The Nintendo Switch has revolutionized gaming with its versatile design and impressive library of games. For girls of all ages, the Switch offers a diverse range of titles that cater to various interests and skill levels. This comprehensive guide will explore the best Nintendo Switch games for girls, covering different age groups, genres, and gaming preferences.
Introduction to Nintendo Switch Games for Girls
The Nintendo Switch’s unique hybrid design allows players to enjoy games both at home on a TV and on-the-go in handheld mode. This flexibility makes it an ideal console for girls who want to game in different settings. The Switch’s game library is vast and varied, offering everything from relaxing simulation games to thrilling adventures.
When it comes to games for girls, it’s important to note that interests vary widely. While some girls may enjoy traditionally “feminine” games, others might prefer action-packed adventures or challenging puzzles. This guide aims to present a diverse selection of games that can appeal to girls with different tastes and gaming experience levels.
Best Nintendo Switch Games for Young Girls (Ages 5-12)
Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a life simulation game that offers a perfect blend of creativity and relaxation. Young girls can create their own island paradise, decorate their home, and interact with adorable animal villagers. The game’s gentle pace and lack of violence make it ideal for younger players.
Key features:
- Customizable island and home decoration
- Friendly animal villagers to befriend
- Seasonal events and updates
- Multiplayer options for playing with friends
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a racing game that’s fun for all ages. With its colorful tracks, beloved Nintendo characters, and easy-to-learn controls, it’s an excellent choice for young girls who enjoy competitive play.
Key features:
- 48 race tracks and 42 characters
- Multiple difficulty levels to suit different skill levels
- Local and online multiplayer options
- Battle mode for additional gameplay variety
Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu!/Eevee!
These Pokémon games offer a simplified and charming introduction to the world of Pokémon. Young girls can catch, train, and battle cute creatures while exploring a vibrant world. The games also feature co-op play, allowing parents or siblings to join in the fun.
Key features:
- Simplified Pokémon gameplay suitable for beginners
- Integration with Pokémon GO mobile game
- Ability to interact with and customize your partner Pokémon
- Optional motion controls for an immersive experience
Just Dance Series
The Just Dance games are perfect for girls who love music and movement. With a wide variety of popular songs and easy-to-follow dance routines, these games provide fun exercise and entertainment.
Key features:
- Large library of current and classic pop songs
- Colorful, engaging visuals
- Multiplayer mode for dance parties with friends
- Workout mode for those interested in fitness
Top Nintendo Switch Games for Teenage Girls (Ages 13-19)
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
This epic adventure game offers a vast open world to explore, challenging puzzles to solve, and an engaging story. Teenage girls who enjoy fantasy and action will find hours of entertainment in this critically acclaimed title.
Key features:
- Massive open world with diverse landscapes
- Challenging puzzles and combat
- Ability to approach objectives in multiple ways
- Beautiful art style and atmospheric soundtrack
Splatoon 2
Splatoon 2 is a colorful and unique shooter game that replaces violence with ink-splattering fun. It’s an excellent choice for teenage girls who enjoy competitive gameplay in a vibrant, stylish setting.
Key features:
- Team-based multiplayer matches
- Various game modes, including Turf War and Salmon Run
- Regular content updates and special events
- Customizable characters with trendy gear
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game that offers a relaxing yet engaging experience. Teenage girls can enjoy managing their farm, forming relationships with townspeople, and uncovering the secrets of the valley.
Key features:
- Open-ended gameplay with multiple activities
- Relationship-building with NPCs, including romance options
- Pixel art graphics with a charming, nostalgic feel
- Cooperative multiplayer mode
Fire Emblem: Three Houses
For teenage girls who enjoy strategy and storytelling, Fire Emblem: Three Houses offers a deep, character-driven experience. Players can lead a house of students, engage in tactical battles, and shape the story through their choices.
Key features:
- In-depth tactical RPG gameplay
- Strong character development and relationships
- Multiple storylines with significant player choice
- Blend of school life simulation and strategic combat
Relaxing and Creative Nintendo Switch Games for Girls
Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Expanded)
While already mentioned for younger girls, Animal Crossing: New Horizons deserves special attention in the relaxing and creative category. The game’s open-ended nature allows for extensive creativity in island design, home decoration, and even clothing creation.
