The Nintendo Switch console has an abundance of fun and entertainment to offer, especially when it comes to playing with a single Joy-Con. From competitive mayhem in Super Mario Party to challenges that require teamwork, like in Overcooked!, there exists a plethora of games that players can comfortably enjoy without splurging on an extra Pro Controller.
All players have to do is snap off the detachable controllers from either side and begin their adventure. From flipping burgers to scoring goals, the innovative little Joy-Cons can get an endless number of things done in-game. The possibilities are endless!
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These GameCube titles feature fantastic split-screen modes and local co-op that make them perfect to enjoy among friends.
Updated July 28, 2024, by Crystal Martin: Sometimes, the need to play a game using a single Joy-Con can go beyond not wanting to shell out on a pro controller. A Joy-Con is much smaller, which makes it easier to hold. It's also more portable, making it perfect for when players are traveling and would like to enjoy a quick gaming session with their friends. Moreover, single Joy-Cons are great for players who are new to the Switch — they offer an easy entry point without the need to use multiple buttons and complex controls. To enhance the experience, players can also purchase a single Joy-Con grip that can make the overall experience better, especially for those with larger hands.
15 Boomerang Fu
Metascore:78
Boomerang Fu
Roast and toast your friends in lightning-fast rounds of cute physics combat for up to 6 players. Perfect for parties!
Discover a ridiculous range of power-ups like explosive boomerangs, disguises and telekinesis. Then stack your power-ups together to form outrageous combinations!
It only takes one stick and three buttons to pulverize your pals. Anyone can play immediately, but hardcore players will love mastering the advanced techniques of this lost martial art. Deflect attacks, recall dropped boomerangs, and curve your throws around corners to become a powerful boomerang assassin.
Journey to an edible world as you do battle in over 30 Kung Fu arenas, each filled with unique tools and traps. Jump over moving platforms and sneak through lush foliage. Trigger sliding walls to squish your foes. Dive between giant rolling pins and delight the Toaster King.
Join forces with your friends to take on the ingenious AI opponents. Or squabble over the precious Golden Boomerang in a frantic alternative game mode.
Play with only the power-ups you love. Turn off shields. Turn on friendly fire. You change the rules to suit your tastes!
Boomerang Fu is best enjoyed with controllers. We support a variety of controllers including Xbox, PlayStation, Switch and many more.
Remote Play Together over Steam. Please note: video quality and input lag will vary based on the speed of your internet connection and hardware.
- Released
- August 13, 2020
- Developer
- Cranky Watermelon
- Publisher
- Cranky Watermelon
- Genre(s)
- Fighting, Indie Games, Casual, Shooter
Boomerang Fu is a super fun and exciting Switch multiplayer game that's perfect for game night with family or friends. It features bright colors and adorable food-themed characters that come armed with boomerangs. Players control them and battle it out in different arenas.
The goal of the game is for players to dodge and outlast their opponents using strategic choices. It can get chaotic, but that's what keeps it exciting. The best part is that it's very easy to play, and an array of power-ups add to the game's liveliness and appeal.
14 Death Squared
Metascore: 78
Death Squared
Get together with a loved one, a group of friends or even the whole family and guide teams of two or four robots through increasingly-complex levels to their color-coded goals. But beware! The path through each level is littered with cunning death traps that quickly send the automatons to the big scrapyard in the sky.
One false step can trigger a hidden spike, lethal laser beam or other dangers which will send the entire squad back to square one. To progress, players must work together to learn each stage through trial and error, putting newly-gained knowledge into action to survive and succeed.
In addition to the two-player story mode, Death Squared includes insane 'party chaos' challenges specifically designed for groups of four. A single-player can also enjoy the traditionally two-player story mode, and two-players can tackle 'party chaos', by controlling two robots with one controller.
- Released
- July 13, 2017
- Developer(s)
- SMG Studio
- Genre(s)
- Puzzle
- Platform(s)
- Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
This co-op puzzle game on the Switch requires proper teamwork from players as they try to make their way through levels that get increasingly harder. Each player takes over a cute little color-coded robot, and they work along with the other player or players to crack puzzles, dodge traps, and take on whatever each stage throws their way.
Death Squared is like a brain-teaser that gives players a good mental workout and lots of laughter. However, players must also be prepared to get a little frustrated, because sometimes, a lot of trial and error is required to get things right.
13 Go Vacation
Metascore: 64
- Released: July 27, 2018
- Developer: Bandai Namco Games
- Publisher: Bandai Namco Games
- Genres: Party, Sports
Go Vacation is a fun, laid-back Nintendo Switch game that lets players explore a virtual tropical paradise at their own pace. The game is set in a breathtaking resort that features activities such as jet skiing, beach volleyball, horseback riding, and much more.
They have the option to play in multiplayer mode with friends and family or go on solo adventures by themselves, too. Plus, the colorful graphics and engaging mini-games aid in relaxation. This game is all about unwinding and leaving stress behind.
12 Snipperclips
Metascore: 80
Snipperclips: Cut It Out Together
- Released
- March 3, 2017
- Developer(s)
- SFB Games
- Publisher(s)
- Nintendo
- Genre(s)
- Puzzle
Snipperclips takes communication, cooperation, and the player's imagination to a whole new level - players need to use their minds to solve shape-based puzzles. Working together as a team, they have to cut into different shapes to beat the challenges.
