Top Picks for Portable Nintendo Party Games
For most groups, Super Mario Party Jamboree is the top pick because it offers the most varied board game action and mini-games. Its main strength is the sheer amount of content and modes. The limitation is that some modes require multiple Joy-Con controllers, so you may need extras for larger groups.
Portable party gaming has never been easier with the Nintendo Switch. You can bring the fun anywhere, from a friend’s living room to a long car ride.
The challenge is picking the right game for your group. Some need everyone to have a controller, while others let you pass one console around. We sorted through the options to find the ones that deliver the most laughs per minute.
How to choose
The top picks, ranked
Super Mario Party Jamboree
The newest entry in the Mario Party series, Jamboree brings back classic boards and adds new ones. It includes over 110 mini-games and several modes, including a cooperative online mode. The game is designed for quick sessions, but you can also set longer matches. Owners say the motion-controlled mini-games are a hit, but you need to make sure everyone has a Joy-Con.
Pros
- Huge number of mini-games
- Multiple game modes add variety
- Good mix of strategy and luck
Cons
- Requires two Joy-Cons for each player
- Some mini-games feel repetitive over time
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
The definitive version of the beloved kart racer. It includes all DLC tracks and characters from the Wii U version, plus new ones. You can race with up to 8 players locally using multiple consoles, or 4 players on a single console with split screen. The controls are tight, and the items keep races unpredictable. Owners report it is easy to pick up for newcomers, but mastering the drift mechanics takes practice.
Pros
- Excellent track design
- Smart steering and auto-accelerate options
- Battle mode is a blast
Cons
- Split screen on small screen can be cramped
- No new content since the Booster Course Pass
Overcooked! 2
A frantic cooking simulation where you and your team must prepare meals in increasingly absurd kitchens. It supports up to 4 players locally, and you can play with one Joy-Con each. The game requires coordination and quick thinking, leading to many laughs and some arguments. Owners say it is perfect for groups that enjoy a challenge, but it can be stressful for some.
Pros
- Great team-building exercise
- Hilarious moments
- Many levels and DLC
Cons
- Can cause frustration
- Requires everyone to be engaged
Jackbox Party Pack 7
This pack contains five party games that use your phones or tablets as controllers. Everyone can join from the same console, and it supports up to 8 players, with an audience mode for even more. Games range from trivia to drawing to creative writing. It is perfect for parties where not everyone has a controller. Owners say it is easy to learn and gets everyone involved.
Pros
- No extra controllers needed
- Huge player count
- Great for non-gamers
Cons
- Requires everyone to have a device
- Not all games are equally strong
Just Dance 2024 Edition
The latest installment of the popular dance series. You can dance along to top hits, and up to 6 players can join locally on one console. You use your Joy-Con as a motion controller, or you can use your phone with the Just Dance Controller app. It is a great way to get everyone moving. Owners say it is a workout disguised as a party game.
Pros
- Fun and energetic
- Great for all ages
- Constant updates with new songs
Cons
- Requires space to dance
- Some songs are locked behind subscription
Snipperclips Plus – Cut it Out, Together!
This cooperative puzzle game has players cutting each other into shapes to solve challenges. It is designed for two players, but up to four can play in certain modes. The puzzles are clever and require teamwork. Owners say it is a unique and charming experience that encourages communication. The plus edition includes additional levels and modes.
Pros
- Creative and challenging puzzles
- Perfect for two players
- Cute art style
Cons
- Not great for large groups
- Some puzzles may be too difficult for casual players
WarioWare: Get It Together!
This game offers a rapid-fire collection of microgames that last only seconds each. It supports up to 2 players locally, which is a drawback for parties, but the chaotic fun is immense. You can play with a single Joy-Con, and the game is perfect for passing around. Owners say it is excellent for short bursts of laughter, but it may not sustain a long party session.
Pros
- Hundreds of microgames
- Great for quick rounds
- Hilarious and weird humor
Cons
- Only 2 player local co-op
- Can become repetitive quickly
How they stack up
| # | Model | Players | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Super Mario Party Jamboree | Up to 4 locally, online up to 8 | Best overall for variety and group fun | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Mario Kart 8 Deluxe | Up to 4 on one console, 8 with multiple consoles | Best for racing fans and competitive groups | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Overcooked! 2 | Up to 4 locally, online up to 4 | Best for cooperative chaos and communication | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Jackbox Party Pack 7 | Up to 8 players, plus audience | Best for large groups using phones as controllers | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Just Dance 2024 Edition | Up to 6 locally | Best for active players and dance lovers | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Snipperclips Plus – Cut it Out, Together! | 2 to 4 players | Best for puzzle solving with a partner | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | WarioWare: Get It Together! | Up to 2 players locally | Best for fast-paced microgames and quick sessions | 8.4 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
Can you play party games on Nintendo Switch Lite?
Yes, but you need to consider the controller situation. The Switch Lite has built-in controls, so you cannot detach Joy-Cons. You need external controllers for most party games. Additionally, some games like Just Dance require motion controls, which the Switch Lite lacks. You would need to purchase separate Joy-Cons or use a phone app.
What is the best party game for a large group on one Switch?
Jackbox Party Pack games are excellent because they allow up to 8 players using their phones. They do not require any additional controllers, and the audience can also participate. This makes them ideal for large gatherings.
Do you need multiple Joy-Cons for Super Mario Party Jamboree?
Yes, for most modes, each player needs a single Joy-Con. However, the game includes modes that require two Joy-Cons per player, such as motion-controlled mini-games. The game comes with Joy-Con straps, but you may need extra controllers for a full 4 player experience.
Are there any party games that support 8 players on one console?
Yes, some games like Jackbox Party Pack support up to 8 players using phones. Just Dance 2024 allows up to 6 players locally. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports up to 4 players on one console, but can support 8 with multiple consoles and local wireless.
Can you play Overcooked 2 with one Joy-Con per player?
Yes, Overcooked 2 supports single Joy-Con play. Each player can use one Joy-Con to control their chef. This makes it easy to play with four players on a single Switch without needing extra controllers.
Is Just Dance 2024 a good game for parties?
Just Dance is a fantastic party game because it gets people moving and laughing. It supports up to 6 players locally, and you can use smartphones as controllers. The song list is diverse, and the choreography is easy to follow. It is best for players who enjoy active games.
What is the difference between Snipperclips and Snipperclips Plus?
Snipperclips Plus includes the original game and additional content, such as new levels and modes. It is essentially the complete edition. If you do not own the original, the Plus version is the better value.
Are there any family friendly party games that are not too competitive?
Yes, games like Snipperclips and Overcooked emphasize cooperation rather than competition. WarioWare is more about individual performance but is lighthearted. Mario Party also has a mix of competitive and cooperative elements. These games are suitable for families with children.
Can you play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with 8 players on a single Switch?
No, the maximum is 4 players on a single Switch. To play with 8 players, you need two Switch consoles and a copy of the game for each. The game supports local wireless play for up to 8 players.
Which game has the best motion controls?
Just Dance is the leader in motion controls, as the entire gameplay is based on tracking your movements. Super Mario Party Jamboree also has many motion controlled mini-games. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has optional motion steering, but it is not the core experience.
The bottom line
For the best overall portable party game, choose Super Mario Party Jamboree. It offers the most variety and is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. If you often have large groups, get Jackbox Party Pack 7 as a secondary option. For active players, Just Dance 2024 is a great choice. Ultimately, you should pick the game that matches your typical group size and play style.
