25 Best Multiplayer Switch Games for Friends & Family

Whether you're gathering for family game night or diving into serious online competition, the right multiplayer game on the Nintendo Switch can turn any session into a memorable one. From four-player local chaos to eight-player online showdowns, there's a title suited for every type of player, casual or hardcore. In this article, we'll explore key features to look for, then walk through 25 of the best multiplayer Switch games currently available so you can pick what fits your group.

Part 1: Game Comparison

Part 2: The 25 Best Multiplayer Switch Games to Play With Friends & Family

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Racing & Party

1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Quick Pitch: The gold standard of party racing on Nintendo Switch.

It's hard to talk about Switch multiplayer games without mentioning Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This is the game that's basically become a party essential. With a huge roster of characters, dozens of colorful tracks, and endless ways to customize your kart, it never stops being fun. You can race side-by-side with three friends on the couch or jump online and battle up to eleven others from around the world. It's easy for newcomers to jump in and start drifting, but veterans still find room to show off some serious skill. The newer Booster Course Pass adds classic tracks from older Mario Kart games, keeping things fresh. Whether you're celebrating a win or getting hit by a blue shell right before the finish line, it's pure multiplayer chaos, the good kind.

2. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Quick Pitch: A massive crossover fighter built for every skill level.

There's nothing quite like a round of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. It throws together more than 70 gaming icons, from Mario and Pikachu to Snake and Sephiroth, and lets pure chaos unfold. One minute you're dodging fireballs, the next you're flying off the stage thanks to a perfectly timed smash attack. What makes it special is how it works for everyone: total beginners can mash buttons and still have fun, while seasoned players treat every match like a mind game. It's packed with stages, music, and history from across Nintendo's universe, so every battle feels like a celebration of gaming itself. Whether you're playing with friends on the couch or testing your skills online, Smash is where competition meets nostalgia, and it never gets old.

3. Super Mario Party Superstars

Quick Pitch: Classic Mario Party boards reimagined for a new generation.

Super Mario Party Superstars revives the beloved board-game chaos that made the franchise a multiplayer staple. Featuring remastered classic boards from the Nintendo 64 era and over 100 mini-games from past titles, it perfectly blends nostalgia with fresh fun. Each turn on the board feels like a mix of luck, strategy, and playful sabotage as you compete for stars and coins. The controls are intuitive enough for beginners, yet the mini-games maintain a level of challenge that keeps every round interesting. Its local and online multiplayer modes let you enjoy quick sessions or full-length games with up to four players. For families, friends, or anyone who loves lighthearted competition, this title turns every night into a party.

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Party & Co-op Fun

4. WarioWare: Get It Together!

Quick Pitch: Fast, funny, and frantic microgames made for chaos.

WarioWare: Get It Together! transforms multiplayer into pure mayhem with hundreds of five-second "micro-games" that demand lightning reflexes and quick thinking. Each player controls a different quirky character with unique abilities, forcing teamwork and improvisation to win. The humor and unpredictability keep every round fresh, whether you're dodging flying noses or solving silly puzzles. Local co-op supports up to two players on one console, with additional competitive mini-games available online. It's ideal for families, parties, or quick breaks between longer sessions. Simple controls make it accessible, but the escalating pace ensures a real challenge for anyone chasing high scores.

5. Overcooked! All You Can Eat

Quick Pitch: Culinary teamwork meets comedy and chaos.

In 'Overcooked! All You Can Eat, communication, and coordination are key as you race to prepare dishes in kitchens filled with traps, moving floors, and fire hazards. This edition combines both Overcooked! games and every DLC pack, remastered for smoother performance on Switch. It supports local and online multiplayer for up to four players, cross-platform play, and accessibility options that make it friendly for families and casual players. Each level tests collaboration, and one mistake can send an entire service into meltdown. Whether you're chopping onions or washing dishes mid-fire, it's one of the funniest and most rewarding co-op experiences on the console.

6. Luigi's Mansion 3

Quick Pitch: Ghost-hunting teamwork with classic Nintendo charm.

Luigi's Mansion 3 mixes puzzle-solving with lighthearted co-op adventure. You and a partner can explore haunted hotels, capture ghosts, and uncover secrets using Luigi and his gooey clone, Gooigi. The game's clever level design, physics-based puzzles, and charming animations make it a hit for both kids and adults. Local co-op lets two players tackle the story together, while the eight-player ScareScraper mode offers online ghost-busting mayhem. It's accessible to newcomers yet packed with clever mechanics that reward coordination and exploration. A perfect blend of spooky and silly, it's an underrated gem for family game nights.