Additional features:
- Terraforming tools to reshape the island
- Custom design tools for patterns and clothing
- Photography mode to capture and share island moments
- Regular updates with new features and seasonal events
Stardew Valley (Expanded)
Stardew Valley’s relaxing atmosphere and creative freedom make it a standout in this category. Players can design their farm, decorate their home, and even create artisanal goods.
Additional features:
- Changing seasons with unique crops and events
- Mining and dungeon exploration for variety
- Ability to choose different farm layouts
- Extensive modding community for additional content (PC version)
Cozy Grove
Cozy Grove is a life simulation game set on a haunted island. Players take on the role of a Spirit Scout, helping ghost bears and uncovering the island’s mysteries. Its day-by-day gameplay and soothing art style make it perfect for relaxation.
Key features:
- Daily quests and activities
- Charming hand-drawn art style
- Crafting and decorating elements
- Heartwarming story with lovable characters
Spiritfarer
Spiritfarer is a unique management game about saying goodbye. Players manage a ferry for the deceased, building relationships with spirits and helping them find peace. Its beautiful art and touching story make it a memorable experience.
Key features:
- Emotional storytelling with themes of life and death
- Resource management and crafting elements
- Platform-puzzle gameplay
- Co-op mode for shared experiences
Multiplayer Nintendo Switch Games for Girls
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Expanded)
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe shines as a multiplayer game, offering exciting races and battles for up to four players locally or up to 12 players online.
Additional features:
- Smart steering and auto-accelerate options for beginners
- Unlockable characters, karts, and customization options
- Regular tournaments and events
- Compatible with Nintendo Labo Toy-Con Motorbike
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
This fighting game brings together characters from various Nintendo franchises. Its easy-to-learn but hard-to-master gameplay makes it great for casual and competitive players alike.
Key features:
- Huge roster of 80+ playable characters
- Multiple game modes, including Story Mode
- Local and online multiplayer options
- Regular updates with new characters and stages
Overcooked! 2
Overcooked! 2 is a chaotic cooking game that’s perfect for cooperative play. Players work together to prepare meals in increasingly wild kitchens, leading to hilarious and exciting gameplay.
Key features:
- Cooperative gameplay for up to four players
- Online multiplayer option
- Dynamic, ever-changing kitchens
- New game+ mode for added challenge
Mario Party Superstars
Mario Party Superstars brings classic board game fun to the Switch. With a collection of 100 minigames from throughout the series’ history, it’s a great choice for game nights with friends and family.
Key features:
- Five classic boards from the N64 era
- 100 minigames from across the Mario Party series
- Online play with friends or random matchmaking
- Sticker mode for fun communication during online play
Educational Nintendo Switch Games for Girls
Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
This brain-training game offers a fun way to challenge cognitive skills. With multiplayer options, it can turn learning into a friendly competition.
Key features:
- Five categories of brain-training activities
- Adjustable difficulty levels
- Multiplayer modes for up to four players
- Online ghost data to compete against other players
Scribblenauts: Showdown
Scribblenauts: Showdown encourages creativity and vocabulary skills. Players solve puzzles and compete in minigames by summoning objects with words.
Key features:
- Sandbox mode for open-ended creativity
- Competitive party games for up to four players
- Extensive dictionary of summonable objects
- Character customization options
Nintendo Labo
Nintendo Labo combines physical crafting with digital gameplay. Girls can build cardboard contraptions and use them to play specially designed games, learning about engineering and physics in the process.
Key features:
- Multiple kits available, including Variety, Robot, and Vehicle
- Combination of building and gameplay
- Programmable with Toy-Con Garage
- Encourages creativity and problem-solving
Art Academy
While not a standalone game, Art Academy lessons are available through Nintendo Switch Online. These guided tutorials teach various art techniques, perfect for girls interested in developing their artistic skills.
Key features:
- Step-by-step art lessons
- Various artistic mediums and techniques covered
- Ability to share creations online
- Regular updates with new lessons
Adventure and Action Nintendo Switch Games for Girls
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Expanded)
Breath of the Wild offers a vast, open world filled with adventure. Its non-linear nature allows players to approach challenges in their own way, encouraging creativity and exploration.
