As a console, the Nintendo Switch's construction makes it the perfect vehicle for people to play multiplayer games. From the versatility of its Joy-Con controllers to its portability, it was designed to be an easy way to enjoy some couch co-op gaming sessions.
The Switch's expanding catalog of games, both through mainstream and indie creators, means that there's something available for every kind of gamer (whether they're looking for casual mini-games or competitive duels). Focusing on games that are suitable and compelling to those in the majority of age groups, there are many games that will keep friends and loved ones alike entertained for hours.
Just Dance 2022
A great Nintendo game that will have players work up a sweat, just like its predecessor, is the latest instalment in the Just Dance series. Just Dance 2022, follows the style of a rhythmic dance game, where players use motion controls to mimic the moves of the dancers on-screen.
One of the game's best features is that it can be played not only through the Switch's Joy-Cons, but also via an app downloaded to players' phones. This would mean that it would increase its accessibility as fewer Joy-Cons are needed, whilst also allowing up to 6 players the opportunity to dance at once. The newest tracklist also includes songs that suit everyone's tastes, from K-Pop to indie rock hits.
Mario Party Superstars
The recently released Mario Party Superstars combines all the best aspects of older games in the Mario Party series, making for a seriously enjoyable new entry to the party game saga. Players must round one of the game's 5 boards collecting coins and stars, aiming to have the most stars at the game's end.
Between each round, players compete in minigames which can boost their standing. The 100+ minigames available were picked from prior Mario Party games, making it nostalgic for old fans, whilst short instructions on how each game works make it an intuitive experience even for new players. Additionally, there are several settings that can adjust the game's difficulty level, so it can be scaled to suit the player's desired level of challenge.
Overcooked! / Overcooked! 2
The Overcooked series, comprised of Overcooked! and Overcooked! 2, (which can be purchased together in a compilation under the title Overcooked! All You Can Eat) are cooking simulation games. In these games, players are chefs who must work together to whip up all sorts of dishes - from ingredient prep to cooking and assembly - under time constraints.
With a whole host of zany levels, including kitchens on a hot-air balloon and those that make use of magic portals, as well as unexpected hazards, Overcooked is a challenging, delightfully-chaotic game that requires effective cooperation. Whilst it may have players shouting at the TV, its captivating gameplay and range of unlockable characters make it well worth the time it takes to perfect a team strategy.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
The most recent iteration of another fantastic multiplayer franchise, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a fighting game that brings together iconic characters from many video game franchises. Players choose who to embody from a roster of 89 playable characters, then face off against one another in various battle stages.
From Super Smash Bros' best-ranked heavy hitters to more crafty characters, the fighters of the game utilize all kinds of techniques. With the possibility for up to 8 players to take part in a battle, things can get hectic, but figuring out the best ways to combat other fighters' abilities makes playing Smash Bros. an absorbing experience.
Moving Out
Moving Out sees players take on the role of furniture movers as they try to quickly transfer items from homes to a moving truck under a time limit. This is made complicated by heavy or fragile objects which require more care, and obstacles like ice or tight spaces.
Whilst it was heavily compared to Overcooked! upon its release, Moving Out differs in that it places emphasis on additional optional tasks that players can undertake within each level, acting as a great way to boost scores. Furthermore, whilst it has a certain chaotic vibe that parallels that of Overcooked!, Moving Out requires that players are considerate when loading the moving truck, as they must be able to fit all boxes and furniture in the designated space.
WarioWare: Get It Together!
A speedy party game, full to the brim with quirky characters and comical, lightning-fast minigames, WarioWare: Get It Together has a unique style that will have players laughing at the titular character's antics.
In the party-style mode of the game, for up to 4 players, players must control Wario and a range of other characters (which randomly alternate between games) as they complete minigames in just a few seconds. Each game flashes 1 or 2 word instructions on the screen at the offset, granting players guidance, but they must act quickly to be successful. The game's vast range of minigames and each character's unique talents make WarioWare highly replayable, with its lighthearted nature perfect for groups not overly concerned with competition.
Lovers In A Dangerous Space Time
A shooter game for 2 to 4 players set in outer space, Lovers In A Dangerous Spacetime has players piloting a spaceship and controlling each sector within it, from weapons to the map. They must work together to keep all of the ship's stations functioning in order to fly, face down enemies, and keep the ship intact.
All this must be done whilst players also search to rescue captured creatures during each level. The game's rich color palette and distinctive design means it stands out from other co-op shooters, and its dedication to promoting players' cooperation makes it a fantastic collaborative indie game adventure.
ARMS
One of the best fighting games on the Nintendo Switch, ARMS is a fighting game in which characters make use of extendable, spring-like arms to make attacks from a distance, aiming to knock out other players in a fighting arena. Alternative modes of gameplay also include battle modes, which incorporate sports like basketball or volleyball.
Perhaps the most desirable feature of the game is that it can be played using either button controls or motion controls, adding to the immersive nature of the game's surreal premise. Each ARMS character and their respective weapons are highly customizable, and with options for up to 4 players to get involved, each bout is sure to be memorable.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The Mario Kart series has been a staple of Nintendo's multiplayer offerings since its first iteration on the SNES, and though it's since developed greatly, with far more playable characters, courses, and vehicles, it remains a racing game in which players are aided with familiar magic items from the Mario universe.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's relatively simple controls make it perfect for gamers of all experience levels and ages, with its easy-to-learn gameplay providing everyone the chance to quickly get into the competitive spirit. Also, as there are some aspects of the game most Mario Kart players never discover, with shortcuts being used to great effect.
Snipperclips
Snipperclips is a co-op puzzle game for up to 4 players. The gameplay gives each player control of a shaped character, which, when overlapped with another character, can be 'snipped' to alter its shape. Altered characters must then use their new angles in order to solve puzzles together - whether that be using a point to press a button or rotating to fit within a template.
Snipperclips has a bright and friendly aesthetic to it which makes the game appealing to play, whilst the snipping mechanic is lots of fun, particularly when it's used accidentally. The puzzles cover a variety of difficulty levels, and the addition of the party mode includes levels designed for over two players. The blitz mode also gives players the chance to compete with one another.