The best multiplayer games on Switch | Digital Trends (2024)

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Nintendo Switch Sports

Nintendo Switch Sports is the late, but very welcome, spiritual sequel to the Wii Sports games. That original game, which was included with every Wii console sold, was partly responsible for that console’s amazing success. It was such an accessible game that it reached players who wouldn’t normally, or may have never, played a game before in their lives to jump in for a game of bowling or tennis match. Nintendo Switch Sports brings all those great aspects back for the Switch, with six sports included, all of which use the same, intuitive motion-control setup. Every sport is playable in multiplayer, either locally or online, for that real sense of competition. You can even mix and match by playing some games with a partner in your home against others online. Nintendo Switch Sports fixes the one issue the original had, which is not always having people around to play with, letting you play the addictive motion-controlled sports games anytime you want.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

It took way too long to get a brand new 2D Mario title on the Switch, but the wait was worth it once we got our hands on Super Mario Wonder. This game freshens up the art style from the “New” series but takes things a step further with its Wonder Flower mechanic. Each level has a second layer to it that you can trigger by collecting the Wonder Flower that remixes the level in surprising and inventive ways both visually and mechanically. Nintendo also went to great lengths to make this the most accessible and fun multiplayer Mario yet. There are tons of characters to pick from, including Yoshi and Nabbit which are created specifically for younger gamers. There’s no collision here, so no need to worry about knocking each other into a pit, but you can also be competitive by doing races and going for better scores!

It Takes Two

We can’t recall another example of a game that requires co-op to win game of the year besides It Takes Two. This imaginative and constantly evolving platformer doesn’t just slap in a second player to a base game that could be played solo, but designs every puzzle and encounter with two players in mind. Each character gets new abilities and powers that are incomplete without the other to solve puzzles, navigate platforming challenges, and fight bosses. The story is also a delight, though with one oddly dark moment involving a stuffed elephant you want to watch out for.

WarioWare: Move It!

Wario is certainly one of the more interesting of Mario’s extended cast of characters. That makes him the perfect mascot for the hilarious and unpredictable fun of the WarioWare series. WarioWare: Move It! is a little bit like a Mario Party, only each game is done in seconds and usually involves microgames that can be crazy, and unpredictable, but always funny. There are over 200 of these mini-games packed into this game that only take a second to learn, then a few more to finish. This game is all about having fun and laughing with friends whether they are a gamer or not thanks to the intuitive nature of the motion controls. This is perfect to flip on at any party.

Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet Double Pack

Multiplayer has always been a staple of the Pokémon series but in a somewhat limited fashion. You could battle your pals or trade with them but never really interact much beyond that. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet change that in a big way. Up to four players can load into the Paldea region at the same time and travel around together, which is a true first for the series. It can be a little buggy thanks to the game’s poor technical performance, but it’s a refreshing experience even with those flaws. And, of course, battling and trading are still very much a part of the game, so you still get that classic Pokémon multiplayer.

Fall Guys

Fall Guys is the ultimate Nintendo game that took way too long to finally make it to the Switch. This game is all about little wobbly cartoon creatures running, jumping, and diving across various obstacle courses and competing in wacky games in big, bright environments. The physics and unpredictable nature of the game keep it from getting frustrating, and you have plenty of fun customization options to work toward so you can personalize your little bean character. It’s also free to play, so there’s no barrier to just jumping in and seeing if luck is on your side so you can grab yourself that crown.

Pokémon Unite

Branching out from its typical turn-based RPG formula has been hit-or-miss for the Pokémon franchise, but Pokémon Unite is arguably the best game in its long-running history. Merging your favorite characters with the popular MOBA format, Pokémon Unite offers an incredible amount of depth while still remaining accessible to new players. There are a variety of different game modes available, but most of them play out as standard 5v5 matches. You’ll need to knock down your enemies, level up by fighting Wild Pokémon, and work as a team to slowly earn more points by attacking Goal Zones on the opposite side of the field. Pairing Pokémon with the MOBA format is an odd choice, but one that stands among the best multiplayer experiences on Switch.