Additional features:
- Physics-based puzzle-solving
- Cooking and crafting systems
- DLC expansions for additional content
- Amiibo support for special items
Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread is a sci-fi action-adventure game starring the iconic bounty hunter Samus Aran. Its challenging gameplay and atmospheric world make it perfect for girls who enjoy intense action and exploration.
Key features:
- Fast-paced 2D platforming and combat
- Intricate level design encouraging exploration
- Stealth elements with E.M.M.I. encounters
- Unlockable abilities that enhance gameplay
Yonder: The Cloud Catcher Chronicles
Yonder offers a peaceful open-world adventure without combat. Players explore a beautiful world, craft items, and help inhabitants while uncovering the island’s secrets.
Key features:
- Non-violent gameplay focused on exploration and quests
- Farming and crafting systems
- Changing seasons affecting the game world
- Multiple ways to progress through the story
Benefits of Gaming for Girls
Gaming can offer numerous benefits for girls:
- Cognitive skills development: Many games challenge problem-solving, strategic thinking, and spatial awareness.
- Improved hand-eye coordination: Action games can enhance reflexes and motor skills.
- Social interaction: Multiplayer games provide opportunities for teamwork and communication.
- Stress relief: Games can offer a fun escape and help manage stress. Relaxing PS4 games can also provide similar benefits on other platforms.
- Creativity enhancement: Many games encourage creative thinking and expression.
- Increased confidence: Overcoming in-game challenges can boost self-esteem.
Tips for Choosing Nintendo Switch Games for Girls
When selecting games:
- Consider age appropriateness: Check age ratings and content descriptions.
- Explore different genres: Encourage trying various game types to discover preferences.
- Read reviews and watch gameplay videos: These can provide insights into game content and quality.
- Try demos when available: Many Switch games offer free demos to test before purchasing.
- Consider personal interests: Look for games that align with existing hobbies or interests.
- Balance game types: Mix educational, creative, and purely entertaining games.
For younger children, best Wii games for kids can also provide inspiration for family-friendly titles on the Switch.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch offers a diverse range of games suitable for girls of all ages and interests. From relaxing simulations like Animal Crossing: New Horizons to epic adventures like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, there’s something for everyone. By exploring different genres and considering individual preferences, girls can find games that not only entertain but also contribute to their cognitive development and creativity.
Remember, while this guide focuses on games for girls, it’s important to note that gaming interests are not defined by gender. Encourage exploration of various game types and let personal preferences guide choices. The world of Nintendo Switch gaming is vast and exciting, offering endless opportunities for fun, learning, and growth.
For those interested in gaming beyond the Switch, check out our guide on the best laptop for Sims 4 to explore PC gaming options.
Additionally, for a fun exploration of gaming culture, take a look at our article on the hottest girls in gaming, which showcases iconic female characters in video games.
FAQs about Nintendo Switch Games for Girls
- Are there any free games available on the Nintendo Switch? Yes, there are several free-to-play games on the Nintendo Switch eShop, including Fortnite, Pokémon Quest, and Fallout Shelter.
- Can I set parental controls on the Nintendo Switch? Absolutely. The Nintendo Switch has robust parental control options that allow you to set time limits, restrict access to certain games, and monitor play activity.
- Are there educational games available for the Nintendo Switch? Yes, there are many educational games available, such as Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain, Scribblenauts, and various puzzle games that can enhance cognitive skills.
- How often are new games released for the Nintendo Switch? New games are released regularly, with major titles often launching around holidays. The eShop is updated weekly with new releases.
- Can I play Nintendo Switch games online with friends? Many Nintendo Switch games offer online multiplayer options. However, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required for most online gameplay.
- Are there any subscription services for Nintendo Switch games? Yes, Nintendo Switch Online subscribers have access to a growing library of classic NES and SNES games, as well as special offers on select new games.
- How do I know if a game is appropriate for my child? Check the game’s age rating and content descriptors provided by the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board). You can also read reviews and watch gameplay videos for more insight.
- Can I return or exchange a digital game if I don’t like it? Nintendo’s policy on digital game returns is quite strict. It’s generally not possible to return or exchange a digital game once it’s been purchased and downloaded.