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Co-op & Adventure

7. Minecraft

Quick Pitch: Endless creativity and adventure, together or apart!

Minecraft on the Switch remains one of the most flexible multiplayer experiences ever made. Whether you're building sprawling cities, surviving nights against creepers, or exploring player-made worlds, it's a game that adapts to any group's playstyle. Up to four players can build together in local split-screen, while eight can collaborate online to share creations or join servers. Cross-platform play with PC, Xbox, and mobile means your friends don't even need a Switch to join you. The crafting system, resource gathering, and exploration loop encourage cooperation and creativity, making it perfect for families and friends looking for open-ended fun.

8. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Quick Pitch: Relaxed community-building with heartwarming multiplayer

In Animal Crossing: New Horizons, you and your friends can design your dream island, decorate homes, fish, garden, and visit each other's worlds in real time. Local play supports up to four residents on one console, while online multiplayer allows up to eight players to share the same island simultaneously. Its gentle pacing and social mechanics make it ideal for casual, family-friendly play sessions. Seasonal events, trading, and customization ensure it stays fresh long after launch. Whether you're showing off your latest décor or teaming up for a fishing tourney, it's a feel-good escape that keeps people connected.

9. Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury

Quick Pitch: Platforming perfection meets cooperative chaos

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury combines Nintendo's precise level design with a four-player cooperative twist. Run, jump, and claw your way through colorful 3D stages as Mario, Luigi, Peach, and Toad, each with distinct abilities that promote teamwork. Power-ups like the Cat Suit add vertical gameplay and cooperative problem-solving. The added Bowser's Fury mode lets one player control Bowser Jr., assisting in exploration and battles in a free-roaming open world. Local and online multiplayer both work seamlessly, making it an excellent pick for families or friends who want classic Mario fun with modern connectivity.

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Action, Strategy & Competitive Play

10. Splatoon 3

Quick Pitch: Team-based ink battles that redefine online competition

Splatoon 3 builds on Nintendo's most inventive shooter formula, i.e., splattering ink instead of bullets. Players join 4-vs-4 matches where territory control and creative teamwork matter more than kills. The vivid stages, fluid movement, and unique weapons (like ink rollers and splat dualies) make every round dynamic. Local wireless and online modes both shine, with fast matchmaking and deep customization. Seasonal events and ranked ladders keep hardcore fans engaged, while casual players can enjoy Salmon Run, the fun co-op horde mode. Its colorful visuals, humor, and tight mechanics make it one of the most polished competitive multiplayer games on Switch.

11. Mario Tennis Aces

Quick Pitch: Classic sports action with a tactical Nintendo twist.

Mario Tennis Aces turns tennis into a high-speed strategy game that's equal parts reflex and rhythm. Players use motion controls or buttons to serve, volley, and smash through friends locally or in online tournaments. Each character brings special abilities, Luigi's tricky spin shots or Bowser's power serves, adding layers of depth beyond traditional sports titles. Local multiplayer supports up to four players, while online play connects you to global tournaments. Its vibrant visuals and quick match options make it ideal for parties or quick competitive sessions. Easy to learn but hard to master, it's a sports title that keeps players hooked match after match.

12. ARMS

Quick Pitch: Elastic brawler that mixes fighting mechanics with motion control.

ARMS delivers a fresh, fast-paced fighting experience where characters literally throw extendable punches across colorful arenas. Each fighter has unique glove types that affect speed, damage, and control, letting players craft different strategies. With support for local 2-player split-screen and online tournaments, it's designed for both casual sparring and serious ranked matches. Motion or button controls make it accessible to everyone, while its depth rewards timing and adaptation. The cartoon-bright visuals, power-ups, and character variety create matches that feel energetic and unpredictable. It is perfect for parties or competitive nights alike.

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Co-op & Survival Titles

13. Fortnite

Quick Pitch: Battle-royale action meets endless creativity.

Fortnite continues to dominate multiplayer gaming on the Switch with its blend of fast-paced combat, creative building, and constant updates. Play solo or squad up with friends in cross-platform matches across consoles and PC. Its cartoony art style and varied modes, including Battle Royale, Zero Build, and Creative, make it suitable for both casual and competitive players. Regular events, licensed collaborations, and user-created maps keep the experience fresh year-round. Voice chat and emotes enhance social play, while gyro controls add precision for Switch users. It's free to play, but online functionality requires a stable internet connection. The game is perfect for teams that love strategy, survival, and just a bit of chaos.

14. Diablo III: Eternal Collection

Quick Pitch: Dungeon-crawling action for serious co-op fans.

