Embrace the Holiday Spirit with Family-Friendly Games
The holiday season is finally here, and with it comes the biggest shopping season of the year. Now is the perfect time to start planning which gifts will adorn the tree by the end of December. In the world of video games, the choices are plentiful, but there’s one console that stands out as the ultimate choice for families, especially those with younger members: the Nintendo Switch (and the recently released Switch 2). This console offers a seamless platform for family bonding with its user-friendly controls and a plethora of engaging first-party titles designed for couch co-op play. Whether it’s creating chaos or fostering teamwork, these games are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone in the family.
Cook Up Some Fun with Overcooked!
First on the list is an indie classic that has become a staple in family game nights: Overcooked! and its sequel, Overcooked! 2. These cooking simulators place up to four players in a fast-paced restaurant where orders pile up at an absurd rate. The key to success in Overcooked! is cooperation, which means that while some tension can arise from a mismanaged kitchen, the hectic gameplay is designed to smooth over any mistakes. The sequel adds the bonus of online multiplayer, but the core gameplay remains the same. Both games are often sold as a bundle, providing a diverse range of levels, especially as the sequel ramps up the zaniness with themed restaurants. Whether you’re making pizza in a haunted house or sushi on a submarine, Overcooked! is a guaranteed hit for all ages.
Ultimate Chicken Horse: Build and Battle
Another classic indie game that’s perfect for the Nintendo Switch is Ultimate Chicken Horse. This platformer allows players to choose a farm animal and race to the finish line. What makes this game unique is that players must build the platforms themselves. At the beginning of each round, players can place objects on the map, including platforms, fans, cannons, ramps, and a variety of spikes. The game encourages both cooperation and mischief, as players can set up obstacles they think only they can overcome. This ensures that no two games are ever the same, making it a dynamic and entertaining experience for the whole family.
Slice and Dice with Castle Crashers
For families that enjoy fast-paced action and a touch of adventure, Castle Crashers is an excellent choice. This four-player beat ‘em up takes place in a medieval kingdom where knights battle through hordes of enemies to rescue the King’s kidnapped daughters. Each knight has a unique special ability, such as the Blue Knight’s ice-shooting skills and the Green Knight’s use of poisons. The side-scrolling action is energetic and easy to pick up, making it particularly great for younger family members who may not have as much experience with controllers. Castle Crashers is a colorful, humorous, and engaging game that will keep everyone entertained for hours.
Party On with Super Mario Party Superstars
When it comes to party games on the Nintendo Switch, nothing beats the timeless appeal of Mario Party. The latest entry in the series, Super Mario Party Superstars, is a must-have for any family gathering. This game pays homage to the series’ earlier eras by recreating iconic boards like Peach’s Birthday Cake and Space Land. It also brings back the entire roster of minigames from previous entries, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their age or gaming experience. From mini-games that test your reflexes to those that challenge your strategic thinking, Super Mario Party Superstars is a fun-filled adventure that the whole family can enjoy together.
Boomerang Fu: Chaos and Laughter
If you’re looking for a game that combines strategy with chaotic fun, Boomerang Fu is a great choice. This indie game allows up to six players to go head-to-head with boomerangs in various game modes, including free-for-all and hide-and-seek. The real highlight of Boomerang Fu is its power-ups, which include abilities like explosions, teleportation, and mimicry. The game’s fruity characters and non-stop boomerang action are sure to bring laughter and excitement to your family gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a first-time player, Boomerang Fu offers a unique and entertaining experience that will keep everyone engaged.
Get Moving with Nintendo Switch Sports
One of the most overlooked gems in the Nintendo Switch library is Nintendo Switch Sports. This game is the perfect choice for families looking to get off the couch and stay active. As the successor to the iconic Wii Sports, Switch Sports brings classic sports like tennis, golf, bowling, soccer, and sword fighting to the TV with simple motion controls. The game encourages players to stand up and act out the motions of each sport, making it not only fun but also a great form of exercise. Players can also customize their avatars with fun outfits that can be unlocked through a weekly rotating battle pass system, ensuring that the game remains engaging and fresh over time.
Return to the Mushroom Kingdom with Super Mario Bros. Wonder
For a classic gaming experience that the whole family can enjoy, look no further than Super Mario Bros. Wonder. This side-scrolling adventure brings back the traditional Mario Bros. experience for the Nintendo Switch generation and has received critical acclaim since its release in 2023. The multiplayer function allows younger players to tag along without feeling left behind, and features like riding Yoshi help kids skip more difficult parts of any level. With plentiful and easy respawns, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a nostalgic and inclusive game that will bring joy to family members of all ages.
In conclusion, the holiday season is the perfect time to gather around the Nintendo Switch and create lasting memories with these family-friendly games. Whether you’re cooking up a storm, building platforms, slicing through enemies, or engaging in classic party games, there’s something for everyone. So, gather your family, get comfortable, and start making the most of this holiday season with some of the best games the Nintendo Switch has to offer.
