Looking to connect over some gaming fun? The Nintendo Switch has some of the best 2 player Switch games that are perfect for couples, friends, or family. These games offer the perfect balance of challenge and fun — whether you’re working together or going head-to-head.
2025 Updated List of Best Two Player Switch Games
Gaming is better when shared, right? Whether you’re couch co-op veterans or just looking for a way to kill time with a friend, 2025 brings some awesome new entries to the world of two-player Switch games. Here are the ones worth playing together.
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It Takes Two
Genre: Co-op Adventure / Puzzle Platformer
Play Mode: Local Co-op (2 Players Only)
It Takes Two is the ultimate test of teamwork! You and your partner play as a quirky couple trapped in a magical world, forced to cooperate through wild levels full of puzzles, platforming, and laughs. Every stage brings a new surprise, making it a co-op experience like no other.
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Overcooked! All You Can Eat
Genre: Party / Co-op / Cooking Simulator
Players: 2–4 (Local & Online Co-op)
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to run a chaotic kitchen with your friend… this is it — on fire. Literally. Overcooked! All You Can Eat combines the original Overcooked and Overcooked 2 in one delicious package, with remastered graphics and smoother performance. You and your partner must cook, chop, plate, and serve meals while dodging rats, shifting floors, earthquakes, and yes — angry customers.
How to Play
Number of Players: 2–4 (best played with 2 for blog theme)
Controllers Needed: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
Play Modes:
- Local Co-op:
- Online Co-op: Play together from different consoles
Gameplay Basics:
- Choose a level (kitchen)
- Prepare and cook orders by chopping, boiling, frying, and baking ingredients
- Deliver completed dishes before time runs out
- Wash dishes, dodge obstacles, and communicate constantly!
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Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Genre: Racing / Party Game
Players: 2–4 Local, Up to 12 Online
No list of the best 2 player Switch games is complete without Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It’s fast, chaotic, and endlessly replayable. Race against your friend, throw shells, dodge bananas, and drift your way to victory with dozens of iconic characters and beautifully designed tracks. Whether you’re a casual player or a fierce competitor, this game is a guaranteed hit for two.
How to Play
- Players: 2–4 Local (Split-Screen), Up to 12 Online
- Controllers Needed: One Joy-Con each, or any controller combo
- Play Options:
- Split-Screen Multiplayer on a single console
- Local Wireless play with two consoles
- Online Multiplayer with friends or random players
Gameplay Basics:
- Choose a character and customize your kart (tires, glider, etc.)
- Select a cup or track and race through loops, jumps, and hazards
- First to cross the finish line wins — or play Battle Mode for chaos!
4. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Genre: Platform Fighter
Play Modes: 2–8 Players (Local & Online)
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the biggest crossover fighting game in history. It features every fighter from the series’ past games — plus new additions like Sora, Steve from Minecraft, and Kazuya. The game supports classic 1v1 duels or chaotic free-for-alls.
- Play Modes:
- Local Multiplayer (Split-Screen or Docked)
- Online Matches (with Friends or Global)
- Training & Classic Modes for Solo Practice
Gameplay Basics:
- Choose your fighter from a massive roster
- Knock your opponent off the stage using attacks, combos, and items
- The more damage a player takes, the easier they are to launch off the stage
- Last one standing (or with most KOs) wins the round!
5. Cuphead
Genre: Run-and-Gun, Action Platformer
Mode: 2-Player Local Co-op Only
Cuphead is a hand-drawn masterpiece inspired by 1930s rubber hose animation. The game includes intense boss fights and carefully crafted side-scrolling stages. In co-op mode, you and your partner can team up as Cuphead and Mugman to fight wild and creative enemies — from boxing frogs to sky-fighting sirens.
You’ll need coordination, sharp dodges, and well-timed parries to survive. It’s punishing, but beating a boss together feels incredibly rewarding.
How It Works:
- Player 1 controls Cuphead, Player 2 controls Mugman
- Join forces to tackle intense boss fights and thrilling run-and-gun stages.
