Ever grabbed a Joy-Con while your friend takes the other and thought "what should we play?" I've been there countless times. My buddy Dave and I used to waste hours scrolling through the eShop until we found gems worth playing together. Let's cut through the noise and talk real-world experiences. Finding truly great two player switch games isn't just about high scores - it's about that magical combo of easy setup, instant fun, and "one more round" addiction. Whether you're teaming up or facing off, these picks deliver where others flop.
What Makes a Switch Game Shine for Two Players?
Not every co-op game actually works on the Switch. Through trial and error (and several disappointing eShop purchases), here's what matters:
Instant playability: Games shouldn't need 30 minutes of tutorials before fun begins. The best two player switch games throw you straight into action.
Same-screen convenience: Docking the Switch? Good titles avoid cramped split-screens. Undocked mode? Visibility shouldn't require a microscope.
Balanced challenge: Ever played something so hard it ruins the vibe? Or so easy it's boring? The sweet spot keeps both players engaged.
I learned this the hard way when my non-gamer wife tried playing Overcooked with me. Let's just say... we ordered takeout that night instead of finishing the level. Which brings me to...
Top 15 Best Two Player Switch Games Ranked
After testing over 50 titles with different partners (casual friends, competitive siblings, impatient kids), these stand out. Prices fluctuate, but I've noted typical ranges.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Look, I know it's obvious. But there's a reason it's the go-to. My nephews demand this every family gathering. The magic? Anyone can grab a Joy-Con and instantly understand steering and items. The downside? If one person's way better, it can feel unbalanced. Still, that chaotic final lap with shells flying? Pure joy.
Works great because:
- Instant setup: Share Joy-Cons or use controllers
- Accessible: No complex controls
- Always chaotic fun: Items level the playing field
Watch outs:
- Can feel repetitive after heavy play
- Less satisfying without items (if you turn them off)
| Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Genre | Arcade Racing |
| Price Range | $49.99 - $59.99 (Physical often cheaper) |
| Player Mode | Split-screen (up to 4 players) |
| Perfect For | Mixed skill levels, parties, quick sessions |
It Takes Two
This co-op masterpiece won Game of the Year for good reason. My wife and I played through it during lockdown. You literally can't play solo - it forces teamwork through ingenious mechanics. The variety is insane: one minute you're in a toy hammer fight, next you're flying on squirrels. My only complaint? The story about divorcing parents feels oddly heavy for such colorful gameplay.
Works great because:
- Pure co-op focus: Every puzzle requires collaboration
- Constantly fresh gameplay: Never repeats mechanics
- Shared progression: Both players feel equally important
Watch outs:
- Requires commitment (12-15 hour story)
- Single Joy-Con play isn't ideal (better with full controllers)
- Some forced minigames disrupt flow
| Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action-Adventure Puzzle Platformer |
| Price Range | $39.99 (Frequently on sale for $29.99) |
| Player Mode | Shared screen co-op (online or local) |
| Perfect For | Couples, dedicated gaming partners, creative thinkers |
Best Two Player Switch Games for Specific Vibes
Different moods call for different games. Here's how to match:
| When You Want... | Top Pick | Runner-Up |
|---|---|---|
| Quick competitive matches | Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | Rocket League |
| Relaxed teamwork | Stardew Valley | Animal Crossing: New Horizons |
| Chaotic party energy | Overcooked 2 | Moving Out |
| Deep strategy | Fire Emblem: Three Houses | Wargroove |
| Physical movement | Just Dance 2023 | Ring Fit Adventure |
Personal confession: I avoid Overcooked with my competitive brother. Our "kitchen" once devolved into vegetable throwing. Great game though!
Underrated Gems Most Lists Miss
Everyone recommends the big names. These lesser-known best co op switch games deserve attention:
Snipperclips
This quirky puzzle game came with my Switch and surprised me. You play as paper shapes that cut each other to solve puzzles. Sounds weird? It is. But laughing while accidentally cutting your partner's head off is uniquely fun. Perfect for non-gamers.
Hidden perk: Works with single Joy-Cons. Great for impromptu play.
Unravel Two
A gorgeous puzzle-platformer where two yarn creatures are connected by a string. The physics feel amazing as you swing and climb. Played this with my niece and she adored the visual style. Much more forgiving than similar games.
Special note: Can switch between single-player and co-op instantly. Very flexible.
Essential Buying Considerations
Before choosing your next two player switch game, think about:
- Controller setup: Does it require full controllers? Pro Controllers cost $70 each. Some games work with single Joy-Cons.
- Skill gap: Playing with a beginner? Avoid technical fighters. Mario Party has luck-based minigames to balance things.
- Session length: Diablo III needs hours. TowerFall offers 5-minute matches.
- Online vs local: Many "co-op" games require online subscriptions ($20/year) for wireless play.
Remember that time I bought Cuphead for "casual co-op"? Yeah, my friend hasn't played with me since Week 2. Brutally hard.
Your Top Questions Answered
Can you play two player on Switch with one console?
Absolutely! Most titles support "couch co-op" using either: - Two Joy-Cons (one per player) - Two Pro Controllers - One Joy-Con per player (split horizontally)
Setup takes seconds. Just pair controllers before launching the game.
Which best two player switch games work with single Joy-Cons?
These handle the limited buttons well: - Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Mario Party Superstars - Snipperclips - Overcooked (mostly) Avoid complex fighters or shooters requiring dual sticks.
Are there good free two player switch games?
Honestly? Few quality options. But try: - Pokemon Unite (team battles) - Ninjala (weird bubblegum fighting) - Fortnite (split-screen support added recently) Temtem runs great but isn't free.
What new releases are great for two players?
Keep an eye on: - Minecraft Legends (April 2023) - Co-op strategy spin-off - Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp (April 2023) - Turn-based tactics - Pikmin 4 (2023) - Includes co-op missions
How do I fix lag in wireless co-op?
From painful experience: 1. Dock your Switch (undocked mode strains performance) 2. Close background apps 3. Avoid Bluetooth interference (move phones away) 4. For online: Use Ethernet adapter ($15) instead of WiFi
Making the Most of Two-Player Sessions
Final tip from my failed game nights: set expectations. Competitive? Play best-of-three matches. Cooperative? Agree on restart policies. And for chaotic games like Overcooked? Deep breaths and snacks. Lots of snacks.
The best two player switch games create memories beyond the screen. That time my sister and I finally beat Luigi's Mansion 3's final boss? We high-fived so hard the Joy-Con straps broke. Worth every penny.
Leave a Message