The summer holidays are the perfect excuse to spend more quality time together, whether you're staying at home, heading away on holiday, or looking for ways to keep everyone entertained on rainy afternoons. While board games and outdoor activities have their place, the Nintendo Switch is one of the best consoles for bringing the whole family together, thanks to its huge library of fun, accessible multiplayer games.
Here are our top 5 family-friendly Nintendo Switch (and Switch 2) games for the summer holidays.
Tomodachi Life - Living the Dream
Create Mii characters based on your friends, family, or even yourself, then watch them enjoy life on their own quirky island. From forming friendships to solving problems and sharing hilarious interactions, every island develops its own unique stories.
Released in 2026, this highly-rated game is fun and relaxing, perfect for the summer holidays and guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs for the whole family.
Tomodachi Life - Living the Dream (Switch)
Mario Kart World
Buckle up for high-speed family fun in Mario Kart World, where you can race across a huge, interconnected world packed with exciting courses. Whether you're competing in Grand Prix, battling to stay in the race in Knockout Tour, or simply exploring in Free Roam, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained.
With local multiplayer for up to four players, it's the perfect game for friendly family competition during the summer holidays.
Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen
Join Bluey and Bingo on a heart-warming adventure as they set out to find the missing Gold Pen in a brand-new story inspired by the beloved TV series. Explore colourful hand-drawn worlds, solve fun puzzles, and complete imaginative quests along the way.
A wonderful choice for younger players and families looking to enjoy a relaxing adventure together.
Bluey's Quest for the Gold Pen (Switch)
Bluey Quest for the Gold Pen (Switch 2)
Rhythm Paradise Groove
Get everyone tapping along with Rhythm Paradise Groove, a collection of quirky rhythm mini-games that are easy to pick up and full of personality. Whether you're catching flying vegetables, swinging sledgehammers, or hopping through hoops, every challenge is all about keeping in time with the beat.
Simple controls and catchy music make this a fun choice for players of all ages.
Rhythm Paradise Groove (Switch)
Kirby Air Riders
Kirby Air Riders combines high-speed racing with chaotic battles, making it a great pick for families who love a little friendly competition. Choose your favourite Kirby character, race across colourful tracks, master powerful boosts, and use Copy Abilities to gain an advantage over your rivals.
Plus, get a FREE Sticker Sheet when you purchase this game!
Kirby Air Riders with FREE Sticker Sheet (Switch 2)
Whether you're after friendly competition or teamwork that gets everyone involved, these are the Nintendo Switch games that deserve a spot on your family's playlist this summer. No matter your age or skill level, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.
