Nintendo Switch is a highly versatile gaming system that can instantly switch from a gaming console that connects to your television, to a tabletop system or a handheld gaming device. This makes it extremely family-friendly and fun for both seasoned gamers and children who are new to the world of gaming.
Once you have the Nintendo Switch system for your family, it’s time to choose some games for family members to enjoy, but sometimes it’s difficult to discern which are the best games for Nintendo Switch for the different age levels in your home. How does a parent decide which games are right for their family?
Look For Age-Based Ratings
Video games are required to have an age-based ratings system displayed on the package. According to KasperSkyDaily, these are typically the PEGI in Europe (Pan European Game Information) standards, or in the US, ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) ratings. Australia and Germany have different, but very similar systems. Parents should look for this information on the packaging of video games to be sure they are purchasing games at the right age level and appropriateness for their children. These ratings are very clear and easy to interpret at a glance.
Best Games For Nintendo Switch For Early Childhood
If your child is aged from three to six and can operate a controller, there are several great games available for Nintendo Switch. SnipperClips is a game that very young children will enjoy, and it also boosts cognitive and problem skills while it entertains. In SnipperClips, digital paper shapes have to be cut in order to fit into a space in a puzzle-like function, or to complete a specific task. It’s addictive, but in a good and satisfying way. Alternatively, there’s Paw Patrol: On a Roll!. A huge phenomenon and beloved by young children everywhere, this is one of the best games for Nintendo Switch and is based on the Paw Patrol series with 16 rescue missions that require your child’s help to resolve. A child can successfully save Adventure Bay right along with the rest of the Pups! Lastly, there’s SuperWhy, a game that helps beginning readers of age 3 and up learn the power of words in a fun way, thanks to the familiar characters from the program.
Best Games For Nintendo Switch For Elementary Aged Children
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of the most popular kid-friendly games that preschool-aged children and up will love. With the steering assist mode available, even very young children can get in on the fun. Familiar, friendly characters race or battle on popular courses, along with some new fun ones. Battle mode has 8 new arenas and some adorable new characters that have joined the old favorites from previous versions. This is a game that all young children—and even some older siblings—will enjoy playing. Pokemon Quest is a game where Children can embark on an adventure with their favorite block-shaped buddies and search for loot on TumbleCube Island. They can also collect food items along the way and cook up something special when they return to base camp in order to attract more Pokemon. Once children are aged ten and up, they can happily move on to such great games as The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Both of these Zelda games feature the beloved Character, Link, as he embarks on adventures and takes on a virtual fantasy world that will live on in a child’s mind forever.
Best Nintendo Switch Games For Teens
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a classic game for both teens and tweens with lots of tactical elements for battles and gameplay modes. Fast-paced, lively combat with beloved game characters becomes chaotic in a good way in this classic game that keeps players on the edge of their seats. Alternatively, there’s Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Illusive Age which lets players embark on unforgettable adventures in the Kingdom of Erdrea, helped along by some favorite friends and gear as they battle toward finding the Luminary’s heritage and ultimate power.
Family-Fun Games
The Nintendo Switch allows multiple players to join in the fun and there are plenty of games available that are suitable for the entire family. Some of those worth checking out for a family game night include Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy, Dragons: Dawn of New Riders, The Lego Movie 2 Videogame, and Overcooked 2. Now all that’s left is to grab the popcorn, your Nintendo Switch console, and get comfy on the couch for a night of fun and gameplay!
More: 10 Best Nintendo Switch Games (Updated 2020)