- Share lives and revive your partner by parrying their ghost
- Complete levels to unlock new weapons and upgrades
6. Stardew Valley
Genre: Farming Simulator / RPG / Co-op Sandbox
Players: 1–4 (Local or Online)
Need a break from all the chaos? Stardew Valley is a peaceful and addictive farming sim where you and your partner can live your best rural life — planting crops, fishing, exploring caves, raising animals, and even getting married. It’s not just farming — it’s friendship, discovery, and building a dream life together at your own pace.
One of the best 2 player Switch games if you’re looking for a slower, more meaningful gaming experience with a friend or partner.
Multiplayer Modes:
- Local split-screen (same console)
- Local wireless (two consoles)
- Online multiplayer
Gameplay Basics:
- Host player starts a farm and builds a second cabin for Player 2
- Both players can perform any task: farming, fishing, mining, cooking, crafting
- Time passes daily; collaborate to plan chores or explore together
- You can also chat with villagers, upgrade your home, or even marry each other!
7. Snipperclips Plus
Genre: Cooperative Puzzle / Party Game
Play Modes: 1–4 Players (2 Recommended)
Snipperclips Plus builds on the original title with more levels, challenges, and replayability. You and your co-op partner control two characters — Snip and Clip — who solve physics-based puzzles by snipping away pieces of each other to match shapes or trigger mechanisms.
Puzzles range from guiding a basketball to a hoop to herding animals, popping balloons, or syncing switches. It’s casual, creative, and encourages lots of laughter — especially when you mess up a cut and have to start over.
How to Play Snipperclips Plus on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–4 (2 for core gameplay)
- Controllers: Single Joy-Con per player
- Modes:
- Local co-op only
- “World” mode for main story puzzles
- “Blitz” mode for fun mini-games
Gameplay Basics:
- Each player controls a paper character
- Cut each other into shapes to solve visual/physics-based puzzles
- Tasks include:
- Forming a specific shape
- Carrying or popping items
- Activating buttons or guiding balls
- Communication and creative thinking are key!
8. Luigi’s Mansion 3
Genre: Action-Adventure / Puzzle / Exploration
Mode: 1–2 Players (Local Co-op for Campaign)
In Luigi’s Mansion 3, you explore a haunted hotel filled with themed floors — from medieval castles to movie studios — each full of ghosts, traps, and secrets. While Player 1 controls Luigi, Player 2 takes control of Gooigi, a green, gooey clone who can slip through bars, walk on spikes, and access areas Luigi can’t.
How to Play
- Players: 1–2 (Story Mode)
- Controllers: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Modes Available:
- Local Co-op
- ScareScraper Mode
- ScreamPark Mode
Gameplay Basics:
- Explore themed hotel floors and solve ghostly puzzles
- Luigi uses a vacuum
- Gooigi can slip through grates, walk over spikes, and assist in co-op mechanics
- Co-op becomes available after you unlock Gooigi early in the story
9. Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
Genre: Co-op Action / Space Shooter
Players: 1–4 (Best with 2)
Teamwork makes the spaceship fly in Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime. You and your partner pilot a neon battleship from the inside — one of you may steer while the other shoots, shields, or fires lasers. The action gets fast and frantic, but that’s what makes it a total blast. Communication and coordination are everything!
For couples or friends who love working together under pressure, this is one of the best 2-player Switch games out there.
How to Play
- Players: 1–4 (2 for ideal co-op experience)
- Controllers: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Game Type: Local couch co-op only — no online play
Gameplay Basics:
- You control a shared spaceship from the inside
- Work together to move between stations (weapons, shields, thrusters, etc.)
- Rescue kidnapped space bunnies to unlock levels
- Upgrade your ship with new tools and gadgets
- Survive waves of enemies, bosses, and traps across different themed galaxies
10. Unravel Two
Genre: Puzzle Platformer / Story Adventure
Supported Mode: 2 Player Local Co-op
If you’re searching for a game that blends calm visuals, gentle music, and rewarding puzzle-solving, Unravel Two is one of the best switch 2 player games you can pick. Designed entirely around cooperation, it’s an excellent title for couples, siblings, or friends who enjoy working through thoughtful challenges at their own pace.
