Free Nintendo Switch Games And Apps You Can Download For No Cost

Nintendo Switch owners have access to a growing list of free-to-play games, downloadable apps, and limited-time offers that provide entertainment without requiring a purchase. These titles range from battle royales and action-adventure games to creative and casual experiences, with many offering full access to core content at no cost. While some games may include microtransactions, they are typically limited to cosmetic or convenience items and do not block access to key features. Additionally, Nintendo and third-party developers have introduced promotional events and giveaways that allow players to acquire new titles through the eShop without charge. This guide compiles verified information from official and trusted sources to help users navigate the best free games, apps, and promotions currently available for the Nintendo Switch.

Free-to-Play Games on Nintendo Switch

Several high-quality games on the Nintendo Switch platform are available for free, either as full titles or as "free-to-start" experiences with no mandatory paywalls. These games often include in-game purchases for cosmetic items, in-game currency, or convenience boosts, but core gameplay remains accessible without spending. Below is a list of notable free-to-play titles that can be downloaded and played without charge.

• Fortnite – One of the most well-known free-to-play games available on Nintendo Switch, Fortnite features a battle royale mode where up to 100 players compete to be the last one standing. While the game does include in-game purchases for cosmetic items like skins and emotes, these are optional and do not affect gameplay. Fortnite is widely played on the Switch and has been updated with new seasons and content regularly.

• Warframe – A free-to-play action RPG where players take on the role of a Tenno, a warrior in a sci-fi universe. Warframe offers a variety of weapons, armor, and character customization options. Microtransactions are limited to cosmetic items and do not block access to core game features. Players can participate in co-op missions, explore planets, and engage in competitive play without needing to spend real money.

• Brawlhalla – A free-to-play 2D platform fighting game that allows players to choose from a variety of characters and battle in fast-paced one-on-one or team-based matches. Brawlhalla is available on the Nintendo Switch and includes in-game purchases for character skins and customization items, but the base game is fully playable at no cost.

• Apex Legends – A battle royale shooter that pits teams of three players against each other in a high-stakes combat environment. Apex Legends offers free access to the core game, with optional in-game purchases for character skins and other cosmetic items. The game is available on the Nintendo Switch and runs well on the console.

• Super Kirby Clash – A free-to-play brawler featuring Nintendo’s iconic character, Kirby. The game is fully playable without any mandatory purchases, and while in-game currency can be used to buy upgrades and support items, these can also be earned through gameplay.

• The Elder Scrolls: Blades – A free-to-play action RPG set in the Elder Scrolls universe. Players take on the role of a member of The Blades, a secret order tasked with protecting the realm from threats. The game offers a linear progression with optional in-game purchases that enhance convenience but do not block access to key content.

• Fallout Shelter – A free-to-play management simulation game set in the Fallout universe. Players take on the role of a vault overseer, managing resources, dwellers, and quests. Fallout Shelter includes optional in-game purchases, but the core game is fully accessible without spending money.

• Rocket League – A free-to-play game that combines soccer and high-speed racing in a futuristic setting. Players control rocket-powered cars and compete in matches to score goals. Rocket League includes in-game purchases for cosmetic items, but the core gameplay is entirely free.

• Chocobo GP Lite – A racing game featuring Chocobos from the Final Fantasy series. This free version offers a simplified racing experience and is available on the Nintendo Switch.

• Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics Pocket Edition – A collection of classic mini-games that can be played in short sessions. The game is free to download and play, with no in-game purchases.

• Coloring Pages: Lumberhill Tales – A free-to-play coloring app that allows users to color various scenes and characters. This game is ideal for casual players and includes no mandatory purchases.

• Coloring Book – North America, Europe – Another free-to-play coloring app, this one features a variety of scenes that can be colored and shared.

• Color Zen – North America, Europe – A relaxing coloring game that allows players to color mandalas and other intricate designs. The game is free to play and includes no in-game purchases.

