Some of my favourite gaming memories are not about finishing a story or hitting 100% completion. They are about sitting around with friends, sharing Joy-Cons, laughing at mistakes, and saying “just one more round” when we all know it is not the last.
The Nintendo Switch has always been special for moments like this. Even now that Nintendo Switch 2 is out, I am still genuinely happy with my original Nintendo Switch. It does exactly what I need it to do, and these games are still just as fun. Of course, there is no denying that they run smoother and feel more polished on Nintendo Switch 2, but great multiplayer experiences do not suddenly stop being great just because new hardware exists.
I have grouped these games from fun and relaxing to action-packed and energy-burning, so you can easily pick what fits your mood or the kind of game night you want to have.
1. Taiko no Tatsujin
Relaxed, cheerful, and welcoming for everyone
Taiko no Tatsujin is usually the first game I reach for when friends come over. You can play using buttons, motion controls, or drum controllers, and there are modes designed specifically for group play. Party Mode is especially fun, focusing more on timing and teamwork than perfect accuracy.
Taiko no Tatsujin is usually the first game I reach for when friends come over. You can play using buttons, motion controls, or drum controllers, and there are modes designed specifically for group play. Party Mode is especially fun, focusing more on timing and teamwork than perfect accuracy.
2. Bubble Bobble 4 Friends
Lighthearted co-op with classic charm.Bubble Bobble 4 Friends supports up to four players locally on one screen. Everyone works together to clear stages, rescue each other, and occasionally get in each other’s way.
3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The ultimate pick-up-and-play party racerMario Kart is one of those games that works for everyone. Up to four players can race locally, and no matter the skill level, the chaos of items keeps races unpredictable.
4. Kirby’s Dream Buffet
Cute visuals with sneaky competitionKirby’s Dream Buffet looks soft and adorable, but it gets competitive quickly. Local play supports two players on one system, with more players joining online.
5. Mario Party Superstars
Digital board game night energyMario Party Superstars brings back classic boards and over 100 mini games. Up to four players can play locally or online, making it perfect for both in-person and remote sessions.
6. Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
Relaxed competition without stressThis is one of my favourite games for quieter nights. Up to four players can compete in quick brain challenges that test memory, logic, and perception.
7. Puyo Puyo Tetris
Puzzle fun that ramps up fastPuyo Puyo Tetris starts off relaxed and gradually becomes intense. You can play locally or online, making it great for both casual and competitive puzzle fans.
8. Overcooked
High-energy teamwork and chaosOvercooked thrives on fast communication and teamwork. Kitchens move, split, and catch fire, turning simple tasks into frantic fun.
9. Just Dance
Movement, music, and shared laughterJust Dance turns your living room into a mini dance party. Friends can join using Joy-Cons or their phones, making it accessible to everyone.
10. Nintendo Switch Sports
Full-body multiplayer funNintendo Switch Sports is the most active game on this list. Bowling, tennis, volleyball, and soccer encourage movement and friendly competition.
Final Thoughts
Even with Nintendo Switch 2 out, I am still happy using my Nintendo Switch. These games continue to bring people together, and that is what matters most. Yes, everything feels smoother and more polished on Nintendo Switch 2, but great multiplayer games are defined by shared moments, not just hardware upgrades.If you already own a Nintendo Switch, there is no rush. The fun is still there, and so are the memories waiting to be made.

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