Best Free to Play Nintendo Switch Games, Ranked

The Nintendo Switch has a huge selection of free-to-play games, covering all sorts of genres – from fast-paced shooters and battle royales to calming puzzles and epic role-playing games. Many of these games let you play with people on other platforms and are constantly updated with new content to keep players interested. This is a collection of the best free games available on the Switch, chosen for their positive reviews and how long players continue to enjoy them.

‘Deltarune Chapter 1 & 2’ (2018)

In this game, you play as Kris, a human who journeys through a world inhabited by monsters. After falling into a strange place called the Dark World, Kris teams up with a classmate, Susie, to save the universe. Battles are turn-based, but you have the option to show mercy to enemies instead of fighting them. This game tells a new story that runs alongside the popular game ‘Undertale’ and boasts an original soundtrack.

‘Sky: Children of the Light’ (2021)

Embark on a heartwarming journey in this online game where you explore a stunning kingdom in the sky. As a Child of the Light, you’ll work with players worldwide to bring hope back to a darkened land, communicating through actions rather than words. Discover seven unique and beautiful realms while unraveling the secrets behind the falling stars.

‘Tetris 99’ (2019)

In this game, ninety-nine players compete in a last-player-standing battle royale. You clear blocks and send trash to other players to eliminate them, continuing until only one person remains. The game frequently features special events with new themes, backgrounds, and music inspired by other well-known Nintendo games.

‘Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel’ (2022)

This online card game lets fans of the popular franchise battle each other. It includes more than ten thousand different cards and uses the official rules of the trading card game. Players can also enjoy single-player campaigns that explore the stories behind various card types. Plus, you can save your progress and continue playing on different devices.

‘Apex Legends’ (2021)

Apex Legends is a quick-action battle royale game where players choose from a variety of characters, called Legends, each with special skills. Players form teams of three and parachute onto expansive maps to find weapons and gear. As the safe area gets smaller, teams must fight to be the last one standing. The game makes it easy to communicate with teammates using a simple ping system to point out important items and enemies. Skillful movement and smart positioning are key to winning.

‘Rocket League’ (2020)

Rocket League is a fast-paced sports game where players drive rocket-powered cars to hit a large ball into the opponent’s goal. It’s a unique blend of driving and soccer, offering several competitive ways to play. Players can also personalize their cars with a huge selection of items like stickers, wheels, and even special goal effects. The game’s realistic physics allow for impressive moves, including flying through the air and driving on walls.

‘Pinball FX3’ (2017)

This pinball simulator lets you play tables themed after popular movies, comics, and unique creations. It’s designed to feel like a real pinball machine thanks to its realistic physics. You can also join tournaments and leagues to compete against other players, or test your skills with single-player challenges and head-to-head matches.

‘F-Zero 99’ (2023)

This fast-paced racing game takes the classic series and turns it into a battle royale where up to 99 players compete. Players need to carefully manage their energy, which acts as both their health and a speed boost. Hitting obstacles or other racers drains energy, and running out of energy means you’re out of the race. The game includes beloved tracks and music from the original Super Nintendo version.

‘Super Animal Royale’ (2021)

This battle royale game puts you in control of one of sixty cute animals competing to be the last one standing in an abandoned safari park. You’ll explore diverse environments – from forests to icy tundras – to find weapons and armor. Smart movement is key, as the game hides areas you can’t see, forcing you to rely on line of sight. Plus, you can personalize your animal with tons of collectible cosmetic items you earn as you play.

‘Omega Strikers’ (2023)

This fast-paced game pits two teams of three players against each other, challenging them to shoot a puck into the opposing team’s goal. Each player has special abilities to move the puck or disrupt the other team. Success depends on teamwork, controlling the playing field, and defending your own goal. The game’s quick matches and bright visuals make for an exciting and competitive experience.

‘Super Kirby Clash’ (2019)

This cooperative action game lets up to four players team up – either locally or online – to battle huge bosses. You choose from four different roles, complete quests to gain experience, and collect materials from defeated enemies to craft better gear. Working together is key to succeeding, especially as the game gets harder.

