Top 10 Nintendo Switch Games for New Owners (2024 Edition)

Ah, Christmas morning. The wrapping paper has barely hit the floor, and there it is: a shiny new Nintendo Switch sitting proudly under the tree. Whether you’re a wide-eyed newbie to gaming or someone rediscovering their love for it, one thing’s for sure: you need games. And not just any games — the kind that’ll have you glued to your console long after the Christmas lights have come down.

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are 10 brilliant Nintendo Switch games to kick off your collection, perfect for new owners and guaranteed to make your holiday season (and beyond) full of fun.

1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Genre: Racing | Players: 1-4 local, up to 12 online

If you’ve just unwrapped a Nintendo Switch, this one’s practically a rite of passage. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is gaming’s version of a family Christmas board game — chaotic, hilarious, and with a decent chance of someone flipping the metaphorical Monopoly board. Race around colourful tracks, unleash banana peels, and try not to shout too loudly when your Gran hits you with a blue shell.

Why it’s great for new players: Easy to pick up, yet endlessly replayable. Plus, there’s a very good chance your friends already have it.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Genre: Action-Adventure | Players: 1

Christmas just got a lot more epic. Tears of the Kingdom is a masterpiece, with a vast, breathtaking world that’s begging to be explored. Glide through the skies, build contraptions with your new Zonai skills, and save Hyrule (again). It’s the kind of game you’ll sink hundreds of hours into without even realising it.

Why it’s great for new players: It’s both accessible for beginners and rewarding for seasoned gamers. Plus, who doesn’t want to feel like a hero during the holidays?

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3. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Genre: Life Sim | Players: 1-4 local, up to 8 online

Need something a bit less intense after all that racing and adventuring? Animal Crossing: New Horizons is your cosy Christmas escape. Build your dream island, befriend adorable animal villagers, and customise your world to your heart’s content. It’s slow, it’s peaceful, and it’s exactly what you need after a post-dinner nap.

Why it’s great for new players: No pressure, no time limits, and no stress. Just pure, relaxing vibes.

4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Genre: Fighting | Players: 1-8 local, up to 8 online

If you’ve ever wanted to watch Mario punch Pikachu in the face (because who hasn’t?), Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the game for you. It’s a chaotic brawl featuring an absurdly large cast of characters from gaming history. Perfect for settling those post-Christmas dinner debates: “Would Link beat Sonic in a fight?”

Why it’s great for new players: Button mashing works surprisingly well, and it’s always a laugh with friends.

5. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Genre: RPG | Players: 1-4 (online features)

Whether you’re a Pokémon veteran or a total newbie, Scarlet and Violet are a great way to dive into the beloved franchise. Explore the sprawling Paldea region, catch your favourite Pokémon, and (most importantly) become the very best, like no one ever was.

Why it’s great for new players: Easy to learn, addictive gameplay, and the perfect dose of nostalgia for anyone who grew up with the series.

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6. Splatoon 3

Genre: Shooter | Players: 1-4 local, up to 8 online

Who says shooters need to be grim and grey? Splatoon 3 brings colour, chaos, and a lot of ink to the table. Dive into turf wars where your goal isn’t to rack up kills, but to cover the battlefield in as much of your team’s colour as possible.

Why it’s great for new players: It’s fast, fun, and family-friendly, with a community vibe that’s hard to beat.

7. Luigi’s Mansion 3

Genre: Action-Adventure | Players: 1-2 local, up to 8 online

Ghosts and Christmas — not your usual combo, but stick with us here. In Luigi’s Mansion 3, you’ll take on the role of Luigi, armed with a vacuum cleaner and a terrified expression, as you explore a haunted hotel. It’s spooky, funny, and surprisingly heartwarming.

Why it’s great for new players: It’s charming, not too difficult, and perfect for co-op with a friend.

8. Stardew Valley

Genre: Farming Sim | Players: 1-4 local or online

Ever dreamt of ditching the 9-to-5 for a simple life on a farm? Stardew Valley makes it happen, without the mud. Tend to your crops, befriend the locals, and maybe even find love along the way. It’s endlessly relaxing and absolutely addictive.

Why it’s great for new players: Low stakes, high reward. Plus, it’s one of the best-value games you’ll find on the Switch.

9. Super Mario Odyssey

Genre: Platformer | Players: 1-2 local

Nothing says “Nintendo” quite like Mario, and Super Mario Odyssey is a love letter to everything the series does best. Hop between dazzlingly creative worlds, use Mario’s magical hat (Cappy) to possess enemies, and collect Power Moons to save Princess Peach (again).

Why it’s great for new players: Accessible, imaginative, and packed with fun surprises.

10. Just Dance 2024

Genre: Rhythm/Dance | Players: 1-6 local, online leaderboards

Let’s face it, someone’s going to insist on a dance-off this Christmas, and Just Dance 2024 is the perfect excuse to let loose. Packed with chart-topping hits and silly routines, it’ll get everyone up and moving — just the thing to burn off that second helping of Christmas pudding.

Why it’s great for new players: No gaming skills required — just a willingness to look ridiculous.

Honourable Mentions

Metroid Dread (for fans of tense, atmospheric adventures)
Kirby and the Forgotten Land (for something a little more adorable)
Minecraft (because everyone loves Minecraft)

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch is one of the most versatile consoles out there, offering something for every type of gamer. Whether you’re into high-octane races, epic adventures, or relaxing sims, these games will ensure your holiday season is packed with fun.

Now, grab your Joy-Cons, settle in with a hot chocolate, and get gaming. Welcome to the wonderful world of Nintendo Switch — you’re going to love it!

Top 10 Nintendo Switch Games for New Owners (2024 Edition)