The Nintendo Switch has been smashing records left and right since its 2017 release, carving out a place for itself among the best-selling consoles in history. While the Nintendo Switch 2 will soon replace its smashing hit of a predecessor, the original Switch still has potential – and quite a few amazing games under its belt.
Nintendo’s hybrid console offers a mix of in-depth strategy entries and family-friendly multiplayer titles – some of which are free to download on the Nintendo eShop. So, whether you’re trying to save up for an upcoming release or stick to a budget, here are some free-to-play Switch games worth looking into.
Sky: Children of the Light
Multiplayer gaming can be intimidating for newcomers, with many highly competitive MOBAs and MMOs gaining a reputation for toxic communities. Conceived as a peaceful MMO alternative, Sky: Children of the Light stands out for its refreshing take on the genre. Rather than competition, this social game focuses on connection and friendship, inviting players to create memories with like-minded peers as they journey through eight kingdoms needing restoration by returning fallen stars to their ancient constellations.
Throughout this slow-paced adventure, forming bonds with others is the key to unlocking new abilities, while collaboration is paramount to push back the encroaching darkness. New attractions, daily quests, and seasonal events keep expanding the scope of this dreamlike world. Beautifully serviced by a whimsical art style, this award-winning title is all about spreading hope – and for free on the Switch.
Warframe
Next up is another multiplayer title, but this gory action RPG is not for the faint-hearted. Designed as a looter shooter, Warframe follows an unstoppable warrior in their exploration of a far-future world dominated by capitalist machines and greedy clones as they slice or blaze their guns at enemies in droves.
The game consists of several open-world landscapes whose mysteries await discovery, all of which are teeming with lifestyle forms that may be friendly or hostile. Part of the thrill of this mature free-to-play title lies in its story-driven action, which is best explored alongside a squad of up to three friends or members of the active Tenno community. Each Warframe is customizable so that players can create the perfect character with unique abilities – and an impressive arsenal, to boot.
Fallout Shelter
Video game adaptations can be pretty hit-or-miss. Yet, Amazon has hit the mark with its latest Fallout series. The Fallout show was so successful it might have convinced viewers to look into the franchise. Fallout 3 is a good entry point for beginners, but non-gamers may find it easier to kickstart their journey with a free-to-play entry like Fallout Shelter. This base-building game places players in charge of a high-tech underground vault, whose population they must supervise while protecting them from the dangers above.
Success essentially hinges on assigning the right tasks to the right dwellers. For instance, it only makes sense to send the bravest dwellers out into the Wasteland to scavenge for valuable loot while training boots on the ground to keep the vault safe from external threats. With its strong connection to the Fallout post-apocalyptic world and straightforward gameplay, this spin-off strikes the right mix of management simulation and construction.
Tetris-99
Whether you’re new to Tetris or nostalgic about your childhood sessions, Tetris-99 is worth downloading on your Nintendo Switch for its exciting battle royale twist on the classic puzzle game. Although the core gameplay remains true to the tried-and-tested 1984 original, this multiplayer version pits you against 98 other players. Adding a competitive edge to this iconic game works wonders to rejuvenate the experience. That said, you’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play it for free.
If that’s not an option, you can check out free-to-play mobile versions of this timeless classic. Interestingly, there are also Tetris-themed slot machines you may try without spending a dime. Alongside titles like Tetris Super Jackpots and Tetris Extreme, you can find thousands of free slots with no download online. Top casino websites allow users to test their catalog without registering. Newcomers can have a blast on their PC or play on the go on their preferred mobile. Hence, these free options are perfect for learning the ropes before transitioning to real money play.
The Switch’s library is more varied than meets the eye, and it contains many free games worth exploring or revisiting. From serene adventures to addictive management sims, these free-to-play titles cater to all playing styles.
