The 10 Best Free Nintendo Switch Games

The Nintendo Switch was released back in March 2017. It was a massive success and became the fastest-selling console of this generation. The Switch is versatile and easy to use. It can be played both at home and on the go.

The Nintendo Switch boasts a great library of games built for the console. Not only can you enjoy some of the most popular titles available, but you can also find some amazing free games to play.

From classic Nintendo titles to more recent releases, here is a list of the ten best free Nintendo Switch games you can download and play right now. Whether you’re looking for something casual or intense, these games offer hours of fun without spending a dime.

#10. Smite

Smite is a free-to-play online battle arena (MOBA) developed and published by Hi-Rez Studios for the Nintendo Switch. It was released for Nintendo Switch on February 18, 2019. Smite is a team-based game where players take control of mythological gods and goddesses and fight in arenas to determine which team will be victorious.

Players can choose from various game modes such as Conquest, Arena, Joust, and Assault. Each game mode has different objectives that must be completed to win. The game features a variety of unique characters, including Greek gods such as Zeus, Poseidon, and Ares, as well as Egyptian gods like Ra, Neith, and Osiris.

There are also Chinese gods like Nu Wa, Sun Wukong, and Guan Yu. All characters have their unique abilities and playstyles that can be customized through different items and buffs. In addition to its vast character roster, Smite also offers a wide range of options for customizing your gaming experience.

Players can purchase skins to give their characters a unique look, level up their characters to increase their power, unlock new skills, and customize how they play with voice commands and custom binds. Smite has become one of the most popular free-to-play games on the Nintendo Switch and continues to attract new players every day.

With its ever-growing roster of gods and goddesses, its vast selection of game modes, and its customizable gameplay, Smite is sure to provide an exciting gaming experience for Nintendo Switch players.

#9. Pokémon Unite

Pokémon Unite is a free-to-play multiplayer game developed by Tencent’s TiMi Studios and published by The Pokémon Company. It was announced on June 24, 2020, during the Pokémon Presents broadcast. The game is a strategic team battle game where players battle alongside their Pokémon teammates to capture control points and defeat opponents.

Players can select from various Pokemon to use, such as Pikachu, Charizard, Lucario, and many more. Each Pokémon has unique moves and abilities that can be used strategically to gain the upper hand in battle.

Players also level up their Pokemon as they progress through the match, unlocking new abilities and moves along the way. As the game progresses, players can capture powerful “Unite Zones” that give additional points to their team.

The game also features several online modes, including Ranked Matches and Friendly Matches. Players can challenge their friends online or take on challengers from around the world.

Pokemon Unite also supports cross-platform play between Nintendo Switch and mobile devices, allowing players to enjoy the game with their friends regardless of platform. The game has been a huge success so far. By August 2022, it had surpassed 80 million downloads.

#8. Warframe

In Warframe, players take control of Tenno warriors and use their unique weapons and abilities to fight hordes of enemies and complete various missions. The game is primarily set in a sci-fi universe, with players traveling to different planets to battle an ancient enemy race called the Grineer.

Warframe has various game modes ranging from PvE missions to PvP arenas. The game also offers a wide selection of weapons, such as melee weapons, rifles, pistols, shotguns, and bows. Players can customize their loadout with various upgrades, mods, and attachments to increase their damage output and survivability.

As they progress through the game, they will also earn experience points that can be used to level up their Tenno’s stats and unlock new abilities. The game also features a marketplace where players can purchase items such as new Warframes and weapons.

The game is regularly updated with new content, such as missions, levels, weapons, and more. Overall, Warframe is an excellent free game for the Nintendo Switch and offers plenty of replay value. If you’re looking for an intense shooter experience on the go, Warframe is definitely worth checking out.

#7. Apex Legends

Apex Legends was published by Electronic Arts (EA) and developed by Respawn Entertainment, the same studio that created the popular Titanfall series. The game has an interesting combination of fast-paced shooter combat and strategic team-based play. Players join squads of three to fight against other teams in intense battles.

The game features 21 characters to choose from, each with unique abilities and weapons. Players can customize their character’s appearance and stats to create unique strategies. A variety of weapons, armor, equipment, and attachments can be found throughout the match, as well as powerful Ultimate Abilities that turn the tide in battle.

Apex Legends has an ever-evolving pool of content, including new game modes, maps, and characters, so you’ll never get bored playing this game. There are plenty of ways to earn rewards just by playing the game, such as through daily challenges or special events.

The Battle Pass system allows you to level up as you progress through each season, granting access to exclusive rewards like legendary skins and crafting materials for customizing your character.

The in-game store offers purchasable cosmetic items such as weapon skins, banners, and finishers that give you an extra boost of style during battle. Moreover, crossplay is available across all platforms, so no matter what system you have, you can still join friends or battle against random opponents online.

#6. Knockout City

Knockout City is one of the best free Nintendo Switch games out there. It is a team-based multiplayer game that pits teams of four against each other in an intense dodgeball battle. The game’s goal is to eliminate all opponents by knocking them out with balls.

You can also use various power-ups, including Super Shots and Special Balls, to help you gain an edge over your opponents. There are different game modes available, including Brawl Ball and Diamond Dash, as well as plenty of customization options for your characters.

Knockout City is an addictive and fast-paced game that requires quick reflexes and strategic planning. In the game, you choose a team of three players to play with, each with unique abilities. Each player has a range of special moves and power-ups to help them in their matches.

Overall, Knockout City is an incredibly fun game for all ages. With its colorful graphics, easy-to-learn controls, and intense gameplay, it’s sure to keep you entertained for hours.

