Best Nintendo Switch games for beginners
Games with assist modes, no harsh fail states and controls that click within minutes.
A good first game teaches you the controller without punishing you for learning. Every pick below has an easy mode or assist feature, and most are fun with a second player.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Turn on Smart Steering and Auto-Accelerate and a complete beginner can finish a race on the first try. It is also the easiest way to get a family playing together on one console. Plays on Switch and Switch 2.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
A bright 3D platformer with a gentle Spring-Breeze Mode and drop-in co-op, so a parent or friend can help. Switch 2 owners can get the Switch 2 Edition with the extra Star-Crossed World chapter.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
There is no way to lose. You build up an island at your own pace, and the real-time clock means short daily visits work as well as long sessions. A Switch 2 Edition upgrade is available if you move to the new console.
Super Mario Odyssey
Assist Mode adds guidance arrows, extra health and saves you from falls. Good for players ready for a full 3D adventure.
Ready for something bigger
- Pokémon Legends: Z-A — familiar if you know Pokémon, with real-time battles.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom — huge and open, best for confident beginners who enjoy figuring things out.
If you own a Switch 2
Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza are Switch 2-only and both approachable. All of the Switch 1 picks above also play on Switch 2.
Beginner picks
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Kart racing with 48 tracks in the base game and steering assist for younger players. Up to four players on one console.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Bright 3D platformer with two-player co-op. A gentle first game for younger players.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Build your own island at your own pace. A real-time clock and seasons make it an easy daily habit.
Super Mario Odyssey
3D platformer that sends Mario around the world with his hat, Cappy. Assist Mode makes it friendly for beginners.
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