When it comes to gaming on the Nintendo Switch, parents often ask: What games are perfect for kids who are just starting? It’s a fair question, the Switch has one of the most diverse libraries in gaming, but not every title is built with younger players in mind. If you’re a parent who isn’t a gamer yourself, it can feel overwhelming when you’re standing in front of a wall of titles, unsure which ones will actually click with your kids. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. My kids grew up with me playing on the Nintendo Switch, and they often play with me (and even play by themselves). So, when I saw the same questions asked on a Facebook group we are working with (Nintendo Switch Forum Nederlandstalig), I thought to myself: ‘Why not help them with a quick guide to point them in the right direction?’ So, without further ado, here’s a breakdown of the top 10 Nintendo Switch games for kids ages 4–8 and 8–12, with a focus on accessibility, fun, and family-friendly vibes.
For ages 4–8
At this stage, kids are learning the ropes. Games should be forgiving, colorful, and easy to pick up and play. Think of these as the training wheels of the gaming world. With the additional help from the parents, of course, but there’s nothing wrong with that, and it often helps to get closer to the stuff your kids are into. Sidenote: my kids know almost every Super Mario character and often roleplay entire scenes – in which my wife and I are included. My wife can’t stand Mario stuff, so be wary about that (he wrote sarcastically, feeling his wife looming around him, haha). I added the full reviews of the titles we reviewed as well, so you can check them out in full by clicking on those hyperlinks.
1. Super Mario Odyssey
Mario’s adventure is easy to love. With Assist Mode, kids can explore without worrying about too much challenge, and it’s bright enough to keep their attention. Since it’s an open world, there is a lot of creative freedom and stuff to explore, without being tied down to a particular specific goal.
2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
A cozy game where kids can decorate, fish, and make friends with talking animals. No pressure, no timers—just pure creativity. And fully playable in most native languages!
3. Yoshi’s Crafted World
Playful, charming, and gentle. The cooperative option is perfect for parents and kids playing together – and I should know it, since we are currently working our way through this one.
4. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Kirby can inhale almost anything, which is hilarious for kids. The gameplay is forgiving, making it a smooth introduction to 3D adventures. Plus, it’s a pink gumball, and I have two daughters who are into cute, pink stuff – so Kirby is almost always a hit when I launch this game. The DLC adds some crystalline magic, so more shimmer and shine for them to admire.
5. Paw Patrol: Mighty Pups Save Adventure Bay
Simple and approachable. If your kid loves Paw Patrol, this is basically a guaranteed hit. Outright Games are almost always a good fit for this age range, so be on the lookout for those. I can also recommend the Paw Patrol Grand Prix game, if you are more into racing games.
6. Mario Party Superstars & Mario Party Jamboree
Board game fun in video game form. With mini-games that are short and silly, it’s perfect for short attention spans and often requires just a few buttons to get the games going. My daughters love to play both versions and have a lot of fun with the new TV addition in the new Switch 2 version – but that one is only worthwhile if you have a spare camera to plug into the Nintendo Switch 2.
7. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
Puzzle-solving in bite-sized levels – an older title, but it’s so much fun. It’s clever but not overwhelming, and kids love the cute visuals.
8. Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee
An easier Pokémon adventure with motion controls that mimic catching Pokémon. A gentle way to start a lifelong hobby – but beware – it’s gonna be a pricey one.
9. LEGO City Undercover
Think GTA, but family-friendly and with LEGO humor. Open-world exploration that’s fun without being complicated. Still one of my to go to recommendations for kids.
10. Peppa Pig: My Friend Peppa Pig
Yes, Peppa Pig. For the youngest gamers, this one feels like stepping inside their favorite cartoon. We sadly haven’t reviewed it, but Wide World is even better – so if your kids like Peppa, be sure to check this one out!
For ages 8–12
By this age, kids are ready for games with more challenge, deeper mechanics, and the chance to play competitively or cooperatively with friends.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Mario Kart World
Racing is easy to pick up but endlessly fun. Assisted Steering makes it accessible, while experienced players can go full throttle. If you have the Nintendo Switch 2 you could also opt for World over 8, but my kids still play both with the same passion.
2. Minecraft
There’s no denying its impact. Whether building castles or surviving the night, Minecraft is a creative powerhouse and is often used in school settings as well. Lander also added it to his list of child-friendly games that can be found on Gamekunde.
3. Luigi’s Mansion 3
Goofy ghosts, clever puzzles, and a slapstick sense of humor. It’s slightly spooky, but in a fun, cartoonish way.