Despite what most gamers may think, this game requires a sharp focus to beat the smartly designed levels. Pass a Joy-Con over and play in TV or table-top mode - either way, to make any progress, it's crucial that players think out of the box.
11 Fire Emblem Warriors
Metascore: 74
Fire Emblem Warriors
- Developer(s)
- Koei Tecmo
- Publisher(s)
- Nintendo
- Genre(s)
- Action RPG
With a unique amalgamation of strategy and action, players get to command legendary heroes on the battlefield when playing Fire Emblem Warriors. The gameplay is incredibly engaging - players take a deep dive into the narrative where heroes from different worlds within the game come together to battle a common threat.
Lead armies, implement smart tactics, and play special moves that unleash devastating damage - play as a team in co-op mode, devising strategies that leave players triumphant.
10 Rayman Legends
Metascore: 92
Rayman Legends
- Released
- August 30, 2013
- Developer(s)
- Ubisoft Montpellier
- Publisher(s)
- Ubisoft, Nintendo
- Genre(s)
- Platformer
Rayman Legends is a popular platformer known for delivering hours of entertainment — it is definitely a great addition to the Nintendo Switch. Featuring smooth gameplay, an eye-catching 2D art style, and well-designed levels, the game is enjoyable whether played solo or with friends.
Players can't get enough of the odd characters, colorful worlds, and catchy soundtrack, which help take the overall experience up a notch. Plus, the co-op mode can be a real treat. This makes it a sought-after title when players want to enjoy a challenging game night with friends.
9 Crash Team Racing
Metascore: 80
CTR: Crash Team Racing
It's a multi-player kart racing game starring your favorite bandicoot, CRASH and a host of his friends... And foes! The stakes are high and the competition is fierce. Ready... Set... GO!!!!!
• More than 12 playable characters in all. Select from your favorite characters - Crash, Coco, Cortex, Tiny, Dingodile, N. Gin, Pura, Polar and other secret racers!
• Plug in the Multi Tap and up to four players can race to the ugly finish.
• 25 trick-filled tracks... It all boils down to pure racing skills.
• 5 challenging race modes: Adventure, Vs., Time Trial, Arcade and Battle Modes
• Reduce your fellow drivers to roadkill - launch bombs, lob missiles, lay down
TNT Crates and NITRO. All's fair in love and war!
• Tons of wild Power-Ups with Wumpa Fruit superchargers
• Amazing Kart control - Power Slide, hop, burn out, pull wheelies, spin and sideswipe other racers!
- Released
- October 19, 1999
- Developer(s)
- Naughty Dog
- Publisher(s)
- Sony Computer Entertainment
- Genre(s)
- Racing
Crash Team Racing is an energy-packed racing game that features beloved characters from the nostalgic Crash Bandicoot game series. Players race their way through fun tracks that are filled with twists, turns, and obstacles. There are also multiple power-ups that can help them gain an edge over their opponents.
With both single-player and multiplayer modes to choose from, including an exhilarating online racing experience, hours of entertainment can be derived from this title. The fast-paced gameplay and colorful graphics only add to the goodness. It is a must-play for fans of the Crash Bandicoot universe.
8 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Metascore: 93
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Released
- December 7, 2018
- Developer(s)
- Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Publisher(s)
- Nintendo
- Genre(s)
- Fighting
This fighting game is the ultimate showdown where players' favorite gaming icons are brought together in one place - the game features an impressive roster of famous characters across gaming history. It's very fast-paced, and every stage will have the player's undivided attention as they battle through exhilarating multiplayer matches.
Moreover, the player will be entertained for hours, getting to choose from characters like Pikachu, Luigi, Link, and more - this makes it a must-try couch co-op title for the Switch.
7 Just Dance 2024 Edition
Metascore: 72
Just Dance 2024 Edition
Gamers can bring the ultimate dance party experience to their home with Just Dance 2024 Edition for Nintendo Switch. It features an inclusive list of the hottest tracks like "Flowers" by Miley Cyrus, along with classic hits such as "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" by Whitney Houston.
With stunning visuals, intuitive motion controls, and customizable routines, players are bound to get hours of entertainment out of this game. They can also challenge their friends to a dance battle, each using a single Joy-Con, and they'll be set to go on a fun musical adventure.
6 Super Mario Party
Metascore: 76
Super Mario Party
- Released
- October 5, 2018
- Developer(s)
- NDcube
- Publisher(s)
- Nintendo
- Genre(s)
- Party Game
This game delivers a sweet dose of nostalgia - it features a collection of classic gameboards and 100 exciting mini-games for fans to explore. Players can challenge their friends and family with the roll of a die or experience mayhem with puzzles, duels, and sports mini-games, all of which support button controls.
Great Nintendo Switch Games That Support Local & Online Co-Op
For friends who are both near and far, these Nintendo Switch titles offer great multiplayer experiences through online and local co-op.
Ideal for players of all ages, this title is bound to have fans hooked for hours. The best part is that players can party as their favorite characters from the Super Mario series as they navigate the Mushroom Kingdom.