Splatoon 3

It’s time to go back to the Splatlands for another Turf War with Splatoon 3. Unlike most consoles out there, the Switch is severely lacking in third-person shooters. However, Nintendo’s family-friendly, ink-based shooter more than fills that demand. By changing up the formula from focusing on kills to covering the ground with the most ink, Splatoon 3 not only has a unique gameplay style but creates an addictive and enjoyable world for all players. You can take it as seriously as you want and have fun either way. Teamwork is highly encouraged, and with this latest entry, the online functionality works better than ever.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge

Arcade beat ’em ups are a dying genre, especially ones in the old 16-bit style. However, some of the best were the old Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle home and arcade games, which makes Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge such a treat to see on the Switch. Not only does it nail the art style perfectly, but it feels just like those awesome games from way back in the day. Of course, these beat ’em ups are always played best with friends, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge doesn’t just limit you to four players, which it easily could’ve gotten away with. Instead, you can party with up to six total players, each controlling one of the four main turtles plus April and Casey in your adventure to take down all the iconic villains like Shredder, Bebop and Rocksteady, and Krang.

Apex Legends

Respawn’s popular battle royale is finally available on Switch, featuring the entire roster of Legends and crossplay compatibility. A few concessions were made to bring the high-powered shooter to the underpowered console, but the heart of Apex Legends remains largely intact. Apex Legends is without a doubt one of the best battle royales on the market. If you’ve grown tired of playing Fortnite on Nintendo’s hybrid system, you’re bound to find something to like about this mature shooter. Each Legend comes with their own unique skills to master, hundreds of unlockables are available to collect, and the only way to win a round is through careful coordination with your teammates.

Just Dance 2024 Edition

The next installment of Just Dance is here! If you prefer getting up and dancing with your friends instead of being a couch potato, this game is a must-play. Put your dancing shoes on and boogie to a massive library of hit songs including hits from Mily Cyrus, Bad Bunny, Whitney Houston, and more.

The Jackbox Party Pack 10

If you’re hosting a chill party or game night with folks who aren’t capital-G gamers, The Jackbox Party Pack 10 is the best game to boot up. This pack includes returning classics and new games like Tee K.O 2, FixyText, Timejinx, and Hypnotorious (check the Jackbox website for game descriptions). All of these games are designed to be played casually in large groups, and players use their phones to play, so no need for more controllers!

Monster Hunter Rise

Expectations were high for the first original Monster Hunter title on Nintendo Switch — and Capcom didn’t disappoint. Not only does Rise feature the same bombastic monster-hunting gameplay, but it also introduces the new Wirebug mechanic — giving you an easy way to traverse the massive levels. You also can use it in combat to regain balance after taking a hit, or even mount a weakened opponent. Monster Hunter games are always best played with a few friends, and Rise is no different. Gather a few buddies, plan your strategy, then set out on a hunt together. Capcom’s latest Monster Hunter is looking to add new expansions and updates over the next few months, providing you with new content to work through regularly.

Overcooked! All You Can Eat

Overcooked! All You Can Eat features all the content for both the original Overcooked! and its sequel, Overcooked! 2. That means you’ll have more than 100 levels to cook your way through, dozens of characters to unlock, and numerous strategies to master if you’re hoping to become the world’s best chef. Of course, half the fun of Overcooked! is playing with friends — whipping together a culinary masterpiece will require plenty of teamwork and even more patience, as the game is notoriously difficult once you reach the higher levels. All You Can Eat even features a variety of accessibility options — including scalable UI and dyslexia-friendly text preferences — giving everyone the chance to join in on the kitchen chaos.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

The iconic Nintendo Wii U title is back, bringing with it several hours of new content in the form of Bowser’s Fury. Step into the shoes of Mario and pals as you once again try to thwart Bowser’s evil plans. Super Mario 3D World features the same impressive co-op gameplay as it did on the Wii U, although this time around you’ll move faster, your dash skill powers up more quickly, and there’s a brand-new Snapshot Mode. Mario games are always fun to play on your own but throw a few friends into the mix and it’s an unforgettable experience.

