Best Nintendo Switch Games To Keep Your Kids Entertained
The new Legend of Zelda game already a hit: "It's awesome!"
Kids love Nintendo Switch and with so many family-friendly games on offer, you’ll never run out of fun
To be honest I’ve never been into video games, however when we got a Nintendo Switch for our two daughters a couple of years ago, I became an absolute convert. The games are fun, the graphics are awesome and the kids absolutely love it. And it’s not hard to see why parents are drawn to the Nintendo Switch with its hybrid kid-friendly console and stack of games suitable for all ages. The only drawback? With so many games to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start. Trust me I’ve been there!
To give you a hand, we've rounded up the eight best Nintendo Switch Games for kids but be warned, they’re equally enjoyable for parents!
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, $64, Amazon
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Ideal for all the family , you can start at the easiest levels and work your way up to being the household champion (even though I never win). One verified purchaser commented, “This game is fantastic. It’s almost the sole reason we got a switch. Fantastic family kid friendly game. Hours of fun to be had. Nintendo has done a great job turning a classic into a modern updated experience.”
The Legend of Zelda : Tears of the Kingdom, $69, Amazon
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Only recently released, this is the next exciting adventure for fans of The Legend of Zelda that literally sold millions of copies when it came out earlier this year. If your kids loved Breath of the Wild, then Tears of a Kingdom with not disappoint. While Breath of the Wild was (and still is) pretty amazing, Tears of the Kingdom takes everything up a notch. Explore both expansive land and skies, craft weapons and vehicles and enjoy wonderful plots - anything can happen and each time, it's a different journey.
We were given the opportunity to try this game out and my 11 year old daughter has been loving it. "It's awesome," she says. "All my friends are obsessed with the new Zelda."
This game is popular for particularly upper primary and teens, depending on the child, however if you want something a little easier and more low key to start with, you could try The Legend of Zelda: Links Awakening.
Ring Fit Adventure, $119, Target
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
We got this one for our ten-year old daughter as a birthday present, and it has been a huge success. And I have to say, I never mind playing her this game as it’s actually a really good workout. Using a ring and leg strap, your child heads off on an adventure that incorporates real life exercises. As they explore a fantasy world and fight dragons, they’ll find themselves running, doing squats, arm and tummy exercises, as well as the occasional plank and a spot of yoga. A great way to get the fitness level up, without them even realising.
Minecraft, $39, Target
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
By placing blocks, your child can use their imagination to build and create, while drawing on life skills such as problem solving, cooperating and self direction. Basically, this is ideal for those that love to build, tinker and let their minds and creativity run free.
Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu!, $64, Amazon
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
This game brings back those adorable characters that us adults grew up with - Pokemon Red, Blue and Yellow, all with updated graphics and new methods of battling.
Just Dance, $39, Big W
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Just Dance is hugely popular in our house. True, I find the dance moves a little beyond me sometimes, but my younger daughter loves it. Kids can choose between easy and more challenging routines, which they can do on their own or with a bunch of friends. Great activity for play dates, birthday parties or, in our case, a spot of after-dinner family fun.
Animal Crossing, $69, Target
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
With no battles to fight or tricky puzzles to solve, players get to create a new life with their own character and home and partake in activities such as fishing, gardening and decorating. A game with many educational benefits that is easy to understand and offers endless possibilities.
Splatoon 2, $69, Big W
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Inklings splat ink in order to claim turf, fighting the enemy who is doing the same thing. Inklings can turn into a squid to be able to swim through ink the same colour as their tentacles. Highly entertaining, fast-paced and very popular choice for kids.
Should I let my child play video games?
Video games are hugely entertaining for kids. They also provide many educational benefits and encourage the use of life skills. However, kids also need a a balance of activities for healthy development and for rules to be set in place. According to Raising Children, it's also important to help your child develop good gaming habits. It's recommended that when they're young, you supervise them while they play or actually play with them. This provides the opportunity to talk about the game they're playing and for you to discuss the pros and cons of gaming.
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It is also recommended that you set certain ground rules when it comes to gaming such as:
- Having set times when they can play
- Only playing when homework or jobs are completed
- Only playing for a certain length of time
- Checking all new games with parents first
- Playing only in communal living areas of the house
- Only playing age appropriate games
And while your thinking all things tech, have a look at our list of best smartwatches for kids and the best phones to keep your kids connected
Originally published as Best Nintendo Switch Games To Keep Your Kids Entertained
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