How to Play Unravel Two on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–2 (Best with 2)
- Controllers: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Mode: Local co-op only — no online multiplayer
Gameplay Basics:
- Both players control Yarnys connected by a thread
- Solve physics-based puzzles, use momentum to swing and climb
- Work together to clear obstacles, avoid hazards, and complete challenges
- Optional: Play solo by switching between characters (but co-op is the intended design)
11. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
Genre: Side-Scrolling Platformer
Mode: 1–4 Players (Local Only)
This definitive version of New Super Mario Bros. U features two full games in one: the original story and the bonus New Super Luigi U — with over 160 platforming levels. Two players can team up to run, jump, bounce off enemies (and each other), and explore the Mushroom Kingdom like never before.
There are also beginner-friendly characters like Toadette (who uses the Super Crown to become Peachette) and Nabbit (who can’t take damage), making it ideal for all ages and skill levels.
How to Play New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–4 (Best with 2)
- Controllers: Any combo of Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Modes Available:
- Main Campaign (Mario U)
- Bonus Campaign (Luigi U – harder levels)
- Boost Rush, Challenge Mode, Coin Battle
Gameplay Basics:
- Choose from 5 characters: Mario, Luigi, Toad, Toadette, and Nabbit
- Run, jump, and wall-kick through side-scrolling stages
- Collect coins, find secret exits, and defeat classic bosses
- Help each other or bounce off each other — it’s part of the fun!
12. Overcooked! 2
Genre: Co-op Cooking / Time Management
Players: 1–4 (Best with 2)
Things are about to get spicy! In Overcooked! 2, you and your teammate must prepare, cook, and serve orders in kitchens that change, move, and sometimes catch on fire. It’s fast, frantic, and often hilarious — you’ll be chopping onions one minute and falling into lava the next.
How to Play Overcooked! 2 on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–4 (2 is optimal)
- Controllers: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Play Modes:
- Local Couch Co-op
- Local Wireless Multiplayer
- Online Multiplayer
Gameplay Basics:
- Prepare food orders based on customer requests
- Cook, plate, and serve dishes within time limits
- Assign roles: chopping, cooking, plating, dishwashing, etc.
- Deal with dynamic kitchens — some float, split, or catch fire!
- Complete levels with high scores to unlock new stages and chefs
13. Moving Out
Genre: Physics-Based Puzzle / Simulation / Party Game
Mode: Local Co-op (1–4 Players)
In Moving Out, you take on the role of “Furniture Arrangement & Relocation Technicians” — aka movers — tasked with getting everything out of a house as fast (and chaotically) as possible. You’ll deal with tight hallways, ghost-inhabited mansions, farms with angry animals, and even traffic-packed streets.
The real challenge? Working together. Carrying large items requires teamwork and good timing. Or… you could just wing it and toss the fridge out the window. That works too.
How to Play Moving Out on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–4 (Best with 2)
- Controllers: Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Modes:
- Local Co-op (Shared screen)
- Assist Mode for easier gameplay
- Competitive Party Modes
Gameplay Basics:
- Navigate tight spaces, break windows, throw items
- Time-based scoring encourages replayability
- Use creative (and chaotic) methods to complete levels faster
14. Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope
Genre: Tactical RPG / Strategy / Action Adventure
Mode: Co-op in Special Tactical Missions
In this follow-up to Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle, you’ll build a squad of iconic Mario heroes and quirky Rabbids to take on a cosmic adventure across the galaxy. The combat is turn-based, but fluid movement is free-form, and strategy is key. When you unlock co-op missions, two players can team up and control different heroes to complete challenge stages.
There’s less chaos than a party game, but more brainpower and team planning involved. Perfect for thoughtful duos.
