Best Free Switch Games: Are These Free Switch Games Free?

This list highlights some of the best free games on the Switch, from fast-paced shooters to family-friendly party games. The Nintendo Switch boasts an expansive library of games that cater to every type of player.

While many top titles come with a price tag, there’s an array of free-to-play games that provide countless hours of enjoyment. The best part? These games offer quality gameplay without breaking the bank.

Best Free Switch Games: Are These Free Switch Games Free?

1. Rocket League

Rocket League is a unique blend of soccer and high-octane car racing. This combination makes it one of the most addictive free games on the Switch. Initially, the game was paid, but it went free-to-play in 2020, and there’s no better time to get behind the wheel. The game’s portable nature on the Switch allows for local matches with friends wherever you go.

Key Features:

• Cross-platform multiplayer
• Addictive gameplay with endless tactics
• Competitive ranked modes

2. Paladins: Champions of the Realm

If you enjoy tactical shooters with a diverse roster of characters, Paladins: Champions of the Realm is a must-play on the Switch. This game is often compared to Overwatch, offering exciting and action-packed gameplay without the hefty price tag. Since it’s cross-platform, you can join friends from different consoles, adding to its accessibility.

Key Features:

• Over 40 unique champions
• Cross-platform play
• Varied game modes, including Siege, Onslaught, and Team Deathmatch

3. Dauntless

Dauntless brings monster-hunting action to the Nintendo Switch, providing a cooperative gaming experience that is both accessible and thrilling. In Dauntless, you take on the role of a Slayer, tasked with hunting down massive creatures known as Behemoths. Each hunt requires careful planning, strategy, and skillful execution.

Key Features:

• Cooperative multiplayer hunting
• Diverse crafting and gear upgrade system
• Regular content updates with new challenges

4. Fortnite

Fortnite has taken the gaming world by storm, and the Nintendo Switch version keeps that energy alive. This battle royale game drops up to 100 players onto an island where they scavenge for weapons, build defenses, and fight to be the last one standing. What makes Fortnite stand out is its building mechanics, which add a unique layer of strategy to the typical shooter formula.

Key Features:

• Cross-platform play with other consoles and devices
• Frequent updates and seasonal events
• Unique building mechanics and various game modes

5. Apex Legends

Apex Legends offers fast-paced, team-based shooter action with a twist. The game features a diverse cast of “Legends,” each equipped with unique abilities that add a layer of strategy to every match. Whether you prefer playing as a tactical medic, an aggressive fighter, or a stealthy scout, there’s a character for every playstyle.

Key Features:

• Unique Legends with diverse abilities
• Tactical team-based gameplay
• Regular updates and new content

6. Fall Guys

Fall Guys is all about colorful chaos and fun. This party-style platformer throws up to 60 players into a series of obstacle courses and mini-games, where the objective is simple: survive to the end. Each round, a certain number of players are eliminated until only one remains to claim the crown.

Key Features:

• Up to 60-player obstacle course mayhem
• Quick and family-friendly gameplay
• Seasonal updates with new content

7. Honkai: Star Rail

Honkai: Star Rail offers a space fantasy RPG experience filled with a diverse range of characters and exciting turn-based combat. As a free-to-play gacha game, it features a vast world with dungeon-crawling elements that keep you engaged. You’ll spend your time assembling a team of characters, each with unique abilities, to explore different areas and battle various enemies.

Key Features:

• Turn-based combat with strategic depth
• Expansive world with continuous updates
• Gacha elements for character collection

8. Other Notable Mentions

While the above games represent some of the best free experiences on the Nintendo Switch, there are plenty of other titles worth exploring. Here are a few more games that might catch your interest:

Pokémon Café ReMix

This puzzle game puts a charming twist on the Pokémon universe. In Pokémon Café ReMix, you manage a cozy café with the help of various Pokémon characters. The gameplay revolves around matching puzzles to serve food and drinks, which allows you to upgrade your café and recruit more Pokémon staff. It’s simple yet addictive, making it a great pick for casual gamers.

Super Kirby Clash

For those who love the iconic pink puffball, Super Kirby Clash offers an action-packed, cooperative multiplayer experience. You and your friends can team up to battle various enemies and bosses, each with different abilities. The game includes a mix of quests and challenges, and although it offers in-app purchases, players can enjoy the core experience without spending money.

Brawlhalla

If you enjoy fighting games, Brawlhalla is a worthy choice. This platform fighter features a large roster of characters, fast-paced combat, and multiple game modes. Its cross-platform multiplayer lets you battle friends on different devices. Frequent updates, new characters, and events keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Tetris 99

A classic reborn for the modern era, Tetris 99 puts a competitive spin on the traditional block-stacking puzzle game. You go head-to-head against 98 other players in a battle to be the last one standing. The game is free-to-play, although it does require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for multiplayer. For fans of the original Tetris, this battle royale twist adds an extra layer of excitement.

Key Features of Other Notable Games:

• Pokémon Café ReMix: Match puzzles with beloved Pokémon characters.
• Super Kirby Clash: Cooperative battles with friends in the Kirby universe.
• Brawlhalla: Platform fighting action with cross-play support.
• Tetris 99: Competitive puzzle gameplay against 98 players.

FAQs

Q: Are these free Switch games really free?

A: Yes, all the games listed are free to download and play on the Nintendo Switch. However, some offer in-game purchases for cosmetic items, extra characters, or additional content. These purchases are optional and do not affect the core gameplay.

Q: Do these games require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription?

A: Most free-to-play games do not require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to access their multiplayer features. However, certain games like Tetris 99 do need a subscription to enjoy online play. It’s best to check each game’s requirements before starting.

Q: Can these games be played offline?

A: Some of these games offer offline modes. For example, Rocket League allows local multiplayer matches. However, others like Fortnite and Apex Legends require an internet connection for their main gameplay modes.

Q: Are there age-appropriate options for younger players?

A: Absolutely! Games like Pokémon Café ReMix, Super Kirby Clash, and Fall Guys provide family-friendly fun suitable for younger audiences. They offer simple controls, colorful graphics, and light-hearted gameplay.

Q: How often do these games receive updates?

A: Most of these free games receive regular updates, with new characters, maps, events, and features introduced periodically. Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Rocket League are known for their frequent seasonal content updates, keeping the gameplay fresh.