Hyrule Warriors: Age Of Calamity

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is a prequel to Breath of the Wild. However, the two games couldn’t be more different. While they share a similar version of Hyrule — and you’ll see plenty of familiar faces during your adventure — Age of Calamity‘s gameplay is much more action-oriented than anything we saw in Breath of the Wild. You’ll face off against hundreds of enemies at once, using special abilities and powerful combos to overcome the odds. Along the way, you’ll unlock new playable characters and side missions and unravel a complex story that explains the events leading up to Breath of the Wild. Up to two players can join in on the action, making it a great co-op title when you’re in the mood for some button-mashing fun.

Pikmin 4

Pikmin is back in a big way on Nintendo Switch, bringing the classic franchise back with improved graphics, additional side quests, and the ability to run through Story Mode with a friend who can shoot rocks at enemies for you. There’s also a competitive mode called Dandori Battles, where you’ll compete head-to-head to collect as many treasures on the map as possible within the time limit. It is a delightful way to test your planning and strategy against another person.

WWE 2K Battlegrounds

The last WWE game published by 2K — WWE 2K20 — was an absolute disaster on all fronts. Bugs ran rampant, the graphics were subpar, and the gameplay wasn’t nearly as engaging as past entries. So, while the WWE 2K team goes back to the drawing board, another developer under the 2K umbrella stepped forward to release a unique spin on the WWE license. WWE Battlegrounds is an arcade fighter, giving you access to power-ups and over-the-top skills you won’t find in other WWE titles. You can still fight as all your favorite superstars, and friends can join in on the action through online matches or local multiplayer. It’s not perfect, but this is the best wrestling game WWE fans will get until 2K figures out how to breathe new life into the valuable IP.

Kirby Fighters 2

Playable with up to four people on a single console and via local or online play, Kirby Fighters 2 is one of the most exciting new multiplayer games on the Switch. Players will choose from a lengthy list of Kirby-based characters before setting foot on the battlefield to duke it out. Matches play out a bit like Super Smash Bros — that is to say, they’re fast-paced and action-packed. A new Story Mode is also present in Kirby Fighters 2, letting you and a friend team up to fight increasingly difficult enemies as you work your way to the top of an ominous tower. A ranking system will track all your victories and unlock new items and gear as you progress through the game.

Rogue Company

Hi-Rez, creators of the popular Smite and Paladins, have taken things in a completely new direction with Rogue Company. As a third-person tactical shooter, it’s one of the few games in this genre available on the Switch. And, although it’s not perfect, it certainly brings some unique gameplay to Nintendo’s console that isn’t offered by many other titles. Rogue Company takes some cues from Valorant and Counter-Strike, but it seems to be a bit more casual than those hardcore titles. It’s a good fit for the family-friendly Switch, and the variety of game modes, levels, and weapons should give players a lot to discover.

Overwatch 2

The king of hero shooters isn’t leaving out Switch players. Overwatch 2 is the massive update to the original that shakes up the formula without ruining that special balance it had that made it so fun and addicting. All the heroes from the first game are back, plus brand new ones, as well as the shift from being a six-on-six game to five versus five. This makes the game much more tactical, and every player feels more important in the role they’re playing. It’s also free now, meaning there’s no reason not to give it a try, even if you never played the original.

Minecraft Dungeons

The next step in the Minecraft franchise is here, and it doesn’t disappoint. Minecraft Dungeons is a drastic departure from the original title, but it still features its trademark charm and accessibility. Players of all skill levels will enjoy this action-packed romp through the blocky world of Minecraft Dungeons, as they slowly collect an arsenal of powerful weapons to take down the evil Arch-Illager. It may not be as difficult as other ARPGs, but it’s one of the most entertaining dungeon crawlers on the market. The game is best played with a few friends, so grab an extra controller and start slaying those Creepers while you await the game’s next DLC.