Diablo III: Eternal Collection brings Blizzard's iconic ARPG to Switch with buttery-smooth performance and all DLC included. Players choose from seven classes to battle hordes of demons, collect loot, and climb through endless dungeons. It supports four-player local co-op on a single console, wireless LAN, and online play via Nintendo Switch Online. The drop-in/drop-out nature makes it easy for friends to join anytime, turning late-night grind sessions into full party raids. Deep character builds and seasonal content keep players coming back, while the controls feel surprisingly natural on handheld. It's ideal for fans of action RPGs who want something dark, rewarding, and endlessly replayable.

15. Monster Hunter Rise

Quick Pitch: Team up, hunt giants, and forge legendary weapons.

Monster Hunter Rise is a co-op masterpiece where up to four players join forces to take down towering beasts across lush, open maps. Using an array of customizable weapons and the new Wirebug mechanic for aerial mobility, it redefines teamwork and timing. Each hunt requires planning, including crafting traps, studying monster behavior, and combining attacks with your allies for devastating combos. The Switch version includes smooth performance, online matchmaking, and optional DLC for hundreds of hours of gameplay. Whether you're hunting casually with friends or grinding for rare armor, Rise blends tactical depth with thrilling combat in every encounter.

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Family-Friendly & Creative Co-op Titles

16. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope

Quick Pitch: Strategy meets slapstick in this tactical adventure.

Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope blends turn-based combat with playful chaos as Mario, Luigi, and the zany Rabbids team up to save the galaxy. Players navigate grid-based arenas using creative tactics, special abilities, and environmental cover. Local play allows two players to collaborate, switching between characters to execute combos and coordinate attacks. The game's humor, charming visuals, and approachable difficulty make it great for families, while its tactical depth appeals to more experienced players. Each battle rewards planning and teamwork, and with vibrant worlds to explore, it's perfect for shared sessions that mix strategy with laughter.

17. Cuphead

Quick Pitch: Old-school challenge meets flawless hand-drawn art.

Cuphead brings 1930s cartoon aesthetics to intense run-and-gun action, offering both frustration and satisfaction in equal measure. Two players can join locally as Cuphead and Mugman, tackling creatively designed bosses that test timing, precision, and patience. Its jazz soundtrack and hand-drawn visuals make every level feel like a vintage animation brought to life. While known for its difficulty, the co-op mode softens the challenge slightly and turns it into a shared learning experience. Perfect for duos who thrive on rhythm, timing, and perseverance, Cuphead is one of the most unique multiplayer games on the Switch.

18. Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Quick Pitch: Wholesome co-op platforming that delights every age group.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land transforms the classic pink puffball's adventures into a 3D cooperative experience filled with charm and creativity. One player controls Kirby, while another joins as Bandana Waddle Dee, combining abilities to defeat enemies and uncover hidden treasures. Levels mix platforming, puzzle-solving, and fun copy abilities that let Kirby inhale and transform into cars, vending machines, and more. Its bright design and forgiving gameplay make it perfect for kids or families wanting teamwork without tension. Cooperative mechanics encourage shared exploration and problem-solving, ensuring smiles all around.

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Competitive & Online Team Play

19. Rocket League

Quick Pitch: Soccer with cars—simple, addictive, and endlessly replayable.

Rocket League fuses high-speed driving with the thrill of football, delivering one of the most accessible competitive experiences on Switch. Two to eight players can battle it out locally or online, driving rocket-powered cars to smash giant balls into goals. Matches last only minutes, making it perfect for pick-up-and-play sessions or deep ranked climbs. Its skill curve is steep yet rewarding: beginners enjoy quick chaos while pros pull off aerial flips and ceiling shots. Cross-platform play connects Switch users with PC, PlayStation, and Xbox players, keeping matchmaking fast and diverse. With constant seasonal updates and cosmetic rewards, Rocket League remains a must-have for both casual fun and serious esports fans.

20. Mario Strikers: Battle League

Quick Pitch: Hard-hitting soccer that turns teamwork into pure spectacle.

Mario Strikers: Battle League reimagines soccer with wild power-ups, bone-crunching tackles, and chaotic multiplayer energy. Up to eight players can play locally (four-on-four) or join online "Strikers Clubs" to form custom teams and compete globally. Every character has unique stats and Hyper Strikes that can instantly change a match's outcome. The game balances fun and finesse with timed passes, dodges, and combos that reward coordination, while casual players can simply enjoy the over-the-top mayhem. Vibrant visuals, stadium customization, and online tournaments make it one of the most exciting party-sports hybrids on Switch.

