Mumsnetters say it’s a wonderful choice for younger children, and the engaging challenges can be enjoyed by the whole family with the multiplayer option.

About Nintendo

At Nintendo, the mission is to bring a smile to everyone’s face by creating new surprises that can help connect people from around the world. The company first started in Kyoto, Japan back in 1889 with hanafuda playing cards and now shares their exciting visions through the world of entertainment and video games.

About the author

Kat Romero is a writer and journalist with over a decade’s experience in the industry. Hailing from London, she has become experienced in scouring the market to find the latest and best products, services and events that are worth your purchase. As a mother herself, she knows all too well how hard it can be to plan Christmas with children. So, you can trust that she’s fully invested in making sure you receive the best recommendations.

Away from her desk, Kat can be found consuming far too much coffee and spending her weekends with her toddler and partner - soaking up the sights of London and sampling anything new and exciting that has opened up within walking distance.