The Nintendo Switch has been a runaway success since its launch in 2017, praised for its hybrid design that transitions seamlessly from a home console to a handheld system. With over 111 million units sold worldwide, the Switch boasts an extensive library of games across various genres.
Fortunately, you don‘t need to spend any money to enjoy some of the best titles the Switch has to offer. Whether you‘re looking for multiplayer chaos, zen-like puzzles, or just want to try out some demos, plenty of free games await.
Here are 10 of the best free Nintendo Switch games available right now.
1. Fortnite
Kicking off the list is none other than Fortnite, the insanely popular battle royale shooter from Epic Games. Dropping 100 players onto an island to scavenge for weapons and build fortified structures, Fortnite distills the last-man-standing formula into a vibrant, irresistible package.
The Switch version delivers the full Fortnite experience, complete with the same ever-evolving maps and gameplay innovations as other platforms. Players can build and battle in either the standard Fortnite mode or Fortnite Creative, which offers more freedom to construct.
Best of all, Fortnite downloads and plays completely free. Players can unlock new customization items like character skins through gameplay or via optional in-game purchases. If you haven’t given Fortnite a try yet, the Switch edition is a great way to drop in.
2. Pokémon Quest
For Pokémon fans, Pokémon Quest offers a delightful slice of Pokémon action without any barriers to entry. The game takes place on Tumblecube Island, where block-shaped Pokémon roam free.
You’ll assemble teams of Cubone, Pikachu, and other Pokémon favorites, then battle wild critters and huge boss Pokémon. The Pokémon fight on their own, but you can adjust their positionings and special abilities to help sway the tide of battle.
With charming block-based graphics and approachable gameplay perfect to pick up and play during a short session, Pokémon Quest is an excellent no-cost way for Trainers of all ages to dive into the Pokémon universe.
3. Fallout Shelter
Based on Bethesda’s acclaimed Fallout series, Fallout Shelter is a post-apocalyptic survival simulation focused on maintaining your very own Fallout vault. You’ll construct new rooms in your growing underground complex, manage resources like power, food and water, and provide jobs to the survivors under your care.
Strangers will also arrive in your vault in need of shelter. You can welcome them in hopes they’ll contribute valuable skills, but beware of letting in anyone carrying radiation or disease.
Fallout Shelter really shines in the Switch version thanks to touch screen support in handheld mode. You can easily drag rooms around with your finger and tap on characters and resources to inspect them.
While in-app purchases exist for cosmetics, everything gameplay related – constructing rooms, managing resources, protecting your vault – is completely free. It‘s an addictive challenge trying to expand your vault while keeping vault dwellers happy.
4. Super Kirby Clash
Super Kirby Clash brings single player and co-op multiplayer quests starring Nintendo‘s hyper-powerful pink puffball, Kirby. Select from four Kirby variant classes – Sword Hero, Hammer Lord, Beam Mage and Dr. Healmore – then take on mighty bosses terrorizing the kingdom.
Fans of Japanese RPGs will feel right at home with Super Kirby Clash‘s progression system. Completing quests earns you gem shards to craft more powerful weapons and level up your Kirby. You can tackle missions solo, but battling bosses with a party is way more fun and strategic.
Super Kirby Clash shines as one of the best free multiplayer titles on Switch. Up to four players can band together locally or online to take down colossal bosses – the perfect way for families and friends to team up.
5. Ninjala
Ninjala is an online multiplayer combat game dripping with splashes of color. Players assume the role of ninjas wielding small gum-like weapons who face off in close quarters arena battles.
Using the left analog stick to move and motion controls to swing your ninja gum weapon, you’ll unleash a flurry of attacks to deplete your opponents’ vitality. Defeat foes to earn points, collect scrolls to unlock new weapons like swords, hammers and yo-yos or craft gear that provides buffs.
Backed by a peppy electronica soundtrack that energizes the action, Ninjala is an absolute blast with friends. Up to eight players can battle it out locally or online. With multiple modes to test your skills, Ninjala delivers multiplayer mayhem in a bright, cheerful package.
6. Asphalt 9: Legends
As an arcade-style racing game, Asphalt 9: Legends succeeds at conveying speed and excitement. Available as a free download, the game allows you to race across over 50 gorgeous locales in a variety of sleek licensed Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghinis and more.