21. Nintendo Switch Sports

Quick Pitch: Modern revival of Wii Sports for the Switch generation.

Nintendo Switch Sports brings motion-controlled fun back with bowling, tennis, badminton, volleyball, soccer, and chambara swordplay. Players use Joy-Con motion sensors for intuitive swings and smashes, making it instantly accessible to newcomers. Local multiplayer supports up to four players, while online play lets you compete globally or with friends. Each sport introduces ranked challenges, avatar customization, and special events to keep gameplay fresh. It's lighthearted, physical, and ideal for families or gatherings where everyone can participate.

The Best Multiplayer Switch Games: Party, Indie & Crossover Favorites

22. Just Dance 2024 Edition

Quick Pitch: A rhythm-filled party game that turns any living room into a dance floor.

Just Dance 2024 Edition is the ultimate party starter for Switch players of all ages. With over 40 new songs, from global hits to viral favorites, it transforms motion-controlled gaming into an energetic dance competition. Using Joy-Cons or a smartphone (via the Just Dance Controller app), players can groove together locally or challenge others online. The vibrant visuals, rotating playlists, and seasonal challenges keep things fresh long after the first session. Perfect for families, friends, or fitness-minded players, it encourages teamwork, laughter, and a bit of cardio. Whether you're practicing choreography or just letting loose, Just Dance remains the Switch's most joyful multiplayer experience.

23. Among Us

Quick Pitch: Social deduction and deception that fuels hours of laughter (and suspicion).

Among Us turns teamwork and betrayal into a hilarious group experience. Players work together aboard a spaceship, completing tasks while impostors secretly sabotage missions. Up to 15 players can connect locally or online, making it ideal for large groups or remote play sessions. The simple visuals hide surprising depth: communication, bluffing, and quick thinking determine survival. Regular updates add maps, roles, and cosmetics, ensuring replayability. It's one of the easiest games to pick up but endlessly engaging, especially with friends who enjoy mind games and chaos.

24. Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout

Quick Pitch: Physics-based party battle royale built for pure fun.

Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout combines mini-game madness with hilarious ragdoll physics as up to 60 players compete through obstacle courses and survival rounds. Bright visuals, intuitive controls, and ever-changing maps make every match unpredictable. Cross-play allows Switch users to join players from other platforms, while frequent events and seasonal themes keep it fresh. Perfect for casual gaming nights or family tournaments, Fall Guys rewards creativity, timing, and a sense of humor more than pure skill. It's chaos you'll love to replay and laugh through, again and again.

25. Stardew Valley

Quick Pitch: Cozy farming, community building, and endless co-op charm.

Stardew Valley offers a relaxing, wholesome multiplayer experience where up to four players manage a farm, fish, mine, and build a life in the charming Pelican Town. Cooperative play allows friends to share crops, divide labor, or explore dungeons together. Despite its peaceful pace, it's full of depth, from crafting and relationships to seasonal events and festivals. Whether you're managing livestock or decorating cabins, every activity feels rewarding. It's one of the best slow-paced multiplayer games for couples, families, or friends who prefer collaboration over competition.

Part 3: FAQs about Best Multiplayer Switch Games

What are good multiplayer games on the Switch?

Top multiplayer titles on the Switch include Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Overcooked! All You Can Eat, and Splatoon 3. These games offer a mix of local and online play, making them perfect for both casual family fun and competitive sessions with friends.

What 2-player Switch games are co-op?

Great two-player co-op options include Luigi’s Mansion 3, Cuphead, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land. Each game lets two players work together rather than compete, which is ideal for couples, friends, or parents and kids who enjoy teamwork and shared progress.

What is the best 2-player game online?

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Fortnite are among the best two-player online experiences on Switch. Both deliver smooth online performance, cross-platform matchmaking, and replay value for players who love competitive or cooperative online play.

Can you play 2-player on a Nintendo Switch?

Yes. Most Nintendo Switch games support 2-player modes either locally (using two Joy-Cons) or online. Simply connect a second controller and choose “Multiplayer” or “Co-op” mode from the main menu. Games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Minecraft, and Nintendo Switch Sports make setting up local two-player sessions effortless.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch remains one of the most versatile consoles for shared gaming, offering a range of experiences from competitive action to cozy co-op adventures. Whether you're racing in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, cooking up chaos in Overcooked!, or teaming up in Monster Hunter Rise, the best multiplayer Switch games bring people together across skill levels and play styles. With options for both local couch co-op and seamless online play, there's something for every type of gamer. So grab a pair of Joy-Cons, invite your crew, and dive into a world where fun is always better shared.