The Nintendo Switch has long been the ultimate console for multiplayer gaming. Whether you have a Nintendo Switch or the new Switch 2, its design—from detachable Joy-Cons to seamless local and online play—makes it the perfect device for gaming with friends and family . In 2026, the library is bigger and better than ever, with a wide range of games that cater to all ages and playstyles. Here are the best multiplayer Nintendo games for your next game night.
For Competitive Races and Chaotic Fun
Mario Kart World (Switch 2 Exclusive)
Mario Kart remains the undisputed king of party racing, and the newest entry, Mario Kart World, takes the franchise into the open-world arena . Building on the solid foundations of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, this ambitious title offers a large kingdom to explore and a plethora of missions. The new Knockout Tour mode adds a thrilling twist that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats . It’s drop-dead gorgeous and packed with unlockable characters and outfits. It’s the perfect game to get a room full of friends laughing, groaning, and shouting for rematches .
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
No list of multiplayer games is complete without Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. With over 89 characters and a roster of iconic fighters, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser . Matches are fast, frantic, and unpredictable—even newcomers can have fun with simple button-mashing, while experienced players can dive into deep combos and advanced techniques . The game supports up to eight players in chaotic free-for-alls or structured team battles. A pair of comfortable Joy-Con grips can save you from hand strain during long, intense battles .
For Cooperative Chaos and Teamwork
Overcooked! All You Can Eat
If you want to test your friendships, Overcooked! is the ultimate stress test . Overcooked! All You Can Eat bundles the first two games and all their DLC into one chaotic package . Communication and coordination are essential as you and up to three other players scramble to chop ingredients, cook meals, and serve dishes in absurdly challenging kitchens . Expect to yell, laugh, and eventually find a rhythm that makes your team feel like a well-oiled (and slightly panicked) machine.
It Takes Two
It Takes Two is a masterpiece of cooperative game design, built entirely around two-player teamwork . You and your partner control a couple trapped in doll bodies, solving puzzles and navigating platforming challenges that require constant coordination . With clever level design, inventive mechanics, and a story that thrives on collaboration, this is a must-play experience for friends, couples, or anyone who loves working together .
Luigi’s Mansion 3
This ghost-hunting adventure is perfect for co-op, especially for families. While one player controls Luigi, a second player can join as Gooigi, a green goo doppelgänger . Gooigi can slip through grates and handle traps, creating clever teamwork moments . The lighthearted scares and Luigi’s nervous humor keep the mood playful, making it an ideal couch co-op option for a parent and child or two friends .
For Party Nights and Social Gatherings
The Jackbox Party Pack Series
For larger groups, the Jackbox Party Pack series is unbeatable. Each pack contains five unique party games—from trivia and word games to drawing challenges—that can support as many as 10 players . The best part is that players use their phones, tablets, or computers to participate, so you don’t need to pass around controllers . Games like Quiplash, Fibbage, and Drawful are guaranteed to produce hilarious moments and are perfect for parties or family get-togethers .
Mario Party Superstars
Mario Party Superstars is a nostalgic blast from the past, featuring five revamped boards from the N64 Mario Party games and 100 classic mini-games from across the series . Up to four players compete in a digital board game format, racing to collect stars and coins through a series of silly and competitive challenges . It’s simple, quick to start, and constantly rotates through new activities—ideal for family gatherings .
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
For a more relaxed and low-key gathering, Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a multiplayer experience focused on spending time together . Up to eight players can visit the same island online, or four can share a console locally . You can fish, decorate, trade rare furniture, or simply chat while catching bugs. The slow, deliberate pace and lack of competition make it a wonderful way to connect with friends and family .
Honorable Mentions
The Switch’s multiplayer library is vast, so here are a few more standouts:
- Minecraft: The best-selling video game of all time. It’s a portable playground for friends to build and survive together .
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land: A kid-friendly co-op adventure where a second player can join as Bandana Waddle Dee .
- Cuphead: A challenging but rewarding local co-op run-and-gun game with stunning 1930s cartoon visuals .
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Still a classic if you don’t have a Switch 2. It offers fast, colorful racing and is a staple of any party .
With so many fantastic multiplayer Nintendo games available in 2026, there is no shortage of ways to bring your friends and family together for fun, laughter, and unforgettable gaming sessions.
