The Best Nintendo Switch Lite Games

What to Look For

The library of Switch Lite games is vast, so we asked three main questions to guide our search: Does it provide many hours (if not endless) of gameplay to keep us engaged and provide the most value for the price? Does it run smoothly and look good on the Switch Lite? Is it appropriate for a range of ages? Considering these criteria, several titles emerged that proved the best. For example, our top pick was Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope since this adventure game breathes new life into the Mario saga. It has aspects of both RPGs and platformers, resulting in a dynamic and exciting experience. But if racing and multiplayer are your forte, we recommend Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which introduces new mechanics to the beloved franchise. There’s a lot to consider, so let’s dive in.

Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, Standard Edition

An instant classic

In this kid-friendly title, the world's favorite plumber takes on new adventures by teaming up with an eclectic crew of allies.

Best Overall

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We’ve probably all played a Super Mario game at some point, but this one is different. Not only is the venerable plumber joined by a crew of Rabbids, but the enemy encounters are far more dynamic and interesting than those from the previous installment. For example, the battles function like RPGs, but you can enter or avoid many enemy encounters. The result is a more open-world experience with near-endless possibilities.

Pros:

• We love the battle mechanics, which feel smooth and balanced.
• Although there’s fighting, this game’s cartoony violence and silly weapons are appropriate for gamers as young as ten years old.
• This game introduces new enemies, yet there are still plenty of recognizable characters from previous Mario and Rabbids games.

Cons:

• There is no multiplayer mode.

Splatoon 3

It's going to get messy

With this colorful game, you can explore an exciting world of foes and friends.

Runner Up

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For those unfamiliar with the Splatoon series, you’ve been missing out on some seriously colorful chaos. Instead of bloody violence, the Splatoon crew uses ink-based weapons that cover the playing field with vibrant splashes of color. The uber-cartoony graphics add to the fun with fun vehicles, multi-level maps, and fast-paced game modes. And to take it a step further, this edition introduces more options for customizing characters.

Pros:

• If you want to take a break from multiplayer, the story mode offers a surprisingly challenging and engaging experience.
• You can connect with friends to play as a team or brawl against them in multiplayer modes, including Turf War and the cooperative Salmon Run.

Cons:

• Disconnecting from multiplayer servers can lead to penalties, even when the bad connection isn’t your fault.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Rip up the track

If you haven't tried competing in this thrilling racer, you're in for a wild ride.

Best Racing Game

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Few sequels are better than their predecessors, but Mario Kart is the exception. This edition builds upon the fantastic game mechanics of its forefathers by adding smooth multiplayer, balanced items, and gorgeous tracks. Not only is it one of the best Mario games ever released, but it’s also one of the best video games ever (in our humble opinion). An excellent game for solo play and an even better experience for multiplayer, this fast-paced racer offers ceaseless hours of slippery fun.

Pros:

• We love the accessible game modes, which let the whole family enjoy the fun. Battle Mode might be a fan favorite, but you can also compete in revamped racing modes that introduce new characters and new items.
• The graphics blew us away, with dynamic map designs that don’t distract.

Cons:

• Only four people can play at once, which is surprising considering the 8-player capabilities of other contemporary titles.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Join the fray

With tons of characters to choose from, this edition of the famous fighting game offers balanced brawls and endless entertainment.

Best Fighting Game

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Many of us have fond memories of late-night Smash battles on the N64 and Wii consoles. With Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, those memories are sure to grow. This is indeed the “ultimate” Smash installment, as it brings a new level of balance and character design. Gone are the days of overpowered characters, yet the range of fighters still gets bigger. Best of all, this game still offers the same accessibility and goofy fun, so newbies and veterans alike can enjoy the thrill of the fight.

Pros:

• Unlike many previous Smash games, this one boasts an engaging and rewarding story mode.
• Although it’s a couple of years old at this point, the graphics still hold up, and the multiplayer connectivity is smooth and reliable.

Cons:

• Some fans of the franchise may find the gameplay to be a bit more hectic and too fast compared to previous iterations.

Pokémon Legends: Arceus

Power in your pocket

With modern mechanics and a huge range of elusive monsters to find, this addition is one of the most memorable additions to the familiar battle plain.

Best Pokemon Game

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Pokémon is another franchise that’s renowned worldwide. But for those who have played previous editions until there was simply no more Pokémon to collect, the oldies might feel stale. That’s why we love the fresh new gameplay in Pokémon Legends: Arceus. With an expansive world to explore and challenging battle mechanics, this RPG brings a modern approach to a classic video game. In this story, the heroes must discover a legendary Pokémon that’s as mysterious as it is powerful.

Pros:

• This generation of Pokémon includes recognizable characters from past games and new additions to the Pokédex.
• Even older gamers can enjoy the advanced, beautiful graphics and engaging content.

Cons:

• Some gamers may find the default difficulty to be a bit too easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play a Switch game on the Switch Lite?

If a game is compatible with “Handheld Mode,” it’s compatible with the Switch Lite. This is because the Switch Lite is more of a mobile gaming console. We recommend checking the compatibility of your particular game of choice, but fortunately, most Switch Titles will run on the Switch Lite.

Is this video game appropriate for kids?

The majority of Nintendo games are appropriate for kids, though some may have a “10+” age recommendation. You’ll have to check the rating of the game. If it’s rated “E for everyone,” it won’t have gore, excessive violence, or adult themes.

About the Author

If you're a console gamer, Dani won't hold that against you. Although he plays on the PC, he grew up with an Xbox controller in his hand. He's also a filmmaker and musician, so he's figured out the importance of quality gear. He hopes to use his expertise to help people make informed decisions in their search for tech that works.

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