How to Play
- Players: 2 (Co-op mode only — not for main campaign)
- Controllers: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Access: Co-op missions are unlocked as side content during the main game
Gameplay Basics:
- Turn-based tactical battles with grid-free movement
- Use weapons, cover, team jumps, and special Sparks powers to win
- Strategic positioning and planning are key to clearing missions
- Ideal for those who enjoy slower-paced, skill-based gameplay
15. Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
Genre: Platformer / Action / Adventure
Players: 1–2 (Local Co-op)
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze is one of the most polished and exciting side-scrolling platformers on the Switch. Grab a partner and dive into the action as Donkey Kong and his crew, working together to blast through vibrant levels packed with hidden surprises, tough foes, and thrilling obstacles.
How to Play Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–2 (Local co-op only)
- Controllers: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Modes:
- Story Mode (co-op throughout)
- Funky Mode (easier version with Funky Kong – great for beginners)
Gameplay Basics:
- Player 1: Donkey Kong (heavy and strong)
- Player 2: Diddy
- Work together to collect bananas, find hidden puzzle pieces, and beat tough bosses
- Requires timing, reflexes, and often lots of retries — especially late-game
16. Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Genre: 3D Platformer / Adventure
Players: 1–2 (Local Co-op Only)
In Kirby and the Forgotten Land, you’ll explore colorful post-apocalyptic worlds, inhale enemies, gain powers, and rescue adorable Waddle Dees. The second player joins in as Bandana Waddle Dee, a loyal spear-wielding sidekick who helps Kirby battle enemies and solve light puzzles.
How to Play
- Players: 1–2 (Local only)
- Controllers: Two Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Mode: Full campaign playable in 2-player mode (Player 2 joins any time)
Gameplay Basics:
- Player 1 controls Kirby: inhale enemies, gain powers, use Mouthful Mode
- Player 2 is Bandana Waddle Dee: uses spear attacks, helps fight and collect
- Explore semi-open levels with secret areas, rescue Waddle Dees, and unlock mini-games
- Great for all skill levels — no lives system, forgiving difficulty, and adorable design
17. Rayman Legends: Definitive Edition
Genre: Platformer / Action / Rhythm
Players: 1–4 (Best with 2 for co-op flow)
Rayman Legends is a side-scrolling masterpiece that blends traditional platforming with music, speed, and wild level design. You and your co-op partner will dash through magical forests, underwater caves, and musical boss stages, collecting Lums and rescuing Teensies along the way.
How to Play Rayman Legends on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–4 (2-player recommended for best balance)
- Controllers: Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers
- Modes:
- Full Campaign in Co-op
- Challenge Mode (daily/weekly online leaderboards)
- Kung Foot (local mini-game mode)
Gameplay Basics:
- Control Rayman and friends across side-scrolling levels
- Rescue Teensies to unlock new stages and worlds
- Sync your jumps, attacks, and glides with your co-op partner
- Musical levels offer rhythm-based gameplay tied to the soundtrack
- Co-op allows for creative problem-solving and goofy teamwork
18. ARMS
Genre: Fighting / Motion Combat / Sports
Players: 1–2 (Local or Online Versus)
ARMS is a fast-paced fighting game where players battle in 3D arenas using characters with long, flexible arms that stretch across the screen. It’s not your typical brawler — instead, it rewards movement, timing, and strategy. You can dodge, jump, charge punches, and curve attacks — all using Joy-Con motion controls or buttons.
How to Play ARMS on Nintendo Switch
- Players: 1–2 (Local VS), 2–4 (Team Mode), Online Multiplayer
- Controllers: Joy-Con motion controls (recommended), Pro Controller compatible
- Modes Available:
- 1v1 Duels
- 2v2 Team Battles
- Grand Prix (Arcade-style)
- Online Ranked Matches
- Party Mode (minigames & casual fights)
Gameplay Basics:
- Choose a fighter (Ribbon Girl, Spring Man, Min Min, etc.)
- Pick your two ARMS (glove types) with different effects
- Use motion or stick controls to punch, dodge, block, and grab
- Win best-of-three rounds using strategy and movement
- Customize loadouts and upgrade your ARMS through play
19. Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pikachu! / Let’s Go, Eevee!