#5. Fall Guys

Fall Guys, formerly Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout is a game created by Mediatonic and published by Devolver Digital. It was released for Nintendo Switch on June 21, 2022. The game is a physics-based multiplayer party game that pits up to 60 players against each other in a competition of wacky obstacles, challenging minigames, and chaotic eliminations.

Players must compete for the crown as they navigate obstacle courses filled with giant fruits, slippery surfaces, and treacherous pitfalls. Players can customize their characters with various hats, costumes, and accessories.

The game also features a wide variety of levels which can be customized with themes like medieval castles, futuristic cities, or wild west towns. The levels are filled with challenging obstacles and minigames such as tail tag, fall mountain, and royal feud.

Players can compete in teams or individually and progress through the game by completing challenges and collecting coins which can be used to unlock new levels and costumes. Fall Guys has become an instant hit with gamers and has quickly amassed millions of players since its release.

The game has won numerous awards, including the BAFTA Games Award for Multiplayer, and was nominated for Best Game at The Game Awards 2021. The game has also been praised for its whimsical charm and fun gameplay, making it one of the best free Nintendo Switch games.

#4. Brawlhalla

Brawlhalla is a free-to-play 2D fighting game available on the Nintendo Switch. Developed by Blue Mammoth Games and published by Ubisoft, Brawlhalla was released on October 17, 2017. This multiplayer game is a platform fighter inspired by Super Smash Bros. and features characters from various backgrounds, such as warriors, robots, ninjas, and more.

The game supports up to 8 players in both local and online multiplayer modes. In terms of gamely, Brawlhalla offers an array of game modes that are great for both casual and competitive players. These include 1v1 Strikeout and Experimental 1v1, Ranked mode, Casual matchmaking, Brawl of the week, and more.

Each mode has its unique ruleset and playstyle, allowing players to customize their experience as they see fit. Additionally, Brawlhalla has various cosmetic options for customizing the look of each character. The game supports cross-platform so players on different platforms can play together.

Overall, Brawlhalla is an enjoyable platform fighter that offers something for everyone. Whether looking for a competitive experience or a fun way to pass the time with your friends, this game can offer everything.

#3. Fallout Shelter

Fallout Shelter is a free-to-play post-apocalyptic simulation game released in 2015 by Bethesda Softworks. The game was developed and published by Bethesda Game Studios and is available on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android devices.

The player acts as the Overseer of a Vault, the underground nuclear fallout shelter. The player must manage the day-to-day operations of their Vault, such as building new rooms, assigning dwellers to different tasks, managing resources, and dealing with random events.

Fallout Shelter also features an in-game economy, with players being able to purchase items. In addition, the player can battle raiders and mutants using the dwellers’ unique stats. Fallout Shelter has received positive reviews from critics, who praised the game’s art style, user interface, and inclusion of a base-building mechanic.

It has been praised as a great example of a successful free-to-play mobile game and has since been ported to home consoles. Fallout Shelter has become one of the highest-grossing games of all time, having earned over $100 million in revenue since its release.

#2. Fortnite

Fortnite is one of the most popular games available on the Nintendo Switch. Developed by Epic Games and released in 2017, Fortnite has become a global phenomenon. It is a battle royale game where up to 100 players are dropped into an island map and must fight to be the last one standing.

The objective is to survive until only one player remains by gathering resources, building fortifications, and eliminating opponents. Fortnite has seen tremendous success since its launch, with an estimated 125 million players worldwide within a year.

It offers several game modes, such as Save the World, Creative, and Battle Royale. Players can purchase various customization options such as costumes, skins, emotes, gliders, pickaxes, and other items. Players can also play Fortnite with friends in squads or join random teams of up to four players.

The game’s mechanics and visuals make it appealing to a wide audience. It features destructible environments, tight controls, and unique weapons like rocket launchers and laser guns. Fortnite also includes elements of crafting and building that allow players to create their fortresses for defense.

In addition, the game’s bright colors, humorous art style, and zany characters make it attractive to younger players. Overall, Fortnite is an exciting game that appeals to casual and hardcore gamers. With its intense combat and creative building options, it offers something for everyone. It’s no wonder Fortnite remains one of the most popular games in the world.

#1. Tetris 99

Tetris 99 is a battle-royale-themed Tetris game released for the Nintendo Switch. The game was developed by Arika and published by Nintendo, and it was released worldwide on February 13, 2019. The game features classic Tetris gameplay, with players competing against 98 other opponents to be the last ones standing.

Players must stack falling Tetrimino blocks to clear lines and score points. Players can use the “attack” feature to send garbage lines to their opponents when they clear multiple lines at once. It’s an exciting twist on the classic puzzle game.

Tetris 99 also has multiple online modes. In addition to the standard online mode, the game also offers challenge events and offline modes. Challenge events offer new goals and rewards, such as special themes or exclusive music tracks. The offline mode allows players to practice playing against 98 computer-controlled opponents.

Tetris 99 is an incredibly addicting game with plenty of strategic depth and exciting matches. Whether you’re playing against 98 real people or 98 bots, you’ll always have a thrilling challenge ahead of you.

Tetris 99 has been well-received by both critics and fans alike, with many praising the game for its intense and unique take on the classic puzzle game. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and have fun with friends online.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch offers an incredible selection of free games. Whether you’re looking for a classic fighting game, a strategic puzzle game, or a world-building adventure game, the Switch has something for everyone.

From Fortnite to Smite, the top 10 free Nintendo Switch games provide hours of entertainment at no cost. If you want to upgrade your library of titles, the games on this list are a good place to start.

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