4. Pokémon Scarlet & Violet
A big, open-world adventure where kids can raise and battle Pokémon. Great for those ready to step into more complex gameplay.
5. Splatoon 3
A family-friendly shooter with ink instead of bullets. Fast-paced, colorful, and surprisingly strategic.
6. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The ultimate playground fighter. With so many characters, kids can experiment, mash buttons, and still have fun.
7. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening or The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
A remake of a classic, it’s approachable and charming. The puzzles and exploration are just right for this age group. The other game, in the same art style, focuses more on puzzles and creativity, centered around Zelda herself instead of Link. Another perfect puzzle-challenge example of a great adventure game.
8. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Classic 2D Mario with multiplayer support. Perfect for siblings or friends who want to jump in together. And much more forgiving than Super Mario Wonder or Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
9. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope
A tactical game that teaches kids to think ahead without overwhelming them. It’s silly, colorful, and surprisingly fun. The prequel – Kingdom Battle is also an excellent game (and often on sale)
10. Sonic Mania
A blast of speed and nostalgia. Its exciting yet straightforward gameplay hooks kids who want something fast and flashy.
Parent-friendly buying guide
Choosing games for your kids can feel tricky if you’re not sure what to look for. Here are a few quick tips:
- Price Range: Most major Nintendo titles cost around €60, but keep an eye out for frequent sales on the eShop. Licensed titles like Paw Patrol or Peppa Pig are often cheaper.
- Co-op Options: Many games (like Mario Kart, Minecraft, and Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe) allow multiplayer, which is perfect for siblings or family play.
- Educational Value: Games like Minecraft encourage creativity and problem-solving, while Captain Toad or Mario + Rabbids introduce puzzle-solving and strategy.
- Time Commitment: Short, pick-up-and-play games like Mario Party or LEGO titles are great for quick sessions. Animal Crossing or Pokémon lean more into longer-term play.
- Difficulty Settings: Look for games with assist modes or adjustable difficulty (like Super Mario Odyssey or Kirby) if your child is just starting.
Games to avoid for younger kids
Not every colorful game on the Switch shelf is meant for children. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Fortnite: Popular with older kids, but online play and chat features can expose younger ones to unmoderated interactions.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom / Breath of the Wild: While amazing games, they’re massive, complex, and can overwhelm younger players. Heck, it even overwhelms me sometimes.
- Cuphead: Its cartoon art style looks kid-friendly, but the gameplay is punishingly challenging.
- Bayonetta series: Not for kids—lots of violence and mature themes.
- Dark Souls: Remastered: Definitely not suitable for children due to difficulty and darker themes. This is one of those games that gets recommended out of trolling, just like when people ask for a manga/anime to watch with their kids, and people recommend Berserk.
If you’re unsure about a game, check the PEGI or ESRB rating on the box. It’s a quick guide that can help filter out titles that might be too complex or mature and if you live in the Netherlands/Belgium, you can check out the list Lander made as well: Lijst met kindvriendelijke games – Gamekunde
Hidden gems worth checking out
Beyond the big names, the Switch has some fantastic games parents might miss:
- Snipperclips: Cut it Out, Together! – A cooperative puzzle game that encourages teamwork and problem-solving. Great for siblings.
- Untitled Goose Game – Silly, mischievous fun where you play as a goose causing chaos in a small village. Easy to pick up and very funny.
- Good Job! – A quirky puzzle game where kids solve workplace problems in creative (and often messy) ways.
- Overcooked! 2 – Chaotic cooking fun. Best played together, teaching cooperation and time management in a lighthearted way.
- Katamari Damacy Reroll – Roll up objects into a giant ball in a weird, colorful world. Simple, joyful, and addictive.
These titles don’t always show up on the front shelves, but they’re absolute delights for kids and families alike.
Final thoughts
The Nintendo Switch is an incredible starting console for kids. For the youngest (ages 4–8), the focus is on games that are bright, simple, and encourage creativity. As they grow into the 8–12 range, kids can handle more challenge, teamwork, and strategy while still staying in a safe, family-friendly space. So next time someone asks you “what’s the best game for my kid?”, you’ll have a full list to share, plus some handy parent tips, warnings about what to skip, and hidden gems that are worth discovering. Whether it’s Mario, Minecraft, or even Peppa Pig, the Switch has something for every child ready to take their first steps into gaming. And yes, there is enough for the parents to enjoy as well , so don’t label Nintendo as ‘that kids console’, especially not after the release of the Nintendo Switch 2.
