The Nintendo Switch boasts a plethora of titles you can play on the go and on the couch for free. From whimsical platformers to expansive open world adventures, there’s an abundance of quality titles available without spending a dime.
These top-rated Nintendo Switch games warrant owning the multi-functional console, and can be played at no extra cost. Featuring classic characters that stood the test of time, and new faces upholding Nintendo’s high-quality gaming.
This article goes over must have free Nintendo Switch games to play in 2024. The list takes multiple genres into consideration and is in no particular order.
Best Free Nintendo Switch Games: A Top 10 List
10. Pokemon Unite
Release Date: July 21, 2021
Platforms: Switch, iOS, Android
As one of the most popular franchises ever created, Pokemon spans beyond its iconic turn-based formula. Pokemon Unite is the moba entry to the series, where instead of destroying towers players gather points called Aeos energy to deposit in enemy goal zones.
The characters you play as evolve as you progress through the match, unlocking new and more powerful abilities to eliminate the opposition. The game encourages roles such as attacker, defender, speedster, supporter, and all-rounder. The roles themselves are tailored to Pokémon’s strengths, but there’s less rigidity compared to traditional MOBAs.
Pokemon Unite is one of the best multiplayer Switch games available for free, and can be enjoyed by players of all ages.
9. Fortnite
Release Date: July 21, 2017
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
Fortnite has quickly become the most popular game globally, in large part due to its free price tag. The battle royale genre has taken the playerbase by storm, and Fortnite itself has helped influence many recent titles seeking to cash in on the live-service craze.
What makes Fortnite so popular is its seasonal model, regularly adding updates to keep the game from feeling stale. There are also a variety of collaborative skins and events that happen in-game, such as the upcoming Messi collaboration.
There are also an abundance of other modes available in Fortnite if battle royale isn’t to your liking, such as the newly updated LEGO Fortnite mode.
Fortnite is available on the Nintendo Switch, however players will need to have Nintendo Switch online if they wish to access its multiplayer features.
8. Fall Guys
Release Date: August 4, 2020
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
Fall Guys is the party royale game to play. Players compete in a game show by navigating through a series of courses to claim the crown. There are a variety of elaborate courses to learn to master as you compete against the rest of the lobby in a race to the finish.
The game also includes a custom mode where players can create their own courses and share with others online, making them as difficult or chaotic as they please.
Fall Guys is free to download as one of the top rated Nintendo Switch games to play. Players can purchase collaborative skins and victory emotes through the in-game shop, allowing players to dress up as some of their favorite characters.
7. Overwatch 2
Release Date: August 10, 2023
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
Despite the lack of a promised PVE campaign, Overwatch 2 is still going strong with seasonal updates. The iconic hero shooter is free to download on the Nintendo Switch, where players can get their hands on the latest Scottish tank hero – Hazard.
Overwatch is a popular first person shooter with MOBA mechanics, encouraging teamwork with damage, tank, and support heroes. it boasts a current roster of 42 international heroes battling it out in 5v5 formats. Players have fallen in love with the unique skill sets of each hero and their unique lore profile, on top of an abundance of cosmetic skins to boot.
Overwatch 2 still remains a popular Switch game despite it shortcomings. New players can look forward to a plethora of content to explore and master upon loading the game.
6. Dauntless
Release Date: September 26, 2019
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
Dauntless is a solid live service alternative for those who want to experience the Monster Hunter magic without paying the AAA price tag. Dauntless boasts a variety of colourful Behemoths to hunt in order to obtain powerful gear and weapons.
The game is constantly getting updated with new events and behemoths to take down, all of which you can enjoy with friends online. It supports cross-platform gameplay, so friends can play together regardless of their device
Its straightforward systems and accessibility features make it one of the easier monster hunting games to play for both casual and experienced gamers to enjoy.
5. Apex Legends
Release Date: February 4, 2019
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
Apex Legends combines elements of both hero shooters and battle royales into one complete package – all for free. The game has a diverse roster of legends, each of whom are divided into unique classes based one their specific abilities. For example recon legends gather intel on enemy positions, while controllers bunker down and defend a position by laying down traps.
Respawn entertainment regularly releases updates for Apex Legends, some of which has ties to Titanfall lore. New legends, maps, modes, and skins are released on a frequent basis as a live service.
If you enjoy fast paced, first person hero shooter action, then Apex Legends might be a solid choice for you as a top rated Switch game.
4. Rocket League
Release Date: July 7, 2015
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
Rocket League is a highly rated Switch game because of its unique gameplay premise, combining rocket paired racing with soccer. Race along walls or spiral through the air as your team tries to hit the ball in the enemy goal post.
If soccer isn’t to your liking, Rocket League also feature other sports such as basketball and hockey in limited time modes for all sports fans to enjoy.
The basic mechanics, like driving and hitting the ball, are straightforward, allowing newcomers to enjoy it right away. But advanced mechanics like aerials, dribbling, and flicks offer a skill ceiling that keeps players coming back to improve.
It’s a tough game to master, but one that’s incredibly satisfying and rewarding once you’re behind the wheel.
3. Brawlhalla
Release Date: October 17, 2017
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, iOS, Android
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the best in its genre, but Brawlhalla is a great free option for those looking to scratch that side scrolling beat ’em up itch. It supports cross-platform play, allowing players on PC, consoles, and mobile devices to compete seamlessly against each other.
The games itself offers a large roster of characters to play as, including skins and characters from other Ubisoft franchises as part of its collaborative updates. You can play as Ezio from Assassin’s creed, or the iconic Rayman himself.
Brawlhalla’s controls are intuitive and easy to learn, but the game offers significant depth for those who want to master it. The mechanics, like precise dodging, string combos, and weapon-specific skills, cater to both casual and competitive players.
2. Sky: Children of the Light
Release Date: July 18, 2019
Platforms: PC, Switch, PlayStation, iOS
Sky: Children of the Light is one of the best family friendly switch games to play in 2024. The game features breath-taking graphics with a focus on ethereal, dreamlike environments. From expansive skies to mystical caves, the art style creates an immersive, almost meditative experience.
The game is designed to be accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Its intuitive controls and gentle difficulty curve allow casual players to enjoy it while still offering depth for more dedicated players. It’s still far from being a challenging game, opting for a more relaxing gameplay above all else.
There really isn’t a game like it available on the Nintendo Store, and it is free to boot. It’s a game worth installing to see for yourself, and its lack of an up front charge means you have nothing to lose.
1. Warframe
Release Date: March 25, 2013
Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation
If you’ve ever wanted to see what all the fuss is about for looter shooters, Warframe is a great title to dive into on the Nintendo Switch. one of the most popular Nintendo Switch games available for free, there’s still a lot of content available for players who decide not to spend any cash.
Warframe is a fast paced third person shooter, with a parkour system that allows players to dash, slide, wall-run and glide across the map. Players can use a mix of melee, ranged, and ability-based combat, tailoring their playstyle to suit their preferences.
With over 50 unique Warframes available to earn, there’s a lot of replay value on offer. The developers, Digital Extremes, consistently release updates, including new Warframes, missions, and even open-world expansions. You’ll wan tot jump in ahead of the upcoming Warframe 1999 update coming in December, 2024.
