The Nintendo Switch is without a doubt one of the most family-friendly consoles out there. There are plenty of options for children of all ages, from toddlers to middle schoolers. After all, Nintendo itself is known for its wholesome video game franchises: the Mario series, the Animal Crossing series, the Pokemon series, and so much more.
We wanted to put a spotlight on the amazing PG games that are available on the Nintendo Switch, so we put together a comprehensive list below, in no particular order. Most of these family-friendly options make excellent couch co-ops, but we also included some RPGs for variety.
1. Snipperclips (2017)
Snipperclips is a co-op puzzle game wherein 2-4 players control the characters Snip and Clip to fulfill a variety of objectives. Snip and Clip must cut into each other, match shapes, or perform specific tasks such as burst balloons to get to the next stage.
The puzzles are creative and sometimes outright silly. It’s the kind of game you can enjoy with friends and family, no matter what age you are.
Some of the best games often have the simplest premise, and Snipperclips is one such gem.
Perfect for: Kids of all ages, does not contain violence or foul language
2. Splatoon 2 (2017)
Splatoon 2 is a more PG take on the third-person shooter genre. Instead of killing opponents, players use paint as ammunition and try to cover as much ground with their ink color in order to defeat the other team. It’s a cross between a turf war and paintball.
The sequel’s new features, weapons and accessories make the game even more fun. Players can now equip items such as Dualies (dual-wielded pistols) and Inkjets (jetpacks) to make the game more exciting. The game also features a new co-op mode called Salmon Run, wherein players must defeat waves of enemies and collect eggs.
Splatoon 2 is an addicting, fantastic shooter game.
Perfect for: Kids age 10+, contains cartoony violence
3. Dragon Quest Builders 2 (2018)
In Dragon Quest Builders 2, players control either a male or female “builder”, whose main job is to find resources and to construct buildings and defenses for the kingdom using said materials. There are also monsters to battle, but the combat system is quite limited.
The best part of Dragon Quest Builders 2 can be found in putting your kingdom together and fulfilling quests for the delightful NPCs scattered throughout the island. You can also go island-hopping for more resources!
Don’t be fooled by the adorable graphics. Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a phenomenal RPG that contains a lot of depth.
Perfect for: Kids age 10+, contains mild language and violence
4. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe (2015)
New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe has all the trappings of a great introductory game to the Mario franchise: great graphics, distinct and wacky levels, a classic storyline, and 2D Mario. In other words, it’s a classic Mario game in the best possible way.
A re-release of the Wii U New Super Mario Bros. U, this deluxe Switch port includes the DLC New Super Luigi U, made some improvements to the gameplay, and added new playable characters.
You can’t go wrong with this side-scrolling platformer from a beloved Nintendo franchise.
Perfect for: Kids of all ages
5. Unravel Two (2018)
Unravel Two is a game that follows two creatures made of yarn called Yarnys who band together and chase the spark that builds from their connection. The duo also encounters challenges on their journey which they must solve together.
The graphics of Unravel Two are stunning. It’s quite funny to watch these two bundles of yarn move against a beautiful, realistic backdrop worthy of a Pixar film. In fact, the game also has an important message about the importance of love and friendship, much like an actual Pixar film.
Unravel Two is a game that oozes sincerity and is as heartfelt as it is fun.
Perfect for: Kids of all ages, contains mild violence
6. New Super Lucky’s Tale (2019)
In New Super Lucky’s Tale, players assume the role of Lucky Swiftail, a young fox who must help his sister protect the Book of Ages from Jinx, the game’s antagonist. The objective for each level is to collect clovers that help Lucky take back the Book of Ages. There are five worlds throughout the game, with the levels varying in style. There are side-scrollers, mazes, and boss fights.
New Super Lucky’s Tale has understandably garnered comparisons to 3D platformers from the 1990s, but it is also just so much fun to play. It’s also the right amount of challenge for young kids without being too easy.
New Super Lucky’s Tale is a charming platformer that gives bigger franchises a run for their money.
Perfect for: Kids of all ages, contains mild violence
7. LEGO DC Super-Villains (2018)
LEGO DC Super-Villains is another solid installment in the ever-expanding LEGO video game franchise. Like its predecessors, it doesn’t take itself too seriously but doesn’t sacrifice style or substance either.
What separates LEGO DC Super-Villains from other LEGO games is that it allows players to customize their character, a first for the franchise. In addition, it features a generous catalog of characters that range from fan favorites to lesser-known names in the DC Universe.
If you want a well-balanced action-adventure game that offers both story mode and open world, then LEGO DC Super-Villains is the game for you.
Perfect for: Kids age 10+, contains cartoony violence
8. Kirby Star Allies (2018)
In Kirby Star Allies, Kirby can conquer his enemies in the most wholesome way possible: by throwing hearts at them, which turns them into allies. It sounds silly, but keep in mind that Kirby is a video game protagonist who can inhale his enemies and still make it cute.
It’s important to note that Kirby Star Allies doesn’t necessarily break new ground for the series, but it does feature several great callbacks to previous Kirby games.
The game truly shines when it is played with others. There are even special moves that can only be unlocked when Kirby has companions, which is where it gets its variety. It’s a lot of fun to test out different combos to solve puzzles and defeat bosses.
Kirby Star Allies is an absolute blast from start to finish.
Perfect for: Kids age 10+, contains cartoony violence
Conclusion
It doesn’t matter what age you are: video games can be entertaining without violence or gore. The games listed above are proof of that. There are plenty of wholesome, heartwarming games out there, you just need to know where to look. And that’s what we’re here for.
Let us know which of these games you’ve tried in the comments!