Using motion steering, you can execute slick drifts around corners and jostle against opponents. Races never take long, making Asphalt 9 a great pick-up-and-play title. Stunning graphics really showcase the environments along with your rides.
Over time, you can build up your garage with even more elite cars. Or go head-to-head against others online. For an absolute thrill rush in racing game form, Asphalt 9: Legends is tough to beat.
7. Realm Royale
Realm Royale combines the intense action of a hero shooter with a battle royale structure. Choose from five character classes, each with their own unique weapons and abilities, then airdrop into the battlefield.
Scavenge for weapons and gear, battle rivals, and attempt to be the last hero standing. As the battle progresses, you‘ll also collect shards which convert into improved weapons and armor.
While still technically in beta, Realm Royale feels polished with squad options supporting 60 players along with solos and duos. Even better, Nintendo Switch players gain access to exclusive character skins and cosmetics.
If you enjoy hero-based shooters like Overwatch but crave an exhilarating battle royale environment, Realm Royale nicely blends those styles into one royal package.
8. Rogue Company
From developer Hi-Rez Studios (SMITE, Paladins), Rogue Company is a team-based shooter pitting groups of gunmen against each other. Select from a roster of elite mercenaries called Rogues, each equipped with their own specialties and playstyles ranging from all-out assault to stealth tactics.
Maps are based around objectives like retrieving intel or planting/defusing bombs. Work closely with teammates to coordinate strategies and leverage both your Rogue’s strengths and firearms expertise. It‘s as much about tactical positioning as your aim.
Rogue Company is still growing, but it already feels like a multiplayer shooter to watch closely. Even in its early state, Rogue Company delivers heart-pounding competitive action with plenty of modes and maps to master.
9. WARFACE
Boasting over 80 million players worldwide, the team-based military shooter WARFACE offers explosive free-to-play action. Across competitive multiplayer and co-op modes, you’ll use modern realistic weapons and gadgets to demolish the opposition.
WARFACE shines thanks to its diverse class system and deep weapon customization. Whether you prefer assaulting the frontlines as the Rifleman, getting up close with the Medic, or supporting allies from afar as the Sniper, each class adds strategic considerations.
While the gritty firefights and weaponry keep action intense, WARFACE balances things out with personal progression systems to keep players engaged. The Switch version even packs exclusive items and customization content. For military FPS fans, WARFACE is an easy way to enlist for free.
10. Dauntless
Dauntless elegantly blends monster hunting gameplay with RPG elements into a slick co-op action package. As a Slayer, you‘ll take on imposing Behemoths threatening the world while utilizing crafting to upgrade weapons and equipment.
Before hunts commence, visit Ramsgate village to chat with fellow Slayers at the local tavern or forge new armor and weapons using materials carved from fallen Behemoths. Choose sword, hammer and axe styles tailored to your preferred playstyle.
While playable solo, Dauntless heavily encourages playing with friends. Hunting as a four player party amplifies the monster-slaying drama. Boss battles turn cinematic as you watch teammates combo skills against larger-than-life creatures.
Fans of Monster Hunter looking for a deep, social take on hunting monsters should check out Dauntless. And since downloads and online play are completely free, why not give it a shot?
What Should You Download?
The Nintendo Switch eShop gives console owners an embarrassment of choices when it comes to free games ready for download. Which titles you ultimately select comes down to personal taste.
Fortnite, Pokémon Quest and Super Kirby Clash are easy recommendations thanks to their universal appeal and approachable gameplay for all skill levels. Those seeking competitive thrills can dive into titles like Rogue Company, Realm Royale and Ninjala for intense multiplayer battles with friends.
Or if co-op against hulking boss creatures sounds appealing, Dauntless and WARFACE deliver tons of missions to conquer with allies. You really can‘t go wrong!
Just keep storage space in mind before downloading. Some beefier games like Fortnite or Warface can command 10-12+ GB. Investing in a roomy microSD card helps keep space cleared for saving screenshots and video captures too.
While free to download, many games on this list rely on optional in-game transactions, so manage expectations around precisely how “free” the experience lasts before nudging you to spend money. But with smart play, you can enjoy hours of entertainment without any extra costs.
Here’s to downloading some stellar free Switch games and savoring the experience! Construct those forts, hunt giant creatures and pull off drifted turns to your heart’s content. Happy gaming!