‘Pac-Man 99’ (2021)

This battle royale game puts a fresh spin on the classic maze concept, letting up to ninety-nine players compete at once. Instead of simply avoiding ghosts, you eat them to send disruptive ‘Jammer Pac-Men’ to hinder your rivals. Navigating the maze demands fast reactions and smart use of power-ups. Players can customize their approach, focusing on either quick movement or strong attacks.

‘Fallout Shelter’ (2018)

You’re in charge of an underground Vault after a global disaster. Your job is to build a successful community inside by making sure everyone has enough food, water, and power. You’ll also send people out into the dangerous world to find supplies and defend against attacks. Keeping your people happy and developing their skills is key to the Vault’s survival.

‘Pokémon UNITE’ (2021)

This is a team-based strategy game played with two teams of five players. Each player controls unique creatures, and the goal is to earn points by defeating both wild creatures and opposing players. These creatures grow stronger during the match by evolving and learning new abilities. Winning requires strong teamwork, smart strategy, and controlling key areas of the map.

‘Brawlhalla’ (2018)

This action-packed fighting game lets you battle as a huge cast of iconic characters, all trying to knock opponents off the stage. You can play with up to eight people at once, choosing from ranked matches for competitive play or casual brawls for fun. What makes each character unique is their ability to switch between two different weapon styles, changing how they fight. The game is constantly updated with new characters, including exciting guests from other popular series.

‘Rogue Company’ (2020)

This team-based shooter puts you in the role of mercenaries completing missions with specific goals. As you play, you’ll earn money to buy and improve your weapons, equipment, and abilities. Each mercenary has special skills that can help your team win battles. Success relies on clear communication and accurate shooting to defeat the other team.

‘Paladins’ (2018)

This team-based shooter lets you personalize how you play by building a unique loadout with collectible cards. Two teams of five players battle it out in matches focused on completing objectives like capturing areas and protecting moving objectives. Characters fall into different roles, such as tank or healer, to encourage well-rounded teams. The game is regularly updated with new characters, levels, and customization options.

‘Disney Speedstorm’ (2023)

This racing game lets you play as beloved heroes from Disney and Pixar movies. Each character has special abilities to help them win races or slow down other players. You’ll race on tracks inspired by famous movie scenes, complete with moving obstacles and tricky hazards. As you play and participate in events, you can improve your characters and personalize your kart.

‘Dauntless’ (2019)

In this game, you play as a Slayer, a hunter of gigantic creatures called Behemoths, in a world torn apart. It’s all about teamwork – players need to cooperate and learn how each monster attacks to win. A big part of the game involves crafting strong armor and weapons using materials gathered from the Behemoths you defeat. Best of all, you can play with friends on any platform thanks to full cross-play support!

‘Overwatch 2’ (2022)

This team-based shooter lets you play as a diverse group of heroes, each with unique strengths – like protecting teammates, dealing damage, or providing healing. Two teams of five players compete to achieve goals, such as capturing control points or escorting objectives. Winning requires strong teamwork and smart use of each hero’s powerful special abilities. The game is constantly evolving with new heroes and maps added regularly to keep the competition fresh.

‘Roller Champions’ (2022)

This fast-paced team sport is played with three players on each side, skating around a rink to score goals. Teams build up the value of their shots by keeping control of the ball for multiple laps. Players use both physical contact and strategic teamwork to steal the ball and protect their goal. As players improve and gain popularity, they’ll attract more fans and play in bigger venues.

‘The Elder Scrolls: Blades’ (2020)

In this game, you play as a member of the Blades, returning from exile to rebuild your ruined hometown. You’ll explore dungeons from a first-person perspective and fight using touch or motion controls. As you restore the town with buildings and decorations, you’ll unlock new quests and the ability to craft items. For those who enjoy competition, there’s an arena where you can battle other players in one-on-one fights.

2026-02-18 15:16