Streets of Rage 4

Anyone looking for a trip down memory lane should look no further than Streets of Rage 4. This title manages to stick to the beat-em-up formula from the original three games without feeling like a title that’s two decades old. Dotemu has done a wonderful job keeping the heart of Streets of Rage intact, while simultaneously revitalizing the dormant franchise. The game is short — and can be finished in a single playthrough — but with multiple playable characters and unlockable content, you’ll more than get your money’s worth. It can become a bit challenging during the later levels, so running through the game with a partner is highly recommended. Better yet, teammates who are effectively communicating can pull off some beautiful combos, clearing entire rooms in a matter of seconds.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Why create the perfect village, complete with a lavish mansion, if it’s only going to be populated by a single player? Like other Animal Crossing games, Animal Crossing: New Horizons allows other players to enter a village, either online or in a local cooperative mode. This only requires a single Joy-Con controller per player, too, so the stock Switch and the game are enough to get started. Islands are shared per console, meaning that if multiplayer players enjoy the game in the same household, they’ll have to make room for each other. It seems like a nuisance, but learning to live with another person is an important part of maturing, especially when they can build wherever they want.

Luigi's Mansion 3

The latest game in Nintendo’s favorite series about a terrified plumber searching for his missing friends, Luigi’s Mansion 3 features a lengthy single-player campaign mode like the first two games, but you can also play through the story with a friend by your side as trusty and vicious “Googi,” making puzzle-solving and combat more entertaining and easier for less-experienced players. You’ll be using Googi almost constantly, so the second player will have plenty to do. For more dedicated multiplayer gameplay, you can check out the cooperative ScareScraper, either online or with local friends, or compete in minigames over at ScreamPark. Both are the perfect way to get everyone in on the ghost-hunting action if they aren’t too scared by the spookiness.

Super Mario Maker 2

The traditional 2D platforming Super Mario Bros. series has long been a favorite for cooperative play, and Super Mario Maker 2 continues that tradition with the ability to complete courses with other players, or design them together online so your dastardly creations are the work of two villains instead of just one. Without proper communication, you might not succeed, but those working in tandem can cut down on the time needed to make a stage. Will one of you focus on Thwomps while the other cooks up a switch-heavy nightmare? Only you can know for sure. Though not traditionally “multiplayer,” the best part of Super Mario Maker 2 is heading online to play the courses others from around the world have designed. Just a few days after launch, we were already seeing incredibly creative stages that included elements we couldn’t dream of being in a Mario game. Of course, there were also a lot of troll-heavy stages that want to trick you, but the cream rises to the top.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

The greatest Mario Kart game Nintendo has made, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offers an endless supply of multiplayer fun in one of the best racing games. Well, and rage of course. No one likes to get hit by a blue shell by some slacker after maintaining the lead for the entire race. Boasting split-screen and wireless local multiplayer and online support, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe truly is the most fun when played alongside friends and family. The impressive tracklist, which includes courses both old and new, and slick, easy-to-learn controls make it a perfect party game for both casual gamers and Switch enthusiasts. The competitive battle modes offer nice alternatives to the traditional races as well. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a must-buy Switch game.

Mario Tennis Aces

As the only Mario sports game currently on Switch, Mario Tennis Aces is really a no-brainer. This simple-to-pick-up tennis sim follows the mantra of all Mario sports games before it. It’s earnest in its dedication to recreating the sport while spinning it enough to give it an arcade feel. Each character has a different style of play, but all have special moves and the power to break their opponent’s rackets. The various courts, too, introduce some zaniness to the traditionally proper sport. Mario Tennis Aces has both local and online multiplayer, including multi-round tournaments.

Mario Strikers: Battle League

While we’re in the Mario sports realm, we can’t ignore the fan-favorite soccer series that finally returned with Mario Strikers: Battle League. This take on soccer is the black sheep of Mario sports games since it is not only mechanically deep but also more overtly aggressive than Nintendo usually likes to be with their sports titles. Sure, you’re still hitting characters with big colorful shells, but also drop-kicking them into electric fences. And you know what? We still love it, especially since it works so well as a multiplayer experience. There are a ton of strategies and tactics you can use to work together, or just toss all that aside and charge forward. Either way, you’ll have a blast with this over-the-top soccer title.

