Top Multiplayer Games On Nintendo Switch In 2023
Hey gaming enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into the best multiplayer games on the Nintendo Switch in 2023? This year has been absolutely fantastic for Switch owners, with a bunch of new titles dropping and some old favorites getting even better. Whether you're into epic adventures, intense battles, or just some casual fun with your friends, the Switch has got you covered. In this article, we'll explore some of the top multiplayer games that you absolutely need to check out. So grab your Joy-Cons, gather your crew, and let's jump right in!
Why the Nintendo Switch is Perfect for Multiplayer Gaming
Before we get into the game recommendations, let's talk about why the Nintendo Switch is such a fantastic platform for multiplayer gaming. The Switch's portability is a game-changer, literally! You can easily take your gaming sessions on the go, whether you're at a friend's house, on a road trip, or just chilling in your backyard. Plus, the console is designed for local multiplayer, making it super easy to set up a game night with your friends and family. No complicated setups, just pure, unadulterated gaming fun. The Joy-Cons are a clever design; they can be used individually, which means you can have instant multiplayer access right out of the box, which is just brilliant. And let's not forget the online capabilities! Nintendo's online service allows you to connect with friends and players worldwide, expanding your multiplayer horizons even further. The Switch’s versatility, portability, and user-friendly design make it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy some quality multiplayer gaming time. So, no matter where you are or who you're with, the Nintendo Switch offers a seamless and enjoyable multiplayer experience.
Now, let's look at some of the best multiplayer games. In 2023, the Switch has a bunch of great multiplayer options, and there's something for everyone.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: Still the King of Racing
If you have a Switch and haven't played Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, you're seriously missing out. This game is an absolute must-have for any multiplayer gamer. It's the king of kart racers, offering a perfect blend of competitive gameplay and accessible fun. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports up to 4 players in local split-screen mode, which is ideal for a gaming night with friends. For more players, you can connect multiple consoles in local wireless play, letting up to 12 players race against each other. The game includes a massive roster of characters from the Mario universe, including many of the iconic characters. It also boasts a wide array of tracks, from the classic to the new, with plenty of thrilling courses to master. The gameplay is easy to pick up but offers enough depth for seasoned players to enjoy. Drifting, item usage, and track knowledge are all crucial for achieving victory. Online multiplayer mode is a blast, allowing you to race against players from all over the world. Whether you're a casual gamer or a competitive racer, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will provide hours of fun. It’s accessible, engaging, and always a hit at any game gathering. The replay value is also super high due to the sheer amount of content and the competitive nature of the game. If you're looking for a game that's easy to jump into and provides endless replayability, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a safe bet. It really is a must-have for anyone who owns a Switch.
Splatoon 3: Ink-credible Team-Based Action
Splatoon 3 is a vibrant and unique third-person shooter that brings a fresh twist to the genre. Instead of bullets, you use ink to cover the battlefield and splat your opponents. It’s a total blast! The game's primary mode, Turf War, has two teams of four battling to cover the arena in their ink color, making it a chaotic and strategic experience. The more ink your team covers, the better your chances of winning. Splatoon 3 offers a variety of weapons and special abilities, allowing you to customize your playstyle and strategies. There are paint rollers for close-quarters combat, snipers for long-range ink coverage, and many more. The game also features a ranked mode where you can compete against other players and climb the leaderboards. But let's not forget the Salmon Run, a cooperative mode where you and your team take on waves of Salmonids, collecting golden eggs to succeed. The visuals are incredibly colorful, and the soundtrack is catchy, which enhances the overall experience. Splatoon 3 is one of the more unique multiplayer experiences on the Switch, and the team-based gameplay, combined with strategic ink-based combat, makes for a super enjoyable experience.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: The Ultimate Crossover Fighter
If you're a fan of fighting games, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is an absolute must-have. This game brings together characters from almost every major gaming franchise, from Mario to Sonic the Hedgehog, creating an incredible crossover experience. Up to 8 players can battle simultaneously in local multiplayer, making for some truly epic and chaotic matches. The roster is ridiculously large, featuring over 80 characters, each with their unique moves and abilities. Whether you prefer fast-paced action or strategic gameplay, there's a character for everyone. The game modes are also super diverse, including classic versus battles, team battles, and even a mode where you fight against waves of enemies. The game is easy to pick up, with simple controls, but offers immense depth for competitive play. Experienced players can master advanced techniques like dodging, parrying, and edge-guarding to dominate their opponents. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a celebration of gaming history, packed with nostalgia and intense fighting action. The amount of content, the diverse roster of characters, and the fun, chaotic gameplay make it a must-have for any Switch owner. The game also continues to receive updates with new characters and stages, ensuring that there's always something new to experience.
**Overcooked! 2 & Overcooked! All You Can Eat: Chaotic Cooking Chaos
Overcooked! 2 and Overcooked! All You Can Eat (which includes both the first and second game) are the epitome of chaotic fun. These cooperative cooking games will test your teamwork and communication skills like never before. The goal is simple: prepare and serve dishes before the time runs out. But the kitchens are far from ordinary. You'll be cooking in moving trucks, on icy platforms, and even in space. The game supports up to four players locally, and coordinating with your friends to chop vegetables, cook meat, and wash dishes is a real challenge. Communication is key! The levels are designed to be challenging, with obstacles and hazards that can lead to hilarious mishaps. The joy of Overcooked! 2 is in the shared experience. You'll find yourself laughing, yelling, and celebrating together as you overcome the culinary challenges. If you're looking for a game that will bring you and your friends closer (and maybe drive you a little crazy), Overcooked! 2 is perfect. The All You Can Eat edition also means you get even more content, offering hours of chaotic cooking fun. These games are a blast to play with friends, and they’re sure to create unforgettable gaming memories.
More Great Multiplayer Games to Explore
While the above games are the cream of the crop, the Nintendo Switch has an amazing library of multiplayer titles. Here are a few more suggestions to enhance your gaming collection:
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons: While it's a single-player game at its core, you can visit your friends' islands, trade items, and participate in events. It's a great way to socialize and share your island experiences. The game supports local multiplayer for up to 4 players on one island and online multiplayer for up to 8 players.
 - Minecraft: A timeless classic for a reason! Explore an open world, build amazing structures, and team up with your friends. The Switch version supports local and online multiplayer, allowing you to play with friends anywhere.
 - Fortnite: The free-to-play battle royale sensation is available on the Switch. Team up with friends, drop into a map, and be the last one standing. Cross-platform play is also supported.
 - Rocket League: This vehicular soccer game is easy to pick up but challenging to master. You can play with up to 8 players online. It is free-to-play.
 - Among Us: The social deduction game that took the world by storm. Gather with friends, complete tasks, and try to find out who the imposter is before they eliminate everyone. The Switch version supports both local and online multiplayer.
 
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Switch Multiplayer Gaming Guide
So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to some of the best multiplayer games on the Nintendo Switch in 2023. This year has brought some incredible titles, and the games listed here offer diverse and entertaining experiences. Whether you prefer fast-paced action, strategic team-based gameplay, or chaotic fun with friends, there's something for everyone on the Switch. The joy of playing these games with friends and family is unbeatable. The flexibility of the Switch, combined with its strong library of multiplayer games, ensures that you will have countless hours of fun. Go out there, grab your Joy-Cons, and dive into the world of multiplayer gaming on the Nintendo Switch! Enjoy playing and happy gaming!