Genre: RPG / Adventure / Family
Players: 1–2 (Local Co-op)
Return to the Kanto region in a beautifully modernized Pokémon experience that blends traditional catching with mechanics inspired by Pokémon GO. In co-op mode, a second player can drop in anytime to join your adventure, catch Pokémon together, and even participate in double battles.
How to Play
- Players: 1–2 (Local Co-op Only)
- Controllers: Each player uses a single Joy-Con
- How Co-op Works:
- Player 1 controls the story and exploration
- Player 2 joins by shaking the second Joy-Con
- Player 2 assists with catching and battles — great for helping new players!
Gameplay Basics:
- Revisit the Kanto region with your partner Pokémon (Pikachu or Eevee)
- Catch Pokémon using motion controls or buttons
- Battle gym leaders and Team Rocket in classic turn-based fights
- Use two Poké Balls in co-op mode to boost catch rates
- Trade and transfer Pokémon from Pokémon GO for bonuses
20. NBA 2K25 – Basketball at Its Best
Genre: Sports Simulation / Competitive Multiplayer
Modes: 1–4 Player Local, 2–10 Online
From friendly couch rivalry to co-op domination, NBA 2K25 gives players all the tools to live out their basketball dreams. You can play head-to-head, team up against AI, or grind through career and franchise modes. The Nintendo Switch version includes MyTeam, MyCareer, Play Now, and online modes.
In two-player co-op, you can play on the same team or face off — making it perfect for quick matches or full seasons with a friend.
How to Play NBA 2K25 on Nintendo Switch (2-Player Mode)
- Players: 1–4 Local / 2–10 Online
- Controllers: 2 Joy-Cons, 2 Pro Controllers, or mix
- Best 2-Player Modes:
- Quick Play (pick teams and play a full match)
- MyTeam (build teams and compete)
- MyCareer (online or side-by-side story progress)
- Blacktop (street-style matches, 1v1 to 5v5)
Gameplay Highlights:
- Real NBA rosters with dynamic player ratings
- Motion-captured animations and real-time commentary
- New mechanics: dribble combos, realistic fatigue, deeper AI
- Create your own player and team with deep customization
- Co-op or versus — play your way, casually or competitively
Final Words:
In 2025, the Nintendo Switch continues to shine as one of the best platforms for multiplayer fun. From action-packed duels to relaxing adventures, the best 2-player Switch games offer something for every kind of gaming duo. Whether you’re chasing high scores or just making memories, these titles are sure to deliver hours of entertainment. Don’t game alone — pick your favorite, grab a second controller, and enjoy the journey together.
FAQs – Everything You Might Be Wondering
1. What are some easy 2-player Switch games to start with?
If you’re new to gaming or just want something simple and fun, try Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Overcooked!, or Pokémon Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee.
2. Can two people play on one Nintendo Switch console?
Yes! Most co-op games on the Switch support local multiplayer. You can share one console and even use just the two Joy-Cons that come with it. Games like Mario Kart, It Takes Two, and Rayman Legends work great this way.
3. Do I need to buy extra controllers for two players?
Not always. Some games let each person use a single Joy-Con, but for others — especially fighting or sports games — having a second pair of Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller makes the experience a lot smoother.
4. What are good 2-player games if we’re feeling competitive?
If you’re in the mood to battle it out, go for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, NBA 2K25, or ARMS. They’re fast, fun, and perfect for trash-talking (in a friendly way, of course).
5. Can I play co-op games online with a friend on Switch?
Absolutely. Many titles like It Takes Two or NBA 2K25 let you team up online. Just make sure both of you have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
6. Which games are best for couples or chill game nights?
For something cozy or emotional, It Takes Two, Spiritfarer, or Moving Out are great picks. They’re designed around teamwork and offer fun without too much stress.
7. Are there any great free 2-player games on Switch?
There are a few like Fortnite and Rocket League that offer solid co-op or versus modes without spending a rupee. But honestly, most of the best 2-player experiences are worth paying for — you get a lot of game time for your money.