• Cover Fire: Offline Shooting Game – North America, Europe – A free-to-play first-person shooter that allows players to engage in offline missions and challenges. The game is fully playable without spending money.

• CRSED: F.O.A.D – A fast-paced action game where players take on the role of a character battling through various levels and enemies. The game is free to play, with optional in-game purchases.

• Circle of Sumo: Online Rumble! – North America, Europe – A free-to-play online multiplayer sumo wrestling game. Players can compete against each other or join online matches.

• Astro Bears – North America, Europe – A free-to-play puzzle and adventure game featuring cute bear characters. The game includes in-game purchases, but core gameplay is accessible without spending money.

• Capcom Arcade Stadium [1943: The Battle of Midway is free] – North America, Europe – A collection of classic Capcom arcade games, with at least one title available for free.

• Capcom Arcade 2nd Stadium [SonSon is free] – North America, Europe – A second collection of classic Capcom arcade titles, with one game available for free.

• Angry Bunnies: Colossal Carrot Crusade – North America, Europe – A free-to-play action game featuring bunnies on a mission to save their world.

Free Apps for Nintendo Switch

In addition to free-to-play games, several apps are available for download directly onto the Nintendo Switch. These apps provide additional functionality and entertainment without requiring a purchase.

• Twitch – A live-streaming platform where players can watch and interact with live gameplay from other users. The Twitch app is free to download and use on the Nintendo Switch.

• YouTube – The YouTube app allows users to watch and upload videos directly from the Nintendo Switch. This is a convenient way to view gameplay tutorials, reviews, and other video content while on the go.

Limited-Time Free Game Promotions

Nintendo and third-party developers have introduced limited-time promotions where players can acquire free games through the eShop. These promotions are typically time-sensitive and may require specific conditions to be met before claiming the free titles.

• No Gravity Games Free Game Giveaway – No Gravity Games, a digital storefront for indie titles, is offering a free game giveaway during the holiday season. Starting from a specific date and running through December 19, one free game is released each day. To claim the games, players must have claimed the previous day’s title and must have at least one No Gravity Games title in their library. If a player misses a day, they can still rejoin the giveaway chain by purchasing the previous day’s game at a discounted price. The first free game in the giveaway is Bullets & Brains, a top-down 3D shooter.

• Nintendo eShop Free Games – Occasionally, Nintendo and third-party developers release free games through the eShop for a limited time. These games are typically available to download and play without charge during the promotion period. Players should check the eShop regularly for new free games and promotions.

Free-to-Start Games

Some games on the Nintendo Switch platform are labeled as "free-to-start," meaning that players can access the core game content without charge, but may encounter optional in-game purchases or microtransactions. These games are designed to allow players to begin playing immediately without spending money, with optional purchases available for convenience or cosmetic items.

• Super Kirby Clash – As mentioned earlier, this game is labeled as "free-to-start" but is fully playable without any mandatory purchases. Players can complete the entire campaign without spending money, as in-game currency can be earned through gameplay.

• Pokemon Quest – A free-to-play reimagining of the Pokemon franchise, where players manage a team of cube-shaped Pokemon. The game includes optional in-game purchases for convenience items but does not block access to core gameplay.

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch offers a variety of free-to-play games, apps, and limited-time promotions that provide entertainment without requiring a purchase. These games range from battle royales and action RPGs to creative and casual experiences, with many offering full access to core content at no cost. Players should be aware that while some games include optional in-game purchases, these are typically limited to cosmetic or convenience items and do not block access to key features. Additionally, limited-time promotions and free giveaways through the eShop provide opportunities to acquire new games without spending money. By exploring the available free titles and promotions, Nintendo Switch owners can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options without financial commitment.

Sources

1. List of Free Games, Downloads, and Apps on Switch
2. Best Free Nintendo Switch Games
3. Best Free-to-Play Games on Switch
4. Free eShop Games This Holiday Season
5. Free-to-Start Games on Nintendo Switch