The Best Nintendo Switch Games for Kids 8-12
Video games have been all the rage since they were first created, with new ones coming out every month. But with trends and game systems constantly changing, it can be hard as a parent to keep up with what your kids are interested in. To help you out, we looked for the best video games on the market so you don’t have to feel as lost. Check out our list of the best Nintendo Switch games for kids 8-12 below and find one that they’ll love.
What To Look For
When choosing our favorite Switch games, we looked for ones that have hours of playability, combine fun with a good challenge, and provide a great value for their price. For example, Minecraft is a fantastic world-building and exploration game that can highlight your kid’s creativity. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, on the other hand, is a fast-paced fighting game that kids can play with their friends. Keep on reading to learn more about our favorite games.
Minecraft – Nintendo Switch
Imagination unlocked
If you’re looking for a game that does a little bit of everything, Minecraft is perfect. At the core of the game is a world builder, allowing your child to explore, mine, and create. But there’s also a survival mode that ups the ante and creates extra challenges. If your kid is looking for a bit of competition, there are obstacle courses they can try to speed run and beat their lowest time. And for even more fun, there are plenty of add-ons that can be downloaded to change the game.
Pros:
- It’s a highly versatile game, with many game modes and challenges for hours of fun.
- It can easily be played single-player or with friends, creating an all-around engaging experience.
Cons:
- Setting up an account for your child to play online can take some time, but it only needs to be done once.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch
Partner up for the journey
In the past, adventure games were exclusively single-player focused, forcing kids to take turns playing. Kirby and the Forgotten Land can support up to two explorers at once, one to play Kirby and the other to play his companion Banana Waddle Dee. In it, you can steal enemies’ powers and use them for your own, float around to explore the map and fight bosses for a challenge. This game has different difficulty modes, allowing players, young and old, to have a great time.
Pros:
- This game is extremely family-friendly and jam-packed with cuteness and color.
- The co-op works well, keeping both players involved as they play.
Cons:
- Some people may find the way missions are designed to be a bit frustrating since it often involves replaying stages multiple times to accomplish different goals each time.
Pokémon Legends: Arceus
A classic refresh
Catching Pokémon has always been about more than just throwing Poké Balls at them, but Pokémon Legends: Arceus brings it to another level. With new elements like sneaking up on them, watching how they behave, and more, this game offers a fresh experience to seasoned players. It provides hours of gameplay and downloadable content for even more challenges. And for those who love the classic feel of the old game, catching Pokémon is still an important objective.
Pros:
- We love the open-world feel of the game, freeing you to explore as much as you want and progress at your own pace.
- The new game mechanics bring a fresh experience and really engaging elements to the classic franchise.
Cons:
- The intro to the game can be a bit slow-paced, but it really helps explain the story behind the game and the player’s objectives.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Enter the action-packed arena
If you’re looking for a game that your kids can play together or with a couple of friends, consider Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This game can play up to four players and offers kids a ton of fun and replay value. It has over 70 characters for them to choose from, with many new faces along with all of the old. They can unlock more characters and stages to play on as they play, giving a fun feeling of progression and achievement.
Pros:
- The updates to some of the game mechanics make it even more exciting than previous versions.
- We love the new additions to the Super Smash Bros. universe and how seamlessly they fit in with the old collection of characters.
Cons:
- Although the action is super cartoony, it still leans towards violence that might not be for everyone.
Just Dance 2022
Get moving
While many games require your kids to sit for hours at a time, Just Dance 2022 gets them moving. With over 40 songs included and hundreds more downloadable, there are plenty of options for them to groove out on. Gone are the days when you needed a floor mat — this game uses your Joy-Con controllers to track your movement. And with multiplayer options, this game will quickly become a crowd favorite at parties or get-togethers.
Pros:
- This game doesn’t require a camera or other accessories, making it more accessible for everyone to play.
- The movements are natural and easy to do once you get used to them while still offering a challenge on harder difficulties.
Cons:
- While it comes with 40 songs, a large amount of content can only be accessed through a monthly subscription.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need extra accessories to play Nintendo Switch games?
Most Switch games are designed to be played with the included Joy-Con controllers. If you’re looking at games that can involve three or more players, extra controllers can easily be purchased separately. And if you’re thinking of playing games across the internet, a gaming headset may be worth considering.
What’s the difference between an action-adventure game and an RPG?
An RPG, or role-playing game, intimately involves a character’s backstory and decision-making in the game’s story. Action adventures, on the other hand, are primarily pre-determined storylines that require the player to follow the objectives of the game to progress. Some games combine elements of each to form a more well-rounded experience.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.