Minecraft

This sandbox game needs no introduction at this point. A decade old, Minecraft still delights millions of gamers today. The Nintendo Switch version lets you bring your created worlds on the go, some of which may be infused with Nintendo-themed decorations and characters. Up to four players can occupy a world in local multiplayer, building and exploring together in harmony. Online multiplayer, including cross-platform play, lets you explore and inhabit worlds both near and far. The only limit in Minecraft is your imagination, and multiple imaginations working together are better than one.

Mario Party Superstars

Mario Party has been a Nintendo console staple since the Nintendo 64 era. With more than a dozen entries to its name, chances are you’ve played the interactive board game series before. On Switch, Mario Party Superstars has the classic Party mode, complete with over 80 minigames to partake in between turns on all the classic stages from the first three games. Each of the main boards are dynamic, making each round interesting. Mario Party Superstars also adds an online multiplayer to play with friends all over, but it is still an ideal game to play on family game nights on the same screen. Up to four players can play at once, but only single Joy-Con controllers can be used (you’ll need four total). So no handheld mode or Pro controller support for this party, sadly.

Puyo Puyo Tetris

Puyo Puyo Tetris combines two beloved puzzle franchises to create one of the greatest grid-based puzzler packages of all time. Supporting both local and online multiplayer for up to four players, you can play under a variety of rulesets, including a challenging mode that drops both Puyo Puyos and Tetr0minoes on the same grid. You can also play each puzzle game individually, so if you just want to play Tetris or Puyo Puyo, the option is available. While Tetris 99, the awesome free-to-play (for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers) battle royale spin on Tetris, is also a viable puzzle option on Switch, you play that with 98 other strangers. It doesn’t have the intimate feel of Puyo Puyo Tetris.

Snipperclips: Cut it out, together!

Snipperclips: Cut it Out, Together! is one of the Switch’s most innovative multiplayer games. Two players take control of anthropomorphic pieces of paper. Each stage is a small puzzle that, to complete, requires some quality teamwork. This usually means snipping portions of each other with scissors to create the correct shapes to retrieve objects, press buttons, or reach inaccessible areas. Snipperclips has a cute aesthetic, with each level feeling like the page of a notebook filled with different utensils. A party mode for up to four players introduces some feverish competition, such as a great basketball minigame. Snipperclips is as clever as it is funny, and Snipperclips Plus adds dozens of new stages and new ways to experience previously completed levels.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is certainly the ultimate fighting game on Nintendo Switch. The iconic Nintendo brawler with fighters from franchises both near and dear to Nintendo and outside of the Nintendo’s sphere altogether is a game you and your friends could easily sink hundreds of hours into. With tons of stages and characters to choose from — with even more on the way — Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is always a dynamic experience, especially when enjoyed with friends and family. Ultimate supports up to eight-player multiplayer both online and offline (on a single console!). The real question isn’t whether you should buy it, but if you and your competitors will agree on whether items should be turned on or off.

Diablo III: Eternal Collection

Diablo III: Eternal Collection compiles the 2012 base game and all of the excellent post-launch DLC into one package. The dungeon crawling action RPG focuses heavily on loot, offering a rewarding loop for those who take the time to replay areas and engage with the seasonal content updates. Though Diablo III is fun solo, it becomes an even more addictive experience when you squad up with three friends either locally or online. It’s one of the best multiplayer RPGs on Switch.

Fortnite

When you buy a Nintendo Switch, one of the first things you should do is download Fortnite: Battle Royale. It’s free-to-play and remains one of the most popular games on the platform. The battle royale game that focuses on building on the fly certainly isn’t for everyone, but if the loop grips its claws into you, well, you’re in for hundreds if not thousands of hours of online multiplayer fun. Fortnite also doesn’t require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play, so it’s truly a free experience.

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe includes both New Super Mario Bros. U and New Super Luigi U, two excellent Mario sidescrollers ported from the Wii U. All of the more than 100 levels can be played with up to four players cooperatively, and the two new playable characters, Nabbit and Toadette, make the game easier for younger players. In addition to the main campaigns, there are a few competitive multiplayer modes to add to the fun.

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